- Cliffs of Moher
One of Ireland’s favourite visitor experiences and representing the best of Clare, the Cliffs of Moher tower over the rugged west Clare coast. Walk the safe, paved pathways and view the famous Cliffs on Europe’s western frontier and enjoy the spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. The Cliffs of Moher, the most famous cliffs in Ireland, will leave you awestruck, creating memories that will stay with you forever.
2. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
The focal point of the Wicklow Mountains is the lake of Glendalough which has to be Ireland’s most-beautiful lake! Glendalough, or the ‘Valley of Two Lakes’, is one of Ireland’s most prominent monastic sites, nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The 6th-century Christian settlement was founded by St. Kevin and boasts a series of impressive remains set against a backdrop of picturesque Irish countryside. Nicknamed ‘the garden of Ireland’, Wicklow is a nature-lover’s paradise of rolling meadows, vast lakes, and hillsides carpeted in purple heather. If you are looking to escape the busy streets of Dublin, then Glendalough is the perfect day trip!
3. The Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim
The Giant’s Causeway is an incredible rock formation (nearly sixty million years old) located on the beautiful Northern-Irish coastline. It is well-known all over the world, and as such, people come from all corners of the globe to check it out. The Giant’s Causeway gets its name from Irish mythology, as according to legend it was created by the Irish giant Finn McCool. When visiting this spot, you are sure to feel intrigued and inspired by this natural phenomenon!
4. The Ring of Kerry, Co. Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is another of the top places to visit in Ireland. This 179km-long scenic drive will take you through rural seaside villages and along the rugged coastal landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula. The whole drive is widely regarded as a must-see on any trip to Ireland. From ancient castles to stunning natural landscapes and quaint seaside villages, the Ring of Kerry has a lot to offer.
5. Dingle, Co. Kerry
On Ireland’s southwest Atlantic coast, you will find a beautiful area of beautiful sandy beaches, jagged cliffs, and beautiful green hills. This area is called the Dingle Peninsula, and it is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland. Indeed, the area is famous around the world and was once described by National Geographic as “the most beautiful place on earth”, and they certainly aren’t wrong! Visitors from far and wide travel to Dingle, and they are rarely disappointed. This area is quite rightfully known as one of the best places to visit in Ireland!
6. Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo
Croagh Patrick is the arguably the most famous mountain in Ireland, situated near the town of Westport in County Mayo. Croagh Patrick comes from the Irish Cruach Phádraig meaning “(Saint) Patrick’s stack”. On a clear day, you can take in incredible views of Clew Bay and the surrounding south Mayo countryside from the top of the mountain. It usually takes around two hours for the average person to reach the summit, and one and a half hours to descend.
7. Guinness Storehouse, Co. Dublin
Guinness is one of the most famous beer brands worldwide and, undoubtedly, Ireland’s most famous export. If you are a fan of the black stuff, then why not learn to pour the perfect pint of Guiness at the home of the famous drink at the Guinness Storehouse? The Guinness Storehouse is Ireland’s most-visited tourist destination annually. It is an excellent day out and should be on everyone’s bucket list, especially Guinness-lovers!
8. Kilmainham Gaol, Co. Dublin
Kilmainham Gaol is one of the most famous jails in the world and definitely Ireland’s most notorious prison. The walls of this prison have held some of Ireland’s most prominent leaders and those who evoked political change throughout Irish history. The prison has also been used in many films, including the original Italian Job and In the Name of the Father. We’d highly recommend the daily tours to anyone, especially Irish history enthusiasts.
9. Newgrange, Co. Meath
Another of the best places to visit in Ireland is Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old passage tomb located in County Meath in Ireland’s Ancient East. The incredible passage was built by Stone Age farmers and has been one of Ireland’s wonders for centuries. An incredible feature of Newgrange is a passage measuring 19m that leads into a chamber with three alcoves. During the mornings around the Winter Solstice annually, the passage and chamber are aligned with the rising sun, and the inside illuminates! This incredible event at Newgrange should be on anyone’s Irish Bucket List!
10. Murder Hole Beach, Co. Donegal
If you love beaches, then you really should experience Murder Hole Beach in County Donegal. Although it is not the most accessible place in Ireland, this private beach on the Rosguill Peninsula is well worth the trip! After a short descent onto the beach, you will be greeted by beautiful caves and rugged surrounding cliffs. It is pure rugged beauty and encapsulates the true meaning of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Leave a Reply