Irish Countryside: An Exhilarating Adventure in the Emerald Isle

Updated On: December 19, 2023 by   Aya Radwan

The allure of the Irish countryside filled us with overwhelming feelings, what with its array of landscapes and historical wonders. Ireland’s eclectic charm has utterly intrigued us, and we trust you have a yearning for some trustworthy guidance to make sense of this tremendous Emerald Isle.

This blog crafts an insightful list of must-visit locations within Ireland drawn from a thorough research, personal encounters and tips from locals that are worth their salt. With this knowledge under your belt, you’re cracking on nicely towards savouring the magic woven into every corner of the Irish countryside.

Top Most Magical Places in the Irish Countryside

The Irish countryside is an unusual and surprising adventure. You will find yourself in an enclosed town surrounded by majestic mountains, running rivers hugging a beautiful historical village and port cities in the face of the mighty ocean.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are on Ireland’s west coast in County Clare and offer breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. They are monstrously high cliffs with a savage-looking coastline. The cliffs rise high from the ocean, more than 700 feet at their highest point, stretching for nearly 14 kilometres.

The magnificent cliffs encompass an array of flora and fauna, such as 20 species of birds, such as Atlantic puffins and razorbills, and various animals roaming around, such as goats and cattle. In recent years, they’ve become a popular filming destination with credits in the one and only Harry Potter franchise, romantic comedy film Leap Year and the Princess Bride.

The cliffs are equally magnificent from sea level. Sea waves have been eroding the cliffs, causing some parts to fall over the years and creating sea arches. Between the folds of these arches, you can find various sea animals, such as grey seals, dolphins and minke whales. Visiting the cliffs is like seeing a real-life painting. From there, you get clear views out to sea and along the coastline. On a clear day, you can see for miles around.

Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel, in County Tipperary, weaves Celtic art with Medieval architecture to bring us a captivating historical site. The ancient enclave holds a frightening legend; it’s the place Satan landed with the Rock after St Patrick banished him from the Devil’s Bit, north of the current town. This ancient fortress on a hilltop offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Irish countryside.

Stepping inside its medieval walls transports you back in time to a world filled with stories and legends. Explore the grandeur of the Rock of Cashel’s iconic structures, including the 12th-century Cormac’s Chapel, 13th-century Gothic cathedral ruins, the 12th-century Round Tower and the famous Irish High Cross, one of Ireland’s distinguishable symbols.

An old graveyard surrounds the buildings, and high walls surround the entire Rock. The steep hill of the Rock makes it an excellent vantage point to observe its surroundings. You will find standing high crosses and remains of some, such as the remains of the Scully Cross. The earliest buildings on the Rock are from the 12th century, and some underwent relative restoration in modern times.

Skellig Michael

Visiting Skellig Michael is an absolute must for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located off County Kerry’s coast, Ireland, and offers a unique experience. It’s home to a sixth-century monastery built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual connection. You can climb the steep steps to explore the ancient stone huts, beehive-shaped cells, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Remember that getting there requires a boat trip, and weather conditions should be considered before planning your visit. The nearly 370-year-old island is home to various birds, such as gannets and razorbills. The monastery is a popular pilgrimage destination and is accessible only during summer months, if the weather permits, due to the clashing waves surrounding the island.

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park, in County Kerry, is a must-visit destination in the Irish countryside. It is truly enchanting with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Park covers over 25,000 acres and is home to ancient oak forests, picturesque lakes, and majestic mountains. The ecological value of the Park, its flora, and its wildlife inhabitants earned it a position on UNESCO’s list of Biosphere Reserves.

The Emerald Isle’s first national Park boasts numerous exciting sites. These sites include Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Muckross House and Ross Island. If you’re driving through the Ring of Kerry, the road might intersect with Killarney National Park at Ladies View and Moll’s Gap.

Flora and fauna are prosperous throughout the Park. However, continuous tree-cutting eroded the park’s landscape more than it used to. The three Killarney Lakes take up the Park’s space and create the Meeting of the Waters, one of the Park’s favourite tourist areas.

Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a must-visit destination in Ireland. It is a unique geological wonder located on the north coast of County Antrim. The causeway consists of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that date back millions of years of volcanic activity. These hexagonal-shaped columns create a stunning landscape that looks like stepping stones leading into the sea.

According to Irish folklore, the giant Finn McCool built the causeway to battle the Scottish giant Benandonner. While other legends say otherwise, Finn McCool remains a supernatural Irish hero with magical powers.

Visitors can explore this World Heritage Site, walk along the columns, and take in the breathtaking coastal views. Some notable structures include Ginat’s boots, the Chimney Stacks and displaced basalt boulders resembling Giant’s Eyes. Nature-lovers will immerse themselves in the beauty of this natural phenomenon, while history buffs can delve into its mythical legends and tales.

Connemara

Connemara, County Galway, is a truly captivating region in western Ireland that offers something for everyone. This incredible Irish countryside region boasts rugged landscapes, stunning natural scenery and tranquil luxury resorts. Connemara’s charm doesn’t stop at its unmatched natural beauty; the region has the most significant number of native Irish speakers on the island, with nearly two-thirds being native speakers.

If you visit Connemara, you can expect to witness captivating ancient ruins such as those of Kylemore Abbey and its publicly accessible beautiful Victorian gardens. The Connemara National Park is a popular tourist attraction that gives them just a taste of the region’s natural beauty. Connemara has numerous hiking and mountaineering locations, such as Diamond Hill Mountain Peak, Benbaun Mountain Peak and Aasleagh Falls.

Connemara’s coastal beauty brings us marvellous beaches like Renvyle Beach and Glassilaun Beach. If you’re looking for more ancient landmarks, visit the 16th-century Aughnanure Castle and Connemara Heritage and History Centre to dive more deeply into the region’s incredible history.

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula off County Kerry is the Irish countryside’s westernmost point and Europe. With its large native Irish-speaking population, the peninsula has produced many important Irish literary figures such as Pieg Sayers and Piaras Feiritéar.

You can expect to check off all lists on your nature-loving bucket list. The peninsula even brings you a wrecked ship at Dunmore Head, the MV Ranga, which lost power during its maiden voyage to Reykjavik. In the 7th or 8th century BC, Rahinnane Castle was allegedly the Vikings’ last stronghold in Ireland.

Scenic drives await you on the peninsula. You can take the island’s famous Ring of Kerry route or go through the Slea Head Drive. The 1,000-year-old Gallarus Oratory is a stone church and one of the earliest and was once a pilgrims’ shelter.

Inis Mór

Inis Mór, or Inishmore of the Aran Islands, is a stunning island in the Irish countryside located off the west coast of Ireland. It’s known for its rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich history. As a nature lover, you will be captivated by the untamed beauty of this island paradise.

With its towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush green fields, Inis Mór offers breathtaking views of every turn. History lovers will find plenty to explore, from ancient forts like Dun Aonghasa to the beautiful early Christian monastic settlement of Teampall Bheanain.

An incredible tourist attraction is the Wormhole, or Poll na bPéist, south of Dún Aonghasa, is one of nature’s finest works, creating swimming spots worldwide. Even if you’re not a swimmer, the sight of this rectangular swimming pool will bewilder you.

Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park is a stunning destination in Ireland that captivates nature lovers and history buffs. The Park revolves around Glenveagh Castle, built by John George Adair in the 19^th century. Adair is infamously known as Black Jack Adair for evacuating farmers and their families from the castle surrounding area during the Irish famine. The castle gardens will enchant you with their diverse flora and fauna; they are a perfect picnicking location.

Nature lovers will spend an incredible time discovering the Park’s numerous trails, such as the Upper Glen Walk and the Derrylahan Nature Trail. The Irish countryside boasts some of its finest scenery around the Park. You can enjoy the Park’s thrilling trails during the snowy winter season.

Achill Island

Achill Island in County Mayo’s Irish countryside is a stunning destination on the Isle’s west coast. Its magnificent terrain, rugged landscape, sea cliffs and clean beaches are some of Ireland’s favourite tourist attractions. The Irish Isles’ most significant island is mainly bogland or wetland; nearly half of the island is home to a native Irish-speaking population.

The once forest-laden island was inhabited since the Neolithic Period. Immigrants fleeing political and religious persecution in Ulster ended up in Achill. This immigration resulted in two Irish dialects on the island, and today’s Achill Irish dialect still has traces of Ulster Irish. Achill is a magnificent tourist destination all year round.

During your time in Achill, you can visit the historic 15^th-century Carrickkildavnet Castle is Clan O’Malley’s stronghold. The 7^th-century Kildamhnait church predates the present church at the site, which dates to the 18th century. An incredible location to visit is the Deserted Village, which its inhabitants abandoned during the Irish famine.

Newgrange

Newgrange is an ancient burial monument in Ireland that dates back over 5,000 years. The prehistoric burial site is located at the heart of the Irish countryside in County Mayo. The timeframe of building Newgrange makes it older than the Giza Pyramids and the closer-to-home Stonehenge.

The circular mound gives us insight into the period’s burial traditions, with numerous human bones and grave goods found in the mound’s cruciform chambre. A massive stone circle surrounds the mound, and Megalithic art covers some of the mound’s stones.

The Boyne Valley Tombs, of which Newgrange dominates most of it is a ritual landscape in the Irish countryside of County Meath. There are nearly 90 burial mounds, passage tombs and standing stones. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provided passageways to the Otherworld and connections with the ancient Irish deities Aengus and his father, The Dagda.

Galway City

Galway City is a vibrant and charming destination in the Irish countryside. The harbour city is the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the River Corrib. Galway City is laden with colourful streets, historical landmarks and unmatched natural scenery.

Your visit to Galway City will be a memorable one. You can appreciate the city’s famous landmarks, the Renaissance-style Galway Cathedral and the 18th-century Spanish Arch. The Galway City Museum gives a deep yet brief dive into Irish history. The city’s main square, Eyre Square, is a favourite hangout for locals and tourists alike.

Nature lovers can take a stroll along the Salthill Promenade or venture out to nearby Connemara to admire breathtaking landscapes. Galway City has no shortage of things to see, eat, and explore.

Glendalough

Glendalough is a historic site located in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

The main attraction of Glendalough is the ancient monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of churches, towers, and other structures that offer a glimpse into the Irish countryside’s early Christian heritage.

In addition to its historical significance, Glendalough is surrounded by breathtaking scenery with beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains that provide hiking and outdoor activities opportunities.

Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains in Ireland are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, picturesque trails, and serene lakes, the Wicklow Mountains offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This majestic range, referred to as the Dublin Mountains, will reward you with breathtaking views of rolling green hills, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins. The monastic settlement at Glendalough remains the mountains’ most popular tourist destination. There are lakes, rocky terrain, hiking and mountaineering trails throughout the mountains.

Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, the Wicklow Mountains is a destination that will leave you in awe of Ireland’s natural beauty.

Benbulbin Mountain

Benbulbin Mountain is a majestic peak located in County Sligo, Ireland. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

With its distinctive table-like shape and steep cliffs, Benbulbin Mountain stands out as one of the most iconic landmarks in the Irish countryside. Irish mythology describes the mountain’s slopes as the 3rd-century Fianna warriors and even states that Finn McCool found his lost son Oisìn at Benbulbin.

The area around Benbulbin Mountain is rich in flora and wildlife, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts to explore. Its south slope is a gradual climb and gives adventurers spellbinding views of the surrounding area. Benbulbin Mountain should be on your list of must-visit places in Ireland’s enchanting countryside.

Bunratty Castle

The medieval fortress, Bunratty Castle, is located in County Clare and offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s rich history. This Irish countryside gem dates back to the 15th century and is a tower house at the heart of Bunratty Village. It is possible Bunratty Castle was once a part of a Norse settlement that was destroyed in the 10th century.

Numerous tales of castles before the current castle structure exist in Irish history. Historians suggest the village and castle were the base of Norman control of County Clare. They placed the second Bunratty Castle, close to the river, which Thomas de Clare built after King Henry III granted him the land. Following the fall of the second castle, the third was constructed to guard English goods travelling the nearby Shannon estuary. It took no time for the locals to seize and destroy this castle and reseize the land.

The current castle was the stronghold of the O’Brien Clan before it was sold several times and eventually fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the castle was restored, and the castle grounds were tended to and made available to the public to explore, have picnics, and enjoy the area’s deep history and culture.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a 6th-century city in the charming Irish countryside. The southeastern Irish city straddles the River Nore. This medieval city is a thriving cultural, artistic, crafty and historical one.

While in Kilkenny, you can visit the 13^th-century Kilkenny Castle, which guards the city and the River Nore. The 13^th-century Black Abbey in the city got its famous name from the black cloak the Dominican order used to wear, which also earned them the title the Black Friars. St Mary’s Cathedral in Kilkenny is a 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece.

The arts and crafts scene in Kilkenny is a rich one. You can see marvellous works at the city’s Watergate Theatre. The Kilkenny Roots Festival is an annual musical event. At the same time, comedy found a place at the Cat Laughs Festival, and the Kilkenny Arts Festival brings visitors different arts, from classical music to dance and performing arts.

Our trip through the fascinating Irish countryside might’ve ended here, but the Emerald Isle still holds many gems yet to be explored.

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