As all visitors to Ireland know, the country is not all Guinness beer and good times. Boasting a dizzying array of natural wonders, the country is host to some of the most beautiful places on the planet.
CLIFFS OF MOHER: As the number one visited natural attraction in the country, these cliffs rise 214 meters over the Atlantic Ocean. Offering amazing views of the iconic Galway Bay and the Twelve Pins mountain range, the Cliffs of Moher and its scenic coastal hike is not to be missed when visiting western Ireland.
RING OF KERRY: Travelling farther south along the coast, visitors are in for a great surprise with the scenic Ring of Kerry, featuring views of Ireland’s most incredible natural resources. The trail offers something for everyone with glacial lakes, soaring mountains, and green meadows.
GLENVEAGH NATIONAL PARK: County Donegal’s most popular tourist attraction offers a myriad of hiking trails and fishing lakes designed to suit every taste. Ringing in at 14,000 acres, this National Park is an Ireland treasure. Those with more refined tastes will delight in the afternoon tea at the historic Glenveagh Castle.
CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK: For those visitors who enjoyed the beauty of Glenveagh National Park, a trip to Connemara National Park should be high on the list of places to enjoy while in Ireland. Although this national park is primarily known for the herd of Connemara Ponies that run wild on the park grounds, the area offers so much more than that. In addition to the stunning mountain landscapes and sprawling hiking trails, the park also houses the historic Kylemore Abbey.
ARAN ISLANDS: Visiting the Aran Island is like stepping back in time. This classic Irish village boasts sandy beaches, sweeping views of the coast, car-free roads, and natives speaking the beautiful Gaelic language. As a bonus, travelers can pick up a traditional knitted “Aran sweater”.
GLENDALOUGH: This monastic site located deep in the Wicklow Mountains National Park provides a glimpse into the workings of a 6th-century Christian settlement.
Luckily for visitors to Dublin, this trip is an easy day trip and well worth the drive.
Whatever your fancy, the many beautiful sights of Ireland will delight even the most hardened global traveler.