Ireland is one of my favorite places in the world. It's mystical, magical, historical, and modern all wrapped up into one. And one of the most welcoming countries I've found thus far. It's hard to narrow down my favorite places in Ireland into one concise list, but here's what I got.
Kylemore Abbey - I found Kylemore Abbey completely by accident. Driving the scenic route from Galway to Wesport, I happened to notice the abbey and and had to stop to see this amazing place. Originally a wealthy man's home built from 1867, it's now owned by the Benedictine Community and includes a castle, a gothic church, and 6 acres of ornate gardens. Simple gorgeous. It's located in Connemara in County Galway and is open to the public year-round.
Dingle Peninsula - Saw my first Irish palm trees in Dingle. Less well-known than the Ring of Kerry, but just as beautiful, the Dingle Peninsula is the northernmost peninsula in southwest Ireland. Picturesque Dingle is the stereotypical quaint Irish town. The costal village of Dunquin has amazing view of the Blasket Islands. And Slea Head Drive takes you along the coast for views of the ocean over stunning cliffs and beaches.
Galway - Less city-like than Dublin, Galway is more like a large town filled with great restaurants, pubs, and shops. You can sit and people watch in the town square, and I've seen some amazing sunsets over the bay. Overall, a solid place to spend a few days and soak in some real Irish life.
Aran Islands - This group of 3 islands in Galway Bay is the epitome of traditional Irish life. Inisheer, Inishmaan, and Inishmore are their names. And on them, you'll find stretches of hand-stacked stone walls, castle ruins, wool sweater shops, and traditional Irish cottages. Rent a bike and ride around to see all that the islands have to offer, including a rusty old shipwreck on Inisheer. The islands are mainly accessible by ferry boat, and the best ports are in Doolin in County Clare and Rossaveal in County Galway. Highly recommended for a for a relaxing escape.
Donegal - A bit out of the way, Donegal is worth the drive up north. The countryside in the northwest is just gorgeous, so the journey itself is half the fun of visiting. The town has a small castle, which is fun to explore. And the traditional Irish pubs are great for chatting up the locals (if you can weasel your way into a lock-in after the pub closes, you can stay for a few extra hours).
Giant's Causeway - This unbelievably formation of geometric basalt columns in Northern Ireland is actually the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Visitors can walk over the columns to the edge of the sea. The whole scene is just very awe-inspiring. Keep in mind, though, that it is in Northern Ireland, so you will be crossing borders into the UK. You'll need your passport to get in, and you'll have to change money there too.
Dublin - There's so much life and history in this city, you just can't miss it. Of course, there are the touristy things, such as the Guinness Brewery and shopping on Grafton Street. You've got to see the Book of Kells in Trinity College and visit Dublin Castle. And when it's time to go out at night, avoid the overpriced and overcrowded Temple Bar. I've found that going on a local pubcrawl is a great way to meet other travels and find bars you might've otherwise missed.
Cliffs of Moher - The cliffs attract a heavy amount of tourists, and rightfully so. The southern view of the cliffs is one of the most famous images of Ireland. You used to be able to walk right up to the edge and look over the 500ft drop to the ocean, but they've built more protective stone walls in recent years. Fitting, I suppose, since the first time I was there, the wind was so strong that it nearly blew me over the edge. Literally. Again, touristy, but a must-see nonetheless.
Explore the Map - Some of my favorite places I've found in Ireland have been from finding a blip on my map. Instead of driving with a GPS, try following a good old-fashioned map. You'll follow your route and find little symbols for scenic drives, burial sites, and other points of interest. Trust me, it's worth it! Get out there, and start exploring!
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| Kylmore Abbey |
Dingle Peninsula - Saw my first Irish palm trees in Dingle. Less well-known than the Ring of Kerry, but just as beautiful, the Dingle Peninsula is the northernmost peninsula in southwest Ireland. Picturesque Dingle is the stereotypical quaint Irish town. The costal village of Dunquin has amazing view of the Blasket Islands. And Slea Head Drive takes you along the coast for views of the ocean over stunning cliffs and beaches.
Galway - Less city-like than Dublin, Galway is more like a large town filled with great restaurants, pubs, and shops. You can sit and people watch in the town square, and I've seen some amazing sunsets over the bay. Overall, a solid place to spend a few days and soak in some real Irish life.
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| Ruins on Inisheer, Aran Islands |
Donegal - A bit out of the way, Donegal is worth the drive up north. The countryside in the northwest is just gorgeous, so the journey itself is half the fun of visiting. The town has a small castle, which is fun to explore. And the traditional Irish pubs are great for chatting up the locals (if you can weasel your way into a lock-in after the pub closes, you can stay for a few extra hours).
Giant's Causeway - This unbelievably formation of geometric basalt columns in Northern Ireland is actually the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Visitors can walk over the columns to the edge of the sea. The whole scene is just very awe-inspiring. Keep in mind, though, that it is in Northern Ireland, so you will be crossing borders into the UK. You'll need your passport to get in, and you'll have to change money there too.
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| Musicians on Grafton St, Dublin |
Cliffs of Moher - The cliffs attract a heavy amount of tourists, and rightfully so. The southern view of the cliffs is one of the most famous images of Ireland. You used to be able to walk right up to the edge and look over the 500ft drop to the ocean, but they've built more protective stone walls in recent years. Fitting, I suppose, since the first time I was there, the wind was so strong that it nearly blew me over the edge. Literally. Again, touristy, but a must-see nonetheless.
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