Ireland is a truly magical place! It’s known for its vast stretches of lush, green fields, which is how it earned its nickname as the Emerald Isle. If you plan to study abroad in this beautiful country, it’s essential you take the time to explore it! We’ve taken the task of researching off your plate, and have highlighted four of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland below.
Courtesy of The Global Alliance of National Parks.
1. Killarney National Park
Location: Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry
Adventuring Killarney National Park is the perfect way to spend a day. Within the park, you’ll find reflective lakes, flowing waterfalls, rugged mountains, and lots of rich history!
Not much of a hiker, but still want to enjoy some natural beauty? Then you’ll love the short hike to the Torc Waterfall. It’s around 7 kilometres from Killarney Town and approximately 2.5 kilometres from the Muckross House parking lot. Standing at approximately 20 metres high, the waterfall is at its best after heavy rainfall. And with all the rain in Ireland, it’s likely you’ll see it at its flowing peak.
Sitting on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake is Ross Castle, built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. Legend has it that every seven years, on the first of May, he rises from the lake on his white horse and circles the lake. Those who catch a glimpse of him are said to receive good fortune for the rest of their lives, so if you need a little good luck, plan a trip to Ross Castle for May 1.
If you’re looking to get on the water, consider a boat tour. The Lakes of Killarney Cruise is the perfect introduction to the park and offers breathtaking views of Tomies Wood, Innisfallen Island, Ross Castle, and the wildlife of Killarney Valley.
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Courtesy of AchillTourism.com.
2. Achill Island
Location: Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Visit the largest island off the Irish coast, and you won’t be disappointed! Achill Island is home to some of the most spectacular spots along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Trawmore Strand may be Achill’s best-known beach. Stretching over 3 kilometres, it’s a fantastic spot to lay out and soak up the sun (just remember to wear sunscreen), or partake in watersports. You can enjoy windsurfing, surfing, and sea kayaking here.
Enjoy the Great Western Greenway in style. This route was featured as one of three favourite cycle trails in the world by the New York Times. It begins in the seaside town of Westport and carves its way through the charming villages and towns of Mulranny and Newport before coming to an end at Achill Sound. You’ll experience Clare Island, Clew Bay, and Croagh Patrick, travelling through woodlands, bogs, and active farmland.
Finish off your day with a bite to eat at Masterson’s Bar and Anchor Restaurant while enjoying fantastic views over Golden Strand Beach.
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Courtesy of Travel + Leisure.
3. Cliffs of Moher
Location: Cliffs of Moher, Lislorkan North, Co. Clare
The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see! With the spectacular landscape of The Burren on one side and the Wild Atlantic Ocean on the other, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery if you add this stop to your list.
Spearing out of the Atlantic waters to a height of over 700 feet at O’Brien’s Tower, and moving along the coast of Clare for close to 14 kilometres, these magnificent cliffs were formed over 320 million years ago, and are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
Don’t know where to start? Consider a 45-minute guided tour, with the opportunity to see the cliffs from three viewing platforms: The Interpretive Centre, The Burren, and County Clare. You’ll learn about the area’s unique geography, biodiversity, history, and more.
Whether you experience this natural wonder by tour, foot, or bicycle, its beauty and history will be ingrained in your mind forever!
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Courtesy of Ireland.com.
4. The Aran Islands
Location: The Aran Islands, Co. Galway
A true Irish experience awaits you at the Aran Islands. Here, you’ll experience jagged sea cliffs, limestone walls, and golden beaches. The Aran Islands are made up of Inishmore (Inis Mór), Inishmaan (Inis Meáin), and Inisheer (Inis Oírr), all equally as beautiful as the other.
Head to Inishmore to book a diving lesson with the Dive Academy. You’ll have the opportunity to experience its lively underwater life, and learn why it has a reputation for being one of the top spots for diving in Europe. Depending on the time of year, you may spot friendly seals and dolphins. And you can look forward to swimming with colourful sea anemones, unique creatures, and vibrant coral. But don’t stress if you’re new to diving; the academy has courses for all skill levels.
Be sure to check out the most renowned of the Aran Islands’ historical sites: Dún Aonghasa. It’s an ancient stone fort that rests on a 100-metre cliff on the border of Inishmore. You’ll enjoy picturesque views of the Irish coastline as towering waves crash against the base of the sea cliffs. Just remember to wear suitable footwear to accommodate the uneven terrain!
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Enjoy all that beautiful Ireland has to offer! Use this blog to start planning your list of places to visit during your time abroad.
