Travel experts often advise that you should become a tourist in your own country. If you think that you’re already familiar with all that Ireland has to offer, this list will challenge you to take the road less traveled and discover some of these hidden gems.
Delve into Irish Prehistory
Older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids, Meath is home to some of the most important prehistoric monuments in the world. In addition to Newgrange, Dowth, and Knowth, it’s worth visiting Fourknocks, Stamullen, Co Meath, which is a little more difficult to find. Built around 3000 BC, it has a larger chamber than Newgrange and features engraved stones, as well as what is thought to be one of the first depictions of the human face in prehistoric Irish art. Visitors must first obtain a key from the White family, who live a mile away, before 6pm.
Jump Aboard Ireland’s Only Cable Car
Dursey Island, located on the scenic Beara Peninsula in Co Cork, is famous for its variety of seabirds and butterflies, as well as the dolphins and whales that visit the waters. One of the few uninhabited islands on the southwest coast, you can access it by taking a trip on Ireland’s only cable car, which accommodates six adults. The cable car operates year-round, weather permitting, and takes approximately eight minutes each way. Remember to bring water and snacks, as there are no shops or pubs once you land on Dursey, which is recognized as a walker’s paradise.
Meet the Irish Winemakers
Ireland is rich with world-class craft brewing and distilling; however, winemaking is now something to be enjoyed right at home. This is changing thanks to producers like Wicklow Way Wines, who use berries to create Móinéir (‘meadows’), Irish raspberry, strawberry, and blackberry wines. These wines, made in small batches, are featured in Michelin-starred restaurants across the country. Nestled in the Wicklow hills, a personalized tour includes insights into the wines’ production, fermentation (depending on the season), and bottling, concluding with a tasting session that pairs the wines with chocolates or artisan Irish cheeses.
Seek Out an Extraordinary Beach
The Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland’s western seaboard boasts an array of beautiful sandy coastal stretches, but only two coral beaches: Coral Strand facing Mannin Bay near Ballyconneely in Connemara, and Coral Beach near Gleesk Pier in Sneem, Co Kerry. The term ‘coral’ is a misnomer; this coral is not made from animals, as seen on the Great Barrier Reef, but is instead formed from dried algae. These two beaches are striking to behold and serve as havens for nature enthusiasts and explorers, situated in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Reach for the Sky in Mayo
Visit Mayo Dark Sky Park, which borders Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, to experience one of the best stargazing locations, not only in Ireland but also in the world. Mayo has international dark sky gold tier status, reflecting the quality of its night sky, which is free from light pollution. On a clear night, you can observe over 4,500 stars along with various planets in the solar system. The park features three signature viewing points in easily accessible locations, one being Cleary’s Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the night sky.
Splash Around the Loop Head Peninsula
The Loop Head Peninsula in Co Clare, with its dramatic cliffs and splendid seascapes, is perfect for various water adventures. Popular activities include kayaking, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, and sea angling. For an adrenaline rush, coasteering is a thrilling option that combines climbing, jumping, swimming, and scrambling while wearing a wetsuit and helmet under the guidance of an experienced instructor. This exhilarating sport allows you to explore Loop Head’s many rock pools, gullies, and caves.
Explore Ireland’s Dark Viking Past
Dunmore Cave in Ballyfoyle, Co Kilkenny, dates back millions of years. The first record of the cave appears in a 9th-century manuscript, referring to it as the darkest place in Ireland. However, the cave’s grim attraction stems from its history; according to the Annals of the Masters in the 17th century, it was the site of a Viking massacre in 928 AD, where 1,000 people—mainly women and children—were supposedly killed while seeking refuge when the Vikings lit a fire to smoke them out. Archaeological evidence has confirmed some Viking activity in the area.
Get Medieval in Wexford
Travel back in time at Ferrycarrig’s National Irish Heritage Park by staying overnight in a medieval wooden ringfort. Experience life as it would have been during the time of St. Patrick, utilizing materials that our ancestors would have employed, including stone, oak, and ash—with a thatched roof and central hearth. Accommodating six to eight people, authentic costumes are provided, complete with instructions on how to live like a medieval farmer. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to the 35-acre park after it closes to the public and may cook on an outdoor fire.
Explore an 18th Century Restored Windmill
The Elphin Windmill in Co. Roscommon is Ireland’s only fully restored windmill, built in the 1730s by landowner Edward Synge, Archbishop of Elphin. It functioned for 100 years, grinding wheat and oats from local farmers, until falling into disrepair after the Napoleonic wars due to declining flour prices across Europe. The windmill was lovingly restored by a local community group and reopened to the public in 1996 by actor Gabriel Byrne. Today, it features a visitor center, detailing the windmill’s operations and an agricultural museum showcasing machinery used for grain harvesting.
Take the Perfect Photo at Sliabh Liag
Reaching three times higher than the cliffs of Moher, Sliabh Liag in Co. Donegal is renowned for having some of the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe. Visitors will find unparalleled views across Donegal Bay, particularly from the Bunglass Viewing Platform, which offers spectacular views of the cliffs. More picturesque spots are located along the Pilgrim’s Path, a 4km route that features a waterfall and views across Lough Agh and the ruins of a chapel associated with the Saints Aedh MacBric and Assicus. The next plateau up provides broader panoramic views, encompassing seven counties.
This article was created by iBestTravel in collaboration with Failte Ireland. It was authored to reflect iBestTravel’s policy of editorial independence and impartiality.
