Hidden Gems in Ireland: Explore Roundstone, Lough Dan, and Graiguenamanagh
“Where locals go” is our new series featuring under-the-radar holiday destinations that are often overlooked by visitors but cherished by locals. In this edition, our Ireland experts showcase their favorite holiday spots at home.
With its dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich heritage, Ireland inspires all sorts of adventures. However, away from the world-renowned Cliffs of Moher, the beaches of Donegal, and the literary trails in Dublin, where do locals go when they want to steer clear of the crowds? Here, three of iBestTravel’s Dublin editors share their favorite destinations for laid-back holidays in Ireland.
Fresh Seafood and Swims in Galway: Roundstone
Fionnuala McCarthy works on iBestTravel’s digital content team. She lives in Dublin but heads west for a three-day weekend whenever she can.
It’s to the tiny Victorian fishing village of Roundstone on the edge of Connemara where I escape to recharge my batteries. It’s one of the oldest fishing villages on the Atlantic coast, and the three local pubs all serve up the freshest seafood – although in my opinion, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything to rival the chowder served in O’Dowds pub.
Today, the village serves as a creative hub and is home to many artists and writers. The old 1830s Franciscan Monastery has been redeveloped as an open workshop for Malachy Kearns, Ireland’s master maker of bodhráin (drums made of goat hide) – a must-visit for any craft enthusiast.
The surrounding countryside is wild and open, with nothing between you and the looming Twelve Bens mountain range but sheep, lakes, and stone walls. Even at the height of summer, one can spend hours walking the countryside without encountering another soul.
Accommodations and Beaches
Two of the coastline’s finest beaches sit on the outskirts of Roundstone: Gorteen and the horseshoe-shaped Dog’s Bay, which boasts the softest white sand. In summer, locals humorously rename the popular strand after a wealthy Dublin postcode due to its popularity with affluent visitors, yet it remains unspoiled.
During our visits, we usually opt to stay at a quaint renovated fisherman’s cottage in the heart of the village, but a recent find was the Scandi-style Stilt House in Fernwood Eco Farm, a short drive away in nearby Clifden. This hideaway is set within woodlands with private trails and a sauna by a saltwater lake, providing soothing sounds from nature and the rescue donkeys on the farm.
A Quieter Escape in the ‘Garden of Ireland’: Lough Dan
Amy Lynch is a commissioning editor for iBestTravel. She’s based in Dublin but loves hiking and biking trips in nearby Wicklow.
Wicklow, known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, is famous for its scenic hikes and sandy beaches. Nevertheless, when I want to enjoy the stunning beauty of Wicklow far from the bustling crowds in Glendalough or Bray, I head to two small lakes discreetly nestled amid the mountains. Lough Dan, primarily frequented by locals, is a tranquil green oasis in the mountains near the village of Roundwood. Accessed via a scenic walk from Luggala Lodge, it is popular for kayaking and hiking. We often bring a picnic and some swimwear, taking a couple of hours to prepare ourselves to dip into the very cold lake waters!
After our refreshing swim, a marvelous walk extends from Lough Dan to Lough Tay (also known as the Guinness Lake), a stunning lake 10km south of Lough Dan. There are numerous viewing points at Lough Tay to appreciate the breathtaking landscape.
Waterway Adventures in Ireland’s Heartland: Graiguenamanagh
Sasha Brady works on iBestTravel’s digital content team. She lives in Dublin and enjoys exploring green spaces.
Graiguenamanagh (pronounced greg•nuh•maanah) is recognized as one of Ireland’s most charming towns. Located only 90 minutes from Dublin, international visitors infrequently venture to this idyllic area. The town is home to the beautifully restored 13th-century Duiske Abbey, which is well worth a visit during rainy days. Its riverside location along the River Barrow makes it an excellent hub for outdoor adventures.
A personal favorite activity is to rent a bike and cycle the wooded riverside trail from Graiguenamanagh to St Mullin’s, particularly during late summer when I can gather ripe blackberries and raspberries along the way. However, you can’t visit the Barrow without enjoying a water activity, so I always recommend renting paddleboards, canoes, or kayaks to embark on a guided or self-guided tour of the river and its canals.
Accommodations and Local Pubs
For lodging, I highly recommend securing a spot at Bandon Hill Camping, which features various family-friendly amenities. Alternatively, the Waterside Guest House, a boutique hotel located on the site of a former mill, offers fantastic views of the river. Their renowned full-Irish breakfast is considered one of the best in town.
In terms of nightlife, Graiguenamanagh boasts an abundance of excellent watering holes. Nevertheless, you’ll struggle to find a more inviting atmosphere than at Mick Daly’s, one of my favorite pubs in Ireland. Especially during live music sessions, the pub pulsates with a vibrant spirit, retaining its traditional features while even housing an old-school grocery shop that sells everything from fishing tackle to tea.
The ideal time to visit Graiguenamanagh is during summer, where you can take advantage of the outdoors, particularly in late August when the weather is warmest and the town transforms with exciting local events.
