9 Stunning Sights to Seek out on Your Trip to Ireland
You Won’t Want to Miss These Spots
There’s a good reason why Ireland vacations lure travelers from all over the world. With its endless lush, emerald hills, dramatic cliffs that stretch down to golden beaches and a turquoise sea, soaring mountains, grand medieval castles and charming villages, Ireland is truly one of the most spectacular destinations on the planet.
And don’t forget the people, who make Ireland one of the friendliest destinations in the world! Ireland is also becoming popular as a destination for genealogy travel as those who can trace their roots back to the country are visiting to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors.
Several trips to Ireland would scarcely be enough to take in all of the sights and experience all there is to be enjoyed. So if you’re planning to visit Ireland and want to make the most of your time there, make sure to put these locales on your itinerary.
You won’t want to miss out on these places to visit in Ireland.
Dingle
When you envision Ireland, the Dingle Peninsula in the southwestern region of the country is what you probably picture. It’s the quintessential postcard-perfect place, with those brilliant-green hills dotted with sheep, and white-washed cottages dipping down to the azure Atlantic.
The hilltop medieval town of Dingle is one of the best towns to visit in Ireland. Dingle overlooks a bustling harbor that’s famous for its resident dolphin, Fungi, while vibrantly colored buildings ramble up and down the hilly streets. Other than the scenery, Dingle is a central facet of Ireland tourism due to its numerous pubs that are filled with character and offer nightly sessions with traditional music.
Portmagee
Portmagee is one of Ireland’s most picturesque little villages. While it was once considered a hidden gem, thanks to its role in “Star Wars” it’s becoming an internationally renowned destination.
It happens to be the departure hub for trips to Skellig Michael, which hosts preserved monastic settlements that date back to the sixth century. The rugged island stole the final scene in “The Force Awakens,” when Rey extended a lightsaber to Luke Skywalker.
When not filming, the cast and crew hung out at Portmagee’s Bridge Bar, which is considered one of the best bars in the world. It’s tucked among a row of colorful buildings and offers live music many nights of the week along with gourmet fare and a well-poured Guinness.
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Inisheer Island
Inisheer Island is the smallest of the Aran Islands, situated off the County Galway Coast. The islands are renowned for their Old World feel that’s entirely different from the mainland, making them a must-visit when it comes to Ireland destinations.
While most visitors to these islands head to the largest, Inishmore, Inisheer is far less touristy and incredibly peaceful — especially when the day-tripping tourists have headed back. When stepping off the ferry and onto the pier, you’ll be greeted with an idyllic white-sand beach that faces crystal-clear aquamarine waters, appearing as if it was stolen from the Caribbean.
The two-square-mile island can easily be covered on foot, but many visitors enjoy hitching a ride with one of the pony and cart drivers offering tourists guided tours.
