Ireland’s Most Beautiful Places: A Traveler’s Ultimate Guide

Ireland or ‘Emerald Isle’ as it is often called is a land of breathtaking landscape with delightful villages and deep-rooted history behind it. This beautiful country will always amaze the travelers with its unspoiled nature, including dramatic cliffs and rolling hills. Whether you’re looking to satisfy an adventure seeker, love of history, or for some reason just want to enjoy the nature, Ireland has something for you. It is a must visit destination which has vibrant culture, warm hospitality and rich folklore.

Visiting Ireland is easier than ever for travelers from the UAE. If you are planning to visit Ireland’s most beautiful places, then securing an Ireland Visa from Abu Dhabi or from any other place in UAE is the first thing you need to do. The right visa means that you can see the towering Cliffs of Moher, the picturesque streets of Galway and the ancient castles of Dublin without any hassle. Direct flight options and easy visa procedures make UAE travelers able to easily immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of Ireland.

Here are some of Ireland’s most beautiful places: A Traveler’s Ultimate Guide

1. Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is one of Ireland’s most iconic attractions, with the cliffs stretching for about 14 kilometers along the western coast of County Clare. These cliffs tower above 200 meters above the Atlantic Ocean and at sunset are spectacular for the panoramic views. As an educational stop the visitor center features exhibits both on the geology of the cliffs and the wildlife that lives there.

2. Ring of Kerry

The 179-kilometer scenic route through County Kerry is known as the Ring of Kerry. Filled with views of the dramatic coastal views, lush green hills and villages like Kenmare and Sneem this particular drive is an unforgettable one. Killarney National Park, the Gap of Dunloe and Ross Castle are notable stops.

3. Giant’s Causeway

World famous striations in thousands of columns formed over millions of years by basalt volcanic activity are found at the Giant’s Causeway, located in Northern Ireland and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is claimed by legend that the giant Finn McCool created this natural wonder. Beautiful coastal views and walking trails to the Antrim coastline are on offer from the site.

4. Killarney National Park

County Kerry’s Killarney National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. It is situated on an area of 102 square kilometers and includes lakes, mountains and forests. Muckross House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall and scenic Ladies View are must-visit spots. The native red deer population and diverse birdlife make the park also famous.

5. Connemara

Rugged beauty, with rolling hills, boglands and pristine beaches, Connemara is in County Galway. The hiking trails in Connemara National Park include the climb up Diamond Hill, which provides beautiful views. The region also has a picturesque castle nestled by a lake, Kylemore Abbey.

6. The Aran Islands

Ireland’s traditional way of life can be seen in the Aran Islands off the coast of County Galway. Faced with the rugged landscapes, stone forts and Gaelic-speaking communities, these remote lands comprise of three islands centred around the three islands—Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr. The standout on Inis Mór is a prehistoric fort perched on a cliff known as Dun Aonghasa.

7. The Dingle Peninsula

It is famous for its stunning coastal scenery, charming villages and rich cultural heritage, and it is located on the Dingle Peninsula, in County Kerry. Ireland’s most picturesque areas are to be found along the Slea Head Drive with their beautiful dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and ancient ruins. Dingle itself is famous for its seafood, lively music scene and the friendliness of its locals.

8. Glendalough

Glendalough is a serene valley sitting in the Wicklow Mountains and is famous for its monastic settlement that was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. There are well preserved ruins, round tower and beautiful lakes in the site. The Spinc Walk is one such hike trail with fantastic views of the surrounding land.

9. Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is a dramatic island off the coast of County Kerry, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is known for its ancient monastic site and steep rock formations, which had become an international film location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The views from here are stunning, however, not many people have access and there is a good way to help with that.

10. The Burren

The Burren in County Clare is a unique limestone landscape which resembles a lunar surface. It is fascinating, being the place where rare flora, ancient tombs, and historic ruins can be found. One of the Burren’s most famous landmarks is the Neolithic portal tomb of the Poulnabrone Dolmen. Good for hiking, the area is also full of trails to stunning viewpoints.

11. The Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most historic sites and an ancient fortress that sits on a limestone hill in County Tipperary. Medieval carvings adorn Cormac's Chapel and the cathedral, along with the round tower, and there are medieval structures too. It has some picturesque panoramic views of the countryside surrounding it.

12. Achill Island

Ireland’s offshore islands are Achill Island, the largest, which is famous for its rugged beauty and spectacular beaches. The most beautiful beach in the country is often considered to be Keem Bay, which is a secluded beach with crystal clear waters. In addition, excellent hiking and cycling routes are available on the island.

13. Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

Powerscourt Estate is located in County Wicklow and has one of the most impressive gardens in Europe. The gardens cover 47 acres and have terraces, waterfalls and lovely landscaped areas that are inspired by Italian and Japanese designs. Stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain can be had from the estate, which is a great place to have a leisurely visit.

Conclusion

Ireland is a magical country that has been able to enchant travelers with its stunning landscapes, its historic sites and its lively atmosphere. The land of leprechauns is known to build its history and its dreams in your dreams, whether you dream of how it feels to stand atop the cliffs, explore the ancient castles, experience the friendly Irish culture, etc. Ireland is dotted with castles, dotted with formidable cliffs and dotted with lovely ancient pubs hiding pretty towns and a peaceful countryside of County Kerry.

When planning a trip to Ireland, residents of UAE need to first apply for an Ireland Visa from UAE. If you have the right travel documents, you can travel to Ireland’s hidden gems and famous landmarks without any issue. Ireland is an amazing place to visit irrespective of how you’re traveling (sole, family or with that special someone), it will stay with you forever. If that’s the case then today is a good day to begin; experience the real Ireland for yourself!