I have been exploring Ireland for over 3 years now and have hand-selected a few of my favorite locations for you!
Check out my map on Rexby with over 100 spots and travel tips from across Ireland. Join me off the beaten path and find some of the more unique locations and hidden gems across the country. If you want to explore the coastline, remote beaches, stunning cliffs, lighthouses or mountain passes, there is something for everyone!
1. The Dark Hedges
This captivating beech tree avenue, known as the Dark Hedges and originally planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century, is a cherished Irish destination. It's an idyllic spot for witnessing a stunning sunrise. For the most enchanting experience, plan your visit during the transitional months of May and August/September, when the meadows often cloak the surroundings in mystical low-hanging fog. Nevertheless, the Dark Hedges holds its unique charm all year round, making it an essential destination in every season.
2. Downpatrick Head
Downpatrick Head, now a Signature Discovery Point on the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, offers unparalleled ocean vistas, featuring a unique vantage point over the majestic Stags of Broadhaven. At this dramatic site, the towering sea stack, a geological wonder with centuries of layered rock, serves as a sanctuary for thousands of nesting seabirds. It's a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking awe-inspiring coastal scenery.
3. Gougane Barra
Gougane Barra, a prominent Signature Discovery Point along the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, offers unparalleled ocean vistas, along with a unique vantage point overlooking the Stags of Broadhaven. Here, a majestic sea stack, rising like a tower from the sea, features centuries of layered rock, providing shelter to thousands of nesting seabirds. This scenic gem at Gougane Barra beckons nature enthusiasts and travelers in search of breathtaking coastal beauty.
4. Saltee Islands
The Saltee Islands, situated off the southeastern coast of Ireland, stand out as a truly exceptional natural wonder. These islands, encompassing Great Saltee and Little Saltee, are a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, thanks to their flourishing seabird populations, including puffins, gannets, and razorbills. With their unspoiled landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and historical significance, the Saltee Islands are an extraordinary and cherished destination for those seeking a unique and pristine coastal experience.
5. Ballysaggartmore Lodges
Ballysaggartmore Lodges, a hidden gem in the heart of the Irish countryside, are a testament to 19th-century architectural brilliance. With their stunning Neo-Gothic design, ornate turrets, and picturesque gardens, these lodges provide a romantic and secluded retreat. For travelers in search of a historic and idyllic escape in Ireland, Ballysaggartmore Lodges are an enchanting choice.
6. Murder Hole Beach
Murder Hole Beach, renowned for its rugged beauty and secluded ambiance, offers a captivating vista best admired from the viewpoint accessible by starting the ascent up the mountain on the right side from Trá na Rossan view parking lot. As you traverse this picturesque route, the stunning panorama of the beach unfolds, revealing its haunting allure against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and crashing waves.
7. Fanad Head Lighthouse
Murder Hole Beach, renowned for its rugged beauty and secluded ambiance, offers a captivating vista best admired from the viewpoint accessible by starting the ascent up the mountain on the right side from Trá na Rossan view parking lot. As you traverse this picturesque route, the stunning panorama of the beach unfolds, revealing its haunting allure against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and crashing waves.
8. Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, captivates visitors with its vast green spaces and serene ambiance, making it an ideal spot to chase the sunset. As the day draws to a close, locals and tourists alike flock to this enchanting park to witness the golden hues of dusk enveloping the landscape, often accompanied by the delightful sight of majestic deer roaming freely amidst the tranquil surroundings, adding a touch of magic to the experience.
9. Slieve League
Slieve League, home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offers an awe-inspiring vista that beckons adventurers even after hours. For those seeking a unique experience, simply opening the sheep gate allows access to the upper car park, where a winding narrow road leads to unparalleled views of the rugged coastline under the starlit sky, creating an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of Ireland's west coast.
10. Gap of Dunloe
Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of County Kerry, the Gap of Dunloe captivates travelers with its narrow mountain pass and breathtaking scenery. Whether explored by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage, this natural wonder offers an immersive journey through Ireland's rugged beauty, where steep cliffs, tranquil lakes, and verdant valleys create a timeless and unforgettable experience.
