Iconic Eire Landscapes and The place to Discover Them

Eire is a land of enchanting landscapes and fascinating folklore. Its attract lies in its seamless mix of historical past and pure wonders.

From majestic cliffs and mountains to lush inexperienced valleys, we’ll discover the varied pure wonders of this enchanting nation. Be taught the secrets and techniques behind its verdant hue and unravel why Eire beckons vacationers from throughout the globe to witness its breathtaking magnificence firsthand.

On this submit, I’ll describe the variety of Eire’s landscapes, together with how they have been shaped or some enjoyable information, and inform you precisely the place to go in Eire to see them. That is all based mostly on my quite a few journeys to Eire and the small group mountaineering excursions I supply there.

What Sort of Landscapes Does Eire Have?

As you’ll see, the Eire panorama is diverse. There are various causes to fall in love with Eire – and views like these are solely the tip of the iceberg.

• Inexperienced Countryside
• Cliffs and Coastlines
• Historical Bogs
• Mountains
• Lakes and Rivers
• Forests and Woodlands
• Historic Castles
• Empty Sandy Seashores
• Karst Panorama

Welcome to a scenic journey by way of the fascinating world of Eire’s landscapes!

Inexperienced Countryside

Eire is legendary for its lush inexperienced countryside, with rolling hills, meadows, and pastoral landscapes. Agriculture has been a big a part of Eire’s economic system and tradition for hundreds of years, and elevating livestock and cultivating crops has led to the upkeep of its lush inexperienced fields and pastures.

These visiting Eire could surprise why Eire is SO inexperienced. The quick reply is Eire experiences plentiful rainfall as a consequence of its geographical location, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, prevailing westerly winds, mountainous terrain, and temperate maritime local weather.

All these elements mixed create the long-lasting picture of Eire’s rolling inexperienced hills and verdant landscapes, incomes it the nickname “The Emerald Isle.” The nation’s pure magnificence, marked by its inexperienced surroundings, has turn out to be one in every of its most celebrated and enchanting options, attracting guests from everywhere in the world.

Greatest Locations to See Rolling Hills in Eire

Boyne Valley in County Meath is the proper place for fields and hills of inexperienced! Proper within the coronary heart of the Boyne Valley is Rock Farm, one in every of my favourite locations to go to rural inexperienced landscapes.

It’s a bit off-the-beaten-path, which can be most likely why I find it irresistible! Situated on the outskirts of the village of Slane, you’ll discover this stunning property: a big natural farm and a glamping website.

The glamping yurts are nestled amongst sycamore, oak, ash, chestnut, and hawthorn bushes, forming pure enclosures across the yurts and shepherd’s huts. This grove is surrounded by an undulating wild inexperienced meadow with an open inexperienced flat pasture beneath perched on a ledge of inexperienced land overlooking the turrets of the notorious Slane Fort. You’ll be on inexperienced overload!

Moreover, you are able to do a farm tour and benefit from the native farmers markets on the farm.

Killarney Nationwide Park is a inexperienced paradise! The Park affords varied strolling choices, from lake and wooded walks to mountains and hikes to waterfalls within the woods. You can too go to the close by Muckross Home, its gardens, and an outdated deserted abbey. The Nineteenth-century home and landscaped gardens are a nationwide treasure and to not be missed.

Often called the “Backyard of Eire,” County Wicklow is a haven of rolling inexperienced hills, forests, and glens, with sights like Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains.

Cliffs and Coastlines

The nation’s rugged coastlines are adorned with towering cliffs providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Eire’s cliffs and coastlines have been shaped over thousands and thousands of years by way of varied geological processes, like erosion, glaciers, faulting and uplift, historical volcanic exercise, sedimentation, and karst processes.

Greatest Cliffs and Coastlines to See in Eire

Maybe essentially the most iconic landmark in Eire is the Cliffs of Moher. It rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean reaching heights of as much as 214 meters (702 ft) and affords unparalleled views of the ocean and the Aran Islands.

Nevertheless, iconic landmarks imply a number of crowds. The finest technique to expertise the Cliffs of Moher whereas getting away from the crowds is to go for sundown and do the mountaineering path alongside the cliffs. This path is a part of the Burren Manner. Additionally, be aware that you could pay a price to park and look at the Cliffs of Moher.

One other of essentially the most well-known of Eire’s landscapes, the Big’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Eire, is an instance of historical volcanic exercise.

The lesser-known Slieve League cliffs are among the many highest sea cliffs in Europe, standing at roughly 601 meters (1,972 ft), offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Slea Head Drive in County Kerry affords gorgeous views of coastal cliffs, golden seashores, and the Blasket Islands, making it a must-visit location on the Dingle Peninsula.

Outdated Head of Kinsale in County Cork. Situated on the southern tip of Eire, this rugged headland boasts fascinating coastal cliffs and panoramic views of the Celtic Sea.

One among my favourite cliff viewpoints in Eire is alongside the Ring of Kerry. The Kerry cliffs close to the tiny village of Portmagee stand over 1000 ft above the wild Atlantic and have been shaped in a desert surroundings 400 million years in the past. There’s a pleasant path out to the viewpoints (search for the lamas alongside the trail!) the place you’ll be able to sit and benefit from the view, the highly effective waves beneath, and hen watching. There’s a small price to go to the Kerry Cliffs.

Lastly, you’ll be able to’t beat Downpatrick Head in County Mayo. It’s situated close to Ballycastle village alongside the Wild Atlantic Manner. Right here, you’ll discover the standard dramatic cliffs and crashing sea – in addition to a sea stack (‘Dun Briste’) that was thought to have damaged away from the mainland in 1393. On the sight, you’ll additionally discover a statue of Saint Patrick and a small stone constructing, used as a lookout submit through the Second World Battle with its stone aerial markers: EIRE 64.

Historical Peat Bogs

Eire is dwelling to intensive peat bogs, preserved over 1000’s of years and contributing to its distinctive ecological panorama. Peat bogs are partially decomposed plant matter and are prevalent in sure areas, including to the richness of the panorama.

When visiting peat bogs, respecting these delicate ecosystems and following any pointers or restrictions to protect their magnificence and ecological significance is important.

Eire’s bogs are greater than only a distinctive panorama; it’s additionally a panorama that preserves issues – like butter. One widespread concept is that meals was buried in bogs to hinder spoilage. Being cool, low oxygen, and extremely acidic environments, peat bogs have wonderful preservative properties. Along with bathroom butter, they’ve additionally discovered splendidly preserved our bodies in historical peat bogs! These are on show on the Nationwide Museum of Eire.

It’s additionally good to know that bogs are protected habitats underneath European and Irish Legislation. Intact bogs, actively forming peat, play an vital function in combating local weather change by eradicating extra carbon dioxide from the air and inserting it into long-term storage for 1000’s of years. The Irish bathroom panorama is fascinating, isn’t it?

Greatest Locations to See Peat Bogs in Eire

1. The Burren, County Clare: In addition to its distinctive karst panorama, the Burren can be dwelling to some small peat bogs, including to the world’s ecological range.
2. Connemara, County Galway: The boglands of Connemara, notably within the western a part of the area, supply an opportunity to see peat bogs amidst the rugged landscapes.
3. County Offaly: The Lavatory of Allen, situated in County Offaly, is one in every of Eire’s largest peat bogs and is a necessary a part of the Midlands area.
4. County Roscommon: The Curlew Mountains in County Roscommon are recognized for his or her scenic peat bogs.
5. County Donegal: A number of areas in Donegal, such because the Derryveagh Mountains and the Glendowan Mountains, are dwelling to peat bogs.
6. The Ox Mountains, County Sligo: This vary in County Sligo has some peat bogs interspersed with the mountainous terrain.
7. County Kerry: The Slieve Mish Mountains additionally function peat bogs amidst their scenic landscapes.

Mountains

The nation options a number of mountain ranges, together with the Wicklow Mountains, the Galtee Mountains, and the Mourne Mountains, providing wonderful mountaineering alternatives and gorgeous vistas.

Whereas not as imposing as different mountain ranges, Eire’s mountains supply an opportunity to discover the nation’s wonderful landscapes. Whether or not you’re an skilled hiker or searching for improbable views, these mountainous areas in Eire have a lot to supply.

If you would like an actual mountain problem, try Croagh Patrick in County Mayo. Nicknamed ‘the Reek,’ Croagh Patrick is 2,507 ft and an vital pilgrimage website for the Irish. It has a pyramid form that overlooks Clew Bay close to Westport. Some could say it seems menacing on a transparent day, however it’s properly well worth the difficult hike!

It additionally has an interesting historical past related to Saint Patrick, who is alleged to have spent forty days fasting on the summit. You’ll discover a statue of him on the base of the hike. You’ll discover a small church on the summit for many who make it to the highest. Croagh Patrick is climbed by 1000’s of pilgrims yearly.

Greatest Locations to See Mountains in Eire

1. Mourne Mountains, County Down: Situated in Northern Eire, the Mourne Mountains are recognized for his or her granite peaks, together with Slieve Donard, the best mountain in Northern Eire.
2. Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow: These scenic mountains (typically known as the Backyard of Eire) are near Dublin and supply wonderful mountaineering alternatives with panoramic views of the encompassing countryside. The Wicklow Manner is a multi-day mountaineering path you’ll be able to take by way of the mountains.
3. MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, County Kerry: This mountain vary consists of Eire’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil, and affords dramatic landscapes and difficult hikes.
4. Connemara, County Galway: The Twelve Bens mountain vary in Connemara affords rugged magnificence and is a favourite vacation spot for hikers and nature lovers.
5. Slieve Bloom Mountains, Counties Laois, and Offaly: These mild mountains are perfect for leisurely walks and showcase rolling inexperienced hills and forests.
6. Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry: This peninsula options the Slieve Mish Mountains and affords gorgeous coastal and mountain views.
7. Achill Island, County Mayo: This island options the Slievemore and Croaghaun mountains, offering breathtaking coastal and mountain vistas.

Lakes and Rivers

Eire’s picturesque lakes, comparable to Lough Neagh (Eire’s largest lake) and Lough Corrib, together with meandering rivers just like the River Shannon, add to the nation’s scenic attract. Take pleasure in varied leisure actions like boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding in serene and picturesque settings while you go to lakes and rivers in Eire.

I really like the Killarney Lakes area in County Kerry. Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Higher Lake are collectively referred to as the Killarney Lakes and supply gorgeous views in Killarney Nationwide Park. Be sure to don’t miss Torc Waterfall in Killarney Nationwide Park!

Lough Leane is close to the Muckross Home and Ross Fort – providing a stunning setting for a day stroll by way of nature and Irish historical past.

I counsel you do a kayaking journey on the lakes the place you’ll be able to paddle by way of untouched islands, hidden caves, historical oak and yew woods, and excessive limestone cliffs. It’s one of the simplest ways to essentially see the lakes.

Greatest Locations to See Lakes and Rivers in Eire

1. Lough Corrib, County Galway: That is the most important lake within the Republic of Eire, providing picturesque surroundings, boating alternatives, and close by historic websites like Ashford Fort.
2. Lough Derg, County Clare/Tipperary/Galway: This expansive lake alongside the River Shannon offers gorgeous views, fishing spots, and a tranquil surroundings.
3. The River Shannon: Eire’s longest river flows by way of a number of counties, providing alternatives for river cruises, water-based actions, and scenic walks alongside its banks.
4. Lough Neagh, County Antrim: The most important lake on the island of Eire, Lough Neagh is in Northern Eire and affords birdwatching, fishing, and scenic walks.
5. Lough Gill, County Sligo: Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Lough Gill is famend for its magnificence and connections to W.B. Yeats.
6. The River Boyne: This historic river flows by way of County Meath and is related to historical websites just like the Hill of Tara and the Newgrange passage tomb.
7. The River Nore: Flowing by way of Kilkenny and neighboring counties, the River Nore affords scenic spots for strolling and kayaking.
8. Lough Ree, County Westmeath: A part of the River Shannon system, Lough Ree offers boating and water sports activities alternatives.
9. The River Moy, County Mayo: The principle channel is 62 miles lengthy and enters the ocean on the city of Ballina. It stretches from the Ox Mountains within the east to Castlebar within the south and Loughs Conn, Cullin, and the Nephin Beg vary of mountains in north Mayo.

Forests and Woodlands

Eire is dotted with charming woodlands and forests that present a tranquil escape and alternatives for leisurely walks amongst wonderful landscapes.

One factor distinctive to Eire’s forests is the Fairy Timber. A part of the Irish folklore, these bushes are believed to be dwelling to magical creatures and function the gateway between worlds for mortals and that of the fairies within the different world. Fairy bushes are usually Hawthorn bushes or Ash bushes. Nevertheless, not all Hawthorn or Ash bushes are fairy bushes. A Fairy tree sometimes stands alone in a discipline, typically is surrounded by a hoop of stones, and has little strips of fabric tied on the branches that symbolize needs. No matter whether or not the locals imagine in fairies or not, nobody will reduce down a fairy tree for worry of unhealthy luck.

As well as, maintain your eyes peeled for miniature properties within the forests. These little ‘wee folks’ villages in forests round Eire are cute and sacred.

Greatest Locations to See Forests and Woodlands in Eire

1. Glendalough, County Wicklow: Situated throughout the Wicklow Mountains Nationwide Park, Glendalough’s historical oak and beech woodlands encompass the picturesque lakes, making a serene and mystical setting.
2. Killarney Nationwide Park, County Kerry: This expansive park options woodlands, lakes, and mountains, together with the well-known Muckross Home and the enchanting Oakwood forest.
3. Glenveagh Nationwide Park, County Donegal: Glenveagh’s various panorama consists of wooded valleys, pristine lakes, and the huge Derryveagh Mountains, providing a peaceable escape within the northwest of Eire.
4. Coole Park, County Galway: As soon as the house of Woman Gregory and a gathering place for famend literary figures like Yeats and Shaw, Coole Park boasts stunning woodlands and gardens.
5. The Slieve Bloom Mountains, Counties Laois and Offaly: This vary options historical woodlands with oak, birch, and pine bushes, making it a really perfect spot for mountaineering and exploring.
6. The Curragh, County Kildare: Often called Eire’s oldest oak woodland, the Curragh is steeped in historical past and offers a tranquil retreat close to Dublin.
7. Powerscourt Property, County Wicklow: The Powerscourt Gardens embrace the Powerscourt Waterfall and scenic woodlands, providing a pleasant day journey from Dublin.
8. The Gougane Barra Forest Park, County Cork: Nestled in scenic mountains, this park options woodland trails, a surprising lake, and a captivating chapel on an island.
9. Don’t miss essentially the most well-known fairy tree on the Hill of Tara in County Meath. The magic right here is historical, going way back to the Neolithic instances. This was a sacred place of abode for the gods and an entrance to the Otherworld the place wee of us and legendary creatures roamed freely.

Historic Castles

Lastly, many landscapes are graced with the remnants of historical castles, including a contact of historical past to the magnificent surroundings. The nation’s wealthy historical past is woven with historical tales of Celtic mythology and centuries of cultural heritage. Evident in its historic castles and medieval ruins dotting the Irish landscapes.

The nation’s castles inform tales of its previous, and visiting them permits you to step again in time. Whether or not you’re serious about medieval structure, royal heritage, or fascinating tales from the previous, these castles supply an unforgettable glimpse into the historical past and Eire’s cultural legacy.

Greatest Locations to See Historic Castles in Eire

1. Blarney Fort, County Cork: Well-known for the Blarney Stone, this medieval fortress affords gorgeous gardens and panoramic views of the encompassing countryside.
2. Dublin Fort, Dublin: Situated within the coronary heart of Dublin, this citadel has been the middle of the Irish authorities for hundreds of years and is wealthy in historical past.
3. Bunratty Fort, County Clare: This well-preserved medieval citadel hosts folks park occasions and medieval banquets, offering an immersive historic expertise.
4. Kilkenny Fort, County Kilkenny: A hanging image of Norman affect, Kilkenny Fort’s intensive gardens, and splendid interiors make it a must-visit.
5. Kylemore Abbey, County Galway: Initially constructed as a citadel, this gorgeous abbey is about in opposition to Connemara’s rugged panorama.
6. Belleek Fort, County Mayo: Now a luxurious lodge, occasion area, and museum. Belleek Fort has been a household dwelling for many of its existence. Constructed between 1825 and 1831 in a spectacular Neo-Gothic fashion.
7. Dunguaire Fort, County Galway: This picturesque citadel on the shores of Galway Bay is one in every of Eire’s most photographed landmarks.
8. Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary: A historic website with a set of medieval buildings, together with a cathedral and spherical tower, set atop a limestone outcrop.
9. Doe Fort, County Donegal: This fortress, perched on the coast, offers gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the encompassing countryside.

Empty Seashores

Eire has 1,970 miles of shoreline, a rustic with this a lot shoreline is sure to be full of lovely seashores. There are such a lot of hidden little seashores alongside Eire’s Wild Atlantic Manner. The chilly waters of the Atlantic Ocean nevertheless are inclined to scare folks away leaving the seashores comparatively empty.

You’ll discover rocky seashores within the southern a part of the Atlantic Coast. In the meantime, in County Sligo, you discover massive flat expanses of lovely sand. Right here you’ll typically discover daring surfers taking over the wild Atlantic.

Greatest Locations to Expertise Empty Seashores in Eire

Enniscrone Seaside in County Sligo is a superb, flat seaside that’s excellent for lengthy seaside walks. Moreover, this is likely one of the finest newbie browsing seashores in Eire. There are a variety of surf faculties on this space.

Inch Seaside in County Kerry is widespread with surfers, anglers, and swimmers. It is a Blue Flag Seaside, with lifeguards through the summer time season. You’ll additionally discover surf faculties, water sports activities gear, and wetsuit rent.

Keem Seaside in County Mayo on Achill Island is commonly given the title of Eire’s finest seaside. Its reputation has elevated because the launch of the film Banshees of Inisherin the place it had a ‘starring function.’

Another stunning Irish seashores to go to:

• Portsalon Seaside in Donegal
• Streedagh Seaside in Sligo
• Silver Strand in Mayo County
• Canine’s Bay in Galway

Eire’s Distinctive Karst Landscapes

Image this: you’re standing within the coronary heart of County Clare on the west coast of Eire. The rugged panorama unfolds earlier than your eyes like an historical tapestry woven by Mom Nature herself. Welcome to the Burren, the place limestone is king and rocks reign supreme.

The Burren is primarily composed of carboniferous limestone. A sort of rock shaped round 350 million years in the past when Eire was a part of a tropical ocean ground. Discuss local weather change.

The Burren additionally boasts some critically spectacular karst landscapes. Karst refers to a sort of terrain characterised by sinkholes and underground drainage methods. In easier phrases: a number of holes and caves excellent for adventurous souls.

Greatest Place to See Karst Landscapes

Burren Nationwide Park is the proper place to expertise the Karst panorama. Huge expanses of flat slabs resemble one thing out of an alien panorama. There you are able to do hikes, and go caving.

No matter you do, don’t miss the Poulnabrone Dolmen – a prehistoric megalithic monument. It is likely one of the most well-known and well-preserved dolmens in Eire. It’s thought of a big archaeological and historic website, so it’s a must-see. The Poulnabrone Dolmen consists of a big, flat capstone balanced on two upright stones, forming a form of portal-like construction. The monument is believed so far again to the Neolithic interval, round 3800 to 3200 BCE. Poulnabrone Dolmen itself contained the stays of a number of people, together with adults and kids.

Hike the Burren Manner. This multi-day hike takes you thru one of the best of the Karst landscapes in County Clare. Not solely does it undergo Burren Nationwide Park, however it additionally goes by the well-known Cliffs of Moher (one of the simplest ways to see the Cliffs of Moher is to hike them!). You keep in small villages like the lovable city of Doolin. There you’ll be able to take heed to conventional Irish music and benefit from the locals. I hiked a portion of the Burren Manner on one in every of my visits. To today, it is likely one of the most memorable landscapes I’ve seen on the earth.

See Them All Alongside the Wild Atlantic Manner

The best technique to see all of those gorgeous landscapes is to easily drive the Wild Atlantic Manner. It’s a bucket listing vacation spot by itself, showcasing the dramatic Irish panorama. I set free gasps greater than as soon as as I rounded corners alongside the Wild Atlantic Manner.

This lengthy coastal route stretches alongside Eire’s western and northern coasts, spanning over 1,500 miles (roughly 2,500 kilometers). There are quite a few cliffs, pristine seashores, and charming coastal villages to discover alongside the route. Every cease alongside the best way affords a novel and memorable expertise for any nature fanatic and journey seeker. I drove the Wild Atlantic Manner solo and it was the most effective street journeys I’ve taken.

Greatest Locations to Cease Alongside the Wild Atlantic Manner

1. Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
2. Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry
3. Ring of Kerry, County Kerry
4. Connemara, County Galway
5. Skellig Islands, County Kerry
6. The Burren, County Clare
7. Downpatrick Head, County Mayo
8. County Donegal – Glenveagh Nationwide Park, Slieve League, Fanad Head
9. Achill Island, County Mayo
10. Ben Bulben, County Sligo
11. Big’s Causeway, County Antrim

See Eire’s Spectacular Landscapes For Your self!

I take you to many of those locations on my Ottsworld Excursions I do in Eire. You’ll be able to see the most recent Eire excursions I’m working right here.

If my Ottsworld Eire excursions don’t coincide together with your journey plans, then be sure you try Eire Stroll Hike Bike’s varied excursions across the Emerald Isle. This native firm is the one I take advantage of to design my excursions and they’re like household to me!

Plus – for those who use the code OttsWorld2023, you’ll get 5% off your journey!

Listed here are a few of their excursions that undergo the Irish panorama I’ve talked about:

And at last – I’ll depart you with a couple of of my different favourite Eire landscapes that don’t essentially match into these different teams. I hope you’ll be impressed to go see these landscapes in Eire your self!

5 Journey Necessities on your Eire Journey