My name is Naiara and welcome to my blog on the most unique things to do in Ireland. I’m from Alicante, a city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Since I was little, I have always wanted to travel and explore new places. I started my career in marketing and social media over 12 years ago, creating content for fashion brands, until I decided to launch my own medium – a space where I could be myself and speak from the heart. That is where writing about my travels and adventures came into play.
One amazing destination I had the opportunity to visit recently was Ireland, and I’m not going to lie: what excited me most about this trip was seeing the Cliffs of Moher. I love nature, greenery, wild animals, culture, tradition, good food, and from time to time I like to discover cosmopolitan cities with lots of atmosphere. Ireland, of course, has all of those things in abundance.
My trip to Ireland lasted two weeks and I went there with my family (my husband and three year old son). The best way to experience Ireland is in a campervan, so we hired one for the first week of our trip and drove the Wild Atlantic Way – from the southern part of County Mayo to the Ring of Kerry. Then we spent a few days in the cities of Cork and Dublin.
I really appreciated the roads of Connemara, a gorgeous stretch of coast in western Ireland filled with tiny coves and villages, and the Ring of Kerry. At both of these areas, it was impossible not to stop and take photos. These are landscapes that surprise you and make you fall head over heels. Ladies View was one of the most incredible viewpoints we checked out.
I think everyone should visit Ireland, as it boasts green landscapes and an authentic spirit. We found much of the scenery here to be well-preserved and pure, and the stories and castles transport you to another era. In Ireland, you have everything you need: peaceful, serene nature mixes with the vibrant, bright cities to produce a truly unique offering for travelers.
11 Unique Things To Do in Ireland
1. Take a Road Trip on the Ring of Kerry
Driving around the Ring of Kerry – with its cliffs, viewpoints and towns – is a must-do on your Irish adventure. This 179 km-long, circular route winds its way through Ireland’s breathtaking southwest coast providing visitors with an array of natural jewels to soak in. Learning about the rich Celtic heritage at the charming villages along the way is also delightful.
2. Discover the Hidden Corners of Connemara
Connemara is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Highlights of this region include the picturesque setting of Pine Island, the quaint architecture and welcoming locals of Clifden, the serpentine coastal route of Sky Road and the historic treasure of Kylemore Abbey on the Wild Atlantic Way. Connemara weaves together a tapestry of natural beauty and historical richness that invites you to uncover its enchanting corners.
3. Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher, though a well-known attraction in Ireland, continue to captivate all who stand before them. As you approach the edge, a profound sense of wonder washes over you, for here, nature’s grandeur unfolds in all its glory. Towering above the Atlantic Ocean, these rugged sea cliffs stretch for miles – their imposing heights a testament to the Earth’s intense power.
4. Cycle Around the Aran Islands
Cycling around the Aran Islands, where time seems to stand still, is an experience not to be missed. These isles, steeped in history, exude a timeless charm that places a unique spell upon all who visit. As you pedal along winding paths you will encounter ancient stone walls and traditional cottages, in addition to coastal panoramas and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the restless sea. Fun fact: The Banshees of Inisherin (with famous Irish actor Colin Farrell) was partly filmed on the Aran Islands.
5. Explore the Waterfalls of Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park, a haven for nature-lovers, is one of Ireland’s top national parks. Set amidst the pristine landscapes are a couple of waterfalls, with the most popular one being Torc Waterfall. Its 20 meter height and 110 meter length cascades down the base of Torc Mountain – giving visitors the chance to swim and take photos until their heart’s content.
6. Hike Through Burren National Park
Hiking through Burren National Park, with its stark and rugged terrain, one can experience a deep isolation that fosters introspection. Amidst the beauty of limestone pavement, calcareous grassland, hazel scrub, ash woodland, turloughs, lakes, petrifying springs, cliffs and fen – your solitude becomes your companion as you look for a chance to disconnect from the clamor of modern life and connect with the raw essence of nature.
7. Capture Photos of West View Street in Cobh
Strolling along the steep West View Street in Cobh is like stepping into a postcard. A row of charming houses, each painted in a different hue, forms a kaleidoscope of colors that beckon photographers to capture their beauty. With each click of the camera, you freeze a moment in time, preserving the essence of this town. The contrasting shades, set against the backdrop of the harbor, create an irresistible tableau of urban charm.
8. Dine at the Medieval Dunguaire Castle
Immerse in a bygone era by dining at the Dunguaire Castle. Visiting this place on the shores of Galway Bay allows you to feel like a noble of yesteryears. As you enter the candlelit banquet hall, the echoes of history whisper in the stone walls. Costumed servers and traditional Irish cuisine elevate the atmosphere, while the backdrop of the castle’s imposing facade and the tales of chivalry create a dining experience that’s second to none.
9. Book an Experience at the Guinness Storehouse
Ireland’s iconic stout is best experienced at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. They offer brewery journeys that take you deep into the heart of the Guinness brand where history, culture and craftsmanship intertwine. Explore the brewing process, from the raw ingredients to the perfect pour, gaining insights into the art of creating this legendary beverage. The Gravity Bar atop the storehouse offers panoramic views of Dublin, a fitting setting to savor a complimentary pint while appreciating the city’s skyline.
10. Learn About the History of Spike Island
Spike Island, nestled in Cork Harbor, holds a unique place in Irish history – from its role as a monastic settlement to a formidable fortress to a prison. As you explore its historic structures and lush landscapes, you become a part of this enduring narrative. Spike Island is also home to many gannets who nest year after year, giving the island its nickname: the Irish Gannet.
11. Bonus: Make Friends with the Locals of Ireland
On our travels, we try to explore the less touristy areas – although at times it’s difficult to avoid the crowds because you have to visit popular places. As we traversed the Wild Atlantic Way, we saw a lot of domestic tourists and met the locals. Also, in Cork we stayed at the home of an Irish couple which enabled us to learn about their customs. They recommended several places and restaurants to us – all knowledge that we put to good use. Like we did, do your best to mix and mingle with the friendly Irish people.
Tips for Visiting Ireland
- Gorge on Fish & Chips: When it comes to Irish cuisine, what I loved most was the fish & chips. Indeed, this food is a staple of Ireland – and dates back to the Italian immigrants who came here in the late 19th century and started opening up shops. For your trip, I highly recommend swinging by The Hungry Knight in Sneem for some fresh fish and tasty chips.
- Book Different Types of Accommodation: We combined campervan, campsites, hotels and home exchanges for our trip to Ireland and it worked out really well. Traveling in our campervan was fantastic, as Ireland has many camping options, and staying with an Irish family on a home exchange was also incredible. We got the opportunity to meet local people and immerse ourselves in their way of life, which was very special.
- Pack for Changing Conditions: In Ireland, the weather can change at the blink of an eye – one minute it’s sunny, and the next it’s windy and raining. You should fill your suitcase with all kinds of different clothes – from breathable, lightweight clothing to raincoats and warm jackets. We visited Ireland in August but had mixed results with the weather. Thanks for reading everyone and enjoy your trip to the beautiful Emerald Isle!
