Though Ireland is a relatively small nation, it stands as a true hidden gem in Europe. Renowned for its majestic landscapes, vibrant culture, and tumultuous history, Ireland boasts numerous stunning destinations well worth visiting. Whether you're a first-time tourist planning an itinerary or a lifelong local resident, we've put together a list of some of the most beautiful places in Ireland that you should consider visiting before the end of the year.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher represent one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ireland, with more than 1 million people that visit this gorgeous scenery. The cliffs are located on the West coast of Ireland and they run for about 8 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean, offering captivating panoramic views of the ocean and the islands that can be seen in the distance of a clear day. This attraction is popular amongst tourists and the Irish alike, especially those who can appreciate the untouched, rugged beauty of Ireland. Moreover, few people know that the Cliffs of Moher have actually appeared in some famous movies, such as Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride .
Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are a group of three islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer that are located off the West coast of Ireland. If the name rings the bell, it is because Aran Island is the birthplace of the iconic men’s Aran sweaters that have originated there in the 1920s. While back in the day they were worn by the fishermen to protect themselves because of the cold weather, today Aran sweaters are a staple in every gentleman’s wardrobe, Irish or not. These garments played an important role in the popularization of the traditional men’s Irish clothing all over the world, but buying one of those is not the only thing you can do while visiting the islands. The Arans has breathtaking sceneries and is home to prehistoric stone forts, as well as medieval churches and other historical sites that you need to visit at least once in your life.
Ring of Kerry
If you want to explore as much of Ireland as possible in a little amount of time, the Ring of Kerry is the perfect route for you! This mesmerizing South-Western circuit is 179 kilometer long and offers lots of mesmerizing places such as the Ladies View, Torc Waterfall, Skellig Ring, and many others that you can visit in a single day. When traveling, make sure to stop at the Gap of Dunloe and make a wish at the wishing bridge, try the local cuisine at cozy restaurants and cafes, but also observe the friendly animals like cows and goats that you’ll definitely see along the road. Lastly, to finish off your one-day trip with an astonishing view, make sure to visit the Kerry Cliffs during the sunset.
Killarney National Park
Situated in the very heart of County Kerry, the Killarney National Park covers circa 103 square kilometers and it is one of the oldest national parks in Ireland. From opulent mountains and crystal-clear lakes to opulent Victorian mansions and beautiful waterfalls, the Killarney National Park has something to provide for everyone who visits it. Fall is an especially good time to take a trip to Killarney, since the vibrant colors transform the park’s landscapes into an even more beautiful landscape, the mix of red and yellow leaves adorning the lush mountains and the rich flora of the region. And if that is not enough to convince you to visit this destination, the fauna of the park is truly captivating, and encountering deers, foxes, otters, and minks during your journey is a common occurrence.
