Ireland’s majestic landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders provide the ideal complement to its rich history and culture. From an 18th-century pilgrimage well to breathtaking sweeping views, discover incredible sites that have long inspired Irish folklore and adventurers.
Be amazed by thousands of symmetrical basalt columns at Giant’s Causeway–a UNESCO World Heritage site–or hike along the Ring of Kerry to take in its majestic mountain peaks and charming lakes.
The Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the must-see stops in most Ireland tours. These impressive natural wonders stand at over 702 feet along Ireland’s westernmost coastline and feature impressive sandstone bluffs and rock formations that will leave visitors stunned, prompting locals to tell visitors that this geological marvel was created by giants eons ago.
The Galway Bay Cliffs offer stunning ocean views, including Galway Bay’s Aran Islands anchored in Galway Bay. Visitors can also spot sea stacks, caves and coastal landforms. At its most southerly point is Hag’s Head: an iconic stone formation which resembles a woman’s head from a local legend about how one witch pursued Irish hero Cu Chulainn all across Ireland even though they did not return her affections.
Although the cliffs have existed for millions of years, modern tourism at this site began only in 1835 when Cornelius O’Brien decided to develop his property for tourist purposes and construct O’Brien’s Tower, a Victorian structure perched atop a headland which showcases and attracts visitors.
Today, the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark has become an attraction that attracts many tourists to Ireland. Visitors can explore its paths which are suitable for all ages and abilities while its visitor center blends beautifully into the surrounding landscape; additionally it employs green technologies like renewable energy sources and recycling water sources to protect the environment.
Many visitors arrive at the cliffs by car, with ample parking available. However, peak times such as in the afternoon when many day trippers visit can become congested; therefore for optimal experiences it is wise to visit early in the morning or late in the evening when sunlight or sunset illuminates the cliffs and seabirds are most active searching out nesting grounds.
The Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is one of nature’s extraordinary marvels. Composed of over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that seem to emerge from the sea’s depths, they’ve been formed over thousands of years by volcanic eruptions from across Britain’s Isles resulting in their unique hexagonal shape despite appearing geometric.
These columns are estimated to have formed 50-60 million years ago and remain one of the most visited tourist spots in Northern Ireland today, drawing millions of tourists every year. Their breathtaking appearance has inspired legends and folklore stories about them being built by Finn MacCool as an attempt to gain revenge against Benandonner who insulted him earlier.
Visit this site and you’ll have the chance to wander amongst its columns and admire their unusual shapes – some notable ones being Camel’s Hump, Honeycomb and Giant’s Harp. There’s even an incredible human-sized throne called The Wishing Chair which shows just how rock can be transformed into different forms.
The Giant’s Causeway is an absolute must-see when visiting Ireland, its breathtaking beauty can be enjoyed during both day and night as light plays across its stones in different hues ranging from sharp green to grey to tobacco brown hues.
Tourists began visiting the Giant’s Causeway area increasingly during the 1800s. A number of guidebooks were published showcasing and explaining its geological origin. Reverend William Hamilton of 1786’s book The Complete Irish Traveller is often credited for providing an influential argument supporting volcanic theory of formation; his arguments supported that view by comparing columns found here to similar ones found elsewhere like Auvergne region of France where similar ones had resulted from volcanic explosion.
The Ring of Kerry
Launch out on an adventurous journey along Ireland’s Ring of Kerry to witness one of its underrated natural wonders – an underrated natural treasure created over millions of years by nature, comprising rock formations and glacier-carved boulders. Enjoy driving slowly through this two million year-old marvel as you stop for walks around, admire its stone “Wishing Bridge,” watch seals or puffins nesting, or look out for seals or puffins nesting.
This 179-kilometer loop offers spectacular Atlantic Ocean views, breathtaking mountains and charming coastal villages. While you could complete it quickly without stopping, spending several days here to fully appreciate everything the area has to offer is highly recommended – explore Killarney National Park or discover Gap of Dunloe or take in Lough Leane Lake and Waterfalls!
Stop at Ladies View lookout point and admire its breathtaking vistas of lakes, islands and mountainous terrain. Additionally, visit the nearby visitor center to receive more suggestions for things to see and do in the area.
Staigue Stone Fort is an unforgettable photo opportunity and well worth a short detour; its unique, rounded structures offer great photo ops. If you prefer exercise while sightseeing, Derrynane Beach provides ample opportunity for stretching out legs and taking in some sunrays.
If you prefer not to hike but still wish to experience some of Kerry’s natural splendors, take a boat tour up to the Skellig Islands for an adventure that allows you to land on Skellig Michael – where Star Wars was filmed – or visit Skellig Beag where puffin sightings can be observed. There are also seal spotting tours from Kenmare nearby.
These are only some of the many underrated gems found throughout Ireland’s Ring of Kerry region. No matter whether it is self-driving, touring with friends, or planning a romantic honeymoon – making sure the Ring of Kerry forms part of your trip is easy!
The Slieve League Cliffs
Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal are considered one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. From their summit, Sliabh Liag (pronounced shil-ee-luh), you can stand on the brink and gaze out over the Atlantic Ocean with breathtaking vistas all the way across Donegal bay to Sligo and even as far as Benbulben and Rathlin O Beirne.
The Cliffs were formed through glacial activity over millions of years and became exposed after melting ice sheets receded 15,000 years ago, when exposed by waves and winds. Made up of various rock formations shaped by waves and winds, these stunning cliffs now play host to golden eagles, peregrine falcons, hen harriers as well as many other animals who call the cliffs home.
One can explore the Slieve League Cliffs via a variety of trails. However, most visitors start their trek at Bunglas Viewpoint located nearby the new visitor centre for optimal experience without risk of falling drops. This way you can appreciate classic views without risk of treachery from potentially hazardous drops.
Views from this viewpoint are stunning, and there’s even an adorable beach with pure white sand to visit nearby. Additionally, there are remnants of a watchtower built during Napoleonic wartime to protect its coastline – perfect for exploring.
This spot is breathtaking and thought-provoking for both hill walking, hiking, seascapes or simply exploring natural landscapes. Additionally, boat tours allow visitors to witness their sheer scale from within.
Slieve League Cliffs are an important part of Irish culture and history. There is evidence of monastic life on these mountains, as pilgrims have visited this location since prehistoric times. Furthermore, their spiritual significance makes for an engaging hike up these majestic peaks – it is truly amazing what power nature possesses!