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 various pure wonders of this enchanting nation. Study 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 publish, I’ll describe the variety of Eire’s landscapes, together with how they have been shaped or some enjoyable info, and let you know precisely the place to go in Eire to see them. That is all primarily based on my quite a few journeys to Eire and the small group mountain climbing excursions I provide there.

What Form of Landscapes Does Eire Have?

As you’ll see, the Eire panorama is diversified. There are a lot of 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 marvel why Eire is SO inexperienced. The quick reply is Eire experiences plentiful rainfall attributable to 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 among its most celebrated and enchanting options, attracting guests from all around the world.

Finest 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 among my favourite locations to go to rural inexperienced landscapes.

It’s a bit off-the-beaten-path, which can be most likely why I like it! Positioned 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 timber, 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 under perched on a ledge of inexperienced land overlooking the turrets of the notorious Slane Citadel. 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 numerous strolling choices, from lake and wooded walks to mountains and hikes to waterfalls within the woods. You may as well 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 points of interest 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 hundreds of thousands of years by way of numerous geological processes, like erosion, glaciers, faulting and uplift, historic volcanic exercise, sedimentation, and karst processes.

Finest 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 toes) and affords unparalleled views of the ocean and the Aran Islands.

Nevertheless, iconic landmarks imply plenty of crowds. The easiest way to expertise the Cliffs of Moher whereas getting away from the crowds is to go for sundown and do the mountain climbing path alongside the cliffs. This path is a part of the Burren Approach. Additionally, observe that it’s essential to pay a charge to park and examine 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 historic volcanic exercise.

The lesser-known Slieve League cliffs are among the many highest sea cliffs in Europe, standing at roughly 601 meters (1,972 toes), 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.

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

One in all 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 under, and fowl watching. There’s a small charge to go to the Kerry Cliffs.

Lastly, you’ll be able to’t beat Downpatrick Head in County Mayo. It’s positioned close to Ballycastle village alongside the Wild Atlantic Approach. Right here, you’ll discover the everyday 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 publish in the course of the Second World Battle with its stone aerial markers: EIRE 64.

Historical Peat Bogs

Eire is residence to in depth 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 tips 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 principle is that meals was buried in bogs to hinder spoilage. Being cool, low oxygen, and extremely acidic environments, peat bogs have glorious preservative properties. Along with lavatory butter, they’ve additionally discovered splendidly preserved our bodies in historic peat bogs! These are on show on the Nationwide Museum of Eire.

It’s additionally good to know that bogs are protected habitats below European and Irish Regulation. Intact bogs, actively forming peat, play an essential position 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 lavatory panorama is fascinating, isn’t it?

Finest Locations to See Peat Bogs in Eire

1. The Burren, County Clare: Moreover its distinctive karst panorama, the Burren can be residence 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, provide an opportunity to see peat bogs amidst the rugged landscapes.
3. County Offaly: The Lavatory of Allen, positioned in County Offaly, is one among Eire’s largest peat bogs and is a vital a part of the Midlands area.
4. County Roscommon: The Curlew Mountains in County Roscommon are identified 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 residence 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 glorious mountain climbing alternatives and gorgeous vistas.

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

If you’d like an actual mountain problem, take a look at Croagh Patrick in County Mayo. Nicknamed ‘the Reek,’ Croagh Patrick is 2,507 ft and an essential 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, but it surely’s properly definitely worth the difficult hike!

It additionally has a captivating 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 individuals who make it to the highest. Croagh Patrick is climbed by 1000’s of pilgrims yearly.

Finest Locations to See Mountains in Eire

1. Mourne Mountains, County Down: Positioned in Northern Eire, the Mourne Mountains are identified for his or her granite peaks, together with Slieve Donard, the very best mountain in Northern Eire.
2. Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow: These scenic mountains (typically known as the Backyard of Eire) are near Dublin and provide glorious mountain climbing alternatives with panoramic views of the encircling countryside. The Wicklow Approach is a multi-day mountain climbing path you’ll be able to take by way of the mountains.
3. MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, County Kerry: This mountain vary contains 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 fans.
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, resembling 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 numerous 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 like the Killarney Lakes area in County Kerry. Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Higher Lake are collectively often called the Killarney Lakes and provide gorgeous views in Killarney Nationwide Park. Ensure you don’t miss Torc Waterfall in Killarney Nationwide Park!

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

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

Finest 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 Citadel.
2. Lough Derg, County Clare/Tipperary/Galway: This expansive lake alongside the River Shannon gives 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 biggest 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 historic 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 gives boating and water sports activities alternatives.
9. The River Moy, County Mayo: The primary 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 superb landscapes.

One factor distinctive to Eire’s forests is the Fairy Bushes. A part of the Irish folklore, these timber are believed to be residence to magical creatures and function the gateway between worlds for mortals and that of the fairies within the different world. Fairy timber are usually Hawthorn timber or Ash timber. Nevertheless, not all Hawthorn or Ash timber are fairy timber. A Fairy tree usually stands alone in a area, typically is surrounded by a hoop of stones, and has little strips of fabric tied on the branches that characterize needs. No matter whether or not the locals consider in fairies or not, nobody will lower down a fairy tree for concern 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.

Finest Locations to See Forests and Woodlands in Eire

1. Glendalough, County Wicklow: Positioned throughout the Wicklow Mountains Nationwide Park, Glendalough’s historic 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 contains 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 Girl 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 historic woodlands with oak, birch, and pine timber, making it a great spot for mountain climbing and exploring.
6. The Curragh, County Kildare: Often called Eire’s oldest oak woodland, the Curragh is steeped in historical past and gives a tranquil retreat close to Dublin.
7. Powerscourt Property, County Wicklow: The Powerscourt Gardens embody 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 shocking 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 historic, going way back to the Neolithic instances. This was a sacred residence 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 historic castles, including a contact of historical past to the magnificent surroundings. The nation’s wealthy historical past is woven with historic 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 desirous about medieval structure, royal heritage, or fascinating tales from the previous, these castles provide an unforgettable glimpse into the historical past and Eire’s cultural legacy.

Finest Locations to See Historic Castles in Eire

1. Blarney Citadel, County Cork: Well-known for the Blarney Stone, this medieval fortress affords gorgeous gardens and panoramic views of the encircling countryside.
2. Dublin Citadel, Dublin: Positioned within the coronary heart of Dublin, this fortress has been the middle of the Irish authorities for hundreds of years and is wealthy in historical past.
3. Bunratty Citadel, County Clare: This well-preserved medieval fortress hosts folks park occasions and medieval banquets, offering an immersive historic expertise.
4. Kilkenny Citadel, County Kilkenny: A placing image of Norman affect, Kilkenny Citadel’s in depth gardens, and splendid interiors make it a must-visit.
5. Kylemore Abbey, County Galway: Initially constructed as a fortress, this gorgeous abbey is ready in opposition to Connemara’s rugged panorama.
6. Belleek Citadel, County Mayo: Now a luxurious lodge, occasion house, and museum. Belleek Citadel has been a household residence for many of its existence. Constructed between 1825 and 1831 in a spectacular Neo-Gothic type.
7. Dunguaire Citadel, County Galway: This picturesque fortress on the shores of Galway Bay is one among Eire’s most photographed landmarks.
8. Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary: A historic website with a group of medieval buildings, together with a cathedral and spherical tower, set atop a limestone outcrop.
9. Doe Citadel, County Donegal: This fortress, perched on the coast, gives gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the encircling 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 Approach. The chilly waters of the Atlantic Ocean nevertheless are likely 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 giant flat expanses of lovely sand. Right here you’ll typically discover daring surfers taking over the wild Atlantic.

Finest Locations to Expertise Empty Seashores in Eire

Enniscrone Seashore in County Sligo is a good, flat seashore that’s excellent for lengthy seashore walks. Moreover, this is without doubt one of the greatest newbie browsing seashores in Eire. There are a selection of surf colleges on this space.

Inch Seashore in County Kerry is in style with surfers, anglers, and swimmers. This can be a Blue Flag Seashore, with lifeguards in the course of the summer time season. You’ll additionally discover surf colleges, water sports activities gear, and wetsuit rent.

Keem Seashore in County Mayo on Achill Island is commonly given the title of Eire’s greatest seashore. Its recognition has elevated because the launch of the film Banshees of Inisherin the place it had a ‘starring position.’

Another stunning Irish seashores to go to:

• Portsalon Seashore in Donegal
• Streedagh Seashore 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 historic 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 flooring. Speak about local weather change.

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

Finest 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 without doubt one of the most well-known and well-preserved dolmens in Eire. It’s thought-about 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 type 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 youngsters.

Hike the Burren Approach. This multi-day hike takes you thru the very best of the Karst landscapes in County Clare. Not solely does it undergo Burren Nationwide Park, but it surely additionally goes by the well-known Cliffs of Moher (the easiest way 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 Approach on one among my visits. To this present day, it is without doubt one of the most memorable landscapes I’ve seen on the planet.

See Them All Alongside the Wild Atlantic Approach

The simplest option to see all of those gorgeous landscapes is to easily drive the Wild Atlantic Approach. It’s a bucket checklist 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 Approach.

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 way in which affords a novel and memorable expertise for any nature fanatic and journey seeker. I drove the Wild Atlantic Approach solo and it was among the finest highway journeys I’ve taken.

Finest Locations to Cease Alongside the Wild Atlantic Approach

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 newest Eire excursions I’m operating right here.

If my Ottsworld Eire excursions don’t coincide together with your journey plans, then you should definitely take a look at Eire Stroll Hike Bike’s numerous excursions across the Emerald Isle. This native firm is the one I exploit to design my excursions and they’re like household to me!

Plus – should you 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 go away you with just a few 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 to your Eire Journey