The Irish countryside is one of the strongest attractions for travelers year round. With charming villages dotting the horizon, every town holds special appeal, especially for tourists looking to get away from urban chaos. Dalkey, just 30 minutes away from Dublin by train, is a medieval village with a beautiful castle that includes a 10th-century church and cemetery, perfect for a history buff's day-trip exploration. Kells in County Meath is a national monastic treasure that has survived since its establishment in A.D. 550. Kinsale in County Cork is a picturesque town offering gourmet foods and bistros near the coast, ideal for those looking for a quiet afternoon of sailing.
As an island country, Ireland has some of the most remarkable coastlines in the world. The Cliffs of Moher is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in the country with impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean. In County Antrim in North Ireland, Giants Causeway, a passage of natural volcanic land formations, should not be missed. For tourists traveling by car, take the incredible journey through the Ring of Kerry, a gorgeous drive by the coastal roads overlooking the ocean. The nearby Killarney National Park provides vistas of the Lakes of Killarney, which stand out as a precious oasis in the midst of swerving mountain passes.
Within Ireland, visitors find green hills wherever they look. Just outside the city of Galway, Connemara National Park is an enchanting panorama of mountains, woodlands and bogs. Equally stunning and closer to Dublin are the Hill of Tara, which was the seat of the High King of Ireland, and Newgrange, a Stone Age tomb. Both places feature distinct relics of ancient Irish history dating back 5,000 years. Kilkenny, south of Dublin, allows plenty of scenic walks and hikes to hilltops.
If you plan to escape the summer tourist crowds, journey to the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, where you’ll find well-preserved castles, empty pastures and seaside views. Be sure to hike out to Dunmore Head, the westernmost point of Ireland, sticking out straight into the Atlantic Ocean. To the north, County Sligo has quiet mountain trails and even quieter woods that invite long, solitary walks.
