In Ireland, every walk takes on a new meaning. When you wander through the forests, the wind whispers secrets into your ear. When you walk through the villages, locals tip their caps at you and remember your name if you make a return trip to their cafe, pub, or shop.
Certainly, there are plenty of well-known sites worth seeing, like the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin Castle. But, in between those heavy hitters, it’s important to venture off the beaten path. That’s where the fairies live, and so many of the poets found their inspiration. Let’s drop by pubs that are mostly frequented by the locals, uncover trails where the wildflowers roam free, and stand beside ancient ruins that tell tales as old as time.
Simpson’s Bar and Restaurant | County Donegal
If you’re aiming at the northerlymost point of Ireland, Banba’s Crown and Malin Head, you’ll find that the village of Malin is quite small. Still, it has a Centra to stock up your cottage for a few nights. When you’re ready for a warm meal, however, head over to Simpson’s Bar and Restaurant in a nearby – and larger – village, Cardonagh. Simpson’s is warm, cozy, and inviting, and the seafood chowder is off the charts. Right next door, you’ll also find a local market owned by the same family, where you can take some tea cakes home for the night before the fire.
Ursula’s Beauty and Tanning | Malin
Even though we just mentioned how small Malin is, there is a small treasure: Ursula’s Beauty and Tanning. While most of us head to the rugged north coast for some serious hikes and treks, everyone needs a day at the salon from time to time. Ursula’s is ready to provide all the pampering you need in the form of manis, pedis, massages, and facials.
Lough Eske Castle | County Donegal
If you have a love for all the glorious estates spread throughout Ireland that have been transformed into decadent five-star hotels and resorts, Lough Eske is certainly a member of those ranks. It’s lesser-known than Ashford Castle or Dromoland. Still, you’ll find it minutes away from Donegal Town, sprawling over countless acres and filled with an equal measure of forest and lakeside walks.
Olde Castle Bar | Donegal Town
Something everyone will know about is Donegal Castle. This is a beautiful example of 15th-century architecture. The main hall is, perhaps, the most astounding piece of the puzzle. After a tour of the castle and its grounds, head across the street to the Olde Castle Bar. They’ve carried over the beauty with their stained glass windows, cozy fires, and superb menu. Although some might say it’s just pub grub, it’s fresh, it’s tasty, and it’s the perfect way to cap off a Donegal day.
Kildavnet Castle | Connemara
Now, for another 15th-century treasure – Grace O’Malley’s castle. As the former home of The Pirate Queen, it’s a beautiful tower house that stands as tall and proud as the woman once did. Actually, to be more specific, it’s situated on Achill Island, which is worth a trip all in its own right. As you can imagine, for a female to command a ship, never mind a crew of men, was quite astounding at that time. Standing on the shorelines of her former home, you’ll feel the energy of the air and take home some of her bravery.
Aran View Country House | Doolin
Doolin is one of the most picturesque villages on the West Coast of Ireland. It’s also the gateway to the famous Cliffs of Moher. Over time, it’s become a mecca for talented Irish musicians. Each night, the pubs are filled with raw talent, the kind that can only be passed down from generation to generation. In terms of accommodations, you can’t do better than Aran View Country House. Situated atop a hill at the peak of the village, you’ll enjoy breathtaking sunsets, hear the waves crashing over the Atlantic, and be treated to a world-class welcome by the lovely family who runs it.
EkoTree | Doolin
There are plenty of opportunities to support local artisans in the rainbow-colored village of Doolin. But, if you have the chance, support the craftsmen at EkoTree. All of their cashmere and knitwear is designed and crafted right in their studio in Doolin – and the owner is a fascination. Don’t be surprised if, while you pour over the lush scarves, gloves, and cloaks, you start discussing Irish poetry and end up daydreaming your way through the rest of your stay.
Flaggy Shore | County Clare
A poem written by the famous Irish poet Seamus Heaney says it all:
Into County Clare, along the Flaggy Shore,
In September or October, when the wind
And the lights are working off each other
So that the ocean on one side is wild
With foam and glitter, and inland among stones
The surface of a slate-grey lake is lit
By the earthed lightning of flock of swans,
Their feathers roughed and ruffling, white on white
Their fully-grown headstrong-looking heads
Tucked or cresting or busy underwater.
Useless to think you’ll park or capture it
More thoroughly. You are neither here nor there,
A hurry through which known and strange things pass
As big soft buffetings come at the car sideways
And catch the heart off guard and blow it open.
You’ll find these golden shorelines along the Wild Atlantic Way and find you have no choice but to stay awhile.
Gleninagh Castle | County Clare
Gleninagh Castle is an L-shaped tower house in the far north of the Burren (a region we’re about to spend some time in), dating back to the 16th century. Like Kildavenet, it stands tall and proud over the Atlantic. When you come here, though, we have to tell you – there’s something eerie about it. The winds seem to blow a little stronger, and the glassless windows seem a little bit darker. It makes you wonder what the O’Loughlin’s had to endure when they lived here, in a prime position to protect themselves from marauders. But, as you walk this desolate land alone, you’ll get the sense that there’s quite a lot of history here.
Tigh Ned | Inisheer
Speaking of the kind of magic that can only be passed down from generation to generation, the Aran Islands are chock full of it. You’ll find that many residents still speak Irish, a language that hasn’t kept a stronghold on today’s generation. Inirshmore tends to be the most popular island since it floats along as the largest of the three. But, make your way to the smallest one someday – Inisheer. You’ll find one pub right by the dock, Tigh Ned. And, on a warm summer night, you’ll be hard-pressed to find more authentic Irish music, or trad, under the starriest of nights.
Brú Radharc na Mara | Inisheer
Conveniently, you’ll find a comfy, cozy, and clean hostel right next door to Tigh Ned. In the wee hours of the morning, when Tigh Ned is winding down, all you have to do is walk out the door, breathe in some fresh Atlantic air, and walk across the grass to your room in Brú Radharc na Mara. It’s a well-tended-to hostel that will serve you well for the night and put you right in the heart of it all – strolls to ancient castle ruins in the morning, 10th-century churches, and all manner of beachside strolls.
Plassey’s Shipwreck | Inisheer
For such a small island, there are countless treasures to behold. Inisheer’s lighthouse is rather picturesque, standing pretty as a picture along the shorelines. And, if you have a mind to walk to it from Tigh Ned one afternoon, there’s another secret you’ll find along the way: Plassey. Today, it’s just the rusted-out old hull of a ship that crashed into the coast in 1960. Yet, it’s amazing that it’s still sprawled out there, having never been washed back into the sea. Take a wander around and wonder what life might’ve been like on the ship in the late 1950s or early 1960s.
Honan’s Antiques | Ennis
Suppose you’d like to take a trinket home from a bygone era. One of the best antique shops in all of Ireland is in the sweet village of Ennis, not far from Doolin or Galway. The moment you walk through Honan’s door, you’ll be enchanted. It’s filled – from floor to ceiling – with crystal, brass, trinkets, instruments, furniture, carpeting, jewelry – everything needed to outfit a pretty little cottage atop one of the green hills of Ireland. The staff here is lovely and will help you find anything from an ink well to an armchair.
Newtown Castle | The Burren
The West Coast of Ireland sings of the past while welcoming legions of visitors from the present. It’s a wonder how streams of magic flow in places like the Aran Islands and The Burren – both in close proximity to the bustling streets of Galway City. The Burren is unlike any other place on earth. It’s so fertile flowers grow up and through the rocks that bedeck the land. Nestled deep into this sparkling terrain, you’ll find Newtown Castle. It’s a 16th-century tower house whose front door will creak open and allow you to step into the past. Roam through it on a quiet, misty afternoon and wonder what life must’ve been like for the lords and ladies who once roamed these halls.
The Burren Perfumery | The Burren
Speaking of magic sprouting from the land, you simply must make a stop at The Burren Perfumery. Here, you’ll find a talented team of ladies who create the freshest soaps, lotions, perfumes, and loose-leaf teas – straight from the land. You’ll find yourself settling into your cottage for the night beside the glow of one of their candles and a cup of healing tea in hand.
Quay Street Kitchen | Galway City
It’s off to Galway City, and we go! As one of the major cities on this beautiful island, it’s also one of the prettiest. There’s a pedestrian-only lane, Quay Street, where all your Irish wishes will come true. It’s an enchanting lane where the live Irish music pours out of the pubs and sings through the air. Countless tea houses and coffee shops are happy to offer you a cuppa something, and the cafes and restaurants are tops. At the top of the list is Quay Street Kitchen, a sumptuous little place to order a warm bowl of soup, some brown bread, and a fresh pot of tea before you resume your shopping marathon.
An Café Liteartha | Dingle
Dingle is near some of the westernmost parts of Ireland, teetering over the edge of the Atlantic. Travelers come here to drive along the showstopping Ring of Kerry. But Dingle is unique all in its own right. The colorful facades of the shopfronts are pretty as a picture, the locals are incredibly welcoming, and it seems like there’s some sort of festival every weekend. In cute little towns like this, cafes, bookshops, and boutiques abound. But, in Dingle, you simply must stop in An Café Liteartha. It’s chock full of character, and its shelves are brimming with the works of Irish writers. There’s also a cute cafe in the back where you can take your treasure and enjoy it with a cuppa tea.
Murphy’s Pub | Dingle
Closer to the harbor in this divine town, you’ll find a humble B&B above Murphy’s Pub. Just below the rooms, the pub is equally delightful. Come here for a toastie, sit by the fire, and sip on a pint. The staff will make you feel very welcome, indeed, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more throughout your time on this pleasant peninsula.
Krugers Bar | Tralee
We mentioned the Ring of Kerry, a fascinating feat of nature that people love to drive to take in the staggering seacliffs lining the Atlantic. But, there’s another drive you simply must take when you’re in the area: the Slea Head Drive. Along the way, you’ll come upon Krugers Bar, Ireland’s most westerly bar. It’s been pulling pints since 1936 and maintains every ounce of character. Come for the view and an afternoon pot of tea. Stay for the trad that strikes up at night by the fire. And, when you need a place to lay your head, see if any of the local B&Bs can take you in for the night.
Vee Pass | County Tipperary
Ready for another drive where all you need are a pair of sunglasses and a smile? Tipperary is an interesting county. People flock here to see the famous Rock of Cashel, but you don’t see too many other top-billed tourist destinations. Consider yourself forewarned: the accent here is quite different – and quite thick. But, you simply must come and say hello to the charming locals before taking a drive along Vee Pass. It opens up to some of the most staggering views of Ireland’s famous rolling hills.
Lismore | County Waterford
If you’re looking for a romantic fairy tale town, look no further than Lismore. You actually have to drive across a bridge to enter into its majesty. You’ll find yourself getting lost in the streets, hopping from shop to shop. But, one thing you simply must do is visit Lismore Castle. It’s not as popular as, say, Kilkenny Castle, but it’s every bit as enchanting. Surprisingly, it’s privately owned, even to this day. However, the family is happy to open its doors so visitors can tour parts of the interior, as well as the glorious gardens.
Kinsale Leather | Kinsale
The residents of Kerry and Cork are sparkplugs full of fire. Like Galway, they know a thing or two about hosting a lively crowd while the pints are flowing and the music notes are dancing through the air. When you make your way over to County Cork, there are several small cities to visit, and Kinsale should be top of the list. It’s as colorful as Dingle – if not more – and features a bevy of small businesses. One that you simply must visit is Kinsale Leather. All the designs are handcrafted by the beautiful Dee Mangan and are high-quality enough to last a lifetime. The moment you walk through the doors, you’ll realize it’s impossible to leave without purchasing an item.
Cobh Art & Music Trail | Cobh
Cobh has a bit of a bittersweet claim to fame. It’s the last port that the Titanic was tethered to before it set sail on its ill-fated voyage. When folks come to Cobh, they often step back in time and visit the Titanic Experience. It’s an insightful and meaningful activity, for sure. But, if you’re here during the summer when the streets are brimming with activity, be sure to take a walk on the Cobh Art Trail, where you can enjoy colorful murals, sensational sculptures, and countless art galleries. In the evening, the Cobh Music Trail comes to life. You’ll be so delighted by all the talented musicians that flood the streets and send waves of magic floating through the air as you dip in and out of the town’s lively pubs and colorful venues.
Ballysaggart Towers | County Waterford
We’re making our way up the eastern coastline now, taking aim for Dublin. Along the way, there’s a hidden gem known as Ballysaggart Towers. It’s just a ten-minute drive from Lismore, but if you type Ballysaggart Towers into Google Maps, it will, unfortunately, let you down. The trick is to pull in just before Google tells you you’ve arrived. There, you’ll see a small set of steps heading into the forest. Follow them for a 15-minute, relatively flat walk until you see the ancient and enchanting towers. It will feel like you’ve reached a portal that will take you back in time.
Boyne Valley | Counties Lough and Meath
Located in Ireland’s Ancient East – a label that’s alluring all in its own right – you’ll find Boyne Valley, nestled between County Lough and County Meath. There are a few famous sites in the area that more than the locals know about, such as Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Normal castle in Ireland. There’s also Newgrange, a prehistoric monument in Meath that is said to be older than the pyramids. Yet, Boyne Valley, as a whole, deserves further exploration. It often gets overlooked by the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way, which is perfectly understandable. But, if you’ve made it this far, be sure to stay a while.
The Copper Coast | County Waterford
The East Coast is known to have better weather than the West Coast, and somehow, Waterford has secured the title as one of the counties with the best weather altogether. Like the drive along the Ring of Kerry, Slea Head, and Vee Pass, Waterford has its own gem: the Copper Coast. It’s lined with secret coves and beaches like Kilfarrasy Beach. Don’t be surprised if you pull over at every opportunity to snap pics. This will certainly be a worthwhile and memorable drive.
Duckett’s Grove | County Carlow
If you sensed the unsettled spirits in the air at Gleninagh, you may feel them again at Duckett’s Grove. Yet, it’s simply irresistible. Even though the former manor house was abandoned and barely survived a fire in 1933, the bones are still there, and boy, do they speak. As a glorious example of Georgian architecture, you’ll be stunned as you roam the land. You can’t go inside – and we’re not sure you’d want to, even if you could. But there are still lovely gardens worth wandering about.
Marsh’s Library | Dublin City
When in Dublin, folks flock to Trinity College to walk through its hallowed halls and see the Book of Kells. But, a lesser-known library with an equal measure of wonder is Marsh’s Library. Their tagline is, “Step into the 18th century.” Located right in the heart of Dublin, it’s actually Ireland’s oldest library! Even today, it’s still home to a staggering collection of books that will fill you with wonder. Some of the greatest artists to come out of Ireland, like James Joyce and Bram Stoker, have also visited it throughout the years. This isn’t meant to kick the Book of Kells off your itinerary, it simply stand as a supplement.
The Stairway to Heaven | County Fermanagh
If you’ve arrived in Dublin a day or two early for your flight, you might consider a day trip to the Stairway to Heaven. After all, your entire trip to Ireland will feel like time spent in Heaven. Technically, we’re talking about Cuilcagh Mountain. And you’ll definitely need a reliable pair of hiking boots because, although the trail feels rather forgiving at first, after about an hour, you’ll find the boardwalk that leads to 450 steps that ascend into what can only be described as Heaven.
Hellfire Club | County Dublin
Shall we end on one more spooky note? The Hellfire Club, also known as Montpelier Hill, features a former hunting lodge at its peak. After it served its purpose as a lodge, a man named Richard Parsons bought it; someone suspected of dabbling in black magic, he founded a club that was so secretive that people could only speculate that devil-worshipping was taking place. People have even reported sightings of a man walking the grounds with a cloven foot. In truth, the history here is quite… unsettling. Yet, people still brave the walk to the top of the mountain for the stunning views it affords folks out over Dublin’s fair city. What do you think? Are you brave enough to bear it?
Let’s Go Off the Beaten Path
It’s fun visiting someplace new and venturing around remote places that afford you solitude and peace. Ireland abounds with these sorts of sanctuaries and you’ll be so pleased to cycle them in with some of the more well-known sites.
Before you go to a land filled with endless charm and wonder, take a look at our destination guides. We have oodles of tips on how to make your time on the Emerald Isle one you will never forget.