25 Must-Visit Destinations In Ireland

Ireland is often touted as the land with 50 shades of green. Known for its famous hospitality, there’s no place else on earth that so inspires artists and musicians. 

Although there are several ways to plan your stay on the Emerald Isle, we’re going to take aim at a special roadway called the Wild Atlantic Way. It trails a large portion of the country, from the northwest all the way down and around to the East Coast near Dublin. 

We’ll start in the northwest corridor in a special land known as Donegal, loop down and around towards one of the southernmost cities – Cobh – and finish up in one of the most fascinating cities in the world. 

1. Donegal

Donegal is easily one of Ireland’s most beautiful counties – and that’s saying a lot. From towering cliffs to seaside retreats and ancient ruins, there’s so much to see here as you seek to absorb the unique history of the Celts. 

The River Eske is certainly worth a visit, as is the 15th-century castle, aptly named Donegal Castle. You also have the ruins of Franciscan friaries to tempt the winds of fate, as well as the charming village itself, bedecked with beautiful boutiques and ravishing restaurants. 

2. Roundstone

Roundstone is a small fishing village in the Connemara Region – a region that probably deserves an article all on its own. This town is one of the best examples of both the region and small-town life on this beautiful island. 

The musician Sting found a lot of inspiration in this tiny slice of heaven. It’s also the setting of a fabulous movie called The Matchmaker starring Denis Leary and Janeane Garofalo. Watch the movie before you go for a taste of this decadent life in a small-town village. 

3. Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is a wide expanse of land brimming with bogs, lakes, and mountains. It’s hard to know which way to feast your eyes, but the winds will guide you. 

Located on the Atlantic West Coast of the island, it’s steeped in history with ancient castles – or, more accurately, watchtowers – and coastlines that brave men and women fought many-a-battle over. 

4. Achill Island

Speaking of battles on the shorelines, how’d you like to meet a 17th-century Irish pirate? Achill Island is a gorgeous expanse of land, most notable as the home of Grace O’Malley, an Irish pirate who was fierce enough to go toe to toe with Queen Elizabeth I. 

Rockfleet Castle is what you’ll want to look for. The moment you face it eye to eye you’ll wonder, first, how it stands so tall and proud so close to the shoreline and, second, how one woman held such leadership over land and sea, especially in that time. 

After you touch a piece of history by walking the lands Grace once roamed, you’ll be windswept away by the surrounding sea cliffs and pristine beaches. The strand beach at Keem Bay inspired many visiting writers, much like Roundstone.