9 Breathtaking Landscapes of Ireland
It is no surprise that most of the travellers who visit Ireland are here for the beautiful scenery. We owe these beautiful landscapes to natural and artificial forces that shaped them over the millennia. Having beauty is the easy part while maintaining it the hardest. Therefore, you can see many national parks and natural reserves.
Even though Ireland was one of the least wooded countries in Europe in terms of the percentage in 2015, forest cover in Ireland is estimated to be the highest in over 350 years in 2020. The lesson we get from here is consistency in legislation and consciousness can give rise to great results. All countries should learn something from Ireland on this topic.
When we think about the nature of Ireland there are many things to consider such as the waterways, coastlines, rolling hills, wildflowers, and wildlife animals.
For instance, Ireland’s waterways are composed of many lakes, canals, and winding rivers. This makes them a great choice for cruisers, canoers, and kayaking enthusiasts. The coastal destinations are host to many beautiful beaches such as Curracloe Strand Beach or Inch Beach. The rolling hills consist of many colours and you can take long hikes, while admiring the beauty and recharging.
Let’s dive into the admiration of the landscapes in Ireland.
Slea Head, County Kerry
Slea Head is a promontory that is a part of the Dingle Peninsula in southwest County Kerry in Ireland and The Slea Head Drive is one of the most beautiful routes you can take with your car. En route are several famous landmarks such as Ventry Beach, Prehistoric Fort and Beehive Huts, The Dingle Famine Cottage, views of the Blaskets Islands and Coumeenole Beach and Gallarus Oratory.
Sky Road County, Clifden
As being described as one of the best coastal drives in Ireland, it is hard to keep your eyes on the road while driving in Sky Road. The upper part of the road is more popular among travellers since it is possible to see the Atlantic ocean, islands, and the pretty Connemara countryside.
Cliffs Of Moher, County Clare
The cliffs are one of the most attractive destinations for tourists and they attract 1.5 million people per annum. The Cliffs Of Moher is one of the best destinations if you want to go on a hiking trail. You can experience waterfalls, landscapes, and cliffs without the crowd.
The Cliffs are 8 kilometres long and reach 214 meters at their highest point. The Cliffs of Moher also have a variety in terms of flora and fauna with up to 20 distinct species of birds to see. There is a list of tales about the cliff in Irish folklore as well.
Rock Of Cashel, County Tipperary
Rock Of Cashel is one of the historical landscapes of Ireland surrounded by an extensive graveyard. According to a legend, the seat of the kings of Munster, St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital. Hence, The Rock Of Cashel is also known as St.Patrick’s Rock.
Achill Island, County Mayo
Being the largest of the Irish isles, Achill serves many beautiful sceneries with its white sand beaches, cliff tops, bike trails, and grazing sheep scattered along the roads and cliff tops. There are many things you can do on the island, but the most popular activities are cycling, running, fishing, surfing, and kayaking. The island has several opportunities for water activities since the large, shallow, and freshwater lake is ideal for them.
Inishowen, County Donegal
If you follow the coastline of the largest peninsula of Ireland, Inishowen you can see many beaches and spectacular sights. The peninsula has great surfing spots for summer. In colder weather, you can visit an animal sanctuary, which is a house for many animals such as red deer, brown bears, lynx, macaque monkeys, and many more. The most crucial part of visiting Inishowen is to see the Northern Lights.
The peninsula can be seen as the best place for seeing them. To increase the visibility of the lights, it is best to visit between November and February.
Sliabh Liag(Slieve League), County Donegal
The Slieve Liag mountain has one of the highest sea cliffs in the country. When you stand on top of one of the cliffs, it is easy to think like you are the only one in the world. You can only see the wild ocean with its waves crashing to the shore. Even though it is nearly three times higher than The Cliffs Of Moher, it is less visited.
If you are on a journey to the Wild Atlantic coast, this is one of the best places you should see. You can go fishing or swimming off the harbour, giving you the opportunity to míola sea and see dolphins, and not far from you.
Glen Of Aherlow, County Tipperary
Walking, or cycling along The Galtee Mountains, the highest inland mountain range, is a must when you come here. The Glen Of Aherlow has eight looped walks on Slievenamuck and two linear walks in the Galtee Mountains. There are also horse riding and golfing places. There are five corrie lakes that you can only go on foot and the Coillte woodlands offer a pleasant entry to the mountainside.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, County Wicklow
It is not shocking that this national park is also known as the garden of Ireland. Likewise, the primary goal of the park is the conservation of biodiversity and the amazing landscapes it consists of. One of the great qualities of the park is its closeness to Dublin. It is one hour drive by car.
Upon arrivement, plenty of hiking trails with a range of difficulties wait for the nature lovers. You can also visit The Glendalough Monastic City that has the remaining ruins of an early Christian settlement founded by St. Kevin.
