Ireland is a beautiful and unique island that lends itself to the perfect holidays for getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is so much to see and do when on holiday in the Emerald Isle, from its famous landmarks to its hidden gems. Here are my top 5 attractions to visit in Ireland, to ensure you’re not missing out:
The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare
Arguably one of the most well-known attractions in Ireland, you cannot miss the opportunity to check its magical natural beauty out. Stretching for 8km along the Wild Atlantic Way, and standing 214m at their highest point, these cliffs truly are a sight to behold. Looking out at the breath-taking views, with the waves crashing down below you and the wind whipping in your hair, the Cliffs of Moher give you a unique experience that you will never forget.
Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim
The origins of the Giant’s Causeway have dumbfounded people for hundreds of years as it is one of the most unusual and stunning unspoilt landscapes around. It is a World Heritage Site and is something you have to experience on a vacation to Ireland. The Giant’s Causeway is a series of over 40,000 basalt columns leading in to the sea, which is guaranteed to astound and amaze you.
Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary
The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most famous and iconic historical and medieval sites. It is also known as St. Patrick’s Rock and attracts visitors from all across the globe. According to the fascinating mythology that surrounds it, the Rock was originally found in the Devil’s Bit Mountain but landed in Cashel as a result of St. Patrick banishing Satan from a cave! It is both historically important, but also stunning to admire.
Brú na Boinne, Co Meath
Part of the ‘Ireland’s Ancient East’ experience, Brú na Boinne is a ‘World Hertiage Site’ that contains one of the world’s most important prehistoric landscapes. It is home to three large passage tombs, Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth. These tombs were built over 5,000 years ago in the Neolithic or Late Stone age. The area is an important archaeological site with no less than ninety monuments having been recorded.
Cork City Gaol, Co. Cork
Cork City Gaol is an experience like no other! The former prison in Cork City is open to visitors and will transport you back in time, giving you a true insight into the harshness of the 19th Century Irish penal system. A guided tour inside the impressive prison walls is available, exhibiting life-like figures of prisoners and guards, furnished cells and even sound effects to make it all that much more realistic!