If one colour defines Ireland, it has to be green. It’s the Emerald Isle, after all, a country associated so intimately with the colour green that it’s come to define the nation and its culture worldwide. But the association all comes back to the landscape. Ireland is a beautiful nation, one covered in greenery that sweeps across the rock-strewn island in the North Atlantic. The nature in Ireland, defined by its greenery, casts a spell over all travellers lucky enough to visit.
But there are certain natural landmarks that stand above the rest, like stony cliffs standing over the cresting waves of the Atlantic. If travellers are seeking to gaze out upon the Cliffs of Moher, explore The Ring of Kerry, or drive through the Dingle Peninsula, travellers should go with Goway. Goway’s Destination Specialists have over 50 years of experience planning tailor-made trips. Learn more on Goway’s website.
Ireland’s Famous Cliffs of Moher
It’s a simple day trip from Galway to reach these 8 km-long cliffs facing the Aran Islands off the central west coast. The cliffs are shrouded in legend, with stories of mermaids, lost cities, witches, and frightening eels creating a mythic atmosphere, but you don’t need to buy into legend to appreciate the breathtaking sight of these iconic cliffs. Travellers seeking to escape the crowds can head to the nearby watchtower at Nag’s Head for a relatively uncrowded view at the cliffs’ southern edge. Off the coast lie the Aran Islands, which have traditional villages, ancient forts, and settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. Travellers seeking to experience Ireland at its most tranquil should arrange for a day trip to the islands.
Following The Ring of Kerry
No ring road in Ireland is as justifiably popular as The Ring of Kerry. This touring route connects from Killarney National Park to the Atlantic Ocean, and includes some of the best natural views in Ireland, including The Gap of Dunloe and Ladies’ View. Travellers can explore attractive small towns, including the historic settlement of Kinmare, and gaze upon the gorgeous coastal views of the Muckross Peninsula. Travellers can even connect to Skellig Michael, the rocky island home to a Gaelic monastery and site of key scenes in the recent Star Wars movies. Simply driving the country roads of The Ring of Kerry provides an enchanting view of Irish landscape and culture, but travellers should consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall or avoid the crowds.
Ireland’s Most Beautiful Region
Arguably the most picturesque part of Ireland is the Dingle Peninsula, which juts out into the Atlantic in the southwest. The peninsula is dotted with green landscapes, coastal views, delightful towns, and a thriving music scene. The town of Dingle itself is a great starting point for travellers to enjoy a taste of Ireland’s Bohemian side before they continue along Slea Head Drive to Dun Beag and the medieval stone house of Fahan Beehive. Travellers can visit the 1,300-year-old stone church of Gallarus Oratory, take a boat cruise to Great Blasket Island, or simply stop off in small settlements for a pint or a live music performance along the way. There are few better places to enjoy the quintessential Irish experience than in this rural stretch on the west coast.