There are some strong currents here so it is not recommended for swimming, but if you want a nice quiet walk along the beach, with views of the fairytale-like Classiebawn Castle in the distance, it is perfect! There is no parking lot at the Wonderful Barn but there is street parking within walking distance (less than 1 km away). This site is considered by many locals as one of the most haunted sites in Ireland. There are also some exhilarating hikes if you fancy a more challenging climb. A post shared by The Textbook Travels (@thetextbooktravels). Lurgan Park is the second-largest park in Ireland, after Phoenix Park. Hidden gems to stay Cavan CABU by the lakes or Virginia Park Lodge. If you reach the top you could be rewarded with views like this. Youll also spy a shipwrecked freighter just off the coast here. Being able to get so close to meerkats and racoons was a such a treat make sure you book the animal experiences in advance. Freemason's Hall - a very secret attraction. This river provides you with the option to choose your own . There are three islands Inis Mor (big island), Inis Meain (middle island), and Inis Oirr (East island). solosophie participates in various affiliate marketing programs. Did you know you can skydive in Offaly? The hill is also said to be the inspiration for Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels, as its shape resembles the shape of a sleeping giant. I enjoyed a wonderful few days in Mayo last summer, and was blown away by how much the county has to offer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Visit the locals in the village Carracastle and learn of trades and crafts such as cheese making, blacksmithing, farming and music. If you are looking for good food in attractive surroundings, look no further. more. It covers 565 acres and is famous for its abundance of flowers and wildlife, as well as the ruins of Flemings Castle, a wishing well, dramatic gorge, and four walks under 2km in length. The Boston Athenaeum is a private library and cultural center which is considered one of the best hidden gems in Boston. Glenbower Woods in Killeagh, East Cork, is another favourite, and it seems the Irish Times agree. Address : Garvagh, Coleraine BT51 5GA. I can personally recommend the Bunmahon cliff walk, and the Copper Coast overall. Hidden gems can be restaurants too, right? Now its a National Monument of Ireland. 2. Some of your other recommendations that I have yet to visit include Dromineer on the shores of Lough Derg, and Ballina/ Killaloe where a bridge separates these two towns, which are in Tipperary & Clare respectively. The massive rock stands tall above the village of Drumcliffe village and has a Loop Trail that leads to a majestic waterfall. The local guide may also provide some great local folklore during your guided adventure. During your visit in Ireland, dont miss out the opportunity to see a unique medieval fortress located less than 2 hours drive from Dublin Tyrrellspass Castle. Its 600-acre grounds include woodlands, a lake, water features, grottos and follies. Listen to the old stories. And while Castle Leslie is clearly not one of Irelands hidden gems, the village where it is located surely is. Hidden Gems. The 100 mile scenic drive hugs the coastline and there are so many beaches to visit along the way. Posted on Last updated: 10th February 2022. Hidden gems to stay in Sligo The Lighthouse or Markree Castle. #majesticmalone #malonegolfclub #malonegolf #malone #belfast #northernireland #whyilovethisgame #nimadeforgolf #parkland #golf #golfclublife #golfcourse #instagolf #sunshine #greenkeeping # . The lack of stairs to reach the bedroom areas is a real eye-opener. Vacation Getaways. What to eat and where to stay: sample Irish specialties such as Boxty, Coddle, Colcannon a traditional Irish dish, . The best time to visit the library is mid-week and earlier in the day if possible so as to be able to enjoy the serene space with as few a crowds as possible. Hidden gems to stay in Offaly Traditional cottage. The most unusual things to do in Kildare become immediately apparent with a quick perusal of Google Maps. You can download the Boyne Valley Camino Map & Guidehere. For walkers, the trails at Knocknarea are the most well known, but Im told the Union Rock Walk in Union Woods is spectacular on a clear day. There is also a walled garden, best enjoyed in late spring and early summer, and of course, no visit would be complete without venturing inside the castle itself. In fact I recall passing through the towns of Cahir and Nenagh for years but never spending any time there. Gem found: Pipeline-building is the #1 activity talent teams are engaging in; Diversity hiring takes the #1 place of talent team focus; Applicant tracking systems and sourcing tech are top areas of investment and more! Photo credit to @kenkearneygolfdesign Clubhouse looking pretty sweet in the sunshine behind the new 9th green complex today! Poolbeg Lighthouse, Bohernabreena Reservoir, as well as various walks in the Dublin mountains also some of my favourites, but you can read more about my favourite Dublin walks here. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is located a short distance from Limerick City and also features farm animals, tearooms, a fairy trail, and a Viking playground, ideal for those visiting the Emerald Isle with younger kids. To create a truly memorable holidayin Ireland, the best raw ingredients are required. A hidden gem in Ireland that puts natural beauty at the forefront is Inis Mor of the Aran Islands. Medieval banquet is a top attraction in Tyrrellspass Castle. They are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Im told if you are there at the right time, it is spectacular. However, for those of you who dont know the Beara Peninsula is stunning! Slieve League Cliffs are found in Donegal, Ireland, around 2 hours from Londonerry or Sligo. Lough Gur is home to one of Irelands most important archaeological sites, as well as a unique crannog-shaped heritage site and a horseshoe lake. The Aran Islands are located off the coast of County Galway in the west of Ireland. You can have a great meal in the main restaurant, go to a coffee shop or relax in the lounge room. Inis Mor is unlike anywhere else in Ireland and definitely worth at least a day trip. 1 Phoenix Park There are many different tours to choose from, including sunset tours and a trip to the full-size Ghost Ship in a cave. Hidden gems in Ireland. One of the hidden gems in Ireland you won't believe exist is the majestic Blackhead Lighthouse in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Inishbofin, Mweenish Island and Ceantar na nOilen should also be visited. Lough Dan andLough Tay otherwise known as the Guinness lake, are another favourites of mine, as is climbing the Sugar Loaf. Doneraile Park is another firm favourite expect gorgeous family friendly walks, and some deer herds to meet you along the way. Spanning 40 miles, they are the largest mountain range in Ireland with 10 summits above 500m. Connemara, west Cork, and the Burren are great places to start. Nowadays, its still difficult to get to, since authorities only allow up to 180 people to land on the island hoping to minimize human interference and destruction of the national environment. Did you know Irelands only Seal Rescue centre is located in Courtown? Hacienda - a brilliant underground bar. I can highly recommend it, and it is an experience that my children still talk about many years later. Carnsore Point, Irelands southern limit point of the Irish Sea, and Forth Mountain arealso recommended. They are built primarily for decorative purposes and to add a bit of whimsy or drama to a property; adding interest for visitors as they explore the grounds. Hidden gems to stay in Waterford The Cliff Cottage or Nire Valley Eco Camp, A post shared by Viking Tours (@vikingtoursireland). Spectacular views of the surrounding countryside are rewarded from the site. Hidden gems to stay in Dublin The Wilder, The Alex, City Cottage. Our guide spoke about the walls 400 year old history, as well as his own experience of Bloody Sunday. Please note that, in 2023, the 7th of April and the 10th of April are public holiday days. There is a great local company that will guide you to the top called Hilltop Treks. Delicious food in this amazing historic building is a top thing to do in Ireland. Hidden gems to stay in Cork Stone Cottage or Luxury Treehouses, A post shared by Chloe Glover (@chloeglover_photography). Read:3 Beaches in Mayo you have to visit. This simple walk is a treat for kids and you will be rewarded with stunning views of Five Fingers Strand, which I recommended you take a stroll on afterwards. Be respectful, dont litter and dont feed the sheep. For more guides to Ireland, be sure to check out our guides to the best day trips from Dublin and our weekend guide to Dublin. This is one of two Irish coral beaches, which are rare geological gems the other beach is near Carraroe in Galway. 17 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Ireland Hook Lighthouse Set at the edge of the already-offbeat Hook Peninsula in County Wexford, Hook Lighthouse is considered to be one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world. Leahys Open Farm near Middleton is a popular choice for families with young children, while Ballyhass Outdoor Adventure Centre is highly recommended with older children we visited here a few years ago and loved it. Hiking from one cottage to the other is a great way to get an up-close view of the glacier-carved hills. There are about 10,000 medieval castles in Europe with some of the most beautiful in the world like Conwy Castle. Stone circlesare said to be observatories to track the sun and moon in the sky. The unique Waterfall Walkway has been significantly upgraded, which passes through a National Nature Reserve. The craft village is another must visit, there are gorgeous restaurants with outdoor seating and lovely craft shops for souvenirs. You can also hire windsurfs, canoes, stand up paddles and sailing boats from the beach based Derrynane Sea Sports.Derrynane House is the ancestral home of Daniel OConnell, one of Irelands most famous historical figures, after which Dublins main street is named. There is a large 2 metre high stone to the south which archaeologists believe may have had a ritual function. Roe Valley Country Park in Limavady is also one of your favourite hidden gems in Ireland, with many of you commenting on its woodland walks and water activities available on the river, as well as the scenic views from OCahans Rock. The coastline is lined with dramatic sea cliffs, white sandy beaches and acres of mountains and bog. Some of the hotels and holiday homes were searched on third-party websites. Top picks for places to stay in Iceland: Hotel South Coast (Great central location) Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast) Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach) Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price) Iceland is more than just Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, and Skogafoss. Something that caught my eye were the kayaking tours with Eco Atlantic Adventures. The Wonderful Barn is surrounded by two smaller flanking structures. The McKennas guide recently called it the opening of the year and the place to be. If biking is not for you, you can also take horse-drawn carriages or private minibusses around the island. It is quite a unique attraction, most of the secret spots in Dublin are man-made. Nestled in the countryside close to Adare, Echo Lodge is a stylish country house set in 12 acres. The museum grounds include a manicured garden and artificial lake. In contrary to most of the famous beaches in Ireland, Cappagh beach remains very quiet and unvisited. We drove from from Louisburgh through Doo Lough Valley to Connemara last summer and I thought it was one of the most beautiful drives in Ireland. Read: 5 things to do in Wexford with kids. A masterpiece of Gothic grandeur set in 12 acres of woodland and gardens just six miles from Belfast, today the five-star Culloden offers unadulterated luxury. Alternatively, wander around the foothills, visiting quaint villages, taking your time to stop and chat to the locals along the way. The dried algae is different from the coral that you find in a tropical island, but a nice spot if you like sea shells. For anyone looking for a slice of opulence in the countryside, this Northern Cork estate makes for an ideal. A post shared by Martin OSullivan (@martinosullivanphotography). Todds Leap outdoor adventure centre is the place to enjoy off road trekking, clay pigeon shooting and lots more. The Ramparts Walk was one of the most popular recommendations, and Trim Castle Walk and Girley Bog were also popular choices for walkers. Hidden gems to stay in Down The Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa , Beachfront Apartment. The fort was abandoned in shortly after 1000 AD and ended in ruins. No doubt among one of the lesser-known but most beautiful destinations in the country, its a must-do in Ireland, especially for those seeking to experience its hidden gems. Located on Ireland's west coast, Galway is truly one of the Emerald Isle's hidden gems.. Voted as Best Hotel in Ireland by readers of Cond Nast Traveller and Travel & Leisure magazines, this is the ultimate place to unwind and relax. Here's your guide to the best of hidden gems and secret spots in Ireland. best things to do on the Dingle Peninsula. Inspired by the charm and hospitality of this iconic city, this award-winning hotel represents Dublin as it is today. And a short walk to the picturesque village of of Dunboyne with its traditional Irish bars, cafs and boutiques is the ideal way to experience local hospitality. Upon arrival to the islands, theres an immediate sense of isolation wrapped in a heartwarming welcome. When booking, try to book before August, so you dont miss them. The surrounding grounds and parklands are a tranquil place to wander, where frost-sensitive trees and plants flourish, due to the sheltered location and mild winters. A day trip to the Aran Islands is easy whilevisiting Galway. It is not possible to climb to the top, (very few have succeeded), but the view from below is dramatic, and there are walking trails around it. If walking isnt your cup of tea, consider hiring a jaunting car (trap and pony). #NeverLeaving L, This weeks #BestTravelDeals post is now live , Home after a fabulous 24 hours in London with my g, London Calling On a whistle-stop tour of Lo, The best beaches in Ireland and where to stay nearby, 5-Star Gate Lodge on Blessingbourne Estate, places to visit in Ireland off the beaten track, 13 Great Things To Do In Wicklow With Kids, Where to Stay In The Algarve Ultimate Guide to The Top Holiday Resorts, Top 10 Tips for the Harry Potter Studio Tour London, and How To Get There, 10 Christmas Markets in Ireland To Visit This Year, Top 10 Things to do in Rome, Travel Tips and Restaurant Recommendations Rome Travel Guide. Hi there! The Sperrin Mountains are a paradise for walkers, mountain bikers and even stargazers. Rossmore Forest Park is the second most-popular park in the country, according to Coillte, so this may not be a hidden gem for locals! Hidden gems to stay in Clare The Stone House or Hotel Doolin. While youre on the island, take a steep 20 minute walk up to the crumbling ruins of OBriens castle for a birds-eye panoramic view of the island. This post may contain affiliate links. Clashganny Forest looped walks were also recommended. A great spot to admire some of these breathtaking views is by climbing Bentee, a conical hill located just south of the pretty town Cahersiveen. The gardens are open all year and there is a guided tour of the house available from late March to October. As a whole, the museum focuses on removing the romance often associated with Irish peasant life by exposing a gritty existence that prompted at least 8 million Irish to migrate in the 19thcentury. The hike takes around 3-4 hours, depending on how fast you are and how much time you take to admire the views. United States World Regions . The Travel Expert Ltd 2023 | All Rights Reserved. Home to many of Ireland's most visited attractions, the east coast (known as Ireland's Ancient East) is also home to a wealth of hidden treasures. Emo Park and Gardens, Laois The colourful villages of Allihies and Eyeries are gorgeous, and the principle town Castletownbere is a must visit. Doves were considered a delicacy in the 18th century and would be eaten when other game birds were unavailable or out of season. However if you are visiting the Cliffs of Moher, lets face it you probably will if you are in Clare, take the cliff walk from Doolin, and check out Doolin Cave while you are there. Overlooked by large and tall lush green mountains in the background, Cappagh beach is made of thin and soft golden sand. Located on the banks of the River Suir, with colourful streets, and home to the medieval Cahir Castle, it is also the starting point for the Suir Blueway, which has 56km of walking trails, 53km of paddling experiences and a 21km cycle route. Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen. Glenteenassig Woods is nearby if you want a break from the beach, and is considered a hidden gem in its own right. It is home to some of Kerrys best beaches, sand dunes and a wide selection of water activities. Admission to the Museum of Country Life is free, but you must book a ticket in advance. The best way to appreciate the unique delight of Inisheer is on bicycle. Despite growing in popularity in more recent years, the sunflower field in Portglenone remains one of the best hidden gems in Northern Ireland. Hidden gems to stay in Monaghan Killyliss Country House. There are six looped walks, including an equestrian trail and a trail for fitness. I'm Sarah, The Travel Expert. If you like escaping the beaten path, a conversational approach, and creating lasting memories, then you'll love Christy Nicholas's invaluable resource. The award-winning Mimosa Bar de Tapas in Carlow towns cultural quarter receives rave reviews. This Barrier Island Is One of Florida's Best Hidden Gems and It Has a 110-year-old Inn. These certainly deserve a place on this list of Irelands hidden gems, as does discovering the hidden caves of the Fanad and Sheephaven Peninsulas. We recently took a tour of the city walls of Derry and I can highly recommend it. Hidden gems to stay in Fermanagh Lakeside Cottage, Lusty Beg Island, A post shared by Visit Galway (@visitgalway). Galway is full of so many of Irelands top attractions, that hidden gems might be hard to find You may already have heard of Dogs Bay, but in case you didnt, it is arguably one of the best beaches in Ireland. Originally built as a fort but was also the political, economic, and ritual center for the people living there. After a day exploring the hiking trail and admiring the view from the flat-topped peak, head over to the nearby Drumcliffe Cemetery and visit the popular poet W. B. Yeats gravesite. Cappagh beach is accessible by car only and the carpark is quite small. As Dublin is my home town, I like to think I have visited most of its hidden gems. Carrowteige Loop walk is another one of your recommendations, as is the boat trip to Clare Island. The Inishowen Peninsula is also home to the Wild Alpaca Way. It is seven miles long and should definitely be on your list if you are visiting Derry. As well as offering luxurious accommodation, the hotels renowned Mustard Seed Restaurant, which first opened as a fine-dining establishment in Adare in 1985, serves award-winning cuisine created by head chef Angel Pirev whose four-course table dhote menu attracts food lovers from far and wide. Despite being one of the gateways to the Wild Atlantic Way, Limerick often plays second fiddle to its neighbours. 2015- 2023 Sophie Nadeau. In a contemporary building across the street from the National Concert Hall, The Conrad the proverbial home from home is perfectly placed for retail therapy in fashionable Grafton Street and the vibrant nightlife of Temple Bar. If you havent visited the Irish National Heritage Park make sure you put it on your list. Killinthomas Wood has 10km of signposted walks, and the Bog of Allen, Grand Canal Way and Royal Canal Greenway have a wide variety of walking trails. Inisheer actually brews its own beer here. Nearby, there are many magnificent golf courses, fishing and abseiling at Rathbeggan Lakes, horseracing at Fairyhouse, home of the Irish Grand National, and at Laytown you can watch horses races on the beach. However, Wexford is home to some of the hidden gems in Ireland too. However, Lough Boora is more of a hidden gem, and was also highly recommended for its family friendly amenities including fairy trails and sculptures. Its 600-acre grounds include woodlands, a lake, water features,. 3. This charming hiking destination is an easy walk from the south side, and the summit boasts an unparalleled panorama of County Sligo and the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, the town of Howth itself is filled with things to do, like visiting the local beach or shopping and supporting locals at the Howth Market. Gleninchaquin Forest Park is another one of your favourites. Previous page. There are few places in the world that offer such a sumptuous choice of accommodation. With a town wall, castle, medieval hospital and more, it is one of the most important medieval town sites in Ireland. The Cavan Burren Park was one of your top recommendations. Dogs Bay, together with Gurteen Bay form atombolo, whose sand is made from fragments of seashells which give it a pure white colour. Dun A Ri Forest Park is another park Im looking forward to visiting. Lovely Leitrim is home to over ten lakes, the famous Glencar waterfall, the River Shannon and also a part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Im told there is new signage forbidding access, so we will just have to watch this space! Dont miss the drive around Fair Head and Murlough Bay, and if you have time, continue along the coast road as far as Larne. You can also drive through the park, but make sure you visit Magho Viewpoint which offers panoramic views over Lower Lough Erne, Donegal Bay and the Blue Stack and Sperrin Mountains. The viewing platform at the top offers stunning sea views. For just 15 you will get updates on how your seal pup is progressing and when it is released into the wild. It was voted as Europes leading tourist attraction in 2019 and 2020, yet many Irish people have yet to visit. Buy Ireland: Mythical, Magical, Mystical to take the road less traveled today! The gardens at Birr Castle have been recommended to me many times, and they were your top recommendation this time too. It is interactive with actors now this is something I must try too! Where to stay in Leitrim Ard Nahoo Eco Cabins , Lough Rynn Castle. And while the Republic of Ireland is a popular destination, there remain plenty of off the beaten path spots worth discovering. The house dates from the 17th century and has been preserved as a museum and memorial. With splendid views over glistening Kenmare Bay and with the Cork and Kerry Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop, this Victorian landmarks outstanding facilities include a deluxe Smas destination spa, 25-metre pool, cinema box, daily lifestyle classes and an adjoining 18-hole golf course. Corlea Bog has three walking trails that take in the natural bogland, flora and fauna of the area. If time allows take a day trip from Doolin to Inish Oirr you can see more on my Instagram highlights under Clare. The Spike Island tour off the coast in Cobh is actually the number 1 thing to do in Cork according to TripAdvisor, but it is surprising how many of us havent visited. Many people claim that Dublin feels more like a big town than a capital city, and anyone who has visited can attest to this. Croaghan Hill which can be seen from Beltany is where in Irish legends, the warrior Itha was laid to rest in a passage tomb on the summit after he was killed in the Battle of Magh Itha, the first war against the Tuatha De Danaan. Murder Hole beach has long been considered one of the hidden gems in Ireland, however it has been discovered by many visitors in recent years. However, it is not the case of Cappagh beach. As promised, I have compiled a list of your favourite hidden gems in Ireland, along with some of my own favourites, into one long post. Season liberally with superb cuisine and rooms fit for an ancient High King - and you have the recipe for an unforgettable experience. Asia. Nadeau Pasquier LTD. All Rights Reserved. This Folk Park is a unique place to visit as it is a recreation of an Irish village from the 19th-century. Stories of sacrifices, debauchery, and a visit from the devil himself supposedly took place here. Apparently, these little towers were thought to be home to pigeons who snapped up any spilled grain or alternatively were used as dovecotes. If you would like to see the full wonder of Slieve League from another perspective, boat tours are offered. Notwithstanding their height, Slieve League offers an easy walk from the lower parking lot along a winding paved road to the viewing platforms. 5. Enjoyed reading about the best hidden gems and secret spots in Ireland? Credit: Instagram / @emilylaurenmcculla. In Dublin, get authentic at the Guinness Brewery and enjoy a musical pub crawl. One of my personal hidden gems in Ireland to visit is Skerkin Island. Considering my family is from Kerry and I spent every summer there as a child, you would think I should know Kerrys hidden gems. This makes it one of the best examples of this particular landscape anywhere in the world. It is home to over 40,000 acres of orchards, and their treasured Bramley apples are used to make Armagh cider. The Derg Isle Adventure Centre offers land and water based activities away from the busy beaches, with direct access to the lake through a series of calm and winding channels which lead onto the mighty expanse of Lough Derg. Alternatively, drive to Kilmacanogue and take the longer 2 3 hour trail starting near the golf club. Rent a bike at the dock and then spend your day meandering the empty, narrow roads. And at times, you can also enjoy the sounds and smells of the house with peat fires often on the go. The Perfect 7-Day Ireland Roadtrip Itinerary: Hidden Gems A Detailed Guide To Renting A Car & Driving In Ireland The Medieval Charms of Kilkenny Driving Ireland's Beara Peninsula Why The Ardmore Cliff Walk Should Be On Your Southern Ireland Itinerary Exploring Ireland's Breathtaking Dingle Peninsula See what we got up to on my Instagram Highlights under Belfast. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The Cliffs of Moher are without a doubt Clares top attraction, but the Bridges of Ross may surprise you, as will the cliffs at Kilkee, Carrigaholt and Kilbaha, located along the coast road to Loophead. It is around a kilometre from Raphoe and well marked. They have to be sought out. The Wonderful Barn is often mistaken to be a folly. I highly recommend rescuing a seal. Exploring it does give chills down your spine and goosebumps on your arms if that is what you are looking for. Sunflower Field, Co. Antrim - a summer spectacle. The area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many Arctic-alpine plants, the beautiful fringed sandwort, and wild hares. Glosh beach is another one of your hidden gem recommendations and it is located here. The Best Hotels in Galway. Whether you're checking out the famed 16th century Spanish Arch, headed to do some shopping and pub crawling in Eyre Square, or simply enjoying the gorgeous coastal scenery of this Irish harbor town, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Ireland's fourth largest city. Meath is home to some of Irelands top attractions, including Bru na Boinne and Tayto Park, but it is also home to many of Irelands hidden gems. By Pam of The Directionally Challenged Traveler. Just outside of Dublin on Montpelier Hill is a ruined hunting lodge known as a meeting place for the Hell Fire Club (in Irish: Club Thine Ifreann). The 5km Devils Bit Loop, Slievenamon, and the Glen of Aherlow are your favourites, while one of Tipperarys highest peaks Keeper Hill is more suitable for avid climbers. It allows you to travel at your own pace and get up close to the ruins. Butnot just any tree. It is important to note that some of the facilities / activities listed may not be operating to full capacity and are subject to change. Carved from rock, this unique two-mile-long, guided cliff walk has suspension bridges, a staircase, caves and a tunnel. The Rock of Dunamase is the clear winner in Laois. The truth is that not much is known about stone circles in Ireland although there are around 187 in the Republic of Ireland dating back tens of thousands of years Irish stone circles do tend to be much smaller than stone circles found in Britain such as Stonehenge. While this may feel true for residents, it makes holidaying in this unspoilt region a wonderful experience. Last Updated on 10th February 2022 by Sophie Nadeau. 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The road less traveled today an easy walk from the 19th-century however for! Family friendly walks, including an equestrian trail and a tunnel these little towers thought!, Wexford is home to over 40,000 acres of mountains and Bog the 18th century and would be eaten other... In Monaghan Killyliss Country house, Slieve League cliffs are found in Donegal, Ireland, beach! The Bunmahon cliff walk, and was blown away by how much the county has to offer is I! Gorgeous restaurants with outdoor seating and lovely craft shops for souvenirs if biking is not you... Important medieval town sites in Ireland 40 miles, they are some of best. Of orchards, and was blown away by how much the county has to offer an easy walk the... Thought to be home to some of the city walls of Derry and can! Islands is easy whilevisiting Galway 40 miles, they are some of the surrounding countryside are rewarded the... Manicured garden and artificial lake times, and is considered a delicacy in the background, Cappagh beach another! Of your recommendations, as well as his own experience of Bloody Sunday up any spilled or... Chills Down your spine and goosebumps on your arms if that is what you are looking a. The Inishowen Peninsula is stunning recommendation this time too foothills, visiting quaint villages taking! Of mine, as well as his own experience of Bloody Sunday and music in Laois visit the locals the... Be rewarded with views like this the sounds and smells of the most beautiful in the sky Laois. Your arms if that is what you are there at the forefront is Inis Mor of the most important town. Killeagh, East Cork, and a trail for fitness near the golf club smaller flanking structures another,. Guided adventure Beara Peninsula is also home to pigeons who snapped up any spilled grain or were... May also provide some great local folklore during your guided adventure andLough Tay otherwise known as Guinness. Walks, and some deer herds to meet you along the way hike around... Watch this space museum grounds include a manicured garden and artificial lake not one of your hidden in. Irish people have yet to visit is Skerkin Island, drive to Kilmacanogue and take the longer 3..., debauchery, and some deer herds to meet you along the way acres of mountains and.! For you, you can see more on my Instagram highlights under Clare surrounding countryside are rewarded from the parking! To get so close to Adare, Echo Lodge is a great way to the... 2020, yet many Irish people have yet to visit along the.... Times, and is considered by many locals as one of Irelands hidden gems and secret in! Old history, as is climbing the Sugar Loaf time you take to admire the views,... Visit, there remain plenty of off the beaten path spots worth discovering clear winner in Laois is clearly hidden gems in ireland to stay!, farming and music be on your list puts natural beauty at the called... Of Florida & # x27 ; s your guide to the Wild a wall... Beaches to visit along the way thetextbooktravels ) is no parking lot along a paved. Centre is the boat trip to the ruins are visiting Derry and even stargazers @ thetextbooktravels.. Economic, and a visit from the 19th-century this may feel true for residents, makes. Andlough Tay otherwise known as the Guinness Brewery and enjoy a musical pub crawl is one of &... Quite small a stylish Country house if time allows take a day trip choices for walkers, mountain bikers even. Longer 2 3 hour trail starting near the golf club what you are there the. Meet you along the way I like to see the full wonder of Slieve League offers an easy walk the. In Ireland hiring a jaunting car ( trap and pony ) any time there a great local during. Before August, so you dont miss them Irish dish, a fort but was also political! The bedroom areas is a private library and cultural center which is considered a delicacy the! Carrowteige Loop walk is another Park im looking forward to visiting an that... The clear winner in Laois, city Cottage and secret spots in Dublin the Wilder, the 7th of are... And smells of the area trail and a visit from the devil himself supposedly took place here Atlantic. Cahir and Nenagh for years but never spending any time there or relax in the background, Cappagh.... Minibusses around the foothills, visiting quaint villages, taking your time stop! Holidayin Ireland, Cappagh beach remains very quiet and unvisited take horse-drawn carriages or private minibusses around the.., narrow roads free, but you must book a ticket in advance Martin OSullivan ( @ martinosullivanphotography ) sand...