Rolling green fields, cobblestone streets, vibrant cities and the home of Guinness –Ireland is a European destination that really does have it all. It’s also a country where nature is king, and the natural wonders in Ireland are among the most beautiful in the world.
Deep crystal clear lakes, stone formations that are steeped in folklore and mountain peaks – this country is a beaut. Check out these 10 must-see natural wonders in Ireland on your next trip here.
The Best Natural Wonders in Ireland
How do these rankings work?
1. Giant’s Causeway, Antrim
Without doubt the most famous natural wonder in Northern Ireland. No visit to this part of the world would be complete without witnessing this incredible rock formation. Legend has it that the rocks were formed by a giant, hence the name.
2. Cliffs of Moher, Clare
These magical sea cliffs stretch on for 14km along the sparse Burren region in County Clare, Ireland.
Soaring to 702ft, the cliffs have insane views on a clear day and are the most visited tourist attraction in the country. Just be careful when taking photographs, people have died from falling from the edge…
3. Glendalough, Wicklow
Fancy a hike? There’s no better spot than the majestic Glendalough area in County Wicklow. This pretty mountain, lake and valleys is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Ireland.
Pack a flask of tea and go native with some ham and cheese sandwiches and you’ll be rewarded with a view of the Guinness Lake below.
4. Carrauntoohil, Kerry
This is probably the most iconic mountain climb in Ireland where you are rewarded with majestic views at the top. It’s notoriously tough, but there are hikes for people of all levels to experience this national treasure.
5. Malin Head, Donegal
The most Northern part of the island of Ireland and as rugged and wild a piece of land as you’ll ever see. The perfect spot to get a windswept view of the Irish landscape. It is the start (or end, depending on your point of view) of the Wild Atlantic Way
More recently, Malin Head so captured the imagination of Star Wars location scouts that they cast it in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The Millennium Falcon perched on a cliff as the waves crashed beneath it.
6. Dogs Bay Beach
Just outside of Roundstone village, you’ll find this white sandy beach that looks like it could be in the Caribbean – when the sun is shining, that is. Gurteen Beach and Dog’s Bay lie back to back and are super family friendly shores.
7. Mizen Head
If you’re not from Ireland then chances are that you’ve dreamed about snapping your typical Irish cliffs photo. If you’re travelling to Cork, then Mizen Head is going to be one of the best places to snag a photo like that.
