Ireland’s beauty is the stuff of legends—think misty cliffs, fairy-tale castles, and rolling green hills that stretch to the sea. Whether you’re exploring dramatic coastal routes or cozying up in historic villages, the Emerald Isle offers a feast for the senses. From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, here are 15 of the most beautiful places in Ireland, each offering unforgettable experiences.
1. Cliffs of Moher – County Clare
Where it is: Western Ireland, on the Atlantic coast
Why it’s beautiful: Towering 700 feet above the sea, the Cliffs of Moher are a breathtaking display of nature’s power.
What to do: Walk along the cliffside trails, visit the interactive visitor center, and keep an eye out for puffins in summer. Sunset here is nothing short of magical.
2. Ring of Kerry – County Kerry
Where it is: A scenic circular route in southwestern Ireland
Why it’s beautiful: This 111-mile drive features rugged coastlines, charming villages, lush mountains, and serene lakes.
What to do: Drive or bike the route, stop in picturesque towns like Kenmare and Sneem, and take a detour to the Skellig Islands (where parts of Star Wars were filmed).
3. Giant’s Causeway – County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Where it is: Northern coast of Northern Ireland
Why it’s beautiful: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this geological wonder boasts 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity—or, according to legend, by a giant.
What to do: Walk the Causeway Coastal Route, explore the columns, and visit the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre for folklore and geology insights.
4. Killarney National Park – County Kerry
Where it is: Near the town of Killarney in southwest Ireland
Why it’s beautiful: Home to mountains, waterfalls, and the serene Lakes of Killarney, this park is lush and romantic.
What to do: Take a boat trip across the lakes, hike up Torc Mountain, or tour the 19th-century Muckross House and Gardens.
5. Dingle Peninsula – County Kerry
Where it is: Western edge of Ireland’s Atlantic coast
Why it’s beautiful: Dramatic sea cliffs, golden beaches, and ancient archaeological sites make Dingle a must-see.
What to do: Explore the charming town of Dingle, drive the Slea Head Loop, and enjoy live traditional music in local pubs.
6. Connemara – County Galway
Where it is: Northwestern part of County Galway
Why it’s beautiful: Connemara is untamed and poetic, with boglands, misty mountains, and glittering lakes.
What to do: Visit Kylemore Abbey, hike in Connemara National Park, and take in views of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
7. The Burren – County Clare
Where it is: North of County Clare, near Galway Bay
Why it’s beautiful: This unique karst landscape of limestone pavement is both stark and stunning, teeming with rare flora.
What to do: Explore the Burren National Park, visit ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen, and enjoy guided nature walks.
8. Achill Island – County Mayo
Where it is: Off the coast of County Mayo, accessible via bridge
Why it’s beautiful: Windswept beaches, dramatic cliffs, and remote mountain villages give this island its haunting beauty.
What to do: Surf at Keel Beach, hike the Slievemore Mountain trail, or visit the deserted village for a taste of history.
9. Glendalough – County Wicklow
Where it is: In the Wicklow Mountains, south of Dublin
Why it’s beautiful: Nestled between two lakes and ancient forest, Glendalough is a peaceful glacial valley rich in history.
What to do: Explore the 6th-century monastic settlement, walk the scenic trails, and picnic by the Upper Lake.
10. The Aran Islands – County Galway
Where it is: Just off the west coast of Galway, accessible by ferry
Why it’s beautiful: These three islands offer rugged scenery, traditional Irish culture, and windswept stone walls.
What to do: Rent a bike on Inishmore, visit Dún Aonghasa (a prehistoric cliff fort), and enjoy the slow pace of island life.
11. Powerscourt Estate & Gardens – County Wicklow
Where it is: Near the town of Enniskerry, just south of Dublin
Why it’s beautiful: These 47 acres of formal gardens are set against the Sugarloaf Mountain and filled with fountains, terraces, and statues.
What to do: Tour the stately Powerscourt House, wander the Japanese gardens, and visit the nearby Powerscourt Waterfall.
12. Westport – County Mayo
Where it is: Along Clew Bay in western Ireland
Why it’s beautiful: A cheerful Georgian town with colorful shopfronts and access to incredible outdoor adventures.
What to do: Climb Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s holiest mountain), cycle the Great Western Greenway, and enjoy a pint in Matt Molloy’s pub (owned by the Chieftains’ flautist).
13. Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) – County Wicklow
Where it is: Hidden in the Wicklow Mountains
Why it’s beautiful: This lake is famous for its dark waters and white-sand shore—said to resemble a pint of Guinness from above.
What to do: Stop for photos at the viewing point on the Sally Gap Drive, and explore nearby hiking trails through the mountains.
14. Cobh – County Cork
Where it is: A seaport town on the south coast of Ireland
Why it’s beautiful: With brightly painted houses on steep hills overlooking the harbor, Cobh is postcard-perfect.
What to do: Visit the Titanic Experience (Cobh was the ship’s final port of call), walk the scenic waterfront promenade, and take a boat to nearby Spike Island.
15. Glengesh Pass – County Donegal
Where it is: Between Ardara and Glencolumbkille in County Donegal
Why it’s beautiful: A hidden gem, this winding mountain pass offers sweeping views of valleys, sheep-dotted hills, and remote countryside.
What to do: Drive or bike the pass for the scenery, then head to nearby Slieve League Cliffs—some of the highest in Europe—for an even more jaw-dropping view.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.