Ireland is a place of surreal beauty, and if this is your first time visiting you’re in for a treat. In order to make the most of your Celtic tours, I’ve compiled a list of the top must-see places on the Emerald Isle. If these five locations don’t take your breath away, then I don’t know what will.
The Top Five Places To Visit In Ireland
- The Cliffs of Moher. If you’ve never seen coastline cliffs before, these are guaranteed to blow your mind. Located about an hour and a half away from Galway in County Clare, these cliffs see upwards of one million visitors per year. Stretching eight kilometers along the Atlantic coast, they rise a stunning 214 meters at their highest point. Walking along this magnificent cliffside is like walking along the edge of the world. Words simply cannot do them justice. This is one sight you really need to see to believe. For more information and tour options click here.
- The Book of Kells and Trinity College. Standing as Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College is a cultural treasure. Constructed in 1592 but the famed Queen Elizabeth I, today it exists as a place out of time. A journey through the halls here offers a glimpse at nearly 500 years of scholarly devotion. Visiting here you can see the famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century, and the awe-inspiring Long Room, which served as the inspiration behind the library in the Harry Potter movies.
- Glendalough. Serving as one of the most important monastic sites on the island, this settlement dates back to the 6th century. People have ventured to this site for thousands of years to take in the scenery and amazing natural wildlife. Today you can soak in the views from the well-preserved circle tower or immerse yourself through one of the many nature trails that snake through the landscape.
- The Rock of Cashel. When it comes to castle tours, most people think of Blarney Castle; however the Rock of Cashel is actually one of the most visited heritage sites in Ireland. Set atop an imposing limestone formation, the buildings that sit here include a 15th-century castle, a 13th-century gothic cathedral, and circle tower dating to the 12th century. If you want a strong taste of Irish history, this is one of the best places to find it. For tour options and information click here.
- The Aran Islands. These mystical islands have captivated visitors for generations, and visiting today will grant you a look into the Ireland of old. Here, where the population is little over 12,000, you will find the islands of Inisheer, Inishmore, and Inishmaan with Gaelic still functioning as the first language. Once you venture here you may never want to leave, as the uniqueness, rugged beauty, and towering cliffs, are something you will seldom find anywhere else. For information and tour options click here.
If you are planning a trip to the Emerald Isle, here are five of my favorite places that you have to see to believe. Each place is both unique, breathtaking, and completely awe-inspiring. If you want to experience the best of Irish culture, these locations will give you all you’re looking for and more.