Top 10 hidden gems to visit in Ireland

Ireland is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. While many visitors to Ireland flock to the more popular tourist destinations, there are plenty of hidden gems that are well worth a visit. Here are our top 10 picks for the best hidden gems to visit in Ireland.

Top 10 hidden gem to visit in Ireland

    1. The Burren: The Burren is a vast limestone landscape in County Clare. It's a unique and beautiful place that is home to a variety of rare flowers and plants, as well as ancient tombs and standing stones. Visitors can hike or bike through the Burren to take in the stunning views and explore the fascinating history of this area.

    2. The Skellig Islands: The Skellig Islands are located off the coast of County Kerry. The larger island, Skellig Michael, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once home to a monastic settlement. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to see the well-preserved monastic ruins and admire the stunning cliffs and seabirds.

    3. The Giant's Causeway: The Giant's Causeway is an area of natural wonder located in County Antrim. It's composed of thousands of basalt columns that were formed by ancient volcanic activity. Visitors can walk along the causeway and explore the area's many legends and myths, including the tale of the giant Finn McCool.

    4. The Ring of Kerry: The Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometer scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland. Along the way, you'll see stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, mountains, lakes, and traditional Irish towns. There are plenty of tour operators in Killarney that can guide you through the best of the Ring of Kerry.

    5. Hook Head Lighthouse: Hook Head Lighthouse is located in County Wexford, and it is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world that is still in operation. Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and learn about its rich history, and then catch a glimpse of the lighthouse keeper's quarters.

    6. The Wicklow Mountains: The Wicklow Mountains are located in County Wicklow and they are a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. You can also find here Wicklow Mountains National Park, where visitors can explore a range of trails that take in beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, including Glendalough, an ancient monastic site

    7. The Rock of Cashel: The Rock of Cashel is a historic site located in County Tipperary. It's an impressive complex of medieval buildings that was once the seat of the kings of Munster. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle, the chapel, and the round tower, and learn about the history of this fascinating site.

    8. The Dingle Peninsula: The Dingle Peninsula is located in County Kerry and it is a great destination for a day trip. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives and explore charming villages, and also catch a glimpse of traditional Irish culture, including the famous Blasket Islands, a place of stunning beauty and an important cultural and literary site.

    9. The Glen of Aherlow: The Glen of Aherlow is a beautiful valley located in County Tipperary. It's an area of great natural beauty that is popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and enjoy the many walking trails that wind through the glen.

    10. The Aran Islands: The Aran Islands are located off the west coast of County Galway. The islands are home to a unique culture and way of life that has been shaped by the harsh Atlantic environment. Visitors can explore the island by bike or on foot and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, traditional thatched-roof cottages, and ancient stone forts. You can also see the famous 'Aran sweaters' being knitted, and learn about the island's rich history and legends. The island of Inis Mór is the biggest and most popular, with a number of historic sites such as Dún Aengus and the Seven Churches, as well as lovely beaches and cliffs. While Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are smaller and quieter.

Exploring these hidden gems in Ireland is a great way to see the country beyond its more well-known tourist destinations. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culture, these locations have something to offer for everyone. And these are our top 10 hidden gems to visit in Ireland, but the country has a lot more to discover.