Ireland's natural and cultural landscapes

Ireland, known as the "Emerald Island" for its green fields and hills, also boasts nearly 3,200 kilometers of coasts, rivers, and lakes, offering a landscape rich in blue. The nation's preserved nature is complemented by ancient castles, historical villages, and pubs filled with traditional music. Travelers can explore this colorful corner of Europe through various routes and experiences.

The Wild Atlantic Way's scenic route

The Wild Atlantic Way, spanning just under 2,600 kilometers, follows the western coast and includes prehistoric sites, lighthouses, and coves. The Dingle Peninsula is a prime location for immersing in the region's wild beauty, with small group excursions in inflatable boats organized by Dingle Sea Safari allowing visitors to observe marine wildlife near the Great Blasket Islands.

Seaweed and historical traditions

The rocky coves of the southwest are filled with seaweed that reveals an aspect of Irish history. Kerryann O'Farrell from Atlantic Irish Seaweed explains that during Lent, people would collect nori, or sleabhac, for its protein content. Educational walks on edible seaweed are available at Derrynane port, and Sneem Seaweed Baths in County Kerry offers heated baths in a wooden whiskey barrel with views of Kenmare bay.

Ireland's whiskey revival

In the 1800s, Dublin was a leading producer of whiskey, or uisce beatha in Irish. This has seen a resurgence with five new distilleries in the city, including Roe and Co, which offers tastings and cocktail-making experiences. The Irish Whiskey Museum and the Whiskey Palace, located inside the Palace Bar, provide insight into the history of this spirit, with over 400 whiskies available for tasting.

Cape Clear Island's cultural offerings

Cape Clear Island, located off the south coast, is part of the Gaeltacht, regions where Irish Gaelic is predominantly spoken. Visitors can reach the island via ferries from Baltimore, passing the Fastnet Rock lighthouse. The island's Heritage Centre, housed in a former girls' school, showcases maritime history and culture, and visitors can enjoy goat's milk ice cream from Cléire Goats.

The Suir Blueway's scenic route

The Suir Blueway, a 53-kilometer navigable route in Tipperary County, is one of Ireland's three official blueways. Excursions along the Suir River allow navigation past castles and under stone bridges. The restored towpath from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir offers views of fishermen's huts, wildflower-covered banks, and apple orchards of Bulmers Cider. Nearby, the Cashel Palace hotel and Cahir Apple Farm provide accommodation and local produce.

Galway's cultural and historical attractions

In Galway, the Westend neighborhood offers a bohemian atmosphere with places like Bell Book and Candle, the Flea Style Market, and the Crane Bar, which features traditional music. Guided tours reveal the history of the Claddagh ring, and food tours highlight the city's emerging gastronomic scene.

Kayaking under the stars

Kayaking under the stars in Castlehaven Bay, County Cork, offers a unique perspective of nature. Jim Kennedy from Atlantic Sea Kayaking leads small groups who can observe the stars or bioluminescence on clear nights, accompanied by the sounds of nature.

Underground yoga and historical sites

The Marble Arch Caves in Fermanagh and Cavan, part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks, offer a one-hour yoga class underground. Visitors can then explore the Upper and Lower Lough Erne lakes, including the island of Devenish, a monastic site with ruins dating back to the 12th century.

Les Gobbins hiking trail

The hiking trail Les Gobbins of Islandmagee, opened in 1902, features spectacular cliffs and Edwardian bridges. Guided tours with Islandmagee SUP allow exploration of the Seven Sisters cliff caves and puffin nesting from May to September. Visitors can then enjoy loose-leaf tea and kombucha at Kings Road in Whitehead.

Ireland's great lighthouses

Great Lighthouses of Ireland offers a guide to the country's most remarkable lighthouses, including Saint John's Point in Donegal. Visitors can spend the night at Clipper or Schooner, former residences of lighthouse keepers, experiencing solitude and watching over the lighthouse without Wi-Fi.