When we think of Ireland we think of walking and hiking and maybe cycling but did you know that it is also home to one of the best surfing locations in the world? Or did you know that we enjoy whale watching on the island? Kayaking and Canoeing are also a much-loved pastime and one that we love to share with our visitors. It is also a great way to see some of the country’s deepest beauty close up.
If you have been dreaming of Ireland’s Great Outdoors, let me take you on a virtual journey full of remarkable scenery, magical sights and an abundance of things to do on the Island of Ireland………..……..
Walking and Hiking
From lush glens and magical canal banks, to daredevil cliff paths and quaint city quarters….. when it comes to walking and hiking, Ireland has got you covered. From the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast, Ireland has an adventure waiting for you. We have many mountains in Ireland that come in all shapes and sizes so there really is something to suit everyone.
Irelands highest mountain is Carrauntoohil in the MacGillycuddyreeks in Co Kerry. It has some of the highest peaks and sharpest ridges in Ireland making it a popular destination for mountain walking and climbing.
The Mourne Mountains in County Down are famous for its challenging peaks. Slieve Donard being the highest at 850 meters. A tough climb but the views over Murlough Bay is well worth the effort. The Mournes also less challenging trials for walkers too. Slieve Binnian and Slieve Corragh offer standout strolls too for the walkers in your group.
Just outside the Wild Atlantic Way and five miles from the picturesque town of Westport Co Mayo lies the famous Croagh Patrick Mountain. It is considered the holiest mountain in Ireland and an important site of pilgrimage. Magnificent views of clew bay and the surrounding south Mayo countryside are spectacular from all stages of the climb.
If you’re looking for a quieter walk head to the stunning less strenuous and oldest mountains in Europe (along with the Massif central in France) the Slieve Bloom mountains situated between the counties of Laois and Offaly. The area is picturesque and peaceful and according to the locals the area has everything you would want except the sea.
The Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail, on the Cavan/Fermanagh border, is often referred to Ireland’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’. The view that you’re treated to from the top of the Cuilcagh Boardwalk is pretty amazing. The route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland.
Cycling
The Irish cycling routes are some of the best in the world. From wild mountain excursions to smooth country lanes Ireland is a cyclist’s dream.
The King Fishers Trail covers counties in the midlands of the island and crosses over into Northern Ireland. The trail is designed with everyone in mind with both long and short cycling routes. It offers spectacular panoramic views over Upper and Lower Lough Erne, Lough McNean and Lough Allen along the way with many historic sights to also stop and admire as you go too.
If you want to experience the longest off-road cycling and walking trail in Ireland then you will be heading for Westport in Co Mayo on the world class Great Western Greenway. It is 42 kilometres long and begins in Westport and ends in Achill. An estimated 300 people cycle or walk the trail every day (usually!) making it a very popular great outdoor destination.
If you’re looking for a mix of cultural treasures, active exploration and natural beauty, look no further than the Waterford Greenway, a trail that boasts Norman castles, medieval ruins and a Viking settlement.
Whale Watching
Not something that you would overly associate with Ireland but the wild Atlantic Ocean that runs along the western coastline of the island of Ireland is home to many whales and dolphins for certain months of the year. We have Loop Head in county Clare that is home to over 150 bottlenose dolphins and of course the most famous dolphin of all fungi in Dingle in Co Kerry. As with any wildlife watching, whales and dolphins can be unpredictable but any visit to any of these wonderful destinations would not lead to disappointment. There will always be something spectacular to see.
Kayaking and Canoeing
There is no better place to take to the waters than Ireland. With the most beautiful winding rivers, glassy lakes and vast oceans there is a kayaking and canoeing adventure waiting for you.
A great way to explore the sea caves on the west coast of Ireland and the iconic cliffs of Moher from the sea is a kayaking trip to Liscannor Bay, Co Clare. This is a fantastic way to take in the spectacular panoramic views of Lahinch and the south coastline of co Clare from its rugged coastline.
Another popular kayaking and canoeing destination is The Copper Coast which runs along the Waterford coastline along the popular town of Tramore Co Waterford. It has often been referred to as travelling through a Lord of the Rings style landscape. Deep caves, tremendous rock formations and towering sea arches make this one of Ireland’s top kayaking routes.
Fishing & Angling
Ireland is recognised as being the outstanding fishing holiday destination in Europe. The vast variety and quality of fishing in Ireland makes it the perfect destination for your next fishing holiday. The Irish climate is well suited, with moderate summers, mild winters and adequate rainfall throughout the year. The warm waters of the North Atlantic Drift lap the south and west coasts, giving us a milder climate than our geographical location would indicate. The result is a fabulous mixture of cold and warm water fish species, capable of exciting the specialist or casual fisherman on the annual family holiday…
Surfing
There’s simply no better way to appreciate the wild power of the Atlantic Ocean than by taking to the waves than a visit to Ireland’s surf capital Bundoran in Co Donegal. The most popular surf spot in Bundoran is known as The Peak. This is the wave that defines the surf here and that brings thousands to Bundoran to take on mother nature.If you don’t fancy experiencing the surfing thrills of the peak you have nearby Rossnowlagh, Mullaghmore and Rosses Point in Donegal. Or you can just sit and watch on shore.Lahinch Co Clare attracts surfers (and indeed canoeing) enthusiasts from all over the world and has a reputation of having some of the top surf centres. The wildness of the landscape and the incredible waves attracts surfers from all over the world.
When the world is ready to travel again and our travel dreams are possible, why not experience the beauty and serenity of Ireland’s Great Outdoors………….
Why not let Katie Daly’ Ireland make those dreams a reality?
