Ireland is often known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ and famed for its endless green fields, stunning landscapes and friendly locals. A popular travel destination, and indeed a popular group of people, it’s not really surprising that over 70 million people around the world consider Ireland to be home. With a thriving tourism industry driven in recent years by events such as The Gathering and The Wild Atlantic Way, it’s hardly surprising to see millions of people flock to the “green green grass of home” every year. Ireland has many popular cities that are making big strides in the modern world with Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast all leading the way. With popular tourist attractions throughout these cities and off course, a warm welcome and a real party atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many of us want to travel to Ireland to enjoy the hospitality of this warm, friendly nation. It doesn’t have to be city breaks though, as the coastal towns and villages throughout Ireland offer tranquillity like nowhere else, and give you a real taste for the Ireland that the locals simply love. From quiet walks in the country, to evenings in traditional pubs and trips to the seaside, coastal breaks in Ireland provide a perfect getaway to relax and unwind. If Ireland is on your bucket list of places to visit in the coming years, here are 7 coastal holiday destinations you may want to consider.
7 Coastal locations to visit in Ireland:
Bundoran, Donegal:
The coastal town of Bundoran in county Donegal, is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations, with a range of activities to suit all ages. From gorgeous sandy beaches to cosy country pubs, Bundoran is that little slice of Ireland we’ve all dreamt of visiting. For the adventurous among you, Bundoran is also one of the most popular surfing destinations in Europe and was recently voted in the top 20 surfing towns in the world by National Geographic.
Connemara, Galway:
One of the most popular areas on the Wild Atlantic Way route is the stunning Connemara peninsula in Galway.
Dingle Peninsula, Kerry:
Next up on our list of places to see on the journey of the Wild Atlantic Way is the Dingle Peninsula in Kerry and the deserted villages of Blasket Islands. This is the most western point of Ireland and indeed Europe, and is an area as famous for its storytellers as it is for its stunning scenery. Listen to stories about the area and share in the history and culture of the beautiful Dingle Peninsula as well as the poignant stories of the struggles of the islanders in years gone by. Access to the islands is by boat and dependent on the weather, but is a great way to relax for a while on your long journey.
Tramore, Waterford:
Having started in Malin Head in Donegal and taken in the Dingle Peninsula, the last place to be sure you visit on the Wild Atlantic Way is Mizen Head in Cork, the most southern point of Ireland. Cork is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in Ireland and is a great place to finish your journey. From whale watching in Baltimore to the historic area of Kinsale and from the English Market’s (famed for its great food) to Blarney Castle where you can hang backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone, there’s lots to do in Cork to complete the perfect trip to Ireland in 2014.
Malahide, Dublin:
- 6. Carlingford, Louth:
- 7. Causeway Coast, Antrim:
The Wild Atlantic Way allows you to join in and share the history of Ireland, share the heritage and culture of the cities, towns and villages that have inspired generations. The Gathering was a welcome boast to Irelands tourist industry in 2013 and with the Giro D’Italia and The Wild Atlantic Way on the agenda for 2014, Ireland is firmly putting itself on the map for keen travellers throughout the globe, something which is great to see.