We have dramatic rock formations, postcard landscapes and unforgettable landmarks right on our doorstep.
Despite being a relatively small country we are known for having some of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. With everything from dramatic rock formations, postcard landscapes and unforgettable landmarks we have it all right under our noses. Fancy a staycation of a lifetime? Here is where you will find jaw-dropping views nestled neatly on our Emerald Isle.
Lough Ouler, Wicklow
Lough Ouler also known as the 'Lake of Love' is tucked away at the feet of the Tonelagee Mountains. Ireland's very own heart-shaped lake is a hidden gem overlooking the Wicklow mountains with the finest 360° panoramic views of neighbouring hills. Unlike some of the other natural wonders listed, to the catch a glimpse of this glorious corrie lake you will need proper hiking equipment to safely make your up an hour-long uphill boggy track. It's worth every step though!
Lough Ouler also known as the 'Lake of Love' is tucked away at the feet of the Tonelagee Mountains. Ireland's very own heart-shaped lake is a hidden gem overlooking the Wicklow mountains with the finest 360° panoramic views of neighbouring hills. Unlike some of the other natural wonders listed, to the catch a glimpse of this glorious corrie lake you will need proper hiking equipment to safely make your up an hour-long uphill boggy track. It's worth every step though!
The Giants Causeway, Antrim
Made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the Giants Causeway is where fact and fiction meets. Located in Northern Ireland, the rock formation is the result of ancient volcanic eruptions, however, mythical legends say it's the remains of a causeway built by the Irish giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill. This geographical gem attracts over 300,000 visitors each year.
Made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the Giants Causeway is where fact and fiction meets. Located in Northern Ireland, the rock formation is the result of ancient volcanic eruptions, however, mythical legends say it's the remains of a causeway built by the Irish giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill. This geographical gem attracts over 300,000 visitors each year.
Cliffs of Moher, Clare
Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the Cliffs of Moher rise 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. The world famous sea cliffs run for about 14 kilometres long and with the breathtaking landscape along the rugged coastline, it's no wonder this Irish coastal walk is an unforgettable experience with its unrivalled views of the ever-changing sky and sandstone cliffs.
Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the Cliffs of Moher rise 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. The world famous sea cliffs run for about 14 kilometres long and with the breathtaking landscape along the rugged coastline, it's no wonder this Irish coastal walk is an unforgettable experience with its unrivalled views of the ever-changing sky and sandstone cliffs.
Skellig Islands, Kerry
The Skellig Islands are known as one of the most impressive rock formations in the world with one housing an early Christian monastery. Located 13km offshore, you can climb the 640 steps built into the rock to the top and explore Skellig Michael, now a UNESCO world heritage site. There are no toilets or shelter and Skellig Michael is the only island that permits visitor landings.
The Skellig Islands are known as one of the most impressive rock formations in the world with one housing an early Christian monastery. Located 13km offshore, you can climb the 640 steps built into the rock to the top and explore Skellig Michael, now a UNESCO world heritage site. There are no toilets or shelter and Skellig Michael is the only island that permits visitor landings.
Powerscourt Waterfall, Wicklow
Located on the river Dargle, at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, Powerscourt Waterfall stands at an impressive 121 metres tall. This stunning natural attraction is a firm favourite with families and tourists alike with plenty of space for picnics, exploring and there is a playground onsite to entertain the little ones.
Located on the river Dargle, at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, Powerscourt Waterfall stands at an impressive 121 metres tall. This stunning natural attraction is a firm favourite with families and tourists alike with plenty of space for picnics, exploring and there is a playground onsite to entertain the little ones.
Dun Bristé, Mayo
If Dun Bristé or 'the broken fort' doesn't give you a powerful reminder of how Mother Nature rules our world, nothing will! Standing over 50 metres tall just 80 metres from the mainland off Downpatrick Head stands a sea stack which broke away from the mainland back in 1393 by stormy seas. Breathtaking views of this impressive multi-coloured flat-topped rock can be seen along the Atlantic Coast.
If Dun Bristé or 'the broken fort' doesn't give you a powerful reminder of how Mother Nature rules our world, nothing will! Standing over 50 metres tall just 80 metres from the mainland off Downpatrick Head stands a sea stack which broke away from the mainland back in 1393 by stormy seas. Breathtaking views of this impressive multi-coloured flat-topped rock can be seen along the Atlantic Coast.
The Gap of Dunloe, Kerry
The stunning Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain passing running between the Macgillycuddy's Reeks and Purple Mountain in Kerry. It is one of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way making it simply unmissable. Completing the walk can take over two hours so travelling by horseback or car is recommended.
The stunning Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain passing running between the Macgillycuddy's Reeks and Purple Mountain in Kerry. It is one of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way making it simply unmissable. Completing the walk can take over two hours so travelling by horseback or car is recommended.
Other must-see destinations in Ireland include The Burren, Connemara Lakes, The Ring of Kerry, Slieve League, Slieve Blooms, The Ring of Gullion, Torc Waterfall and Cathedral Rocks. Have you been to any? What is your favourite location?
Kellie Kearney is a Dublin mammy of 4 kids aged 2, 3, 4 and 8 (and she is expecting baby #5 in May). A self-confessed procrastinator and picker-upper of things, Kellie would never turn down a coffee and she loves to travel and share every day true to life moments on Instagram of her expanding family. Follow her daily adventures on Instagram.