How to Visit Lesser-Known Attractions in Ireland
Nestled beyond the overcrowded tourist spots lies a wealth of enchanting and lesser-known destinations in Ireland. This blog post invites adventurers and explorers to uncover the hidden gems of the Emerald Isle that are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From mystic towers and ancient castles to breathtaking cliffs and secret waterfalls, each location offers a unique and unforgettable experience. As you embark on this journey off the beaten path, marvel at isolated islands, secluded loughs, and captivating structures. These relatively untouched wonders promise memories that will linger long after the visit. Here are twenty-seven remarkable places waiting to be discovered in Ireland.
My Favourite Hidden Gems in Ireland
1. Scrabo Tower
Situated atop Scrabo Hill in Newtownards, County Down, Scrabo Tower is a striking reminder of Northern Ireland’s historical tapestry. Built in 1857 as a memorial to Charles Vane, the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry, this iconic tower offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and Strangford Lough. The rugged yet picturesque landscape attracts few yet passionate historians and photographers who cherish the blend of natural and man-made beauty.
Despite its proximity to urban centers, Scrabo Tower remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The interior features a small exhibition detailing the Londonderry family’s impact on the area. For those interested in venturing here, it is easily accessible by car, and the adjacent Scrabo Country Park provides several tranquil walking paths ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
2. McDermott’s Castle
Erected on Castle Island in Lough Key, County Roscommon, McDermott’s Castle is a fairy-tale ruin enveloped in intrigue and natural allure. Accessed by boat, this 12th-century fort was the stronghold of the McDermott clan, reflecting medieval life amid the draping greenery of Lough Key Forest Park. Today, it serves as a romantic reminder of Ireland’s epic past, drawing those with an eye for history, architecture, and hushed solitude.
Legend has it that the castle is haunted by a McDermott prince, adding to its enigmatic charm. Although the structure itself is in ruins and not accessible for tours, the views from Lough Key’s shore are mesmerizing. Whether from a kayak or on the forest trails, McDermott’s Castle is a poetic landscape painting waiting to be explored.
3. Coumshingaun Lough
Hidden within the Comeragh Mountains of County Waterford, Coumshingaun Lough is a glacial lake that offers dramatic views and a rewarding hike for nature lovers. The loop trail around the lake is considered one of Ireland’s hidden hiking gems, presenting steep climbs, rugged paths, and views that are the essence of serenity.
Starting your journey from the Kilclooney Wood car park, the 7.5-kilometer hike encompasses sprawling landscapes and sheer cliffs lining one of Ireland’s finest corrie lakes. Whether for casual walkers or seasoned hikers, the captivating vistas and unspoiled natural beauty make a visit here a fulfilling wilderness experience.
4. Ireland’s Islands
Ireland’s coastline is dotted with islands that are as diverse as they are beautiful. While the Aran Islands are perhaps the most famed, less-visited gems like Clare Island, Achill Island, and the Skelligs provide unique experiences for travelers seeking tranquillity and discovery away from overcrowded hotspots.
Clare Island, once home to the pirate queen Grace O’Malley, offers explorers a vibrant tapestry of history, rugged landscapes, and friendly local communities. Similarly, Achill Island features Blue Flag beaches and the iconic Deserted Village, paired with the haunting beauty of the Skellig Islands, which boast an ancient monastic site perched atop its rocky cliffs. Each of these islands presents their own slice of Irish culture and nature, awaiting exploration by the curious.
5. The Caves of Keash
Set into the limestone cliffs of Keash Hill and believed to be the dwelling of Ireland’s ancient kings, the Caves of Keash provide a mysterious and archaeological intrigue. Located in County Sligo, this chain of 17 caves offers both history buffs and nature enthusiasts a deeper connection with Ireland’s untamed past.
The short hike to these natural formations provides sweeping views of the Irish countryside while exploring the caves themselves stirs imaginations of mythical tales, including associations with Fionn MacCumhaill, the legendary hunter-warrior. Despite their spellbinding allure, the caves see few visitors, making it perfect for those in search of Irish folklore away from crowded precincts.
6. Dunmore Cave
Tucked in the lush landscapes of County Kilkenny, Dunmore Cave presents a fascinating underground world shaped by nature over millions of years. Known for its historical significance due to Viking raids, which have been documented in the “Annals of the Four Masters,” this natural wonder is as exciting to archaeologists as it is to casual tourists.
The guided tours illuminate impressive calcite formations and stalagmites within the cave, with guides sharing riveting tales of its past, connecting visitors with the significance of its geography and features. For those with a penchant for the mysterious mother earth, Dunmore Cave offers a captivating underground experience rich with history and natural beauty.
7. Doon Fort
Distinguished by its remote and isolated location in County Donegal, Doon Fort lies on an island on Lough Doon. This circular stone fort is defined by its mystique and storied heritage, dating back to the first millennium AD. Unique in its construction, its walls are almost a perfect circle, adding to the captivating symmetry and allure of the fort.
Access to Doon Fort requires permission from the local landowner and a small boat trip, which is an adventure in itself. The tranquility and solitude found there provide an immersive experience into the serene past of Ireland, offering a mindful adventure for those daring enough to journey there.
8. Bull Rock
Standing isolated in the Atlantic just off County Cork’s coast, Bull Rock is a formidable sea rock island housing one of Ireland’s most remote lighthouses. Known for its natural beauty, the island is uninhabited and only accessible via rough sea voyages, making it one of Ireland’s least accessible but most rewarding destinations for the determined traveler.
The island’s lighthouse, operated remotely since the early 1990s, adds a dimension of desolation cloaked in maritime stories of old. It serves as a nesting home for myriad sea birds, making it a hotspot for bird-watchers craving a more extreme expedition. Capturing its raw, unspoiled beauty rewards those who manage to visit with lifelong memories and a taste of adventure.
9. The Inis Mór Wormhole
Famously known as the Poll na bPéist, the Inis Mór Wormhole is a natural rectangular pool situated among the rugged cliffs of Inis Mór on the Aran Islands. Its perfectly straight edges and the surrounding jagged geological formations make it an intriguing site for geology enthusiasts and daring explorers.
Accessible via a moderate coastal walk from the village of Gort na gCapall, the Wormhole is also a spectacle during the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Although it demands effort to locate, witnessing its distinct form and the environmental symphony of crashing waves provides an unforgettable experience.
10. Spike Island
Once a monastic settlement, then a fortress, and later an infamous prison, Spike Island in Cork Harbour has an intriguing history that rivals iconic Alcatraz. Although Spike Island is slowly gaining popularity, its sheer history and aura make it deserving of a visit, particularly for those fascinated by Ireland’s multi-layered past.
Accessible by ferry from Cobh, visitors can explore its impressive fort, learn about its notorious past through exhibition spaces, and uncover tales of those who lived and worked on the island. Guided tours delve deep into the more chilling aspects of its history, making it an enthralling site for history buffs.
11. The Lost Valley
Located near Louisburgh in County Mayo, The Lost Valley offers a poignant exploration of Ireland’s past, focusing on life before and during the Great Famine. The valley’s guided walking tour includes stories of the inhabitants who were affected by historical events, paired with immersive scenes set among the stunning biodiversity.
Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, The Lost Valley is a blend of geographical splendor and historical significance, with untouched landscapes that reflect the Ireland of yesteryears. For those who appreciate both natural beauty and a historical journey, The Lost Valley offers an enriching experience off the familiar tourist routes.
12. Largy Waterfall
Located in the heart of County Fermanagh’s rugged landscape lies Largy Waterfall, a hidden cascade surrounded by dense woodland. A scenic hidden away from the main tourist trails, it offers serene and captivating natural beauty for those in search of peace and seclusion.
The gentle sound of rushing waters relaxing the senses complements the picturesque surroundings, setting a serene escape for visitors. While not widely heralded on travel itineraries, Largy Waterfall symbolizes Ireland’s undisturbed outdoors, ideal for those yearning a communion with nature.
13. Ballaghbeama Gap
Tear through the heart of County Kerry with a drive through the Ballaghbeama Gap, a spectacular mountain pass that is an off-road enthusiast’s dream. The winding road leads between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Dunkerron Mountains, offering dramatic mountainous landscapes and solitude away from the bustling Ring of Kerry route.
This thrilling drive unfolds a cloak of natural landscapes, with every turn unveiling vistas more enticing than the last. Although narrow and challenging for drivers unacquainted with rural roads, the surreal setting rewards those brave enough with magical solitude, making it an exhilarating journey.
14. Marsh’s Library
Tucked away amidst the urban sprawl of Dublin, Marsh’s Library is Ireland’s first public library, meticulously frozen in time since it opened in 1707. Housing an eclectic collection of books and manuscripts, it offers a time-traveling experience for bibliophiles eager to delve into Ireland’s literary heritage.
Dwarfed by contemporary structures, the library’s wooden bookshelves and quaint iron railings exude a rustic charm, setting a picturesque scene for quiet study or reflection. While well-hidden within the city, those who seek it out will find a treasure trove of wisdom and antiquity.
15. The Swiss Cottage
Enveloped in verdance along the River Suir in County Tipperary, the Swiss Cottage offers an enchanting glimpse of the early 19th century architecture. This romantic and ornamental “cottage orné” is unique to Irish Heritage, with its thatched roof, intricate interiors, and rustic charm.
Initially envisaged as a country retreat for entertaining guests, this National Monument is meticulously maintained with historical furnishings as part of the guided tours. Visitors are thus transported back in time, enjoying everything from eclectic decor to stories of the past elite’s leisurely sojourns, making it a delightful detour for those seeking architectural pleasure.
16. The Croaghaun Cliffs
While most know of the Cliffs of Moher, fewer have braved the stunningly remote Croaghaun Cliffs on Achill Island. These cliffs are some of Europe’s highest, dramatically dropping into the Atlantic below, providing breathtaking views and exhilarating hiking opportunities for those adventurous enough to journey there.
The spectacular vistas of the surrounding islands, coupled with the roaring ocean and rolling mists, create a mystical and intense atmosphere. With pathways leading to rugged cliff edges, the sense of isolation and wild beauty make it a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.
17. Leap Castle
Regaled as Ireland’s most haunted castle, Leap Castle in County Offaly beckons thrill-seekers with its chilling past. Built in the late 15th century, it has witnessed numerous tragic events, leaving behind an eerie presence that is both unsettling and fascinating.
Tours reveal its haunting history, encompassing tales of betrayal, imprisonment, and murder. Whether visitors catch a glimpse of supposed spectral inhabitants or merely explore its rich tapestry of stories, Leap Castle offers a unique window into a dark part of Irish history.
18. The Marble Arch Caves
The Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh present a geological spectacle through a series of natural limestone caves, underground rivers, and waterfalls. Visitors embark on guided boat tours and walks, experiencing a subterranean journey through unique caverns with stunning natural features.
The cave system is extensive and awe-inspiring, with stalactites and stalagmites creating a mesmerizing natural orchestra. Recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, these caves offer an enthralling experience for geology enthusiasts and casual explorers alike, revealing nature’s brilliance beneath the earth’s surface.
19. The Dark Sky Reserve
Ireland’s Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve offers a celestial adventure for stargazers, offering some of the most pristine night skies in Europe. This designated area provides one of the best stargazing spots free from light pollution, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts yearning for a heavenly spectacle.
Set against the dramatic landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way, the reserve invites visitors to lose themselves in the grandiosity of the cosmos. Observing the Milky Way, constellations, and occasional meteor showers amidst Ireland’s nocturnal silence is an otherworldly experience, providing a natural retreat from mundane life.
20. The Cloughmore Stone
Perched 1,000 feet above Carlingford Lough in County Down is the giant granite boulder known as the Cloughmore Stone. According to legend, the stone was tossed there by the mythical giant Fionn MacCumhaill during a battle, imbibing the site with magical lore.
The panoramic views from the Cloughmore Stone overlook the Mourne Mountains and into Carlingford Lough, offering dramatic scenery for outdoor aficionados. Requiring a moderate hike to reach, it rewards visitors with a legendary touch and sweeping vistas, thereby making it a favorite spot for photographers and hikers alike.
21. Gougane Barra
Nestled in a serene valley surrounded by forests and mountains, Gougane Barra in County Cork serves as a tranquil retreat with spiritual significance. Known for its idyllic lakeside chapel and forest park, it attracts those seeking peace or a picturesque picnic spot.
The tranquil scene of Saint Finbarr’s Oratory on the lake’s edge complements the trails winding through Gougane Barra’s unspoiled landscape. Whether you’re exploring the park’s natural beauty or visiting the historic chapel, Gougane Barra’s serenity and charm create a harmonious experience worth indulging in.
22. Benwee Head
In the remote region of County Mayo, Benwee Head presents some of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal scenery. Characterized by its steep sea cliffs, wild Atlantic Ocean views, and open countryside, it offers an exhilarating day for hikers and nature lovers.
The sublime views of Dún Briste sea stack and the Stags of Broadhaven are highlights for those who make the trek, often feeling at one with nature on the cliff-top paths. Its relatively obscure location guarantees a peaceful experience, ideal for contemplation against the backdrop of Ireland’s wild beauty.
23. Kinnagoe Bay
Located in Donegal’s Inishowen peninsula, Kinnagoe Bay is a secluded strand renowned for its golden sand, vibrant sea life, and sheltered waterscape that make it ideal for a peaceful retreat. Enclosed by green cliffs, it is a perfect site for an undisturbed stroll or simply to bask in nature’s beauty.
The bay is home to the wreck of a Spanish Armada ship, adding an element of historical intrigue to its natural allure. Despite its accessibility challenges, Kinnagoe Bay provides a tranquil setting far removed from the hustle and bustle, offering tranquility, impressive views, and pure coastal bliss.
24. Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird
Popularly known as the Devil’s Chimney, which is Ireland’s tallest waterfall, Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird, presents a striking natural display wherein the waterfall reverses direction on windy days. Located near Glencar Lough in County Leitrim, this fascinating natural event adds an extra level of excitement to the area’s appeal.
With a well-marked hiking trail leading to the vantage point, visitors can witness both the breathtaking cliffs and when in full flow, the waterfall demonstrating its whimsical journey skyward. The synergy of the surrounding geology with the lake views below provides an impressive visual feast for nature lovers.
25. Down Cathedral
Sitting atop Cathedral Hill in Downpatrick, County Down, the Down Cathedral is an early Christian site that draws pilgrims and tourists alike. It is famously known as the resting place of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, which adds a spiritual allure to this historic site.
The cathedral’s beautiful, historic architecture and intimate graveyard allow visitors to reflect upon the past and experience peace in history-rich surroundings. Its continuity and reverence present a harmonious encounter with spiritual Ireland, appealing equally to those of faith and those passionate about early Irish history.
26. Kinbane Castle
Fascinatingly perched on a limestone headland in County Antrim, Kinbane Castle’s ruins offer sprawling views of Rathlin Island and the Irish Sea. Built in 1547 by Colla MacDonnell, it stands as a testament to time and the turbulent history that shadowed it.
Access to the castle involves a challenging but scenic walk, making it a hidden gem for enthusiasts willing to undertake the trek. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic ocean views and an opportunity to ruminate amidst the coastline’s dramatic beauty where history and nature converge.
27. The Tourist Favourites
While this article celebrates the lesser-known sites of Ireland, a visit would not be complete without mention of treasured, widely recognized locations that continue to captivate millions. Destinations like the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway, Dublin’s Trinity College, and Blarney Castle are integral to the Irish experience.
Their allure lies in their grandeur and depth of storytelling as much as their physical presence. Thoroughly explored, appreciated, and photographed, these tourist favorites provide a backdrop to Ireland’s more hidden jewels, offering an exciting contrast and complement to its sought-after secret corners.
Explore Beyond Off the Beaten Path Ireland
With Ireland’s rich tapestry of natural landscapes, historical sites, and mystical tales, exploring beyond the typical tourist paths opens a door to experiences that are uniquely rewarding. As adventurous souls venture to discover Ireland’s hidden gems, they weave themselves into the narratives of its past, present, and future. These remarkable destinations serve not only as windows to Ireland’s diverse heritage but also as gateways for travelers to engage, experience, and treasure the brilliance of unexplored paths.
| Attraction | Location |
|---|---|
| Scrabo Tower | Newtownards, County Down |
| McDermott’s Castle | Castle Island, Lough Key |
| Coumshingaun Lough | Comeragh Mountains, County Waterford |
| Ireland’s Islands | Various (e.g., Clare, Achill, Skelligs) |
| The Caves of Keash | Keash Hill, County Sligo |
| Dunmore Cave | County Kilkenny |
| Doon Fort | Lough Doon, County Donegal |
| Bull Rock | Off County Cork coast |
| The Inis Mór Wormhole | Aran Islands |
| Spike Island | Cork Harbour |
| The Lost Valley | Near Louisburgh, County Mayo |
| Largy Waterfall | County Fermanagh |
| Ballaghbeama Gap | County Kerry |
| Marsh’s Library | Dublin |
| The Swiss Cottage | County Tipperary |
| The Croaghaun Cliffs | Achill Island |
| Leap Castle | County Offaly |
| The Marble Arch Caves | County Fermanagh |
| The Dark Sky Reserve | County Kerry |
| The Cloughmore Stone | Carlingford Lough, County Down |
| Gougane Barra | County Cork |
| Benwee Head | County Mayo |
| Kinnagoe Bay | Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula |
| Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird | Near Glencar Lough, County Leitrim |
| Down Cathedral | Downpatrick, County Down |
| Kinbane Castle | County Antrim |
| The Tourist Favourites | Various (e.g., Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway) |
