The Emerald Isle is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Whether you come in the rainy season, when it is particularly foggy, or in the glorious sunshine, you will be able to enjoy the amazing landscape and many interesting places.
Of course, people who come to Ireland often base their time in Dublin. It’s a bustling city with plenty to enjoy, but given that there’s so much to discover, it would be a shame to limit one’s trip to just the city. So here, we highlight a few hidden gems of the country that are worth more than your time.
Keash
The small County Sligo village of Keash is close to a series of ancient limestone caves that have been used by humans and animals for thousands of years. The Cave of Kesh or Keshcorran Caves, as it is sometimes known, consists of a series of 17 caves that lead underground into the side of Keshcorran Hill. Outside, you can see many entrances to the cave network under the hill, and inside, you get a great view of the hills beyond.
Ancient and extinct animal bones have been found inside the caves, while on top of Keshcorran, you can find a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb that remains unopened. From there, you can also see the expansive Feenagh lough, loaded with brown trout for any visiting anglers.
Carlingford Lough
Source: Pexels
Taking the form of a glacial ford on the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, Carlingford Lough is loaded with historical and mythological points of interest – while also being an amazing place in its own right. The ancient castle is one of its most famous features, but perhaps most interesting as the home of the faeries.
The Fairy Cavern and the National Leprechaun Museum call Carlingford Lough home. It is here that people can explore the last home of the leprechaun. The mythical creature has always been tied to Ireland, from comic horror movies to Rainbow Riches slots. In those Irish-themed games, the leprechaun takes on the role of a helper, becoming a gateway to many of its hot features. In Irish lore, however, the leprechaun can be very treacherous.
Bunmahon
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Located on the coast of County Waterford, Bunmahon offers beautiful views from every angle, a beautiful cliff-lined beach, and the point where the River Mahon meets the sea. Along with these features, the town also offers quick access to the UNESCO site.
The Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark offers guided tours, audio tours, and trail maps that allow you to immerse yourself in the area’s history and learn about its geology as a copper mining area. Routes will take you around Bunmahon, but also to places like Fenor, Annetstown, Dunhill, Stradbally, and Boastrand. An area that is incredibly diverse geographically, this is a top choice for those who love to get out and about on their holidays.
Ireland has so much to offer, with these three hidden gems just the start of what could be a great trip to the Emerald Isle on your next trip.
