Travel Expert’s Guide To The Perfect Irish Itinerary – Featuring A Stunning White Sands Beach
Most travelers get Ireland all wrong. They rush through Dublin, snap a few castle photos, and call it a day. Big mistake.
So, what’s the perfect Irish itinerary? One that blends breathtaking landscapes, lively pubs, and a white sands beach so stunning, you’ll swear you’re in the Caribbean. Yes, Ireland has those too.
Ready to ditch the cookie-cutter tour and experience the Ireland most travelers miss?
1. Silver Strand Beach, County Mayo
How about a slice of paradise? I think that sounds delicious! Silver Strand Beach is exactly that, on the wild west coast of Ireland. The powdery white sand feels soft beneath your feet, and the wind whispers through the dunes, carrying the fresh scent of the sea.
As you stand at the edge of the water, the waves crash rhythmically against the shore, their salty spray cool on your face. The beach is a quiet escape from the world, the kind of place where you can sit, breathe, and truly relax.
With its serene atmosphere and stunning backdrop, Silver Strand feels like an untouched gem, far from the crowds of more popular spots. Definitely the one you should add to your itinerary!
2. Westport
Westport is a beautiful town known for its charming streets and friendly locals. Nestled near the coast, it serves as a fantastic base for exploring the west of Ireland.
The town is renowned for its lively music scene, and visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music in local pubs. The picturesque streets are lined with colorful buildings, offering delightful shopping and dining experiences.
You like to call yourself an adventure seeker? This town is for you! You will find ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking in the nearby hills to cycling along the Great Western Greenway. Don’t wait any longer, immerse yourself in Irish culture and hospitality. It’s one of a kind.
3. Ring Of Kerry
The route that showcases some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes? You find it hard to believe? Check out The Ring of Kerry! This 111-mile circular drive takes you through a picturesque journey of mountains, lakes, and coastal views.
It’s a perfect chance to explore quaint villages and historic sites along the way, each offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rich heritage. Whether you’re driving or cycling, the route provides endless opportunities for sightseeing and photography.
Some of the highlights include the Killarney National Park, the Gap of Dunloe, and the Skellig Islands. The ever-changing scenery keeps visitors captivated, making the Ring of Kerry a highlight of any Irish itinerary.
4. Cliffs Of Moher
Get ready to have your breath taken away at the Cliffs of Moher. These towering cliffs rise nearly 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean! Their jagged edges are carved by centuries of crashing waves and fierce winds.
Standing at the edge, you can feel the cool sea breeze tug at your hair and the weight of the vast, endless ocean stretching before you. The cliffs themselves seem to disappear into the mist, creating an ethereal scene that feels both timeless and surreal.
Along the cliffs, several walking paths offer varying views, each more awe-inspiring than the last. From here, you can spot puffins nesting along the rocks, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a seal lounging on the shore below.
5. Galway
The moment you step onto its colorful streets, you’re met with the rhythm of street musicians playing everything from traditional Irish tunes to lively pop hits. The smell of fresh bread and coffee wafts out from cozy cafés, and the chatter of locals and travelers alike fills the air.
When in Galway, you should wander through the Latin Quarter. You’ll find charming boutiques, quirky shops, and pubs that spill out onto the cobbled streets.
Moreover, Galway is a place to experience! The city comes alive with festivals, like the Galway Arts Festival, where you can catch world-class performances or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. In between all the festivities, the food scene is a dream for anyone who loves fresh seafood. Try a bowl of Galway oysters straight from the Atlantic – they’re some of the best in the world.
6. Dingle Peninsula
The Dingle Peninsula is like stepping into a world where the land meets the sea in the most spectacular way. As you drive along the winding Slea Head Loop, you’ll be greeted by beautiful vistas of the Atlantic, cliffs that plunge into the waves below, and soft, green hills dotted with grazing sheep.
The colors of the landscape seem to shift with the light. They go from the deep emerald of the fields to the deep blues of the ocean. In the town of Dingle itself, the streets are lined with colorful shops, friendly locals, and cozy pubs where you can sip a pint while listening to live traditional music.
Be sure to stop by the ancient beehive huts, remnants of early Christian settlements that still stand proudly against the elements. And no trip to Dingle is complete without a visit to Fungie the Dolphin, who’s become something of a local celebrity, charming visitors with his playful antics.
7. Giant’s Causeway
A myth or a reality? The Giant’s Causeway is one of those places where reality seems to blur with myth. As you step onto the iconic hexagonal basalt columns, you’re walking through a landscape that feels both ancient and otherworldly.
The columns, created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, form an incredible natural staircase leading down to the sea. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks echoes in the air, and the sight of the cliffs rising sharply from the shore is nothing short of mesmerizing.
It’s a spot where nature shows off its raw power, and the centuries-old legend of Finn McCool, the giant who supposedly built the causeway, adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. Whether you’re there for the mythology or the geology, the Giant’s Causeway is a place you’ll never forget.