Known for its lush landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Ireland has no shortage of incredible places to explore. While many of the more well-known areas have become hotspots for tourists, going off the beaten path has led me to uncover places I had never heard of but am so glad I had the chance to experience.
Both of my grandparents were born in small towns outside of Galway, so my visits have allowed me to spend time hopping between relatives who still live all around Ireland. They have given me the true local experience during my trips and allowed me to see the country in a way most never will.
I’m not going to lie; I will be gatekeeping some of their secret spots, but here are some of the hidden gems that I’ve been approved to share with you all and highly recommend you add to your own trips.
Wormhole, Inis Mór, County Galway
Like many spots on this list, getting to them is the hardest part. This swimming hole is tucked into the Island of Inis Mór off the coast of Galway. There are a few different ferry routes to the island from either Galway or Doolin, ranging from about 40 minutes to an hour, depending on which one you take.
During the off-season or heavy weather, ferries often stop running due to the rough seas, so make sure you check the schedule before you end up unable to board (or stuck on the Island). Once on land again, you can rent a bike and ride out to the hole, where you will then need to walk about 25 minutes further along the cliffs, following a series of red arrows.
The official name of the wormhole is Poll na bPéist’, but if you’re lost, most locals will refer to it as “The Serpent’s Lair” due to the folklore surrounding the spot. Just be aware that the currents here are incredibly strong, so you should not actually swim in the hole!
Baltimore Beacon, County Cork
Often referred to as the “Beacon” or “Lot’s Wife,” it is a notable and historic landmark located near the entrance to the harbor of Baltimore, a village in West Cork, Ireland. This striking, white-painted stone structure stands as a sentinel on the cliffs of the Atlantic coast and is an iconic symbol of the area.
There is virtually no parking at the start of the trail, so I recommend just parking in town and walking the 20 minutes out to the cliff. Aside from the landmark, it is a stunning view which makes the walk worthwhile.
Connemara Beaches, County Galway
Located in the western part of County Galway, Ireland, Connemara is renowned for its stunningly rugged landscapes, which include some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. When many people think of Ireland, their minds go to the vast Cliffs of Moher, but most don’t realize that Ireland also has several beautiful sandy beaches.
My favorite ones are Dogs Bay and Gurteen Bay. Situated near Roundstone, these two beaches are back-to-back, forming a tombolo that extends into the Atlantic. Dogs Bay is particularly famous for its crescent shape and white sandy beach, made up of tiny fragments of seashells. Both beaches offer clear blue waters and are popular for swimming.
Kinsale, County Cork
This historic port and fishing town in County Cork is renowned for its picturesque streetscapes, rich history, and culinary prowess. I always find myself gravitating towards colorful buildings, and Kinsale is amongst the most charming for this very reason. It has also become quite the foodie scene, often referred to as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland.
The town boasts many fine restaurants, cafes, and bistros, many of which utilize fresh local seafood. The annual Kinsale Gourmet Festival attracts food enthusiasts from all over, but it’s worth visiting at any time of year. My first trip here was in the dead of winter during an unprecedented cold front, and I still found myself in awe of the town’s beauty and friendly atmosphere despite the freezing temperatures!
The Hungry Tree, Dublin
Set inside Kings Inn, a law school in Dublin, The Hungry Tree is a peculiar sight. A tree is slowly consuming the 80-year-old bench, giving rise to whimsical tales of a tree that feeds on inanimate objects.
It’s a fun stop if you are touring around Dublin and want to get a piece of Irish folklore.
Allihies, County Cork
If you couldn’t tell, I absolutely love colorful buildings, and the village of Allihies may be one of my favorite spots in Europe for this reason. At the tip of the Beara Peninsula, the village is surrounded by colorful houses that are set against a dramatic landscape that is ever more picturesque.
Once a copper mining hub, it now offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches, walking trails, and a fascinating mining museum.
Skellig Islands, County Kerry
It is not exactly a hidden gem, but a spot that made the list simply because of how difficult it is to access. Made possible only by boat and in the summer months, the Skellig Islands consist of two small, rocky islets, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. They are situated off the southwest coast of Ireland, seen by the cliffs in County Kerry.
The larger of the two islands, Skellig Michael, is famous for its well-preserved early Christian monastery. Dating back to the 6th century, this monastic site is perched atop the 230-meter-high rocky island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery includes a collection of beehive-shaped huts, oratories, and crosses, all representing the austere life of early Christian monks.
The site was made popular as a filming location for the planet Ahch-To, where Luke Skywalker was found in exile in Star Wars. The challenging climb to the monastery, involving over 600 steps, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic and a profound sense of solitude and tranquility. It’s a truly magnificent feeling stepping onto these islands, and one worth the hassle of getting there. Access to the islands is extremely limited and restricted to licensed boats, so make sure you book far in advance to secure a spot on one of the tours.
Feakle, County Clare
This small village in County Clare may not be widely known on the international stage, but it holds a special place in Irish culture, particularly in the realm of traditional Irish music. It attracts musicians and enthusiasts from all over the world and is particularly famous for its annual Feakle International Traditional Music Festival, which celebrates Irish music with concerts, workshops, and impromptu sessions in local pubs. The event usually happens in August if you are lucky enough to visit during that time (or even plan your trip around it!).
Dunmore Cave, Kilkenny
Many people stop through Kilenny, but very few make it to Dunmore Cave. This spot has a bit of a dark history, being the site that witnessed a massacre of 1,000 people in 928 AD. Early mentions of the cave in Irish poems refer to it as “The Darkest Place In Ireland”.
If you are a history buff, this is a wild tale of greed. Aside from that, the cave in itself is an impressive sight and one worth visiting if you are passing through Kilkenny.
The Confession Box, Dublin
This pub has gained some popularity in recent years, but remains one of my favorite spots in Dublin for it’s unique history. The pub’s name is derived from its historical connection and proximity to the Pro-Cathedral next door.
It is rumored that during The War of Independence, Irish revolutionary Michael Collins would visit the pub to be secretly furnished with the sacraments of The Catholic Church by sympathetic clergy members, turning the pub into an ad-hoc confessional.
Dark Sky Reserve, County Kerry
Set out on the Iveragh Peninsula, the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve has been accredited by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), which works to protect the night skies for present and future generations.
It was awarded the Gold Tier status, the highest accolade by the IDA, recognizing the area’s exceptionally dark skies, free from or minimally impacted by light pollution. It is also the only area with Gold Tier status in the northern hemisphere. The view from this area is truly breathtaking and worth booking a guided trip to see it for yourself.
Newgrange, County Meath
This prehistoric monument predates both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, making it one of the world’s oldest astronomical observatories and a site of immense archaeological and cultural significance. The heart of Newgrange is its passage tomb, a long, narrow passage made of large stones, leading into a central chamber.
The precision with which these stones are placed, without the aid of modern technology, is astonishing. The chamber itself, designed to align with the rising sun during the Winter Solstice, is a testament to the advanced understanding of astronomy possessed by the monument’s builders.
You can actually enter a lottery to gain access during the solstice and witness the sunlight illuminate the chamber in a breathtaking display. We were lucky enough to visit the day before the solstice, and there was an undeniable mysticism in the air.
Coumshingaun Lake, County Waterford
Nestled in the Comeragh Mountains, Coumshingaun Lake is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by steep cliffs. The hike to the lake is challenging but rewards you with incredible views and a sense of serenity.
It’s a perfect spot to get away from the crowds, especially if you’re doing a longer trip to Ireland and have time to venture off the beaten path.
Magic Road, Waterford, Bunmahon County
Ireland is a land rich in lore and legend, and one of my favorite myths is the many “magical” roads across the country. According to locals, there are several stretches of roadway, usually well off the beaten track and hidden up a succession of byways and boreens, where if you stop the car and let the handbrake off, the vehicle will mysteriously and eerily roll uphill.
Some claim it’s fairies; others swear on magnetic fields. The more practical will explain that it is likely an optical illusion, where the layout of the road makes it look like the slope is going one way, but in fact, it’s going the other. Regardless of what you believe, it’s a fun stop on your adventure across Ireland.
There are a few roads, but the most famous is in Waterford, marked only by a rock labeled Magic Road. Thanks to Google Maps, you should be able to actually direct yourself to this place!
Priests Leap, County Cork
This twisty mountain pass that’s not for the faint-hearted and is regarded by many as Ireland’s most terrifying roads. Make sure you check the weather before you go, as it is a really bad spot to be in low visibility which can happen quickly with the rolling fog.
The road is very narrow and climbs up over a mountain pass making it a pretty sketchy drive, but for the adventure seekers it’s an incredible spot with an equally insane history. Legend tells of a priest’s miraculous escape from English soldiers using a horse, supposedly leaping across the vast chasm to safety.
Dick Mack’s, Dingle, County Kerry
Part pub, part leather shop, Dick Mack’s has been serving the locals of Dingle since 1899. Hidden in plain sight, its charm lies in its traditional approach and unique setup.
This town was by far my favorite stop on my most recent trip to Ireland, and if you’re lucky enough to catch a traditional session in this bar like we did you are in for a treat.