Experiences in Ireland

There’s nothing quite like escaping to the great outdoors, leaving the world behind and finding a fantastic location or experience that you can’t wait to tell your friends about. You might think that you know all the hotspots in Ireland, but there’s always a secret beach or a secluded waterfall that you’ve yet to visit.

Here are ten outdoor experiences in Ireland that everyone should try at least once.
Visit Ireland’s newest national park in Ballycroy, Co. Mayo
The Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park takes in the rugged Nephin Beg mountain range, wild bogland and a coastline with views across to Achill Island. Its looped walks range from forest strolls to mountain hikes, or you can take the Claggan Mountain Boardwalk to see where the bog meets the sea. As a Dark Sky Reserve, this place gets even better after sunset. The lack of light pollution means that you’ll see the stars and the night sky as you’ve never seen them before.

Climb Errigal in Co. Donegal
You don’t have to be a seasoned mountaineer to climb this iconic peak in Gweedore, but you’ll feel like you’ve just climbed Everest when you get to the top. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the views of the Poisoned Glen, Altan Lake and the Derryveagh Mountains are worth every bead of sweat. It’s tradition to traverse the narrow path from the summit to the second peak, but it’s not essential if you don’t have a head for heights.

Go kayaking in Co. Cavan
There’s nothing quite like skimming across the surface of a lake on a kayak to make you feel at one with nature. They say that there’s a lake for every day of the year in Cavan so why not head there and hit the water with Rural Adventure Tours.
Their exciting kayak tours include a journey out to Clough Oughter Castle, a mysterious ruined castle on a tiny island in the middle of Lough Oughter.

Search for wildflowers in the Burren, Co. Clare
There’s something otherworldly about the Burren’s karst landscape that makes it unlike anywhere else in Ireland. Its unique limestone formations mean that it can support rare plants and flowers that are never usually found in this part of the world. Take a walking tour and see some rare wildflowers with your guide and get a deeper appreciation of what makes this place so unique.

Take a hike in Cavan Burren Park
Aside from its beauty, what’s remarkable about Cavan Burren Park is that it remains relatively unchanged from prehistoric times. So you can see fossils embedded in the rocky landscape and find large rocks that were left in strange places by melting glaciers. The park’s walking trails showcase the region’s ancient tombs, unusual geologic features and stunning views, so it’s a hiker’s paradise.

See the home of Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins
If you’ve always wanted to see a dolphin in its natural habitat, you need to go to where the Shannon meets the Atlantic Ocean at Carrigaholt in Co Clare. This area is home to around 200 bottlenose dolphins, and the dolphin encounter rate is among the best in the world. A dolphin-watching tour with Dolphinwatch is a chance to get up close to these extraordinarily intelligent creatures as they swim, jump and play in the water beside you.

Visit Fanad Head Lighthouse, Co. Donegal
One of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland, Fanad Lighthouse has been guarding the mouth of Lough Swilly for over 200 years. This photogenic lighthouse was voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world, and a visit here should be on everyone’s bucket list. A journey to this corner of Donegal is also a great excuse to explore the area’s other charms, which include seemingly endless beaches, towering sea cliffs and breathtaking coastal views.

Cycle the border counties on the Kingfisher Trail
Covering 480km and passing through the counties of Donegal, Leitrim, Fermanagh, Cavan and Monaghan, the entire Kingfisher Trail might seem a bit daunting. However, there are also shorter sections to try if you want to ease yourself into it. The figure-of-eight route takes in lakelands, canalside tracks, laneways, rolling hills and mountain climbs so it gives you a real flavour of each county as you cycle through it.

Walk on Ireland’s longest beach
Ireland may be famous for its beaches but not many beaches that can compare to Curracloe Beach in Co Wexford. This epic beach is 28km long, running continuously from Cahore Point to the mouth of the River Slaney. Famously used as a location for the movie Saving Private Ryan, there are dozens of entry points to the golden sand beach, and its sheer size ensures that you’ll always be able to find a quiet spot for yourself.

Visit Clara Bog in Co. Offaly
What makes Clara Bog stand out is that it’s one of Ireland’s most famous raised bogs and a haven for rare plants, birds and wildlife. It’s easy to get around the bog on the raised boardwalk and enjoy a looped walk of this exceptional habitat. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for snipe, curlews, lizards and otters and its other shy inhabitants on your visit.

The weather in Ireland is often unpredictable but rather than see this as a stumbling block, discover all the fun rainy day activities you can do instead. From the adrenaline rush of figuring out a tricky escape room to a tour of underground mines, there’s plenty of excellent indoor activities in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

From quaint Roscommon to scenic Shannonbridge, here are some great rainy day things to do.

Shannonbridge Fortifications
Journey to Shannonbridge, Offaly and travel back in time on a visit to the Shannonbridge Fortifications, a Napoleonic fort that dates back to 1810. Follow the self-guided walk around the fort and spend some time at the free exhibition in the main building which explains why the fortifications were built in this setting on the River Shannon. Before leaving Shannonbridge, stop off to see the magnificent sixteen-arch bridge which gives this scenic village its name.

After an afternoon of history, some sustenance is in order. It’s just a fifteen minute spin to Banagher where you’ll find J J Hough’s Singing Pub. This traditional bar sports lots of fascinating bric-a-brac and has a reputation as one of the liveliest spots in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Try a tasty pizza and if you’re staying around for the evening, sip one of the delicious cocktails in the newly opened Hatch Bar.

EXIT Escape Room and Dead Centre Brewing
Book in for an evening of problem-solving and puzzles at EXIT Escape Room in Athlone, Westmeath. Test your logical thinking and see how well you work under pressure with a selection of themed activities. Choose from timed games and mythical mysteries such as the child-friendly Celtic Temple that can include up to seven players. Get a group together and book in advance, this is a great opportunity to see how well you and your family or friends work together as a team.

After all that guesswork, it’s time for a break. Pop into Left Bank Bistro for a hearty meal or stop by Dead Centre Brewing where they make artisan pizza fresh daily. With a dedicated kids menu and tasty craft beers for the adults, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a family dinner.

The Planet Athlone
Leave the rain behind and head indoors for some epic entertainment at The Planet Athlone. Get competitive with a family game of bowling, play some pool on the full-size snooker tables, or have a kickaround on the astroturf pitches. The hurricane simulator is a must for thrillseekers while a game of energetic laser tag is always a hit with groups.

Let the kids roam around Adventureland, a play area with colourful slides, rope bridges and a huge ball pool, giving adults the chance to relax for a few minutes. There’s fun for all ages at The Planet and it’s definitely worth a visit when dark clouds are looming in gloomy grey skies.

Arigna Mining Experience
Book in with the Arigna Mining Experience in Roscommon and listen to a former coal miner explain the inner workings of the mines on an underground tour.

Check out the permanent exhibition that traces the story of 400 years of mining in the Arigna Valley with a collection of photographs, documents, and early mining equipment. Don’t miss the short film that includes original mining footage and brings this key period of local history to life.

After, take a thirty minute drive to visit King House, an impressive Georgian mansion that houses the Boyle Civic Art Collection. Watch the interactive displays, write with a quill and ink, and explore the eerie prison cells in the basement, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on a rainy day in Roscommon.

National Famine Museum
Take a rainy day trip to the National Famine Museum in Strokestown, Roscommon where you can learn more about this important period of Irish history. During the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s, over two million people died when the potato crop failed. Pour over the archive of letters written by evicted tenants and see some of the original photographs and documents.

Find the National Famine Museum on the grounds of Strokestown Park House, an excellent example of Palladian architecture. Book ahead and take a guided tour to see some of the estate’s original features including the galleried kitchen, the vaulted stables and the lodge.

Enjoy a warming cup of coffee in the on-site café or if you visit on a weekend, make a day out of it with dinner in The Silver Eel, just ten minutes from Strokestown House. The picturesque restaurant features gorgeous lake views so if you can, make sure to nab a window seat.

Ireland has some of the best walking and hiking trails in the world. With a backdrop of stunning landscapes, you can choose your adventure from a range of challenging coastal paths and majestic mountain ranges to long-distance explorations of historical trails and remote island walks.

Discover the best walks and hikes for experienced walkers in Ireland.

Kingdom of Kerry Hike, Co. Kerry
Running parallel to the famous Ring of Kerry, this is one of the most picturesque places in Ireland. The Kingdom of Kerry hike is a moderate eight-day adventure featuring two spectacular peninsulas in Ireland’s south-west. The journey is about 70km long, spread across six days of hiking and begins in the bustling town of Killarney. The epic excursion will take you through rugged mountains and a tapestry of lush fields with the thumping roar of the Atlantic Ocean by your side. Custom-made mini-break tours are also available if you just want a flavour of Kerry’s landscape.

Killary Fjord Famine Walk, Co. Galway
Beginning in Rosroe Pier in Galway, this Famine Trail is steeped in history and follows the contours of the Killary Fjord as it passes old cottages and long-abandoned potato ridges. The journey is approximately 10km between Rosroe and Killary Adventure Centre and takes about two to three hours depending on your level of fitness. See salmon and mussel farms in the shadow of the majestic Mweelrea Mountains and bask in the beauty of the Delphi Valley.

The Wicklow Way, Co. Wicklow
One of the country’s greatest long-distance walks starts in the Dublin suburbs at Marlay Park in Dublin and goes all the way to Co Carlow. With dramatic scenery and a rich, varied route, there is a unique sense of remoteness as you make your way past the beautiful monastic site of Glendalough. Walk across ridges and gently sloping valleys before you descend into the peaceful foothills of Clonegal. Apart from a few short steep sections, there are no significant climbs. Approximately 129km in length, the Wicklow Way takes about six days to finish.

Bluestack Mountain Walk, Co. Donegal
Head off on the Bluestack Mountain Walk in Donegal that winds its way from Donegal Town to Ardara on the west coast. This route is about 65km and takes about three days from start to finish. Pass by the scenic Lough Eske across the foothills of the Bluestacks to reach an area called Disert and its ancient mountain graveyard. From remote, high moorland to a glorious descent along the Owenroe river, enjoy the beautiful isolation as you hike along boglands, riversides and quiet, country roads.

Fanad Peninsula and Horn Head Walk, Co. Donegal
Take a guided walk with Sean Mullen, a leading guide on the six hour trek along the coast of the Fanad Peninsula in Donegal. Take your boots off as you traverse sandy beaches and discover a landscape masterfully sculpted by the Atlantic waves. Your tour ends at the iconic Fanad Lighthouse, marking the entrance to the famous Lough Swilly. If you fancy going on two walks when you’re in Donegal, go on the Horn Head Walk on Inishowen Peninsula. This shorter, coastal walk leads you onto the astonishing Sheephaven Bay where golden beaches and views of Tory Island and the Donegal Highlands provide the backdrop to your exhilarating hike.

The Comeragh Mountain Range, Co. Waterford
With a mix of tough mountain hikes and gentle valley walks, there’s a great selection of ways to tackle the Comeragh Mountain Range. Stretching from the Waterford coast near Dungarvan to as far as Clonmel, the Nire Valley is the heart of this range which also features an annual walking festival in the autumn. Natural ambience and silence await with the Coumshingaun Loop Walk being one of the most popular routes to take. A moderate four-hour hike, this 7.5km trek takes in Waterford’s splendour with the Coumshingaun Corrie Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Sheep’s Head Way, Co. Cork
An exciting 88km circular route, the Sheep’s Head Way starts in Bantry and runs along the north coast to the scenic Sheep’s Head Lighthouse before returning along its southern side. You’re never too far from the invigorating Atlantic Ocean here but despite this, the terrain is very varied and takes in quiet rural pathways, open grassy moorland, woodland and country roads. See stone circles, standing stones and even a Napoleonic signal tower on this great adventure. Eagle-eyed wildlife enthusiasts may even spot dolphins and whales in the ocean below.

The Miner’s Way and Historical Trail, Co. Leitrim, Co. Roscommon and Co. Sligo
Embark on a hike rich with history on this 118km-long figure of eight walking route that starts and ends in the old mining village of Arigna. Experience what life was like when the region was the centre of the mining industry for more than 400 years. The route touches on three lakes and crosses three low mountain ranges. Linger a while longer at the Arigna Mining Experience and see the 12th-century Cistercian Boyle Abbey and Carrowkeel Neolithic Cemetery.

The Táin Way, Co. Louth
Steeped in legend, this walkway is the site of the saga known as The Cattle Raid of Cooley and the battle between Queen Meabh of Connacht and Cú Chulainn. Aside from that epic saga, there’s plenty of evidence of Cooley’s rich historical past from passage graves to portal tombs by the trailside. The circular route loops around Carlingford Mountain and its terrain consists of quiet, wooded tracks and glorious mountain paths with views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains.

Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail, Co. Mayo
This 61km route runs from the historic village of Balla in Mayo to the picturesque village of Murrisk at the foot of Croagh Patrick on the shores of Clew Bay. The scenic trail guides hikers through green farmlands, remote boglands and tranquil forest paths. See early monastic settlements, a 6th-century castle, Clogher Heritage Cottage, Ballintubber Abbey and the Aille Caves. It takes around three days to complete this great trail.

Fill your water bottle, strap on your helmet and get ready for a weekend of cycling in Ireland. Spin through stunning landscapes on the country’s most exciting roads and plot your course along epic cycling routes. Enjoy a family bike ride, test your ability on demanding cycles and cross off a bucket list bike ride in the mountains.

When it comes to cycling in Ireland, here are the very best routes across the country.

Bring the family on your next bike ride
Ireland has fantastic family friendly cycle paths and greenways which make for unforgettable holidays. Alongside these routes, there are some exciting variations that experienced cyclists can add on to the cycle, while the rest of the family enjoy activities in the area.

Waterford Greenway, Waterford
46km one way | Greenway | 2-6 hours
The glorious Waterford Greenway is the ideal place to introduce your family to a cycling holiday. Starting in buzzing Waterford City, fuel up for the day ahead with an energizing breakfast at The Granary Café and stop by Greenway Waterford Bike Hire to pick up rental bikes. The 46km long greenway runs west along the base of the Comeragh Mountains, through the Waterford countryside, before turning for the sunny coast and ending in Dungarvan.

The Waterford Greenway is a gently rolling route with astounding views around every bend, making it a great introduction to cycling. It takes between two or three hours to arrive at Dungarvan, a pretty harbourside town with great places to eat as you watch colourful boats bob along the harbour.

Explore the Copper Coast
Bid farewell to the family as they hop on the shuttle bus back to the bike rental shop and turn your attention to the Sean Kelly Cycle Route on the Copper Coast. This 73km ride from Dungarvan to Passage East has some punchy climbs as it makes its way through Tramore and on to the endpoint in a total of three hours.

Embrace Waterford City’s family activities
Reunited with the family, enjoy the rest of your holiday in Waterford with a visit to King of the Vikings, the world’s first Viking virtual reality experience. Teach the kids all about where their food comes from at Grow HQ, this intriguing café makes growing food part of the dining experience and often runs workshops and demonstrations.

Great Western Greenway, Mayo
42km one way | Greenway | 2-5 hours
The windswept coastal cycle from Westport to rugged Achill Island along the Great Western Greenway is one of Ireland’s best family bike routes. Base yourself in Westport for the weekend and spend a morning wandering the charming streets before setting out on your bike ride.

The 42km long path is a manageable route that takes between two to three hours for novice cyclists to complete and the reward is incredible views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick in the background. Cross over to Achill Island and jump into the crystal clear waters of Keem Bay to celebrate the end of your cycle.

For a very handy pickup service anywhere along the greenway, get in touch with Westport Bike Hire, so your family can head back to the mainland and spend the afternoon walking the grounds of stunning Westport House, the Pirate Adventure Park is always a hit with the little ones.

Take the gravel road back
Mix things up on your cycle back to Westport by taking the alternative gravel section between Mulranny and Newport. This off-road route runs alongside the greenway but has trickier sections to navigate with some technical climbs and challenging terrain.

See the best of Westport
After working up an appetite in the fresh air, book in for a hearty meal at An Port Mór Restaurant or Madden’s Bistro in the centre of town. Go on an exciting kayak tour around Clew Bay or hike to the summit of Croagh Patrick, making family memories to treasure forever.

Best cycles in Ireland for regular bike riders
Check out these bike routes for regular cyclists who love the challenge of climbing big hills. There’s always lots of activities to enjoy after your cycle, so stay for a little longer and experience all the great things to do in these areas.

Birr Cycling Hub, Offaly
5km – 73km routes | Forest Paths and Road | Time depends on route chosen
For a unique cycling holiday in Ireland, pack your bike and head to Offaly and enjoy the Birr Cycling Hub. Rather than limiting yourself to one route, this hub has five loops ranging from a spritely 5km sprint to a lengthy 73km stint through the Offaly countryside and Slieve Bloom Mountains. The Birr Cycling Hub includes idyllic routes up to 10km long on car free trails through Lough Boora Discovery Park and longer routes to Shannon Harbour.

Take on one route per day or stitch together your favourites and really explore Offaly. Don’t leave without cycling the 24km long Pilgrim’s Road to Clonmacnoise where you’ll experience Ireland’s rich history and see the ancient monastic settlement founded by St Ciarán in the 9th century.

Explore beautiful Birr
Stay in the gorgeous town of Birr and experience this wonderfully welcoming place during and after your bike ride. The loops through the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains pass through Kinnitty, the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a delicious meal at enchanting Kinnitty Castle. Keep your eyes peeled for the only pyramid in Ireland as you leave the village.

Take on your first mountain bike trail
Mix up your biking holiday activities and drop by Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Centre to experience the exhilarating rush of mountain biking. A few laps on the thrilling trails and you’ll be hooked on this hobby.

Killykeen Forest Park and the Cavan Lakes, Cavan
32km loop | Roads | 2 hours
The short cycle routes through peaceful Killykeen Forest Park in Cavan are popular with families, but this park is also a fantastic place for regular cyclists. Set off from the centre of Killykeen on a 32km looped route that snakes its way through a leafy landscape dotted with rippling lakes and rolling hills.

With only 220m of climbing on the loop, the hills provide a nice variation throughout the route, rather than any significant challenges. Drop into Farnham Estate, around the 20km mark and treat yourself to a delicious lunch, fuel for the remainder of the cycle.

See Cavan in a whole new light
Stay in Cavan Town or bask in nature’s beauty and camp in Killykeen Forest Park. Once you’ve experienced Cavan’s delights by bike, it’s time to hop in a kayak with Cavan Adventure Centre, paddling around Lough Oughter where the spellbinding Clough Oughter Castle sits on an island in the middle of the lake.

Relax and indulge in County Cavan
For the ultimate relaxing getaway play a round of golf at one of Ireland’s oldest golf courses, County Cavan Golf Club and book in for a full body massage at Ciúin Spa at the Slieve Russell Hotel. Stop off at Cavan County Museum on your way home and get an even deeper insight into The Lake County.

Benbulben, Sligo
55km loop | Roads and Country Lanes | 3.5 hours
This brilliant bike route in Sligo is a fantastic way to see the Yeats County. Beginning at Grange, between Sligo Town and Mullaghmore, the bike ride begins along quiet, rural roads but the striking peak of Benbulben soon comes into view.

See the lush green slopes of this flat topped mountain before rounding the bend and witnessing the dramatic carved gorges on the opposite side.

One magnificent landscape is replaced by another as you approach two of Ireland’s most beautiful waterfalls, the Devil’s Chimney and Glencar Waterfall. Flick through your gears and spin your way up the only significant climb. From here, freewheel down to the viewing point where you’ll quickly catch your breath before Eagle’s Rock takes it away again. This majestic free standing tower is one of Ireland’s most special sights and well worth the cycle alone.

Spend some time in Sligo Town
Book a room in buzzing Sligo Town for a few nights and fall in love with this scenic place. Take some time to discover the amazing restaurants, artisan food producers and the Sligo Food Trail. Finish up in Shoot The Crows, a legendary pub with stone floors, low ceilings, chatty locals and chestnuts roasting on the fire.

An action packed short break on land and sea
You don’t have to look far for more adventurous activities in Sligo. Head for the coast and watch the waves crash against the shore with a walk along the golden beach of Strandhill. Book in for a surf lesson with the fully female owned surf school Rebelle Surf and conquer the waves as well as the hills on your cycling holiday.

Dublin Bay, Dublin
37km one way | Road and Cycle Paths | 2 hours
Visit the capital and check out all the city’s highlights, as well as some incredible cycling routes. The 37km stretch along Dublin Bay has some steep hills at either end in Dalkey and Howth, while the stretches along the coast are flat throughout.

Enjoy a varied cycle as you make your way from Dalkey, up Killiney Hill and on to Dún Laoghaire. Stop off for a morning coffee and if you’re feeling brave, take a dip at Sandycove Beach, one of the capital’s most scenic swimming spots.

Enjoy North Dublin Bay by bike
Take one of the cycle paths into the city and see ships sail into Dublin Bay as you cross the River Liffey and continue north. The section from Clontarf to Howth is a popular cycle route, so expect to see lots of fellow cyclists exploring Dublin Bay.

Stop for a stroll down the wooden bridge and a coffee at Happy Out Café in Dollymount before jumping back on your bike. Make a detour into St. Anne’s Park with its wide open parkland and quirky follies, and immerse yourself in nature and birdsong with a pitstop at Bull Island, just a stone’s throw from the park. Finish your cycle with one last climb up the steep pitches of Howth and round the day out with a tasty treat of fish and chips down by the pier.

Take in the sights and sounds of Phoenix Park
Add in a few more kilometres to your cycling holiday with a leisurely spin around Phoenix Park. The 10km loop around the outskirts of the park is a great way to see the sights and have a chat with your friends as you go. The fantastic network of bike lanes leads cyclists past Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin and the Furry Glen to name but a few.

Ireland’s best bike rides for expert cyclists
Challenge yourself to some of the toughest routes and climbs in the country. Expect to spend time standing out of your saddle as you summit mighty hills on demanding roads and feel the rush of freewheeling down long descents and sweeping bends.

The Wicklow Mountains, Wicklow
100km loop | Road | 6 hours
As any serious cyclist knows, The Wicklow Mountains are full of challenging bike routes that test even the fittest of bike riders, but it’s hard to beat the 100km loop that starts and ends in Russborough House in Blessington. Enjoy the quiet lakeside roads, watching out for rowing clubs training on the lakes before taking on the first significant climb of the day as you approach the Sally Gap.

Onwards to Glendalough
Take a breather at the JB Malone Memorial and gaze out over the dark waters and white sands of Lough Tay. Brace yourself for a breathtaking 15km downhill section through the biking hub of Roundwood and onto majestic Glendalough. Hop off your bike and wander around this historical site, taking in picture perfect views of the lakes. Top up your energy levels with a flat white and a slice of cake at Glendalough Green Café, a welcome beacon for cyclists and hikers.

Cycle around the foothills of Lugnaquilla
Two hefty climbs and steep descents follow as you sweep around Lugnaquilla, Ireland’s highest mountain outside of Kerry. The lofty peak is ever present as you sweep around its base and enter the final stretch of the route.

Make your way over a series of shorter climbs back to beautiful Blessington where the team at West Wicklow House have hearty meals waiting. Originally built as an inn for weary travellers, it’s an apt place to visit after climbing 1,670m through the Wicklow Mountains National Park and the perfect way to finish your epic cycle.

Mount Leinster, Wexford and Carlow
136km loop | Road | 5 hours
Expert cyclists flock to Carlow to take on one of the toughest cycles in the country on Mount Leinster, a route that wouldn’t look out of place on the Tour de France. The route is 136km long, but it’s the 6km continuous climb that’s the main attraction here. The climb is both mentally and physically challenging with some serious cyclists choosing to summit the mountain twice, once from each side, on their cycle around the Carlow and Wexford border.

Conquer one of Ireland’s steepest climbs
Set off from Enniscorthy and warm up on the undulating hills, preparing yourself for the challenge ahead. As you pass through Bagenalstown the road turns near vertical as you make for the top of Mount Leinster. With a chunk of determination and good rhythm, you’ll reach the top and have conquered one of the toughest hills in Ireland. The steep descent on country roads is popular with walkers, so take care on the way down.

Explore Enniscorthy
Make your way back to Enniscorthy, or if you still have some energy left in your legs, head to Bunclody and take on Mount Leinster again from the other side. Be warned though, this approach is even tougher with a gradient of 16.3% in some places.

Book a table at The Wilds in Enniscorthy and devour their brunch menu of full Irish breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches from sustainable sources. Spend the rest of your weekend in Enniscorthy and visit Enniscorthy Castle before heading to Monart Destination Spa, treating your aching muscles to some TLC at this five-star resort.

Ring of Kerry, Kerry
169km loop | Road | 11 hours
No cyclist’s guide to Ireland is complete without a mention of the pinnacle of road cycling in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry. The cycle begins and ends in Killarney via a demanding rural cycle on the Iveragh Peninsula, where you’ll remember the stunning coastal views long after your visit.

Experience Kerry’s epic scenery
Marvel at captivating Carrauntoohil as you make your way to the charming village of Killorglin, gazing up in awe at the peaks of the MacGillycuddy Reeks. Make a short detour to Rossbeigh Beach where the mesmerising golden strand fades into the blue of the Atlantic Ocean. The Ring of Kerry cycle continues to hug the rugged coast until you return inland to the colourful town of Kenmare.

See the best of the Iveragh Peninsula
Keep the spirit of adventure going and visit the great explorer’s granddaughter at Tom Crean Brewery. Fill up on a traditional lunch of pork ribs or try their delicious vegan pizza, hop back on your bike and get ready for the biggest climb of the day as you make your way towards Killarney National Park.

The inspirational views of Muckross Lake and Lough Leane give cyclists the final boost they need as they return to Killarney, almost 170km later. Make a reservation at popular Quinlan’s Seafood Bar and savour fresh, seasonal seafood to celebrate finishing one of Ireland’s best cycles.

The best places to go mountain biking in Ireland
Crossed all of Ireland’s best road cycles off your list? Swap your slick tyres for a knobbly set and learn how to mountain bike. Interest in mountain biking in Ireland is surging and there are some fantastic places to learn.

Grab a rental bike and take on Ticknock Mountain Bike Trail in the Dublin Mountains. Climbing a tarmac road to the trailhead leaves you full of energy to jump, turn and zip downhill. There’s a fun network of trails here and you can take a lesson and learn from the pros. The beginner friendly trails in Ballyhoura, Limerick are a great starting point for cyclists who want to get into mountain biking, this trail network has beginners trails to learn on and testing treks as you progress.

When you holiday in Ireland, it’s good to know that the stunning views and gorgeous coastlines are not the only things you can enjoy for free.

Here’s a list of free things you can do in Ireland on your next short break.

Explore The Chester Beatty Library, Dublin Castle, Dublin City
With free admission, the Chester Beatty is a must-see on any Dublin visitor’s itinerary. This museum is the only one in Ireland named as the European Museum of the Year. Its rich collections from Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe give visitors a glimpse into the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world.

Explore manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books and decorative arts all thanks to the collector Sir Alfred Chester Beatty.

Visit the James Joyce Museum and Martello Tower, Co. Dublin
The iconic Martello Tower in Sandycove was one of a series of Martello Towers built to withstand an invasion by Napoleon many moons ago. It is now a museum devoted to the life and works of James Joyce, who made this tower the setting for the first chapter of his masterpiece, Ulysses.

The James Joyce Museum’s collection includes letters, photographs, first and rare editions and personal possessions of Joyce.

Follow the James Joyce Museum with a sea swim at The Forty Foot
There are lots of great sea swimming spots around our coasts, but one of the most famous is The Forty Foot in Sandycove. Many locals take a dip here every day, so it’s a real must-visit if you are in the area.

Even at low tide, the depth of the Forty Foot means you can still enjoy a swim year-round. It’s also the place where people go on Christmas Day for the annual plunge.

Start researching your family tree at the National Archives Centre, Dublin City
Don’t miss a visit to The National Archives when in Dublin, they are full of important information on the cultural and intellectual life of the Irish nation.

The archives hold records from the late 18th century to the late 20th century as well as older documents dating back to the 14th century. Visit the archives, and you might just discover forgotten stories for your family tree.

Walk through Lough Boora Discovery Park, Co. Offaly
Take the Lough Boora Mesolithic Loop Walk and discover the serene habitats, flora and bogland of Lough Boora Discovery Park. This well-trodden trail brings visitors to the shores of Lough Boora, through the Leabeg Wetland and old railway embankment before reaching the Mesolithic site.

Cameras are a must here as whooper swans, purple moor-grass, skylarks and foxes all call this place home, make sure you check out the unique sculptures too.

Watch master glassblowers at their craft at Jerpoint Glass, Co. Kilkenny
This Irish glass company Jerpoint Glass is a family-run business set up in Kilkenny in 1979. Visitors can head to the viewing area of the glass studio and watch the glassblowers turn the fiery molten glass into stunning shapes.

Keep an eye on their website for their ‘Blow a Glass Bubble’ events when the team allows visitors to try their hand at mastering glassblowing.

Cycle the Waterford Greenway, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
While there are many greenways in Ireland, the Waterford Greenway is one of the longest. Take your time as you travel on foot or by bike along the 46km scenic Waterford Greenway from Waterford City to Dungarvan.

The greenway traces the route of the old railway line along the coast with many places to visit along the way like Mount Congreve Gardens or Kilmacthomas. The panoramic view of Dungarvan Bay as you reach your destination is worth the effort alone.

Discover Killarney National Park and Visitor Centre, Killarney, Co. Kerry
You could easily spend a week exploring Killarney National Park and its impressive landscape. This magical part of Ireland includes the highest mountain range in Ireland, McGillycuddy’s Reeks, the world-famous lakes of Killarney and over 10,000 hectares of epic Irish scenery.

The distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woodland and waterfalls under ever-changing skies gives the area an exceptional scenic beauty.

Discover W.B. Yeats’ county, Co. Sligo
Set against the striking backdrop of Benbulben, Drumcliffe is best known as the final resting place of Irish Nobel Laureate W.B. Yeats. The Irish poet was one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature and also co-founded the Abbey Theatre.

Many parts of Sligo’s natural beauty inspired his work, and his grave in Drumcliffe is marked with a simple headstone and the inscription ‘cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman, pass by.’ The graveyard also contains a high cross and the site of a 6th Century Columbian monastery is nearby.

Hike the Slieve League (Sliabh Liag) Cliffs, Co. Donegal
If you’re in County Donegal, make time to visit the highest accessible marine cliffs in Europe, Slieve League (Sliabh Liag). Leave your car at the car park and walk the few miles to the cliffs so as not to miss the breathtaking scenery.

Enjoy terrific views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay as you make your way towards the top of Sliabh Liag, the cliff face rises 600m above the Atlantic. Experienced walkers can venture beyond the viewing point onto One Man’s Pass, which loops around onto the Pilgrim’s Path in the area.