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Posted Wed 16 Oct 2024 4:05 PM
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Island of Ireland
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There is no denying that Ireland’s top attractions are successful for a reason, but did you know there were ways to enjoy these sights without the hustle and bustle?
Whether you visit at the right time, explore lesser-known alternatives, or take hidden routes, here are some tips for experiencing Ireland’s top destinations more peacefully.1. The Giant’s Causeway – Visit Early or Take a Cliff WalkThe Giant’s Causeway is one of Ireland's most popular natural landmarks. To avoid the crowds:- Visit early or late: Arrive at sunrise or near sunset. Not only will you avoid the busloads of tourists, but you’ll also catch the site in stunning light, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Take the cliff walk: The Causeway Coast Way offers several scenic cliff-top trails. Start at Dunseverick Castle and hike towards the Giant’s Causeway. The views along the way are incredible, and you’ll encounter far fewer people. More information about this segment of the Causeway Coast Way can be found on WalkNI. Another benefit is the free parking, unlike at the Visitor Centre.
2. The Cliffs of Moher – Hike from Hag’s Head or Doolin
The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see, but the main visitor center can get packed, especially during the peak season. For a quieter experience:- Start at Hag’s Head: Skip the visitor center and begin your walk from Hag’s Head, the southernmost point of the cliffs. It’s just as scenic, and the further you walk along the cliff trail, the more space you’ll have to yourself. Alternatively, you can start the trail from Doolin (near Fisher St). I personally did this after a delicious breakfast at Gus O’Connor’s Pub.
Update: Since August 2024, the Cliffs of Moher Trail is only open from Doolin to Surfers Path for the Northern part, you cannot reach the visitor center from there. In addition, the Southern Section (Liscannor/Hags Head): 6KM from Liscannor is fully closed due to safety concerns. More information can be found on the Cliffs of Moher website
- Visit in the off-season: Late autumn or early spring is ideal for visiting the cliffs with fewer people. The weather can still be enjoyable, and the landscape remains breathtaking.
- Consider other cliffs such as Kilkee, Slieve League or the Kerry Cliffs.
3. The Ring of Kerry – Try the Skellig Ring or drive counterclockwise- The Skellig Ring: A lesser-known detour from the main Ring of Kerry, the Skellig Ring offers equally stunning views with fewer crowds. You can visit the Kerry Cliffs and take in views of the Skellig Islands, without the tour buses.
- Drive counter-clockwise: Most tour buses drive the Ring of Kerry clockwise, so driving counter-clockwise may help you avoid some of the traffic.
4. Connemara National Park – Take the Lesser-Known TrailsConnemara National Park is famed for its rugged beauty, but the most popular hiking routes, like the Diamond Hill Loop, can be crowded during peak times. To enjoy the tranquility of Connemara’s “savage beauty”:- Try alternative trails: Venture beyond the main park and explore quieter areas such as the Maam Valley or Letterfrack Woodlands. These offer equally stunning scenery but with far fewer people.
- Visit early morning or late evening: Like many popular spots, visiting early or in the evening allows you to enjoy the park when it's at its quietest.
5. Glendalough – Walk to the Upper Lake- Go beyond the monastic site: While most visitors stick to the lower lake area and the monastic ruins founded by St Kevin, walk or hike to the Upper Lake for a more serene experience. The Spinc Walk also offers spectacular views and is often quieter. These trails can be found on Visit Wicklow’s website
- Visit midweek: Glendalough can be especially busy on weekends, so visiting during the week is a better option for avoiding large crowds. If you plan on using public transport from Dublin, St Kevin’s Bus offers a convenient route to and from the valley.
6. The Aran Islands – Inis Meáin or Inis OírrMany visitors head to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, so why not try the other two?- Inis Meáin: The middle island is the least visited, offering a more authentic and tranquil experience. You can explore stone forts, traditional thatched cottages, and enjoy the coast
- Inis Oírr: The smallest island, Inis Oírr, has a charming, laid-back vibe with fewer visitors. Cycle or walk around the island and take in its beaches and sites without the crowds. Both smaller islands can be reached from Doolin (Doolin Ferry Co.) or Rossaveal (Aran Islands Ferries) and have year-round crossings.
So there you go, here are a few ideas to explore Ireland’s top attractions in a different light and with fewer people.
Does our Community have any more tips to explore famous locations off the beaten path?
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