Northern lights

Planning to visit Ireland for 7 days and want to visit Dublin, Malin Head (mainly for northern lights and star gazing). How many days do you suggest we stay in Malin Head for a good chance to see the lights? 3 days? We plan at least 2 days in Dublin. Any other suggestions on go to places in Northern Ireland? Thank you 🙏

Hi there,

Your Ireland trip sounds wonderful!

For the Northern Lights at Malin Head, keep in mind that sightings rely on clear skies, low light pollution, and high solar activity, so a three-day stay is a smart plan to increase your chances, though sightings can be unpredictable. Using an app or website like Aurora Watch UK or the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center can help you monitor solar forecasts closer to your travel dates, and might assist in making a more informed decision on if you need to spend a full three days in Malin Head.

Ireland’s Dark Sky Reserves might also interest you for stargazing: Mayo Dark Sky Park and Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve offer stunning night skies even without the aurora. While up north, consider visiting the Giant’s Causeway, Derry/Londonderry, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge for unique experiences. For Dublin, two days should cover major highlights like Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse.

Let me know if you have any other questions, and I would be happy to help. 

Cathaoir 

Hi
I’m delighted to hear you are planning to visit Malin Head – I do hope you seethe northern lights.
As regards go-to places in Northern Ireland, why not consider travelling along the Causeway Coastal Route. This road follows the coast between the cities of Derry and Belfast and has many interesting stop-off points along the way.
The most famous of these has to be the Giant’s Causeway – a UNESCO World Heritage Site - with its interlocking hexagonal basalt columns.
Nearby is the ruined Dunluce Castle dramatically perched on its rocky site, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, for those who dare to cross it, is not far away either. Find out more about this incredibly scenic route by clicking on the following link. https://discovernorthernireland.com/dbimgs/Causeway%20Map.pdf

All the best,
Mary