From majestic cliffs and mountains to lush green valleys, we’ll explore the diverse natural wonders of this enchanting country. Learn the secrets behind its verdant hue and unravel why Ireland beckons travelers from across the globe to witness its breathtaking beauty firsthand.
In this post, I’ll describe the diverse Ireland landscapes, including how they were formed or some fun facts, and tell you exactly where to go in Ireland to see them. This is all based on my numerous trips to Ireland and the small group hiking tours I offer there.
What Kind of Landscapes Does Ireland Have?
As you’ll see, the Ireland landscape is varied. There are many reasons to fall in love with Ireland – and views like these are only the tip of the iceberg.
Green Countryside
Cliffs and Coastlines
Ancient Bogs
Mountains
Lakes and Rivers
Forests and Woodlands
Historic Castles
Empty Sandy Beaches
Karst Landscape
Welcome to a scenic journey through the captivating world of Ireland’s landscapes!
County Mayo
Green Countryside
Ireland is famous for its lush green countryside, with rolling hills, meadows, and pastoral landscapes. Agriculture has been a significant part of Ireland’s economy and culture for centuries, and raising livestock and cultivating crops has led to the maintenance of its lush green fields and pastures.
Those visiting Ireland may wonder why Ireland is SO green. The short answer is Ireland experiences abundant rainfall due to its geographical location, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, prevailing westerly winds, mountainous terrain, and temperate maritime climate.
All these factors combined create the iconic image of Ireland’s rolling green hills and verdant landscapes, earning it the nickname “The Emerald Isle.” The country’s natural beauty, marked by its green scenery, has become one of its most celebrated and enchanting features, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Best Places to See Rolling Hills in Ireland
Boyne Valley in County Meath is the perfect place for fields and hills of green! And right in the heart of the Boyne Valley is Rock Farm . This is one of my favorite places to visit rural green landscapes.
It’s a bit off-the-beaten-path, which is also probably why I love it! Located on the outskirts of the village of Slane, you’ll find this beautiful property that is a large organic farm and a glamping site. The glamping yurts are nestled among sycamore, oak, ash, chestnut, and hawthorn trees, forming natural enclosures around the yurts and shepherd’s huts. This grove is surrounded by an undulating wild green meadow with an open green flat pasture below perched on a ledge of green land overlooking the turrets of the infamous Slane Castle. You’ll be on green overload!
Rock Farm Yurt camp
Rock Farm
Additionally, you can do a farm tour and enjoy the local farmers markets at the farm.
Killarney National Park is a green paradise! The National Park offers a wide variety of options for walking, from lake and wooded walks to mountains and hikes to waterfalls in the woods. You can also visit the nearby Muckross House, its gardens, and an old abandoned abbey nearby. The 19th-century house and landscaped gardens are a national treasure and not to be missed.
Killarney National Park
Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” County Wicklow is a haven of rolling green hills, forests, and glens, with attractions like Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains.
Cliffs and Coastlines
The country’s rugged coastlines are adorned with towering cliffs offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Ireland’s cliffs and coastlines were formed over millions of years through various geological processes, like erosion, glaciers, faulting and uplift, ancient volcanic activity, sedimentation, and karst processes.
County Mayo Sea Cliffs.
Best Cliffs and Coastlines to See in Ireland
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher. It rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean reaching heights of up to 214 meters (702 feet) and offers unparalleled views of the sea and the Aran Islands.
However, iconic landmarks mean lots of crowds. The best way to experience the Cliffs of Moher while getting away from the crowds is to go for sunset and do the hiking trail along the cliffs. This trail is part of the Burren Way. Also, note that you must pay a fee to park and view the Cliffs of Moher.
Another of the most well-known of Ireland’s landscapes, the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is an example of ancient volcanic activity.
The lesser-known Slieve League cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, standing at approximately 601 meters (1,972 feet), providing awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.
The highest sea cliffs in Ireland – Slieve League in County Donegal.
Slea Head Drive in County Kerry offers stunning views of coastal cliffs, golden beaches, and the Blasket Islands, making it a must-visit location on the Dingle Peninsula .
Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork. Located at the southern tip of Ireland, this rugged headland boasts captivating coastal cliffs and panoramic views of the Celtic Sea.
One of my favorite cliff viewpoints in Ireland is along the Ring of Kerry. The Kerry cliffs near the tiny village of Portmagee stand over 1000 ft above the wild Atlantic and were formed in a desert environment 400 million years ago. There’s a nice path out to the viewpoints (look for the lamas along the path!) where you can sit and enjoy the view, the powerful waves below, and bird watching. There is a small fee to visit the Kerry Cliffs.
Kerry Cliffs
Finally, you can’t beat Downpatrick Head in County Mayo. It’s located near Ballycastle village along the Wild Atlantic Way. Here, you’ll find the typical dramatic cliffs and crashing sea – as well as a sea stack (‘Dun Briste’) that was thought to have broken away from the mainland in 1393. At the sight, you’ll also find a statue of Saint Patrick and a small stone building, used as a lookout post during the Second World War with its stone aerial markers: EIRE 64.
Downpatrick Head Country Mayo
Ancient Peat Bogs
Ireland is home to extensive peat bogs, preserved over thousands of years and contributing to its unique ecological landscape. Peat bogs are partially decomposed plant matter and are prevalent in certain regions, adding to the richness of the landscape.
When visiting peat bogs, respecting these delicate ecosystems and following any guidelines or restrictions to preserve their beauty and ecological significance is essential.
Ireland’s bogs are more than just a unique landscape; it’s also a landscape that preserves things – like butter. One widespread theory is that food was buried in bogs to hinder spoilage. Being cool, low oxygen, and highly acidic environments, peat bogs have excellent preservative properties. In addition to bog butter, they have also found wonderfully preserved bodies in ancient peat bogs! Those are on display at the National Museum of Ireland.
Blocks of Peat
Preserved body found in a peat bog on display at the National Museum of Ireland.
The famous Irish bog land in Connemara
It’s also good to know that bogs are protected habitats under European and Irish Law. Intact bogs, actively forming peat, play an important role in combating climate change by removing excess carbon dioxide from the air and placing it into long-term storage for thousands of years. The Irish bog landscape is fascinating, isn’t it?
Best Places to See Peat Bogs in Ireland
The Burren, County Clare: Besides its unique karst landscape, the Burren is also home to some small peat bogs, adding to the area’s ecological diversity.
Connemara, County Galway: The boglands of Connemara, particularly in the western part of the region, offer a chance to see peat bogs amidst the rugged landscapes.
County Offaly: The Bog of Allen, located in County Offaly, is one of Ireland’s largest peat bogs and is an essential part of the Midlands region.
County Roscommon: The Curlew Mountains in County Roscommon are known for their scenic peat bogs.
County Donegal: Several areas in Donegal, such as the Derryveagh Mountains and the Glendowan Mountains, are home to peat bogs.
The Ox Mountains, County Sligo: This range in County Sligo has some peat bogs interspersed with the mountainous terrain.
County Kerry: The Slieve Mish Mountains also feature peat bogs amidst their scenic landscapes.
Mountains
The country features several mountain ranges, including the Wicklow Mountains, the Galtee Mountains, and the Mourne Mountains, offering excellent hiking opportunities and stunning vistas.
While not as imposing as other mountain ranges, Ireland’s mountains offer a chance to explore the country’s amazing landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking fantastic views, these mountainous regions in Ireland have much to offer.
If you want a real mountain challenge, check out Croagh Patrick in County Mayo. Nicknamed ‘the Reek,’ Croagh Patrick is 2,507 ft and an important pilgrimage site for the Irish. It has a pyramid shape that overlooks Clew Bay near Westport. Some may say it looks menacing on a clear day, but it’s well worth the challenging hike!
It also has a fascinating history associated with Saint Patrick, who is said to have spent forty days fasting on the summit. You’ll find a statue of him at the base of the hike. You’ll find a small church on the summit for those who make it to the top. Croagh Patrick is climbed by thousands of pilgrims every year.
Best Places to See Mountains in Ireland
Mourne Mountains, County Down: Located in Northern Ireland, the Mourne Mountains are known for their granite peaks, including Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland.
Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow: These scenic mountains (often called the Garden of Ireland) are close to Dublin and offer excellent hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Wicklow Way is a multi-day hiking trail you can take through the mountains.
MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, County Kerry: This mountain range includes Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil, and offers dramatic landscapes and challenging hikes.
Connemara, County Galway: The Twelve Bens mountain range in Connemara offers rugged beauty and is a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Slieve Bloom Mountains, Counties Laois, and Offaly: These gentle mountains are ideal for leisurely walks and showcase rolling green hills and forests.
Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry: This peninsula features the Slieve Mish Mountains and offers stunning coastal and mountain views.
Achill Island, County Mayo: This island features the Slievemore and Croaghaun mountains, providing breathtaking coastal and mountain vistas.
Lakes and Rivers
Ireland’s picturesque lakes, such as Lough Neagh (Ireland’s largest lake) and Lough Corrib, along with meandering rivers like the River Shannon, add to the country’s scenic allure. Enjoy various recreational activities like boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding in serene and picturesque settings when you visit lakes and rivers in Ireland.
I love the Killarney Lakes region in County Kerry. Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake are collectively known as the Killarney Lakes and offer stunning views in Killarney National Park. Make sure you don’t miss Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park!
