12 photos of Ireland that give you wanderlust

Recently updated on October 4th, 2022 at 09:27 am

Vast stretches of undulating landscape, rugged mountains and wild coastlines. From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the country’s most isolated regions, we take a look at the inspirational images of Ireland that will make you want to book a flight now.

Dublin

The first stop for many visitors to Ireland is Dublin, and what a vibrant city it is. In particular, the Temple Bar area, which sits on the south bank of the River Liffey. The legendary pub here is an ever-popular place for a refreshing pint.

Giant’s Causeway 

This natural phenomenon is one of Ireland’s most famous sights, astounding visitors each day with its expanse of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. The result of a volcanic eruption, this landscape is unlike any other you’ll encounter.

Glendalough

The ‘Valley of Two Lakes’, Glendalough, is located within County Wicklow, and is widely considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful pockets of landscape, as well as stirring interest with its past as a medieval monastic settlement.

Killarney National Park 

This national park near the town of Killarney in County Kerry was one of the first areas in Ireland to be designated its status as protected land. It’s easy to understand why, when standing amidst its spectacular woodland, lakes and mountains.

Torc Waterfall 

Situated within Killarney National Park, this waterfall cascades down the rock face at the base of Torc Mountain. The waterfall is encompassed within hiking trails throughout the area, and on trips around the Ring of Kerry.

Ring of Kerry

The fishing village of Portmagee on the Iveragh Peninsula of Count Kerry couldn’t be more picturesque with its colourful houses and harbour-front. A part of the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way, the village is celebrated for its traditional way of life, scenery and seafood.

Cliffs of Moher 

Named Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher are certainly a dramatic sight, soaring 214 metres above the waves that crash against them, with far-reaching views across the Atlantic Ocean and out towards Ireland’s Aran islands.

Ashford Castle

Ancient castles are dotted throughout Ireland’s rolling hills and woodland, but of particular interest is the 1228-built Ashford Castle, which has been transformed into an elegant five-star hotel, with 350 acres of pristine grounds.

Connemara 

A rugged landscape of mountains, lakes and Atlantic coastline has given Connemara its reputation as one of Ireland’s most captivating regions. It’s also here that the revered Connemara ponies originate from, giving the land an extra touch of romance.

Kylemore Abbey

Founded in 1920 as a Benedictine monastery, Kylemore Abbey is steeped in history. With a Victorian Walled Garden to get lost in, this historic site is a great draw for anyone travelling through Connemara.

Dingle

As the only town on this peninsula in southwest Ireland, Dingle is used as a base by anyone who comes to explore this part of the coast. So, it’s lucky that the small fishing town has so much charm, with a picturesque harbour, as well as traditional Irish pubs to settle into. 

The Dark Hedges 

Having been used as a filming location for TV drama The Games of Thrones, The Dark Hedges in Stranocum, County Antrim, is recognisable to many. But this avenue of intertwined beech trees has long captured the imagination of those who pass through, dating back to the 18^th century.

Travel to each of these locations on a trip to Ireland with Trafalgar, from the Celtic Filmscapes itinerary, to the Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle trip.

Image credits: Cover photo of Glendalough © iStock / mammuth. Temple Bar in Dublin © iStock / Bart Kowski. Giant’s Causeway © iStock / Huy Thoai. Glendalough © iStock / RafalStachura. Killarney National Park © iStock / GCShutter. Torc Waterfall © iStock / wingmar. Portmagee in County Kerry © iStock / Oktay Ortakcioglu. Cliffs of Moher © iStock / honster. Ashford Castle © Red Carnation Hotels. Connemara © iStock / stedenmi. Kylemore Abbey © iStock / espiegle. Dingle © iStock / Ken Wiedemann. The Dark Hedges © iStock / RelaxFoto.de.