Top interesting experiences in the Republic of Ireland

Climb the highest mountain Carrauntoohil

Situated in the middle of the MacGillycuddy Lam Reek range, Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in the Republic of Ireland (Ireland) with an elevation of 1,039 meters above sea level. Surrounding this famous mountain is the Ring of Kerry, which covers more than 100 square kilometers and the wild but equally romantic Iveragh Peninsula.

As you hike, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of peaks, lakes and farmland stretching all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. If time and weather permit, you can also take a refreshing swim around Lough Cummeenoughter, Ireland’s highest lake (707 metres above sea level).

Travel on the Shannon River

The River Shannon is 360km long, cutting through the gentle, lush land of Ireland and is the longest river in both the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. It will be wonderful for tourists to take a boat, visit this famous river, see medieval monasteries, rural villages and romantic hills beside the river.

Spend a day exploring the peaceful town of Carrick in County Leitrim, sailing along a narrow river that opens out onto Lough Ree, a large lake dotted with beautiful islands. Further south, the quaint town of Athlone has narrow streets and the Sean Way pub, Ireland’s oldest pub. At the end of the trip, dock to explore the mysterious Clonmacnoise Abbey, with its tall crosses, round towers and ancient church.

Cycling on the Great Western Greenway

Stretching from Mayo Bay to Clew Bay, the 42km Great Western Greenway is Ireland’s longest cycle path. Starting in the leafy Georgian areas of Westport, you’ll cycle north along a disused railway (inactive since 1937) over a large, seven-arched viaduct, taking a break at Kelly’s Kitchen, one of the most popular cafes in North County Mayo.

After a break, visitors will continue their journey on the coastal trail, admire the wide golden sand, cross a swing bridge, leave the mainland to Achill Island and stop at the end of the Green Western Avenue.

Visit Doolin Music Village

Music is a must on any tour of Ireland, especially when visiting the famous village of Doolin. Once a remote fishing village on the west coast of Ireland, Doolin has many traditional music pubs such as Gus O'Connor, Dermott's or McGann's, attracting many tourists by bus.

For a traditional musical performance, head east of Doolin to Pepper's in Feakle, which features internationally recognised performers such as accordionist Sharon Shannon and flutist Matt Molloy.

Most evenings of the week, Bunratty Castle in south County Clare hosts a four-course feast accompanied by traditional ballads, at a steep price but well worth the money. Adults £63, children £35.

Walking in the Garden District, Wicklow

The Wicklow Way is a 131km journey through unspoilt countryside, mountains, valleys, glaciers, forests and ancient monasteries. The route is run by local walkers. There are plenty of dining options when walking in the Garden District of Wicklow, particularly in the charming village of Roundwood.

They will also experience the trail down the poetic Glendalough valley, see the lakes, the most famous Glendalough monastery in Ireland with a 1,000-year-old round tower. Then, visitors continue walking through the forest paths, vast valleys, and hills in the southwest of Wicklow.

Enjoy the Dursey Island cable car on the Beara Peninsula, County Cork

In Ireland, there is only one cable car that connects the mainland to the small island of Dursey. Seeing the coral reefs under 30 meters, mostly submerged in the waves crashing against the shore at the southern tip of Ireland, is an unforgettable experience for visitors when riding the cable car. On the way to Dursey Island, visitors can also see whales, dolphins, butterflies and rare birds. The cable car ticket price in Dursey is 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children. Interestingly, Dursey Island has very few residents but has restaurants that cook delicious local dishes.

Kayaking on the Copper Coast

Sand coves, deep-water caves and idyllic beaches are just some of the stunning natural sights that the Copper Coast Geopark offers visitors when they kayak. The 25km route connects the towns of County Waterford, Tramore and Dungarvan.

This area was the cradle of the copper mining industry. Chimneys from the mines jut out from the cliff edges as a reminder of the history of the Copper Coast.

One of the reputable companies that offers 3-hour sea kayak tours is Pure Adventure. The price for adults is 49 euros, children is 39 euros, including the rental of all accompanying equipment and a local guide.

Rowing in the Boyne Valley, County Meath

The Boyne Valley is a famous historical site in Ireland. In 1690, more than 60,000 soldiers gathered in the Boyne Valley to prepare for the centuries-long battle between Catholics and Protestants for power across Ireland. Of course, you can explore the area by car, but a trip on a traditional Irish boat is a great way to immerse yourself in history. Visitors can experience a 90-minute boat ride through the Boyne Canal in a location that was featured in the blockbuster “Game of Thrones” in scenes involving the Ironborn.

Visit the Aran Islands in Galway

The Gaeltacht outposts of the Aran Islands have drawn visitors to their gorgeous, windswept shores ever since playwright JM Synge captured their majestic beauty in Riders to the Sea in 1902. On the Aran Islands, visitors climb Dun Aengus, a 3,500-year-old hillfort.

The next day, set sail to visit Inis Meáin, an Aran Island, before taking the late afternoon ferry to Inis Oírr. Spend the night on the most beautiful of the three islands, with its sandy beaches, dry stone walls and dramatic views of the Cliffs of Moher.

The Phong