County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I've returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list' so many people have for their Ireland vacation, these are my top 3 recommendations: the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, and an evening of live trad music. Together they offer an unforgettable mix of landscape, history, and culture.

Whether you’re drawn to dramatic landscapes, medieval stories, or the energy of a lively pub session, these three experiences capture the heart of County Clare. They’re easy to plan, enjoyable for all ages, and offer a true sense of what makes this county so unforgettable.

Bonus: if you are short on time, you can absolutely fit them all into one day.

Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important.

The Cliffs of Moher are undeniably the number one natural tourism spot in Ireland, often described as a bucket-list destination. Travelers frequently express that seeing the cliffs is essential to feeling like they’ve truly visited Ireland. The cliffs offer dramatic views that change with the weather and time of day, making each visit unique.

For visitors, the Cliffs of Moher provide various ways to explore. The visitor center offers informative exhibits about the history and lore of the site. Adventurous guests can embark on a guided cliff walk with local experts from Ollie's Tours or Pat Sweeney, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. Alternatively, a scenic cruise from Doolin Pier allows visitors to appreciate the cliffs from a different perspective.

For the best experience, it's advisable to visit early in the morning (before 10am) or later in the afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid the majority of tour buses.

Bunratty Castle, the best-preserved tower house in Ireland, presents a fascinating look into medieval life. Fully restored and furnished, the castle is a superb representation of how it would have been used in its heyday. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, climb the circular staircases to the battlements, and immerse themselves in its rich history.

Adjacent to the castle is the Bunratty Folk Park, which offers a glimpse into traditional Irish life. The park features authentic houses and buildings, creating a living history museum where visitors can witness daily activities as they were centuries ago. For families and history enthusiasts alike, spending at least two and a half hours here is recommended to fully appreciate both the castle and the folk park.

Additionally, Bunratty Castle hosts a medieval banquet year-round, making it a delightful culinary experience for those seeking evening entertainment. Reservations are essential, especially for the first seating, which often fills up quickly.

Pro Tip: if the first seating is full, book into the second seating then email and request to be added to the wait list for the earlier seating. Often times these are booked by tour operators and seats can become available if the tour isn't completely full. Be sure to follow up as your trip approaches.

While traditional Irish music can be found throughout the country, County Clare is particularly renowned for its vibrant music scene. Doolin, a charming village near the Cliffs of Moher, bills itself as the ‘home of traditional Irish music'. With numerous pubs hosting live sessions and events, visitors are never far from the sound of fiddles and flutes.

The Doolin Music House, hosted by Christy Berry, offers an authentic experience where guests can enjoy music alongside stories and camaraderie in a cozy setting.

Throughout the year, County Clare hosts various music festivals, ensuring that every visit is filled with melodic moments.

County Clare offers so much more to see, taste, and experience beyond these top three picks. To help you plan your time in the west, I’ve created a County Clare Travel Guide with my Top 5 things to do, recomhttps://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-planning/clare-lodging-attractions/mended tours and places to stay, transport tips, family-friendly suggestions, and practical insights to make your visit easy and enjoyable.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 312

The post Top 3 County Clare Experiences appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves crash onto wide sandy beaches, drawing surfers from around the world.

From the lively breaks at Lahinch to the wildest waves that draw pros from across the world, Clare has become one of Ireland’s top spots to grab a board and ride the Wild Atlantic waves.

This article is based on podcast episode 72 featuring Ben Bennett, owner of Ben's Surf Clinic in Lahinch, County Clare.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Recorded live at Randaddy's on the promenade in Lahinch, on the west coast of Ireland! As I was recording this with Ben we were watching people surf the January waves!

Water temperatures in Ireland are about 16°C (60°F) in the summer, and surfers would normally still wear a light wet suit. On the nicest days surfers will wear a board short or swimsuit.

Winter water temperatures are about 7°C or 8°C (46°F).

It's actually the air temperature that is the problem. The windchill factor makes it feel much colder.

Ben's Surf Clinic has been on the promenade in Lahinch for 14 years.

Lahinch has great learner waves as well as advanced waves.

Ben's Surf Clinic was the first hardboard surf school in Ireland.

Aileen's Wave (video) off the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. It has been described as the ‘perfect wave' and can be 35-40 feet.

Riley's Wave (video) south of Lahinch, also in County Clare. It doesn't break as big, but is a powerful, barreling wave.

Ben's Surf Clinic shares local surf conditions daily on the website, Instagram, and Facebook.

See how much there is to do in west Clare and the Burren!

Ben's Surf Clinic offers lessons for those just beginning to more advanced surfers.

Beginners will learn to manage their board, enter the water correctly, and the proper way to lie on the board to catch a wave.

Lessons are 2 hours in the water. All equipment is included, and groups are small, no more than 6 people.

Ben's Surf Clinic is the only surf school in Lahinch with hot showers available after your lesson.

If you are an experienced surfer explore the coastline from Sligo town to Bundoran for a vast range of breaks.

Find secret beaches near Clifden, County Galway.

Explore from Leenane, County Galway to Louisburgh, County Mayo for a stunning drive. Be sure to visit The Lost Valley.

The post Lahinch & Beyond: Surfing in Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

The OPW (Office of Public Works) cares for, maintains, and operates 780 important heritage sites across the Republic of Ireland. The goal of the organization is to preserve and protect structures in its care while providing safe public access and information to visitors.

The OPW Heritage Card is a single-charge card that grants unlimited access to OPW managed historic sites and visitor attractions for one year, including guided tours. Cards are available for individual adults, seniors, and children, as well as a family card that includes 2 adults and 5 children over 12. Children under 12 can access OPW Heritage sites at no cost.

There is no need to purchase an OPW Heritage Card prior to arriving in Ireland, just buy it at the first fee-paying OPW site you visit.

Each year Ireland's Office of Public Works share the previous year's data about visitor numbers and the most visited OPW sites. in 2024, recorded visitors to Ireland's heritage sites exceeded 13.8 million

The two most-visited heritage sites carry no fee, and both are located in Dublin.

St. Stephen's Green, a wonderful green space in the heart of the city centre, saw nearly 4.5 million visitors in 2024. This isn't surprising as the park is a wonderful place for a walk and the playground is quite nice. It is also a pretty ‘shortcut' as you walk point to point in Dublin.

The Phoenix Park visitor centre recorded approximately 2 million visitors. Again, no surprise as this massive park, less than 5km from Dublin city centre and easy to reach via bus or Luas, is a popular spot for recreation as well as home to Dublin Zoo.

Dublin Castle, Dublin – 534,014 visitors

Dublin Castle leapt into first place this year, unseating 2023's most popular castle (which is now at #2).

Located in the heart of Dublin, Dublin Castle was built in the early 13th century and served as the center of power for the English (and later British) government.
Prebooking is recommended for the guided tour as space can be limited. Bookings can be made up to 15 days in advance.

Kilkenny Castle & Parklands, County Kilkenny – 429,546 visitors

The central point of Kilkenny City, Kilkenny Castle has the feel of a royal palace, making it a very grand place to visit. It's important to note that the parklands are free to visit.
Prebooking is not required.

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary – 365,505 visitors

The magnificent Rock of Cashel was originally built as a fortress in the late 4th or 5th century as the seat of the kingship of Munster and the inauguration place of its kings. In the 7th century St. Patrick baptized a King of Munster here and in 1101 the reigning King gave the fortress to the Church. This impressive structure was given into State care as a national monument in 1869.
Prebooking is not required. I do highly recommend joining one of the guided tours as the hitory of the site is fascinating.
Cormac's Chapel, which contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland, can only be accessed by guided tour. Tickets for this tour ‘extension' are only available on site and space is limited.

Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin – 243,078 visitors

Opening in 1796 as the new County Gaol for Dublin, thousands of men, women, and children were held here for everything from minor offences to organized rebellion. The stories you will hear are powerful in both sadness and strength.
Prebooking is necessary as tickets sell out quickly. Booking opens 28 days in advance of your visit at midnight Irish time. Here's how to book your tickets.

Dún Aonghasa, Inis Mór, Aran Islands, County Galway – 146,089 visitors

Dún Aonghasa is the largest prehistoric stone fort on the Aran Islands. Consisting of 3 massive drystone defense walls further surrounded by a dense band of jagged stones and perched on the cliff edge, Dún Aonghasa is an imposing structure built for defense.
Prebooking is not required.
Visitors should note that there is a 1km walk from the visitors centre to the site that includes rough, natural rock. There is no fencing or barriers at the cliff edge.

Ross Castle, County Kerry – 143,016 visitors

Ross Castle, located in Killarney National Park, is a top spot for the jaunting cars as well being the boat launch location for the Lakes of Killarney and Gap of Dunloe.
This 15th century tower house was one of the last strongholds in the region to surrender to Oliver Cromwell in 1652.
Guided tours are available March thru October, but you can visit the grounds year-round at no charge. Prebooking is not necessary.

Brú na Bóinne (including Newgrange and Knowth), County Meath – 133,991visitors

I have no doubt that the only reason Brú na Bóinne is number 7 on this list is because tour numbers are limited.

This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of 3 prehistoric passage tombs – Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth – built circa 3200BC and contain the largest collection of megalithic art in Western Europe.
Access to the visitors centre is available to anyone with no booking required.
Access to the tombs of Newgrange and Knowth is by guided tour only and prebooking is essential.
Booking opens 30 days in advance of your visit at midnight Irish time. Here's how to book.

Clonmacnoise, County Offaly – 118,337 visitors

Located at one of the most important crossroads of ancient Ireland, the monastic village of Clonmacnoise has 3 high crosses, two round towers, and nine churches. This site is easy to visit if you are traveling from Dublin to Galway (or vice versa). This is a wonderful spot to explore, especially if you don't visit Glendalough in County Wicklow (which, surprisingly is not among the top 10 visited sites, likely because the grounds are free and numbers reflect paid entry to the visitors centre).
Prebooking is not necessary.

Trim Castle, County Meath – 113,372 visitors

Trim is the largest Norman castle in Ireland, taking 30 years to build. Built in a cruciform shape with 20 sides and surrounded by a ditch, curtain wall, and water filled moat, it was all nearly impenetrable. The grounds of Trim Castle and the charming river walk are free to visit. Visits in the castle are by guided tour only.
Prebooking is not available; daily tours are first come first served and do fill, so plan a bit of time here in case you need to wait. Tour times may change daily.

Charles Fort, County Cork – 104,723 visitors

This star-shaped military fortress guarding the mouth of Kinsale Harbour was constructed in the late 17the century. And while it withstood a 13-day siege during the Williamite Wars, the design and location of the fort ultimately proved to be flawed.
Prebooking is not necessary.

My favorite heritage sites in Ireland didn't make the ‘Top 10' list, but that doesn't mean they aren't spectacular, only a bit off the beaten path.

Cahir Castle, County Tipperary – 87,343

Ireland's second-largest Norman castle is just 30 minutes south of the Rock of Cashel but receives only 20% of the visitor numbers. This is my favorite castle in Ireland due to the small number of visitors and the fact that you can explore nearly every part of the castle and grounds. The lovely island behind the castle is a perfect spot for a picnic, and a short woodland stroll takes you to another OPW site, the Swiss Cottage (which only received 18,295 visitors in 2024).
Prebooking is not necessary. and I highly recommend the included guided tour.

Rock of Dunamase, County Laois – 47,123

If you are traveling between Limerick and Dublin or Dublin and Kilkenny, this is my #1 spot to visit, the ruins of a massive fortress sprawling atop a rocky limestone outcrop. If you're the type to believe in ‘thin places' you'll want to come here as the power of the location can be felt as you catch sight of the ruins. The high situation and views of the surrounding countryside made this a strategic spot for a stronghold, though it appears the castle was abandoned in the 1330s.
This is a free, open site with no visitor centre.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, County Sligo – 30,594 visitors

While the tombs at Carrowmore in Sligo may not have the recognition of Newgrange this location is host to one of the most densely populated complexes of tombs in Ireland, as well as some of the oldest, dating back to 3700BC (older than Newgrange). Within the OPW site are at least 30 passage tombs in various states of survival, with at least 25 more known to be destroyed since 1800. Tomb 51, the largest on site, has been excavated, revealing a roofed central chamber and megalithic art.
Prebooking is not necessary.
Note: the site has been closed for most of 2025 for visitor centre updates and is due to reopen in August.

Kells Priory, County Kilkenny – 30,349

Locally known as the ‘Seven Castles', the Augustinian Priory at Kells encloses nearly 3 acres. With its seven tower houses spaced along the walls it has the appearance of an enclosed village. The priory has an intriguing past that includes being burned 3 times and, in 1324, it played host to the first known witch trial in Europe. Take your time exploring this site, including a lovely walk by the river to the old mill.
This is an open site, free to visit with no visitor centre. Guides may be available from June – August.

Scattery Island, County Clare – 4,398

Located in the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island can only be reached by boat, a very calm 30-minute cruise from Kilrush Marina. The monastic site dates to the 5th century and features multiple churches, a cathedral, and a round tower – with its door at ground level. The island is also home to a Napoleonic artillery battery and a working lighthouse built in 1872. Very few people take the time to add Scattery Island to their Ireland itinerary, but its location is a perfect fit if you are traveling the Wild Atlantic Way between the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney.
Though it is free to visit the site – and you can even get a guided tour! – you do need to make a reservation for the ferry with Scattery Island Tours.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 288

The post Ireland’s Most Visited Heritage Sites appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you've ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare.

Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and heartfelt hospitality that rewards those who take the time to explore.

This article is based on podcast episode 268 featuring Carmel Hough, co-owner of Emerald Irish Tours.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Kilkee acts as the gateway to this often-overlooked region. A charming Victorian seaside town, Kilkee offers a great starting point with its cliff walk, cozy accommodations, and excellent food. From here, the road leads west into some of the most jaw-dropping scenery County Clare has to offer.

Whether you're driving, walking, or hiring an e-bike from Loop Head E-Bikes, the route hugs rugged cliffs and peaceful countryside roads. The absence of tour buses makes the experience even more immersive, giving visitors a glimpse of an Ireland most travelers miss.

Outdoor lovers are spoiled for choice. There’s the cliff walk in Kilkee, a beautiful loop that takes you right along the Atlantic edge. For something more adventurous, head out with Nevsail for paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing. Fishing excursions are available with local guides like Sean Maguire and Luke Aston, while horseback rides and walking tours give different perspectives of the land.

If you’re more into slow travel, a picnic, a pint, or a meandering cycle will do just fine. Small towns along the way offer cafes, galleries, and friendly faces happy to share local stories. It’s also the perfect region for sea views and solitude, whether you're on two wheels or four.

One of the most emotionally powerful stops is the Church of the Little Ark near the peninsula’s tip. Born from the hardships of Ireland’s Penal Laws in the 1850s, this small structure tells a massive story. At a time when Catholicism was banned and Irish culture was under siege, locals wheeled a tiny wooden ‘ark’ to the foreshore—no man’s land between high and low tide—to hold Mass without persecution.

Today, the preserved ark rests in a quiet room of the Church of the Little Ark, a poignant reminder of resistance and resilience. The Harry Clarke stained glass window above the door captures the ark’s legacy, illuminating a powerful chapter of Irish history.

The Loop Head Lighthouse Experience

A visit to the Loop Head Lighthouse is a must when exploring the peninsula. One of the few lighthouses in Ireland open to the public, you can climb to the top and walk out onto the balcony—if the wind doesn’t blow you away first!

The 360-degree views span the Shannon Estuary to the left and the vast Atlantic Ocean to the right. It’s also a prime dolphin-watching spot and one of the filming locations for Star Wars (though that’s been kept fairly quiet).

Near the lighthouse, don’t miss the WWII-era “EIRE 43” sign—huge white letters made from stone, signaling Ireland’s neutral status to airborne pilots. These signs were part of a subtle yet critical aid to Allied navigation, reminding us how even the quietest places have stories to tell.

If you’re looking to explore with expert guidance, Emerald Irish Tours—run by sisters Carmel and Martina Haugh—offers private driver-guided experiences tailored to your interests. Whether you’re into food, folklore, family heritage, or simply soaking up the scenery, they’ll help you build a custom itinerary and see Ireland beyond the brochure.

They don’t just offer driver guides; they connect you to local stories, suggest authentic stops, and offer the kind of honest advice that only comes from living and guiding in the region. Their Mercedes V-Class vehicles offer comfort, while their insights provide depth. Want to spend a night in a castle? Meet a local artist? Find the best place for a seaweed bath? They’ve got you covered.

Contact Emerald Irish Tours

Website – email: [email protected] – Facebook – Instagram

Loop Head isn’t a quick detour—it’s a destination worth your time.

Plan to stay locally for a couple nights to really soak it in.

Start in Kilkee, hike the cliffs, climb the lighthouse, stand in the Church of the Little Ark, and treat yourself to dinner at the Long Dock or a pint at Keating’s near the sea.

For travelers who value authenticity, history, and natural beauty without the tour bus crowds, Loop Head Peninsula is calling. Just don’t try to rush it—this is the kind of place that reveals itself slowly, and that’s exactly the point.

The post Discovering Loop Head Peninsula: Ireland’s Rugged Beauty Without the Crowds appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure.

There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history, and pints—but don’t stop there! Some of Ireland’s most incredible spots are just a day trip away.

The best part? You don’t even need a car to get out and explore. Whether you prefer to do your own thing or hop on a guided tour, there are loads of great options.

Below, I’ve rounded up 6 fantastic day trips from Dublin you can do on your own or with a tour group, plus one can’t-miss experience that’s only available as a guided tour—and a couple I’d recommend skipping altogether.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 261.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article & get tour links.

Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important.

Dublin might be perched on Ireland’s east coast, but thanks to its great bus and train links, it’s a perfect jumping-off point for exploring all over the island.

In the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just 30 minutes south of Dublin, the hermit monk St. Kevin founded a settlement that would become one of the country's great ecclesiastical centres of learning. The remains of the monastic city, including the round tower, date from the 10th-12th centuries.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Hop aboard the Glendalough Bus at St. Steven's Green. Spend time in the Glendalough Visitor Centre (an OPW Heritage site) before exploring the monastic site. Wear good hiking boots and dress in layers to get out end enjoy some of the nearby marked walking trails. 

Join a Guided Tour You'll find quite a few tour options that will take you through the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, and some will even include the magnificent Powerscourt Estate.

The village of Malahide is a terrific half-day getaway from Dublin.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Connolly Station in Dublin city centre in under 30 minutes or Dublin Bus route 32 or 42. Enjoy a guided castle tour and explore the gardens. Enjoy the village's charming shops and tasty restaurants.

Pro tip: Malahide Castle & Gardens makes a terrific spot for photos! Here's how we did it.

The small coastal village of Howth, just north of Dublin, is popular for it's beautiful cliff walk and charming harbour. Howth also has a charming castle with grounds to wander and the Abbey Tavern hosts a Traditional Irish Show that features a 3-course meal.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Connolly Station to Howth takes about 30 minutes. Dublin Bus 6 or H3 take about 45 minutes.
From the train station turn left to head toward the harbour and cliff walk, or right to visit the castle.

Join a Guided Tour

Kilkenny is a wonderfully walkable city with loads to do! Plan a full day to enjoy everything the city has to offer!

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Heuston Station in just 90 minutes or direct bus routes on Dublin Coach or JJ Kavanagh & Sons. If you want to enjoy the highlights of medieval Kilkenny plan to arrive early and plan a full day's adventure.

Once in Kilkenny you can easily explore the highlights of the Medieval Mile, from Kilkenny Castle to St Canice's Cathedral. Join the Shenanigans Walk for fun insight into the city or hop aboard a guided boat trip on the River Nore. If you enjoy a pint, be sure to check out the Smithwick's tour.

Join a Guided Tour 

Galway is a bustling harbour city with a lively traditional vibe.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Dublin city centre takes just 2.5 hours or CityLink Express bus service takes only slightly longer. Visit historic Galway sites like the Galway Museum, Spanish Arch, Kerwin's Lane and The Claddagh. The Latin Quarter is a busy spot filled with shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Join a Guided Tour Once in Galway you have a few great tour options in the city.

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is both Irish and British, and has a very different vibe than Dublin.

Do It Yourself Day Trip from Dublin It takes just 2.5 hours to reach Belfast by train from Dublin city centre.

Titanic Belfast is an incredible tour, and includes the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship.
Book a Black Taxi tour to help you understand the history of The Troubles and sign your name to the Peace Walls that still divide the city.
Or take in the city at your own pace on a Hop-on Hop-off bus.
More time? Consider the Ulster Muesum, Botanic Gardens, or CS Lewis Square.

Join a Guided Tour

A day tour into the heart of ancient Ireland – the Boyne Valley in County Meath – can't be created in a DIY trip without a car. The sites are too far apart, and some are too rural, to be easily connected by bus.

But if the Neolithic and Celtic history of Ireland interests you, a tour through the Boyne Valley should be at the top of your day trips from Dublin list.

There are 2 trips from Dublin that you may be surprised are not on this list: The Cliffs of Moher and the Giant's Causeway.

There are 2 reasons for that. The first being that you really can't DIY these tours from Dublin.

But, more than that, I don't recommend these trips as day tours due to the length of the day. Most trips to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin are 12 hours long. And over 7 of those hours are spent driving. And Giant's Causeway trips from Dublin are 13 hours, with the majority of your time being spent on a bus.

If you want to day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, I recommend spending at least one night in Galway and enjoying a full tour of the Burren, there is so much more to see and do in that area.

If you want to explore the Causeway Coast, do that day trip from Belfast. One thing to note with any bus tour along the Causeway Coast: no large bus tours visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, they only stop at a viewpoint. If that site is high on your list, you will need to invest in a private tour.

The post Day Trips from Dublin (no car required!) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

You've probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it's one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland's northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren't afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist path.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Adam Stewart, the owner of Flat Cap Adventurers. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Adam Stewart, owner of Flat Cap Adventurers

Ulster is one of the four historic provinces of Ireland.

Located in the northern-most part of the country, Ulster includes the 6 counties of Northern Ireland, as well as 4 counties in the Republic of Ireland.

Get the FREE Ulster Overview itinerary.

The Giant's Causeway and entire Causeway Coastal Route are among the most popular spots in Ulster.

From the town of Ballycastle, and other spots along the coastal route, you can see Rathlan Island and, on a very clear day, Scotland.

Among the old fishing villages is Ballantoy, which became well known when the harbour was used as a setting for Game of Thrones.

The most scenic train ride in Ireland is along the Causeway Coast from Coleraine to Derry, passing underneath Mussenden Temple.

If you only want to drive the Causeway Coast and stop at a few places you need to plan a full day. But you should really plan to stay longer to fully explore this incredible area.

A terrific central base for touring the Causeway Coastal route is Bushmills. Known for its whiskey – Bushmills is the oldest continually operating distillery in Ireland – the village is an area of conservation.

Get off the tourist trail and visit places most people never see.

Adam's tours will take you off road and into places where you will only see sheep – and amazing scenery.

In the Sperrin Mountains Adam will take you to visit a shepherd to learn about sheep farming.

On the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal you can experience a famine village, take a heart -pounding ride to the top of a mountain, and see seals on beaches that only a 4×4 can reach.

Learn more at FlatCapAdventurers.com and find Flat Cap Adventurers on the socials: Instagram – Facebook – message on WhatsApp.

Doagh Famine Village

The Point Bar at Magilligan for a meal at the end of the Inishowen 100

Cross Lough Foyle on the ferry from Magilligan to Greencastle.

Episode 257: Flat Cap Adventurers

Episode 147: On & Off the Tourist Path in Ulster

The post On-and-Off the Tourist Path in Ulster appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most popular natural attraction at the edge of the Burren landscape, are experiencing partial trail closures due to necessary repairs on specific trail sections.

However, the visitor centre and several trails remain open, with options for guided tours providing safe and comprehensive experiences.

The trail closures stem from safety concerns following a few deaths in 2024 and the need for trail maintenance.

Watch the video below for exact locations that are closed.

The Cliffs of Moher offer the breathtaking experience of standing on the edge of the world, where the land meets the sky, a dramatic view that changes with the weather.

Recently, confusion has spread about closures at this iconic site, causing a ripple of concern among travelers. With insights from local expert Ollie Gleason, this article uncovers the truth about what remains open and how you can still savor the cliffs' magic.

The main attraction – the visitor centre and the amazing views that 95% of visitors imagine – remains open.

The closures affect only specific trail sections due to necessary repairs, ensuring safety for all visitors.

The Cliffs of Moher are not closed, Ollie reassures, emphasizing that the visitor center and many trails are fully accessible.

The trail along the cliffs, managed by various local entities, has faced challenges due to limited budgets and increasing popularity.

Ollie explains, “The trail is grade five, the most difficult in Ireland, yet accessible to those with moderate fitness.”

Safety concerns have led to partial closures, notably around Hag's Head, to address erosion and ensure visitor safety. Despite these measures, the stunning views and exhilarating hikes remain available to eager explorers.

For those eager to explore beyond the visitors centre, you can hike the Cliffs of Moher still, Ollie confirms, suggesting guided tours for a safer and richer experience.

Visitors can start their adventure from Doolin, enjoying a scenic hike with breathtaking views. With detailed insights into the trail's condition and alternative routes, visitors can plan their visit with confidence.

The Cliffs of Moher continue to enchant and inspire, their beauty undiminished by temporary closures. By understanding the current situation and embracing the available options, visitors can enjoy the cliffs' majesty and make their visit truly unforgettable.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 250

The post Cliffs of Moher in 2025: Safety and Tips appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When planning a trip to Ireland, County Kerry often tops the list of must-visit destinations. While many travelers flock to the well-known spots like Killarney and Dingle, there are plenty of spots, from Tralee to North Kerry, that may not be on your radar.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Neil Saad, owner of Kingdom Whiskey Tasting Events. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

In this article, we delve into the lesser-known town of Tralee, unveil the wonders of North Kerry, and discover the unique experiences that await you in this enchanting part of Ireland.

As the largest town and the capital of County Kerry, Tralee offers a unique blend of traditional Irish culture and modern amenities. It's a place where you can enjoy top-class hotels, lively Irish pubs, and a diverse range of international cuisine.

Tralee is not just a stopover; it's a hub for exploring the entire county. From here, you can easily access the Dingle Peninsula, Killarney National Park, and the famous Ring of Kerry.

But don't rush through your visit. Take the time to immerse yourself in the culture, meet the friendly locals, and experience the authentic Irish atmosphere that Tralee has to offer.

Beyond the well-trodden paths of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula lies North Kerry—a rural haven brimming with undiscovered beauty.

From the vast stretches of Banner Beach to the quaint port village of Fenit, North Kerry is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Consider adding places like Ardfert with its ancient cathedrals and the isolated Rattoo round tower to your explorations. If you are following the Wild Atlantic Way to the Shannon Ferry, coastal points like Ballybunion and Carrigafoyle Castle are well off the trail of most tourists.

For a truly unique experience in County Kerry, indulge in a whiskey tasting event with Kingdom Whiskey Tasting. This mobile event company offers an immersive and educational journey into the world of whiskey.

Unlike a typical tasting, these events are rich with stories, history, and insights into the production process. You'll discover the local brands and the passionate people behind them, all while savoring the flavors of Kerry's finest spirits.

Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or a curious traveler, these tastings are designed to be enjoyable for everyone. With the flexibility to host events in various locations across the county, you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences. It's a chance to connect with the local culture and enjoy a memorable evening of storytelling and spirits.

Learn more about Kingdom Whiskey Tasting Events on their website or follow the craic on Facebook and Instagram.

While County Kerry is filled with iconic attractions, there are a few hidden treasures you may want to add to your itinerary:

Ardfert: This small village is home to two impressive cathedrals, one of which serves as a museum. Wander through the ruins and explore the fascinating history of this overlooked gem. (This is an OPW Heritage Site)

Barrow Beach: Located outside Fenit, this secluded beach offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. It's a bit of a challenge to find, but once you do, you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Tralee: Spend a couple of nights in this vibrant town to truly appreciate its charm. Explore the local pubs, enjoy the lively entertainment, and use it as a base to discover the rest of County Kerry. Tralee offers a genuine Irish experience that will leave you wanting more.

Traveling in Ireland podcast Episode 245

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