5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to Do in Ireland

When you think of Ireland, you think green fields teeming with sheep, the Guinness Factory, and the Cliffs of Moher. True, the cliffs are breathtaking and the taste of Guinness right from the source is surely better than anywhere else, but it would be a mistake to limit your trip to the Emerald Isle to the main tourist attractions. There are so many great spots in Ireland, it’s pretty much impossible to count them all. From quiet castle ruins you’re free to explore to picnicking to the sound of waves crashing on the epic coastline, Ireland has amazing surprises at every turn.

In this post, I’ll give you five off-the-beaten-path ideas to take your vacation to Ireland from memorable to absolutely unforgettable!

1. Night Kayaking in Union Hall/Lough Hyne

The main draw to these kayaking trips is the opportunity to see bioluminescent plankton, which can be seen in either the bay near Union Hall or in Lough Hyne. Unfortunately, on the evening we set out on the bay, the sky was clear and the moon was bright, essentially negating any chance for us to spot some glowing plankton.

Despite this, we still had one of the best nights on the trip. Under the light of the moon, Jupiter, and the many stars, we paddled out to the mouth of the bay, alternating between song singing, listening in silence to the sound of waves crashing on the shore for miles or even to a family of foxes roaming the shore's undergrowth. We may or may not have seen a whale in the distance - there was something out there making waves that twinkled in the moonlight but what it was exactly is unknown.

Surprisingly, the trip was also an educational experience as our guides were very knowledgeable on local history. On many occasions, a building or a lit window on the shore was pointed out and the history of that cathedral or mansion was explained. More importantly, our guides were extremely friendly and it was great getting to know these gentlemen. One of my favourite activities in Ireland was definitely night kayaking in the Union Hall Bay.

2. Drombeg Stone Circle

Just outside of Union Hall is a secluded and breathtaking stop. Out in the middle of a field stands the Drombeg Stone Circle.  There’s just something about standing near and touching something so archaic and presumably sacred that is an experience in itself.

Not only is the circle itself fantastic, but the view is perfect. Green fields slope down toward the ocean in the distance while you stand in a peaceful field surrounded by wildflowers and a megalithic monument. You can soak up the ocean breeze and celebrate the solstice all at once.

As a bonus, just past the circle are some low ruins of a house that used to stand there, with a tub and stable.

3. Three Castles Head

Where do I start? Perhaps with a disclaimer: I may be just a little biased. I was most excited for Three Castles Head before the trip and it did not disappoint. Three Castles Head is located south of County Cork on private farm property, but the kind owner allows hikers to trek to the castle ruins. To reach the ruins, there is a brisk half hour hike through farmland. There are two relatively steep ascents, and at the top of the second, you are rewarded with a phenomenal view of the three ruined towers joined by a tumbledown wall, the raised inland lake on the right and the sheer cliff drop to the bright blue ocean on the left. You are free to go up to the towers and duck inside, or walk under an arch to a small courtyard.

A major selling point of these particular ruins is the peace to explore on your own without the presence of other tourists at any time of day. The nice hike and the awesome castle make for an unforgettable stop.

4. Dunfanaghy

Dunfanaghy is a small coastal village in the north of County Donegal. It is a holiday spot for many northern Irish vacationers, and for good reason. Dunfanaghy is flanked by long stretches of gorgeous beaches.

This town is a must for anyone who wants to spend time on the coast, either doing water sports, hanging in the sun during the summer, or even horseback rides on long stretches of beach.

As a plus, the Dunfanaghy has several good pubs, one of which has a patio in the back with a pizza oven where they cook everything in the open air.

5. Ballycarbery Castle

Our final item is a must see if you like your exploration a bit more interactive. Ballycarbery Castle is part of the Ring of Kerry. It’s an ivy-covered decrepit castle with the entire back half fallen down (see this post’s cover picture). I know what you’re thinking, another old castle? Ireland’s got plenty, they’re a dime a dozen right? Wrong.

What sets this castle apart from other ruins is the fact that it’s been pretty much forgotten by the state and so you are completely free to run around as you please. Climb old stairwells, run around old rooms and corridors, let your hair down and pretend you’re the queen of the castle yelling at her wait staff... Or discussing the physics of songbirds carrying tropical fruit with the knights from the next kingdom over. The really awesome part is that you can climb up to the third floor. (You can probably climb up higher in the tower, but that seems needlessly risky.) If you go early in the morning, you’ll have the place all to yourself (and your shenanigans)!

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