Now that the Beast from the East has finally been put to bed, it’s time to start thinking of those warmer summer days and that grand stretch in the evening.
As your mam would say ‘It’d be a great little country if we could only put a roof on it’ but even the cloudiest Irish summer can’t take away from some of the breathtaking scenery our island has to offer.
So pack the bags because here are the top 10 places in Ireland you need to put into the sat-nav:
1. Cuilcagh Mountain
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After a long drive, the only thing you want to do is stretch those legs and no better way to do it than up the Cuilcagh Mountain trail.
The views from the top of the boardwalk are nothing short of mindblowing – just make sure to bring the flask of tea!
2. Galway City
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Whether it’s the bustling nightlife of the Spanish Arch or the calmer surroundings of Salthill you’re after, you can never go wrong with a quick trip out west to Galway City.
3. Doolin, Co Clare
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Let the scenic, untouched countryside of County Clare and Doonagore Castle mesmirise you before warming up in one of the village’s cosy traditional pubs. Bualadh bos if you can take part in one of the renowned trad sessions.
4. Achill Island, Co Mayo
Keem Beach Headland at the end of Achill Island 👌ðŸ»ðŸ˜
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The fresh, salty air at Keem Beach will take years off your life while a trek up to the Deserted village is a must-see. No need to worry about the sea sickness either – you can make your way out to Achill all from the comfort of your own car. Sweet.
5. Kilkenny City
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If you haven’t been on a city break to Kilkenny yet then what are you waiting for?
The nightlife is craic-central and you can shake the cobwebs off the following morning with a walk around the gorgeous Kilkenny Castle.
6. Fanad Head, Co Donegal
Nestled on the rugged coastline between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, Fanad Head is probably one of the best places to take in that grand stretch in the evening.
Sure where else would ya get it?
7. Skellig Michael, Co Kerry
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This is more than just a place for Star Wars fanatics.
These islands in south west Kerry are also home to a sixth century monastic settlement and a host of rare wildlife.
8. Dunmore East, Co Waterford
Lighthouse âš“ #boatharbour #chillvibes #sundayfunday #lighthouse #dunmoreeast
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It’s not called the Sunny South-East for nothing, ya know!
Whether it’s a stroll down to the pretty lighthouse or spending the night in one of the adorable thatched cottages, Dunmore East is one of the hidden gems of the south-east coast
9. Howth, Co Dublin
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This small seaside village just north of the capital has it all – from the local market full of homemade crafts to the panoramic views of the cliff walk , you won’t leave Howth disappointed. Plus, the village boasts some of the best fish and chips in the country so tuck in!
10. Kinsale, Co Cork
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Five minutes after landing in Kinsale and you’ll feel right at home. Treat yourself to a handmade necklace or a woollen scarf in the colourful local shops while the long yacht-filled harbour is the perfect place to sip quietly on a pint of the black stuff.
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