Ireland has many beautiful attractions that appeal to all sorts of travellers. History, castles, national parks, beaches, and cliffs – Ireland has it all! Here is a list of 10 must-see attractions that I visited in southern Ireland. Enjoy!
Powerscourt Estate
Powerscourt Estate was the first stop on my road trip through southern Ireland and I was blown away by the beauty of the estate’s vast grounds. You could spend hours walking around the gorgeous property and admiring the backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains.
Glendalough
The magical monastic ruins of Glendalough will transport you to medieval Ireland. Additionally, there are great hiking trails along two different lakes and several spots to stop and admire nature.
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is my favourite castle that we visited in southern Ireland. For over 200 years, people around the world have climbed the steps of the castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. According to legend, kissing the stone grants the gift of eloquence! After kissing the stone yourself, make sure to explore the surrounding estate. Don’t miss the Castle Gardens, Blarney House, and the Rock Close.
Rock of Cashel
Just a short drive from Blarney Castle is the Rock of Cashel. This fortress has one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. The ruins are fascinating and the views from the castle of Irish pastures are stunning!
Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty in southern Ireland. I went horseback riding through Killarney National Park with Killarney Riding Stables and it was wonderful. I highly recommend trying it as a way to explore the park!
Muckross House
Located in Killarney National Park is Muckross House; a beautiful Victorian mansion where Queen Victoria actually stayed for a visit! You can tour the house and traditional farms, walk around the estate, and hike or take a horse and carriage ride to Torc Waterfall.
Inch Beach
I was stunned to come across this expansive beach with soft sand and views of the Irish coastline. Can you believe that the Atlantic Ocean was warm enough to take a dip?
Cliffs of Moher
Of course the Cliffs of Moher are on this list! Despite the number of tourists, the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see in southern Ireland.
The Burren
The Burren will blow your mind. This limestone landscape is rugged and uniquely beautiful. You will feel like you are on another planet – especially when you have the place to yourself!
Kylemore Abbey
Before becoming an Abbey, Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800s by a wealthy businessman, inspired by the love for his wife. How romantic! You will love exploring this gorgeous estate. Make sure to take the shuttle to the Victorian Walled Garden.
I hope you enjoyed this list of 10 must-see attractions in southern Ireland!
To read my blog post, “A Road Trip Through Southern Ireland,” click here.
To read my blog post, “10 Amazing Castles in Southern Ireland,” click here.
