These Places In Ireland Are Great Locations For Family Vacations

The Republic of Ireland is a fantastic place to go away on vacation.

Unfortunately, it has historically been overlooked by the United Kingdom, which is a stone’s throw away. People tend to be more interested in visiting London than in Dublin.

However, in recent years there has been a huge boom in Irish tourism. More and more people are starting to visit and appreciate Ireland for its natural beauty, incredible history, and welcoming people.

If Ireland is somewhere that you want to go on vacation, then this post will tell you about some of the best locations the country has to offer.

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are located off Ireland’s western coast. Historically, they were ruled by two warrior clans but later fell under British control.

You can get a boat directly to the Aran Islands, from Ireland. There, you will find a number of bed and breakfasts, sleepy rural pubs, and fantastic restaurants.

However, the Aran Islands’ charm lies in their incredible wildlife and natural beauty. A lot of people go cycling there since you can cycle around the different islands in as little as a day (individually, that is). 

If you plan on visiting, then it is a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. In recent years, the Aran Islands have become very popular with tourists.

You may struggle to find somewhere to stay if you don’t book accommodation in advance, and instead turn up unannounced.

Dublin

Dublin is Ireland’s capital city.  The city is steeped in history, and unsurprisingly, is home to various churches, castles, and historical sites. There is so much to see in Dublin that it can be difficult to know what to visit first.

If you are visiting, you might want to consider booking a tour. A tour guide will be able to talk you to all of the city’s most interesting sites and attractions.

Bear in mind though, tours can be expensive. You can save money on tours by booking during a time when there aren’t many tourists present, like in autumn or winter.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher in Clare are a very popular tourist destination, because of their rugged natural beauty. The cliffs overlook the Atlantic Ocean. They are rugged, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful.

If you plan on visiting them, then you might want to consider staying in a bed and breakfast in a nearby village. It is possible to drive out to them from the nation’s capital in a day, but why not get the full experience by staying in local lodgings?

You don’t need a ticket or to book to visit the Cliffs of Moher, you can just turn up.

Ring of Kerry

Another great place to go cycling (or just driving) is the Ring of Kerry, a 112-mile road that winds through Ireland’s southwestern corner. The Ring of Kerry is a fantastic place to go on an adventure.

Along the way, you will pass through a variety of different villages. Some of these villages have bed and breakfasts, cafés, and even small local museums.

Again, staying in one of these villages is a fantastic way to truly experience Ireland, not to mention sample unique local delicacies and great food. Staying in a local bed and breakfast will also save you a lot of money since they are significantly cheaper than hotels.

Waterford Greenway

If you enjoy hiking, then Waterford Greenway is worth visiting. Like the other destinations featured on this list, you do not need a ticket, you can just turn up and begin enjoying Ireland.

This walking track is a 28-mile track, formerly a railway line. If you intend on following it, then it is a good idea to bring a map along with you, just so you can find your way back to Waterford (from where it starts) along a different route. Hiking back to the city on the same route out is no fun.

Wild Atlantic Way

This list’s last suggestion (and another driving route) is the Wild Atlantic Way, which stretches for over 1,000 miles. The route is very popular with motorbike drivers, in particular.

You can also cycle along this route, although it is worth bearing in mind that it is a very busy road, so if you are an inexperienced cyclist or are unfamiliar with European cycling, then it may not be a good idea.

You could rent a car and drive along the route though, stopping at each village.

Ireland is a great place for a family vacation because it has so much to offer.

The destinations outlined in this post are only the tip of the iceberg, there is so much more.  If you haven’t visited before, then now’s the time to.