Adventures in Ireland
Experience Ireland's nature
Ireland is a land of pristine nature with steep cliffs, deep blue lakes, and lush green meadows. With its breathtaking landscapes and a plethora of outdoor activities, Ireland offers the perfect trip for adventure seekers.
In this post, we explore the diverse opportunities that make Ireland an ideal destination for an active vacation.
From majestic rock walls for climbing or hiking to picturesque coasts for surfing or kitesurfing, from a beautiful kayaking tour with fascinating marine wildlife to thrilling mountain biking adventures in Ireland's nature—Ireland has something for every active traveler. Immerse yourself in the stunning Irish landscape, discover fascinating cultures, and experience unforgettable Irish adventures.
Camping and hiking rules in Ireland
- Wild camping and free-standing are generally not allowed in Ireland, as most land is privately owned. However, you can seek permission from the landowner, who usually has no problem with overnight stays if you behave considerately.
- Respect for nature is essential, which includes not disposing of garbage and wastewater in the wild.
- In some national parks, wild camping and bivouacking are officially permitted.
- Open fires are prohibited in most national parks, but a smokeless petrol or gas stove can be used without issue.
- Camping sites often have designated fire pits.
- Avoid drinking water from streams or rivers with reddish or brownish hues, as this typically comes from high moorlands.
Destinations for adventure holidays in Ireland
The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland's most famous and scenic coastal roads. The panoramic route is approximately 180 kilometers long. It is advisable to plan for several days, as there are up to 50 attractions waiting to be discovered along the way.
The coastal route typically begins in Killarney, a true tourist hub. From there, it winds through dense forests until reaching Kenmare. After that, you occasionally catch glimpses of the sea through the trees. From Castlecove to Waterville, you drive through one of the most beautiful coastal sections.
Afterward, you will see only the picturesque interior until you reach Kells, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the coast. From there, the route continues to Glenbeigh, where a narrow dune landscape stretches for several kilometers into the ocean. The journey then leads through the interior back to Killarney, where the tour concludes.
You can drive the scenic coastal road yourself by car or take a day trip on a tour bus.
Typically, the Ring of Kerry is driven clockwise, while bus tours operate counterclockwise. This agreement was made years ago to avoid difficulties when passing each other on the narrow roads.
Carrick-a-Rede suspension bridge
Carrick-a-Rede refers to a hanging bridge over 250 years old that connects Carrick Island to the mainland. It is located in Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom. The bridge hangs 30 meters high and is 20 meters long. The swaying motion makes crossing it a definite adrenaline rush. The walk to the bridge takes about 15 minutes and follows a fairly steep path.
After crossing the bridge, you can explore the island and its original fishing site. Following the visit, you can reflect on the experience at the Weighbridge Tea-Room with a hot drink and a snack.
The bridge originally served a practical purpose for fishermen, who used nets to catch salmon on the island. It was only put up during the peak season from June to August. Back then, the bridge had a single handrail and wooden planks with large gaps between them. Today, it is much safer, with handrails on both sides and side nets ensuring a secure crossing.
If you have the nerve to cross the bridge, it is best to book a ticket in advance. This excursion can be perfectly combined with your next travel destination.
Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986. It is located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Here, you can see over 40,000 basalt columns, formed more than 60 million years ago due to volcanic eruptions.
The remarkable columns stretch over five kilometers along the north coast of Ireland. About half of them have a hexagonal cross-section, while the other half consists of four, five, seven, or eight sides. These extraordinary formations extend across the seabed to Scotland.
Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site is free of charge. However, there is a fee for parking. You can also buy a ticket online in advance, which includes an audio guide, free parking, and access to the visitor center.
From the visitor center, you can take two hikes. The first trail is Shepherd’s Steps, which is 4 kilometers long and takes about 1.5 hours. This trail offers stunning views of the bays and headlands.
Conclusion: Adventure on the Emerald Isle
Ireland offers unforgettable opportunities for an active holiday amidst stunning natural scenery. The diversity of landscapes and outdoor activities provides endless options for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. Dive in and experience unforgettable days.
Has the travel bug bitten you, and are you ready for a new adventure?
Here, you can learn more about the toll system on Irish highways to ensure you are well-prepared for your journey.