Southern Ireland: My Top 7 Places to Visit
The green countryside, dramatic coastlines, spectacular touristic sides and friendly residents make Southern Ireland an attractive destination in Europe. It may not be a part as popular as, the North, where the well-known Cliffs of Moher are located. However, it doesn’t mean that it’s less pleasing and intriguing.
I decided one day to take my mom and sister, who live in Ireland, on a short weekend trip along the Southern coast of Ireland. And I have to admit, it was a sweet surprise! I found the countryside so mesmerizing. Driving through adorable seaside towns and stopping along the way to admire the beauty of small Irish villages, was an unforgettable experience.
Here is a list of my 7 top places to visit in Southern Ireland!
1. Cobh
Cobh is a bright spot on the Ireland’s map!
This picturesque seaport town attracts lots of visitors for its famous ”Deck of Cards”, a row of colorful houses stacked up on a steep hill and the St. Colman’s Cathedral. It is very unique and like no other town in Southern Ireland.
Interesting fact is that Cobh was the last port call for Titanic. The White Star Line Ticket Office, from where the last 123 Irish passengers departed that day, is now the Titanic Experience Cobh. You can step back in time and learn more about how and why the legendary Titanic sank on that fateful night and experience conditions on board.
2. St. Finbarrs Oratory
Gougane Barra is a perfect example that the Irish countryside can surprise!
St. Finbarrs Oratory is a small magical chapel set on an island in the beautiful scenery of Gougane Barra National Forest Park in Southern Ireland.
Surrounded by pretty lake, lush bush and connected to the mainland by a causeway, it is like a secluded oasis of calm and beauty. Fun fact is that the attractively located church became a popular wedding spot in Ireland. It is said, that to be married here, Irish need to wait for years.
3. Kerry Cliffs
Kerry Cliffs are the Kerry’s most magnificent cliffs and the most famous cliffs in Southern Ireland.
Once I reached the top of the 300m hill, the view just took my breath away. When walking along the cliff path, you can easily spot the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island. Kerry Cliffs is home to thousands of birds, what make this place a very popular bird watching spot in Southern Ireland.
The Kerry cliffs were formed over 400 million years ago.
4. Cork
Elegant yet easygoing, welcome to Ireland’s largest city!
Cork is located on the banks of the River Lee and is home to 30 iconic bridges. Despite being a city, I found it a very relaxing place. A trip to Cork can delight you with its welcoming residents, art galleries, museums, fantastic restaurants and charming coffee shops. Take the time to wander around the city and do it on foot. Walk along the banks of the river, discover the unique bridges and soak up the city’s buzzing atmosphere!
5. Killarney
Killarney is a popular tourist destination located on the Ring of Kerry iconic drive in Southern Ireland.
Surrounded by National Parkland and three beautiful lakes and the highest mountain peaks, it offers a real taste of the Irish countryside. My favorite part is the Ross Castle situated on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney. The bay, set in the front of the castle, is lined with plenty of colorful boats that creating a pleasant atmosphere here!
6. Kinsale
Kinsale is an adorable fishing town located in Country Cork. Famous for its historic port, it provides dolphin and whale watching tours, sailing trips and yacht charters. So, with a bunch of leisure activities, you will never get bored here! Kinsale is also full of small cozy pubs, restaurants and colorful houses, which allow you to experience and feel the authentic Ireland.
7. Valentia Island
What a pleasant surprise at the end of the route! One of Ireland’s best kept secret!
Valentia Island was the last place, we visited on our trip along the south coast of Ireland. It is one of Ireland’s most westerly points, which lies in the Southwest of Country Kerry. Without a doubt, Valentia Island is a true off the beaten track destination in Ireland. This is a wild place where nature rules.
Surrounded only by cheerful sheep, cows and goats, I felt like on the remote island. We decided to stay here overnight and we found the most amazing little house!
It was the coziest evening ever! We were drinking hot chocolate, talking and looking at the fire burned in the fireplace.
During the day, I truly recommend to discover the beautiful land and visit the Valentia Lighthouse at Cromwell Point.
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