linda8

I know NOTHING about Ireland. Going to take our first trip to Europe in Sept., and it will be Ireland. We will have only about 7-10 days. Recommendations on the prettiest places to see? THANKS!
Linda

cambe

Hi linda,

Not quite sure what you mean by pretty? The most popular places in Ireland on this board are the Western areas. I personally don't like that area of Ireland as it is barren and rugged and IMO , with a few exceptions, is not what I would call pretty (lots & lots of people love it and they may disagree).

If you want pretty go to West Cork, Kinsale, Co Wicklow (Vale of Avoca, Eniskerry, Glendalough etc.), South Dublin, The Lakes of Fermanagh, Co Wexford, South Down Coast, Co Waterford.

There are many more but these areas are more lush and IMO very pretty.

Enjoy you holiday in Ireland.

Helen

Indygirl2

Linda, that's a pretty broad question and, in my opinion, a subjective one. Ireland's not a big country, but there are far too many "pretty places" to name without some parameters. Where are you staying while in Ireland and how are you getting around once you're there? Also, I would encourage you to look at a guidebook or two--there lots of really good ones--to get an idea of what you want to see and do so that your decision is based on what's appealing to you, not us. Ireland is a wonderful place so you can't go too wrong, but in my experience, I get much more out of my European trips when I have done my research, i.e., when I have at least a loose itinerary and know something about what I'm seeing. Otherwise, I tend to flail around a bit too much without much direction.

Worktowander

Inishowen Peninsula. Aran Islands. Donegal.

Have a great trip!

hopingtotravel

Check out some travel videos from your library and note whether you would like to see the Cliffs of Moher, or the gardens of Powerscourt, or the harbor at Kinsale, etc. Ireland's many beauties are different for different people. I liked the Bantry Bay; my husband preferred Connemara. They are on opposite sides of the country!

Ozarksbill

Pretty places? How about Yellowstone or Amalfi or the Ozarks? Or the Alps or Lke Lugano or Big Sur? Seriously, why not take in some history and culture while in Ireland. Oh yes, the music in pubs.

Yes, the West country is rugged and the castles impressive. And there is green all over Ireland which may startle you if you are from Texas. I love the horses and sheep grazing. And of course standing atop Tara with the wind blowing to fire up my imagination of Celtic times. And at Glendalough where once before the time of cities such monastic settlements were the center of civilization.

ozarksbill
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linda8

I realize this was a broad question.
I do like hills, and trees. And pretty, old buildings. And cute little villages.
Thanks.

linda8

ttt

LisasinSA

Hello Linda. My husband and I were in Ireland in May. Glendalough is truly gorgeous and shouldn't be missed. Powerscourt House and Gardens, not too far from Dublin, is stunning. We wandered around for a good few hours, but I could have spent the day there. Other beauty highlights were Cobh, Kinsale, Kenmare, Cliffs of Moher (hated the crowds though) and Kilkenny was a lovely little town (don't miss the Black Abbey) that we are sure to visit again.
Hope that helps.
Lisa.

linda8

Thanks!
Castles, also?
Linda