We select six destinations that groups should have on their list when visiting the green isle.
1. Cliffs of Moher
One of the most visited natural attractions in Ireland boasts cliffs that soar from the Atlantic over 200m into the heavens. Enjoy viewing platforms at the cliffs which give you vistas for miles or climb O’Brien’s Tower on the headland which offers views across to Hags Head and Doolin.
2. Galway
Arguably a city that trumps Dublin for its craic and its rich pub scene. A young, student-led vibe permeates this western oasis, which is also justifiably famous for its oysters. Group activities in Galway can include a visit to Galway City Museum, Galway Market, Galway Cathedral and a trip to Merlin Woods.
3. Achill Island
A wild western isle that is handily reachable across a wee bridge. A glorious necklace of white sand beaches and a crumple of mountains await by day, with groups building up an appetite for the local salmon and lamb later. Known as the adventure island, there’s plenty to keep you busy, from horse-riding, to cycling, to guided walks or motor tours. You can also try kayaking, scuba diving, kite surfing or paddle boarding.
4. Kilkenny
The star of this inland city is its ‘Medieval Mile’, which connects Kilkenny Castle to its cathedral in a brilliant blaze of history. The Smithwick’s Experience is a superbly executed rival to Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse. When in Kilkenny, visit Kilkenny castle, The Medieval Mile Museum, St Canice’s Cathedral as well as plenty to walking routes and markets.
5. Blarney Castle
The phrase ‘Talking Blarney’ hails from here and you can come to kiss the famous Blarney Stone to take your own craic up a level. The six hundred year old castle is the real attraction. The castle and gardens are open all year round. The gardens include a Poison Garden, Arboretum, Bog Garden, and Himalayan Walk among other interesting areas.
6. Donegal
If you are after the gnarly, sparsely populated wildscape of Irish folklore and your own dreams you have just found it in this northern outpost. Groups won’t forget spotting whales off Malin Head in a hurry. As Ireland’s second-largest county there’s plenty to do when visiting. Parts of Star Wars Episode VIII were filmed here too, so film fans will want to spot the locations used, for hikers, head up the Bluestack Mountains or discover the folklore surrounding Tory Island.
