For a real taste of Irish culture and history, head to one of the many picturesque towns or villages that dot the landscape of Ireland. The Conde Nast Traveller has compiled a list of Ireland’s most charming towns and villages. Here are twelve of the most enchanting small towns and villages in Ireland:
Doolin
Aside from being the main setting of the Folklore role-playing game, Doolin, a coastal village in County Kerry, is also famous for its seaside location. This is where three ferry lines leave for the Aran Islands. You can even see them from the seaside village. The town also has a number of great shops and restaurants, including the famous O’Connors Pub.
Visiting Doolin means experiencing the heart of Irish traditional music. The town is internationally known as a center of Irish live music. It is home to world-renowned whistle player Micho Russell, whose legacy is celebrated each February. Doolin is an ideal destination for a quiet getaway, yet it is close enough to explore both the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. There is something for everyone in Doolin.
A visit to Doolin is a wonderful way to spend a day exploring the surrounding area. The town itself is divided into three areas: Fisher Street, Roadford, and Doolin Harbour. Each area is about a ten to twenty-minute walk from the other. In addition, Doolin is home to three world-famous Irish pubs, Gus O’Connor’s, McDermott’s, and McGann’s. Music is played nightly at all three places, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Despite its small size, Doolin has plenty of places to stay. Be aware, however, that some accommodations may fill up fast. Therefore, booking your accommodation well in advance is best regardless of the season. There are also a number of options in neighboring villages that are close to Doolin. The official website of the village also contains a list of local accommodations. And, for those who prefer to travel by ferry, Doolin is a convenient destination.
Eyeries
The tranquil village of Eyeries is tucked away in the foothills of the Slieve Miskish mountains, making it the perfect spot for those who seek peace and tranquillity. This village is a popular haunt for artists and craftspeople with colorful houses and narrow streets. Traditional pubs and several walking trails also pass through the area. During its annual family festival, the town’s population surges.
The town of Eyeries is on the Wild Atlantic Way, just a few miles south of Kenmare. It is an ideal base for exploring the rugged mountain scenery and rich archaeological heritage. The village also boasts an annual festival called the Eyeries Family Festival, which draws many visitors. Other amenities in the village include a bistro, two pubs, four shops, a petrol station, and a health center. There is also a playground, sensory garden, and local mountain and coastal walking trails.
The village of Eyeries is the setting for several movies, including The Purple Taxi, starring Peter Ustinov, Charlotte Rampling, and Fred Astaire. The village is also the setting for a TV show, Falling For a Dancer, filmed in the town. You can also visit the village’s historical sites, which include a fort and a castle. A visit to Eyeries will be an unforgettable experience.
Doolin’s Cave
Doolin’s Cave is a unique natural wonder, 200 feet underground. Discover the wonders of nature and water in this fantasy-like world. Explore the cathedral-like dome, the largest stalactite in Europe, and the 7.3-meter-long Great Stalactite. Thousands of years of human habitation sealed the Cave from outside the world. Discover this natural wonder in Doolin’s Cave Village!
While visiting Doolin’s Cave Village, be sure to take the time to explore its surrounding area. Its quaint, colorful, and interesting town center are all worth a visit. Nearby Doolin, you can also visit the Doonagore Castle, a 16th-century tower house. You can explore the Doolin Cave and Visitor Center, which has the world’s largest stalactite, measuring 23 feet just four kilometers from the town center.
If you are planning a day trip to Doolin, you should be aware that the town is not easily accessible by train. Doolin is situated on the Wild Atlantic Way, about three hours from Dublin and about 90 minutes from Galway. Traveling by car is the best way to reach Doolin, so book a rental car and a GPS for navigation. If you are nervous about driving, you can take a bus or hire a private driver. This is especially recommended for small groups and families.
A day trip to Doolin is the perfect way to see the Cliffs of Moher and the surrounding countryside. It is a challenging yet rewarding experience. You can explore the cliffs on your own or hire a local guide to take you along. The hike lasts about three hours and will take you through the picturesque countryside. Once you’ve hiked the Cliffs of Moher, be sure to visit the Burren.
Crossmaglen
The IRA is a popular local icon in Crossmaglen, Ireland, which stands in the townland of the same name. It is located approximately eight miles northwest of Dundalk and fourteen miles southwest of Newry in County Armagh. Crossmaglen’s land boundary with the Republic of Ireland is less than two miles away. The town also shares a southern border with County Louth. The IRA fought the British with vigor and fervor during the Troubles.
Post-Brexit tariffs on farm produce will prevent competition between dairies in the south, leading to better product prices. In addition, the increased presence of checkpoints on incoming roads will cause customers to move elsewhere. Despite the increased traffic, the looming video cameras and watchtowers have had profound emotional and physical impacts. Locals say that re-establishing a border would be like scrambling an egg. Some of them carry two currencies.
Some town residents privately deplore the violence. Some feel intimidated about speaking out about it, however. One man, in particular, John Fee, was severely beaten by men in hoods after criticizing the IRA. Although the IRA denied responsibility, Fee knows who is behind the assault. Therefore, it is imperative that he be able to speak freely to the public about his experiences. While the IRA may be incompetent and unreliable, its members are vital to the country’s security.
Donegal Town
Donegal Town is located in the northwest of Ireland. The town features a Jacobean period addition to the Donegal Castle from the fifteenth century. Visit the Four Masters Memorial obelisk, which honors the four scribes of a Franciscan friary nearby. Also, visit the Donegal Railway Heritage Centre to see rail memorabilia in an old station house. Donegal Bay is home to seals, cormorants, and cranes.
Donegal Town is a major tourist destination in northwest Ireland. The town’s geographic location gives visitors easy access to many Neolithic sites, the Atlantic Ocean, and the famed Irish Islands. In addition to its many attractions, visitors can enjoy the town’s unique culture and cosmopolitan offerings. There are plenty of things to do in Donegal Town, including hiking, deep-sea fishing, and relaxing on the beaches.
The city was once home to a royal family, the O’Donnells. They ruled Tir Chonaill in west Ulster and opposed the English colonization of Ireland. The town also contains the ruins of the ancient Donegal Castle and a medieval abbey dating back to the fifteenth century. You can tour the buildings and view famine graves. In addition, Donegal Town has a diverse range of art and crafts that you can buy.
There are many things to do in Donegal Town. For example, you can visit two of the town’s pottery factories and find a trad music session there. The town is also home to the excellent Glencolmcille Folk Village. Moreover, you can attend the annual Ballyshannon International Folk and Traditional Music Festival, which takes place in August. You can also admire the towering St Conal’s Church, which overlooks the bay.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny has much to offer if you’re interested in the history of this vibrant, medieval Irish town. During your stay, make sure you check out the city’s museums. The National Design and Craft Gallery, Ireland’s premier contemporary art center, displays the works of Irish and international designers. Explore the galleries’ ever-changing exhibitions and enjoy a cup of coffee and cake. After you’ve had your fill of Kilkenny, take a stroll along the Medieval Mile discovery trail, which winds past museums and quaint old stables.
The Medieval Mile is a scenic discovery path that links the city’s top sights. Purchase a pass to gain access to all the sights for a reasonable price. From Dublin, Kilkenny is a short train or bus ride away. You can find a variety of restaurants, pubs, and other accommodations in this picturesque Irish town. And, if you’re looking for a fun night out, Kilkenny is the perfect place for you.
The historic Black Abbey, a medieval church that was home to the Dominican Order, or Blackfriars, is another popular site. This ancient place of worship boasts a massive round tower, complete with crenellations. In fact, it’s the oldest structure in Kilkenny City and is home to Ireland’s only public-access round tower. Finally, visit the Black Abbey, the oldest Dominican priory, to see the original stained glass. It was built in 1225 and played a major role in saving the Irish Catholic religion.