With images as the new way to communicate, passionate shutterbugs are constantly hunting for beguiling spots. In this photography guide to the Eire land, we save you some time and embark you on a picturesque journey across the Emerald Isle.
Charge your battery, pack your camera, get your selfie-stick; it’s time to shoot some of the most Instagrammable places in the world: Ireland!
The 2,600km of coastal Wild Atlantic Way is a no brainer in terms of natural spectacles and, every bite of the enchanting Ring of Kerry is worth a shot. Thousands of lakes, castles, viewpoints and ruins are dispersed along roads and walking routes. Ireland is both a dreamland to explorers and a Muse to creators.
With man-made wonders, unique fauna and natural phenomena, the country surely hides exciting treasures. The following list will steer you towards 30 of the best spots to take pictures in Ireland.
#1 The Iconic Cliffs of Moher
Let us begin this series with the most acclaimed attraction of the country. The Cliff of Moher, located near Lahinch in County Clare, stretches for over 14 kilometres and welcomes an average of 1.5 million visitors per year.
Perched between 120 and 240 metres, this UNESCO Global Geopark offers awe-inspiring vistas over the Aran Islands. More than 20 breeds of birds, including the endearing Atlantic puffin and the elegant lesser auk, share the rugged lands along with feral goats, weasels and red foxes. The ocean, on its side, is home to dolphins, grey seals and minke whales.
If time allows, four scenic trails are tracking the rock face route. Hike through lush green landscapes, wild terrain and
- 6km from Liscannor to Moher Sports Field
- 1km from Moher Sports Field to Hags Head
- 5km from Hags Head to the Visitor Centre
- 8km from O’Brien’s Tower to Doolin
Stationed to the base of the Cliff of Moher, Aileen Wave deserves its own space on your SD card. Scientists declared it as the nearest wonder to the “perfect wave.”
Location: Liscannor, County Clare, Ireland
#2 The Imperial Rock of Cashel
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Erected at the top of sedimentary rocks, this Celtic and medieval site, also known as Cashel of the Kings, was a Munster territory. Built in the 12th century, this historical locus gathers the highest number of visitors annually (in its category). The whereabouts embody a 28-metre round tower, the Cormac’s Chapel, the High Cross, the Hall of the Vicars Choral, a roofless Cathedral and a bewitching graveyard. Legends tell that the Rock of Cashel was primarily based in the Devil’s Bit Mountain, about 30km away from its current position. Its repositioning was the result of the eviction of Beelzebub from a cave by Saint Patrick.
Location: Moor, Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland
#3 A Hike to Glendalough Upper Lake
Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park nearby the 6th-century monastic settlement, Glendalough Upper Lake can be reached via three self-guided walking paths of the Wicklow Way:
- The Miners’ Road Walk is a 5km trail that passes through dense Scots forests and the ruins of an old collier village. Feral goats and peregrine falcons can be spotted on the journey.
- Poulanass and St. Kevin’s Cell is a valuable and steep 1km-jaunt. Penetrate the Oak woods to reach the plunge pool of the Poulanass Waterfall. At the end of the trail, 600 wooden stairs will escort you to the sweeping views of the lake and the valley.
- Last but not least, the Spinc and Glenealo Valley loop is a 9km-hike. This 3-hour dramatic trek will also lead you to the cascade as well as the breath-taking outlook of Glendalough Upper Lake. From the top, look for the deer as you start your descent? to the wetlands and grasslands.
Location: Near Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains National Park
#4 The Unerring Dunquin Harbour
The Dingle peninsula, a Gaeltacht region (Irish-speaking region) is a 47-km photo gem. Slea Head, Basket Islands, Mount Brandon, Dingle Bay and Gallarus Oratory all deserve a snap as they display their wildest facets.
Dunquin Pier, on its side, has something truly special. It might come from the sunset views over the islands and the turquoise waters underneath. If you’re lucky, you might witness the shepherd bringing his cattle (by boat) to shore and the dolphins playing in the water. Sublime moment to capture in your camera.
Location: Ballyickeen Commons, County Kerry, Ireland
#5 Carrauntoohil, the Highest Mountain in Ireland
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Surrounded by the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range, Carrauntoohil stands at 1,039 meters and is the highest peak in Ireland. Made of Old Red Sandstone, it is surrounded by crests, cirques and u-shaped hollows.
To reach the top, where erects a 5-meter steel cross, you’ll have to go through a 12 to 13km vigorous but spellbinding hike via:
- The touristic Devil’s Ladder, 12km. The fastest and most popular route crosses the Gaddagh River and an open valley with lakes on each side.
- The safe and scenic Brother O’Shea’s Gully, 13km. This route is an excellent substitute if you want to avoid the crowd. It passes next to the river, views of Hag’s Tooth Ridge, Lough (loch) Gaddagh and Cummeenoughter, Ireland’s highest lake.
- The sensational Caher route, 13km. Ascend a second peak on the way, cross over lakes as Lough Eighter or Coomloughra Lough and, take as many photos as you can.
Location: County Kerry, Ireland
#6 Ballymastocker Strand, a European Paradise
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This standpoint awards with magnetizing seascapes over the Fanad Peninsula, Murren Hill, and Ballymastocker Strand, voted “2nd Most Beautiful Beach in the World” (right after the tropical Seychelles) by The Observer.
After your shooting session (you’re welcome), drive down to the Blue Flag sandy beach, relax by the calm waters or stretch your legs by strolling from Portsalon Pier to Magherawardan. The more adventurous can go on a canoe or kayak tour, learn surfing, horse-ride or play some golf.
If you love beaches (and while you are still in County Donegal), you should stop at Inch Strand, a 5km sandy seashore looking over the sumptuous Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas.
Address: R268, Magherawardan, County Donegal
#7 Winter Solstice in Newgrange
Newgrange is a wonderful spot to take photos at any time of the year. These Neolithic monuments, dating back to 3,200BC, were supposedly erected for spiritual purposes. Hypnotising Megalithic arts covers the stones when 97 kerbstones encompass the construction.
Few days per annum (and of course, if the weather collaborates), at dawn, a magical phenomenon takes place within its chambers and passage. The skylight passes through the ‘roof box,’ an opening above the doorway, to illuminate the 19-meter hallway.
Note: Every September, a lottery chooses 60 people that can go within the premises at solstice; contact Brú Na Bóinne Visitor Centre to participate.
Location: Newgrange, Donore, County Meath
#8 The Majestic Fanad Lighthouse
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Situated in the Wild Atlantic Way, near a village of 700 inhabitants, between Mulroy Bay and Lough Swilly (a glacial fjord), the Fanad Lighthouse is a human-made wonder.
This spot will provide you with a splendiferous series of snapshots as the composition is perfect from every angle. Walk down the stairs and take a minute to do some sea-gazing, you might catch sight of some marine mammals.
If the magic worked and you need more, you can hop on a helicopter at sunset, fly above Donegal’s coastal region and sleep over at the Light keeper’s house. If fortune shines upon you, the Northern Lights might put on a show.
Address: Cionn Fhánada, Eara Thíre na Binne, Baile Láir, Letterkenny, County Donegal
#9 The Northern Lights, a merry dancer show
A photograph of the Northern Lights with shades of green and pink is a flawless instant to capture. People travel from all around the world to chase the Aurora Borealis in Islandia (Iceland). However, did you know that the same phenomenon (and for a friendlier budget) occurs in several of our unpolluted skies?
Based at the border with the polar circle, Inishowen Peninsula combines the three main ingredients for a successful Northern Light experience. The sun conditions are impeccable; the arctic skies are clear and the light pollution inexistent. Malin Head, the most northerly point in (mainland) Ireland and therefore, is the most renowned site.
Moville, the Rosguil Peninsula and Mamore Gap are three other foolproof areas in Donegal. You should also bookmark Dunree Head in Ulster, Belmullet in Mayo and, Mullaghmore in Sligo on your maps.
Location: North of County Donegal
#10 Bioluminescence Lights of Baile an Sceilg
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If you are interested in photographing Natural Phenomenon, another awesome spectacle appears under the dark heavens of Ballinskelligs. When the sun sets, the water takes over and mystically lights up with hues of cerulean blue.
The planktons/algae, also known as dinoflagellates, are responsible for the occurrence. They are what we could call “organic solar panels”. They receive this glowing energy from the daily sun and release it with moving and choppy waves in the darkness.
Derrynane, Lough Hyne in West Cork (the country’s 1st Marine Nature Reserve) also offer excellent shows.
If you feel the urge to get closer, you can tour the bay or the loch with a kayak.
Location: South-West of Iveragh Peninsula, County Kerry
#11 The Trees of Gougane Barra Forest
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Gougane Barra Forest is worthy of Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting worlds. These 400 hectares (1,000 acres) encompasses a ravishing and astonishing woodland where a lush-green moss invasion took place.
Indeed, clumps of the flowerless plants have coated the entire forest. They exquisitely buried the grounds, blanketed the rocks and started climbing the Spruce trees with grace. When the sky is clear, and the sun is out, light shafts penetrate the canopy and enlightens this otherworldly environment.
To reach this supernatural spot, take the Sli Doire na Coise path, a 1.8km loop that leads to Lough Gougane and a magnificent 19th-century oratory.
There are five other short trails with great photo opportunities in the forest park:
- Sli Laoi, 1.3km. Walk through the valley until its head and, meet the River Lee on the way.
- Sli Ghaorthaidh, a brief and easy walk to relax and observe some wildlife.
- Sli Com Rua, red sandstones, giant trees and a wooden walkway leads to a vantage point.
- Sli Sleibthe, 2.4 vigorous kilometres with vistas overlooking the vale, the lake and the woodlands.
- Sli an Easa, 1.8km. An arduous jaunt that’s worth the waterfall.
Location: Coomroe, County Cork
#12 Lake Views in Gap of Dunloe
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Listed in National Geographic “picture-perfect” series, the Gap of Dunloe is a 25,000-year-old natural formation that isolates MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in the country, from the Purple Mountain Group. The River Loe connects five lakes and leads to the Wishing Bridge; a picturesque spot where dreams come true. It flows in the mountain-pass and feeds the electric-green grass. When the waters are calm, the unblemished and eye-catching reflection of the surrounding Sierra makes a peerless photograph.
You can trek, cart, cycle, pony-ride or drive the gap. Rock climbers can venture on Bothán (one of the top 5 bouldering area in Ireland) and have a remarkable and unusual view over Augher Lake.
Location: County Kerry, Ireland
#13 Splashy Style in Cobh
Cobh is a colourful seaport municipality. It was the final port of call before the RMS Titanic incident and was also the exodus point to North America of 2.5 million emigrants.
The houses, behind the port, are painted with various tints and are beautifully lined up along the hill. The Neo-Gothic Cathedral Church of St Colman and its 49 bells culminates the elevation at the back, where the sun rises.
The top of the hill is a terrific sector to take the ultimate shot of the town.
If you have a passion for shades and architecture, then you will also love the kaleidoscopic Kinsale, the polychromatic Galway and the band of colour in Eyeries Village. Even under the rain, this place is like a burst of eternal sunshine.
Location: Island near Cork City Harbour
#14 Killary Harbour, the One and Only Irish Fjord
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The only fjord in Ireland is nestled in the northern part of Connemara. Mountain ranges (Maumturks, Mweelrea and the Twelve Bens) and islands offer natural protection to the enthralling landscapes. Killary Harbour drops to 45 meters at its most profound and is 16 kilometres long. You can choose to hike, kayak or boat tour the enclosed area.
From the water levels, you’ll witness the greatness of the scenery and get close to the playful seals and dolphins. A must for wildlife photographers.
From the grounds, take off the four Diamonds Hill trails and photograph the very best of Connemara National Park:
- Ellis Wood Nature, 0.5km, a green setting that leads to a waterfall
- Sruffaunboy Nature Trail, 1.5km, a soothing walk with panoramas over Ballinakill Harbour, Tully Mountain and Diamond Hill
- Lower Diamond Hill, 3km, a modest climb with world-class sights.
- Upper Diamond Hill, 7.5km, a beguiling scene of the earth from above
If you don’t mind a longer ride, reach the spot through the scenic Doolough Valley.
#15 Bunratty Castle, a Medieval Greatness
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Bunratty was built in 1425 and is situated by the Ratty River. It is the most complete castle in the Emerald Isle. The construction details and the views from every corner are fantastic.
From the south, you will be able to capture the ancestral bridge leading to the gargantuan Tower House. At dusk, the fort enlightens and reveals its mirror image above the still waterway. Set up your camera as the moon rises at the back.
If you are interested, you can visit the folk park, an outdoor museum that has over 30 monuments spread across its 19.5 hectares (26 acres) land. Reconstruction, banquet, rural farmhouses, 450 items of Medieval furniture, and one of the biggest walled garden in the country.
Address: Bunratty West, Bunratty, County Clare
#16 The Seraphic Skellig Michael
The ‘sceilig’ (steep rock) islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was shaped over 300 million years ago. Named after the archangel Michael, the bigger of the two islands has two conical pinnacles, with the highest (named the Spit) at 218 metres. The Great Skellig embodies 21.8 hectares (54 acres) of crags and rugged lands. From the boat, the twin peaks are both overwhelming and spellbinding. The perspective of the isle, with the waves crashing at the bottom, is a powerful reminder of our smallness. A pure moment to picture.
At the highest pyramidal crest, lies a cloistered settlement built in the 6th century. The hermitage site itself is captivating, camera-ready and worth the trip.
Due to the Great Skelligs’ seclusion, wildlife is plentiful. From April to August, seabird colonies (with over 4’000 Atlantic puffin), nest in their ideal breeding spot. Little Skellig, on its side, is home to over 27,000 pairs of gannets, the 2nd largest settlement in the world. Grey seals, minke whales, basking sharks and lute turtles occupy the waters.
Location: Atlantic Ocean
#17 The Vertiginous Ring of Aran
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The ring of Aran is an enlightening 2 to 6 hours walk/bicycle-ride of Inis Mor, in the Aran Islands. The seascape is dazzling all along the way. Your photoshoot will start with the vertiginous Worm Hole, a natural oblong pool used in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. The site remains dramatically powerful at any weather. The sun reveals every detail of the abyss when the harsh weather unleashes the power of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Fifteen minutes from there, along with the bluff edge, is Dún Aonghasa, a primitive dry stone construction protected by a 700BC safety system. The prehistorical spot found base at the top of a 90-metre cliff and dates back to the Bronze and Iron ages. The boisterous swells crash all the way up on gusty days, an awe-inspiring opportunity for striking shots.
If you find the strength or have several days ahead of you, the South of the island hides secluded and majestic Puffing Holes.
Address: Kilmurvy, Inis Mor, Aran Islands, County Galway, Ireland
#18 Sliabh Liag, one of Ireland best-kept secret.
Slieve League Cliffs are incomprehensibly unexplored. The rock face plunges beyond 600 metres; over three times deeper than its southern neighbour, the Cliff of Moher. Follow the Sliabh Liag View Walk all the way to Bunglas viewpoint. From there, you will get the broadest overview of this hidden gem of wilderness.
The adventure should stop here if you are not a seasoned hiker or afraid of heights. Otherwise, the One Man’s Path is a risky but worthy occasion for a dizzying snapshot. Indeed, the narrow trail brings you on a venture above 500 metre high.
The Pilgrim Path, another spectacular but safer walk, kicks off in Teileann.
If you are a cliff aficionado, Mizen Head in Cork are striking and merit the detour.
Location: Cappagh, County Donegal, Ireland
#19 The Beloved Ha’penny bridge
The nicknamed Ha’penny Bridge is a cast carbon pedestrian overpass built in 1816. It was the earliest construction that allowed people to cross the River Liffey. To do so, Dubliners had to pay a toll of half a penny. Officially called the Liffey Bridge, the connection popularly evolved to its current name.
Despite the restoration, the sensual arch ribs are a memorial of the time that has passed. Their image is a guarantee of an outstanding ageless shot.
Ormond and Wellington Quays, the flat Millenium Bridge and the Woolen Mill restaurant are ideal areas to set up your tripod for a full frame. At night, Irish favourite colour illumines the curves underneath the walkway and reflect in the water.
If you also have a passion for modern constructions, the cable-stayed Samuel Beckett Bridge is at walking distance.
Address: Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin,
#20 Trinity Library, the Flawless Long Room
Built in 1592, the Library of Trinity College Dublin is to the handwritten 9th-century gospel Books of Kells, the 15th century Brian Boru oak harp and, the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.
The institution records a printed copy of every book published in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Erected in 1732, the Long Room is 65 metres long, 12 meters high and exhibits a collection of over 200,000 of Ireland oldest written texts. When you search for the building on Google images, every single picture of the Athenaeum is hypnotising. It probably comes from the wooden and polished structure or from the arches overhanging the endless hallway. The infinite number of books and their repositories contrasting with the 38 white marble busts accentuate the psychedelic feel.
Address: Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2.
Opening hours: Every day from 8:30AM to 5PM, except Sundays 9:30 to 5PM.
#21 Casted Away, when Shipwrecks Become Artwork
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Since the 16th century, there are pieces of evidence of around 18,000 shipwrecks in Ireland. However, most of them are lost in unknown locations. The “Wreck Viewer,” created by the Irish Government, is a rough map with 3,554 estimated positions of drifted and submerged boat remains. The two following records are:
In 1974, severe thunderstorms moved the MV Trader to shore. Since then, it became a point of reference for lensmen and amateurs. Indeed, the disappearing wreckage proudly stands on the arenaceous Baltray beach, fighting the daily ocean currents.
Even though most of it has been wiped out by the dominant nature, the crumbles are still marvellous to photograph. If you manage to be there when the sunset matches the low tide, you’ll get a spectacular shot.
Location: Baltray, County Louth
Cara Na Mara, also called Bád Eddie (“Eddie’s Boat”) translates as “Friend of the Sea.” The shipwreck faces the Gaeltacht village keeping the sea at the back. The iconic wooden-crafted boat that ran ashore in the ’70s was featured in the 1985 Clannad & Bono song, “In a Lifetime.” This made-in-France derelict erects as a whalebone structure. Sand patterns reveal with the ebb of the waters. Blue skies allow Mount Errigal to pose as the backdrop.
Address: Strand Rd, Magheraclogher Beach, Bunbeg, County Donegal
#22 The Snowy Mount Errigal
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Mount Errigal rises at 751-metre and is Derryveagh Mountains Range’ loftiest and most challenging peak. You can choose to hike the top (in 2 hours round way) or just enjoy the breathtaking panorama from the lowest grounds.
In winter, the snowy peak allows spectacular snaps contrast the amber dying grass. The powdery crest, worthy of Fuji San, overviews both Lake Dunlewy and Lough Nacung Upper. Any time of the year, at both sunset and sunrise, pink and orange colours invade the elements, presenting frames that only Mother Nature can create.
Location: near Gweedore, County Donegal
#23 Raiders of the Lost Arches
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Let us stay in County Donegal and move to the coast where two monumental sea arches share the littoral.
Bristí Sea Stack, also known as “Crohy Head Sea Arch,” is part of “The Breeches,” a series of natural arcs spread along Mullaghmullan Peninsula. This rock formation is a strenuous 25-metre professional climb that has only been attempted by seven people (at the time of writing). From shore, winter provides excellent pictures of the low sun setting between the arch’s legs.
Great Pollet, in Stooey, is a secret that needs to be shared. This maritime erosion is as high as its preceding neighbour is and, can be shot from both the beach and the road.
However, to reach the waterfront, you’ll have to go through an abrupt and vertiginous descent. Here, you will find another sunset spot, with dramatic seascapes and powerful waves smashing against the bottom.
#24 The Wild Bridges of Ross
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The rough and dominant ocean crumbled two of the historical three “Bridges of Ross” remaining the one-and-only (still) “Bridges of Ross”. This natural arch is a perfect spot for bird photography.
From August until early December, it is a migration passage for many species and birder heaven. The sunrays display multiple shades of blue and uncover the vibrant underwater world. The harsh storms of rainy days churn the Atlantic Ocean, allowing outstanding compositions.
To see the site, you will have to park your car and go for a 1km walk (round way) along a fence.
Location: Ross Bay, County Clare
#25 The Pool of Light
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This supernatural scene happens in the most extensive cave beneath the inhabited Owey Island, 7km off Donegal coast. During mid-summer, on clear days, when the sun hits the hollow, it enlightens the water and creates a natural phenomenon known as the “blue lagoon effect.”
The grotto reveals itself for forty bewitching minutes. A bright cyan gleams the dark pool when tangerines, magentas and lilacs repaint the walls.
Unfortunately, this magical moment can only be witnessed by experienced kayakers. The shortest route is a 4km paddle with a departure point at the pier near Cruit Island Golf Club.
Location: Owey Island, Stag Rocks, County Donegal
#26 Dublin Rainbow Doors
The gaudy Georgian doors spread around Dublin are famous across the world thanks to Bob Fearon, a New Yorker on a business assignment at the time.
On his way back to the hotel, he noticed the colourful doors. Astonished by the details of their patterns and their untamed proportions, he took his camera and shot over fifty entrances before deciding to assemble them into a mosaic.
He then showed his collage to one of the Big Apple Irish tourism offices. Enamoured by the concept, they displayed the work for the first time on Saint Patrick’s Day. The success started the same day with Yankees asking to purchase a copy. Its fame crossed oceans and borders, and the poster became a classic.
Get inspired by Sir Fearon and make your own photomontage.
#27 The Grand Saint Patrick Cathedral
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Saint Patrick Cathedral, built in the 13th century, is the largest in Ireland. The landmark was proclaimed the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland in 1870.
In the 6th century, this locus was where Saint Patrick initiated the converted in church rites. Choirs perform morning prayers and evening hymn services daily. The graveyard and burials are the last homes of over 500 people, including Jonathan Swift (Gulliver Travels).
This piece of architecture can be slightly overwhelming at first. The simplistic opulence is fascinating. The dizzying height of the ceilings, the 4,000 organ pipes, the flashy stained glass, the finely moulded arches, the 200 immaculate monuments and, the multi-coloured floors will make a great series of spiritual photos.
Address: St Patrick’s Close, Wood Quay, Dublin 8
Opening Hours:
| 1 Mars – 31 October | 1 November – 28/29 February |
| Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 18:00 Sunday 09:00 –10:30/ 12:30 – 14:30/ 16:30 -18:30 | Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 17:00 Sunday 09:00 –10:30/ 12:30 – 14:30 |
#28 The Holy Dún Briste
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Dún Briste sea stack, “broken fort,” faces Downpatrick Head. The latter, situated by Saint Patrick holy well, is where Garland Sunday Pilgrimage (also known as Reek Sunday) takes place. The sacred gathering happens yearly, on the last resting day of July. On that day, an average of 22,000 people climbs the venerated Croagh Patrick, a 764-metre mountain.
The 50-metre high crusty tower was geologically formed over 300 million years ago. A folk legend says that a fiend ogre, called Geodruisge, used to persecute the pietistic St Patrick. Tired of the hassle, the devout man prayed to God for help. On the next morning, the giant turned into what is known today as Dún Briste.
The lone protruding rock formation is a work of art as the sedimentary strata create multiple polychromatic layers. The viewpoint is a great spot to photograph the scene. However, at low tide, and when weather allows, there is an accessible cave under the spiritual grounds. From this spot, you will have the insurance to capture wilderness at its best.
Location: Milltown, County Mayo
#29 The Legendary Table Mountain
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Shaped like a table, Binn Ghulbain (“jaw peak”), aka Ben Bulben, is a protected geological site. The mountain, born over 320 million years ago, belongs to the Dartry Sierra.
It is said to be the mythological place of rest of both Diarmuid Ua Duibhne and Gráinne. The couple runs away from the jealous Fionn MacCooto to the cave that bears their names. You must ask permission if you want to swing by the privately owned mammoth grotto.
If you plan to climb to the 526-metre top, it is highly advised to avoid the dangerous North face. The South, on the other hand, is an easy 5.5km walk where unique arctic-alpine flora, fossilised seashells, schists and limestone share lands. On the way, you’ll pass by old barite mines where you can explore the deep drifts (not for claustrophobic). The peak will grant you with mesmerising and infinite panoramas.
From the lower grounds, the silhouette of the mount incessantly transforms itself, offering heart-stopping vistas.
#30 Deer Phoenix
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Phoenix Park is the 2nd largest enclosed city park in Europe after Monza, in Italy. The parkland, initiated in 1662, used to be British Royalty hunting grounds. The founder, James Butler, the 1rst Duke of Ormond, walled its surrounding before hoarding the lands with pheasants and deer.
Today, herds of cervine scion still populate the 707 hectares (1,750 acres). In this public recreational land, the hind doesn’t fear for the fawn. They perceive humans as a harmless animate being. Let’s face it, the chances to approach a wild mammal in the backcountry are pretty small. Here, you will have the opportunity of a lifetime to shoot close-ups of our common childhood friend descendants*.
Other features that are worth a picture is The Wellington Testimonial obelisk and Áras an Uachtaráin, the President’s residence.
*The fallow deer remains an unpredictable wild animal. It is highly advised to keep your distances.
What About Northern Ireland?
- The puzzling Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim
After an eruption, 50 to 60 million years ago, the volcanic fissure formed over 40,000 basaltic magma pillars. This UNESCO World Heritage Site awakens both imagination and creativity.
- Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, Ballycastle, County Antrim
This 20-metre rope bridge is suspended over a height of 30 metres. Salmon fishers built it 350 years ago to reach the island from the mainland. Record mind-blowing perspective of the littoral and Rathlin Island.
- Mussenden Temple, Sea Coast Rd, Coleraine, County Londonderry
Built in 1785, this National Trust monument sits atop the enthralling Magilligan Strand and next to the postcard-like Portstewart Beach. Game of Throne filmed a scene here.
- The Dark Edges, Stranocum, Ballymoney, County Antrim
This ethereal alley of beech trees is the most pictured spot in Northern Ireland. Its beauty is out-of-this-world.
- Dunluce Castle, Bushmills, County Antrim
This 16th-century majestic ruin is another Game of Throne film set. Don’t forget to check out the Mermaid’s cave underneath.
- Crom Estate, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh
These historical remains and castles are part of the National Trust. You can choose to hire a boat or walk the magical and peaceful nature reserve.
