Ireland, the green island in the Atlantic, is caressed by the Gulf Stream. It owes this to its varied flora and fauna, while the rough Atlantic has shaped the distinctive landscape. Spectacular cliffs (cliffs of Moher) and endless sandy beaches line the coasts, majestic mountain ranges, lonely valleys and lovely river meadows determine the picture in the interior.
Tranquil villages and charming towns are typical of Ireland. While the clocks move a little slower in the countryside, life pulsates in the big cities, in the metropolis and capital Dublin as well as in the second largest city Cork or the charming coastal city Galway. You can hire a campervan in Ireland and explore the world’s longest coastal road, the Wild Atlantic Way, along with all the sights that will make your trip to Ireland unforgettable.
Ireland has a long and colourful history. This has left behind a rich culture, and a variety of testimonies to the past are among today’s famous sights. The culture of the island also includes the “living room of the Irish”, as the countless pubs are called. People meet here for a drink or a snack, to talk, to listen and to play music.
Ireland’s most beautiful city: Galway
The coastal city of Galway lies on the west coast of Ireland and is considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Ireland. This has less to do with the impressive buildings, such as the mighty cathedral, than with the unique atmosphere of the lively, colourful city. The university city of Galway has only about 80,000 inhabitants, but the numerous visitors easily give the impression that there are at least twice as many. Life in Galway takes place mostly outdoors, in the parks, pedestrian zones and promenades.
Galway is a young city, if only because of the students who dominate the scene. Music is in the air everywhere, emanating from the pubs or coming from street performers who can be found in various corners of the city. Galway has a very good gastronomic scene, the city accommodates countless guests in hotels, guesthouses and campsites. The harbour city also scores in the culinary field; in addition to international cuisine, regional products such as the famous Galway oyster are used.
Galway is the gateway to Connemara, a wild and romantic landscape that not only boasts Ireland’s only fjord, the Killary Fjord but also attracts visitors with the fabulously beautiful Kylemore Abbey. Other worthwhile destinations near Galway are the Burren, a unique karst landscape with impressive prehistoric remains, and the legendary Cliffs of Moher.
It is advisable to rent a campervan when traveling to Ireland to explore this unique island. With campervan you are your own boss, independent and flexible in your travel planning.
The Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s most famous cliffs
The Cliffs of Moher are located on the west coast in County Clare near the village of Liscannor. They are among the most spectacular cliffs in Ireland. Over a length of about 14 kilometres, they rise more than 200 metres steeply out of the Atlantic. They have even served as a film set; Harry Potter fans will easily spot the entrance to the cave that Harry visited together with Professor Dumbledore while hunting for a Horcrux.
There are several ways to explore the Cliffs of Moher. Round trips depart from the harbour town of Doolin several times a day, offering a breathtaking view of the unique cliffs. Other trips are offered to the nearby Aran Islands. These islands can be easily seen from the Cliffs of Moher on a hike.
Walking above the cliffs is very popular, but it is strictly forbidden and dangerous to life to walk off the specially designated paths. The strong wind that is common at the cliffs can sweep you off your feet.
The visitor centre, which is well worth seeing, is built into a hillside at the back of the cliffs and provides detailed information.
- from November to February 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- in March and April and in September and October 8.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m
- in the months of May to August 8.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m.
Ticket prices vary according to the time of day:
- Morning until 11.00 a.m.: €7.00 (adults/students/seniors), €16.00 (families)
- Noon 11.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.: €10.00 (adults), €9.00 (students/seniors), €20.00 (families)
- Afternoon 16.00 to end: 8,00 €(adults), 7,00 € (students/seniors), 16,00 € (families)
Seniors are defined as persons aged 65 and over, admission for children under 12 is free when accompanied by a parent or guardian, the family ticket includes the admission price for two adults and two children under 12. There are different prices for groups of 10 or more.
There is a large car park near the visitor centre where you can park your car.
More interesting places to visit with the campervan
City of Dublin – take your time for Ireland’s dazzling metropolis. There are countless sights to discover. Enjoy the diverse culture that opens up to you.
Killarney National Park – the jewel of the southwest. Not far from the town of Killarney, there are wonderful excursion destinations such as Ladies View, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and the most extensive oak forest in Ireland.
Connemara – a landscape to fall in love with. Lonely and wildly romantic mountains, valleys, rivers and lakes.
Cork City– the second-largest city in Ireland. It scores with numerous attractions and a lively cultural scene.
Wicklow Mountains– only a short distance from Dublin presents a sparsely populated, unique landscape that invites you to dream.
Giants’ Causeway – the causeway of the giants. A basalt formation formed ages ago on the coast of Northern Ireland.
Clonmacnoise Abbey – history you can touch. Situated in the heart of the country on the River Shannon, this medieval site takes visitors back to times long past.
Blarney Castle – worth a visit near the city of Cork. In the tower, there is the Stone of Eloquence, whoever kisses it will, according to legend, be blessed with the gift of eloquence
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Why should you spend your holidays in Ireland?
Because Ireland is one of the most beautiful destinations and has so much to offer. But beware: there is potential for searching. Most of the time it doesn’t stay with just one trip to Ireland, you will rent a campervan again and again and revisit the island of longing. Ireland never lets you go.