Take look at our blog to discover more about our destinations and hidden gems across the British Isles & Ireland.
This summer has been amazing so far in Ireland and because of that, outdoor swimming has been super popular. A trip to Ireland doesn’t always conjure up images of lazy beach days and sunshine but this summer it really has been just that.
If you are heading to the Emerald Isle for a holiday or are already here then you’ll definitely want to read about 8 of the best outdoor swimming spots in Ireland below.
With over seven million tourists visiting each year, Ireland is a trip that most of us would like to take one day or may have already taken.
With bustling cities, stunning sandy beaches and an abundance of history, castles and forts its easy to see why so many people want to come and experience what life is like on the Emerald Isle.
Unlike a beach holiday though where you know to just throw your swimmer, sunnies and suncream into a bag its a little less straightfroward for a trip to ireland. The weather is super unpredictable and there are many different types of terrain.
Our eight essentials below should keeop you in check though.
1.Rain Coat
Ireland has a lot of rain, there is no escaping it so just keep this in mind and if you get some gorgeous sunny days then it will be an absolute bonus.
For your trip to Ireland make sure to pack a rain coat that is small enough to fold away and you can carry around with you each day, if there is a short sharp downpour you will thank us for it! And remember that all of the rain Ireland gets is the reason for Irelands stunning green and lush countryside, so its not necessarily a bad thing.
2.Hiking Shoes
Unless you are just heading on a trip to Ireland to stick to the cities then you’ll probably find yourlsef doing some walking in the countryside, with the unpredictability of the weather and the varying types of terrains you might be walking on then it would definitely be wise to invest in some proper walking boots to pack for your trip.
3.Windproof Umbrella
As you’ve probably already gathered, it rains a lot in Ireland! And when it rains the temperature often drops and those cold winds can pick up. Don’t bother bringing a flimsy unbrella that will blow inside out at the first tiny gust of rain, get yourself a wind proof one that will withstand the Irish weather.
4.Warm Coat, whatever the season
Just because you are going on a trip to Ireland during the summer months doesn’t always mean it will be warm. Don’t get me wrong Ireland does get some beautiful summers days but even during the summer months if the weather turns it can be cold and you’ll really regret it if you don’t pack a warm coat
5.Layers
Layers are the best answer when heading somewhere with such an unpredictable weather system, bring tops that you can easy put on and pull off twnety-five times a day as the rain comes, then the sun comes up, then the wind picks up and so on and so on…...
6.Beach Wear
Shock, horror - yes do still bring beach wear! Ireland is home to some really breathtaking beaches and when the sun comes out there is no better place to be than soaking up the unspoilt nature that Ireland holds.
Ireland does get some gorgeous summers days so definitely do pack your swimmers and your lilo.
7.Power Adapter
Unless you are from the UK you’ll need to bring a power adapter for your trip to Ireland, although these can usually be bought at the airport if you forget, but you really don’t want to be left without your phone, laptop etc.
8.The Best Camera that you own
You will find an absolute abundance of photo opportunities on this beautiful island during your trip to Ireland.
The scenery is so dramatic that you’ll be snapping away all day so pack the best camera that you have to make sure you catch the best pictures possible.
There is never a bad time to visit Ireland, the dramatic scenery takes on a more atmospheric feel during the winter months and bustling, friendly cities invite you in with their open fires and friendly locals. Come the spring though and you’ll be more than ready to get out and about exploring and you might even get a glimpse of sunshine to warm you up.
We’ve picked five top spots that deserve a visit during the spring months.
This is the second largest national park in Ireland located in County Donegal and is surrounded by rolling hills and a gorgeous lake which beautifully reflects the sun in the spring and summer months.
Blow off those winter cobwebs with a nice walk in the 16,000 hectares which include the Derryveagh Mountains and the Poisoned Glenn.
There are some beautiful trails that take you around the park, some more difficult than others but all requiring proper walking shoes and prior preparation since there are gradients involved and the walking terrain will often be on loose gravel and not necessarily a path.
The least difficult route is around the lake and is one of the most beautiful too. This route takes around 40 minutes and is mostly flat ground on a gravel path.
If you fancy challenging yourself head for the View Point Trail. Although just a short walk of around 35 minutes, this route has some very steep sections and involves climbing steep and stoney paths. The view from the top is certainly a reward for your hard work.
2.County Armagh, Loughgall Country Park
Head for County Armagh in Northern Island and you’ll find Loughgall Country Park, often referred to as the orchard of Ireland, this is a gorgeous place to visit once the weather warms up a touch in the spring.
You’ll find so much to do, from walks and bike rides to a play area for the children, golf, an adventure trail and a football pitch.
In early May this place becomes home to the Apple Blossom festival which is a three day event where the stunning pink and white blossom that emerges each year plays backdrop to loads of activities happening around the orchard area.
3.Glengarriff Bamboo Park
In County Cork lies the Glengarriff Bamboo Park, a beautiful exotic garden, home to 30 different species of bamboo, palm trees and many other tropical plants. There are loads of lovely walks around the gardens and you can also take in the stunning views of Glengarriff harbour. Whilst wandering the gardens you’ll come across some mysterious stone pillars, there are 13 of these that are thought to be ancient although their significance still remains a mystery.
Walking in Glengarriff Bamboo Park in spring really allows you to forget about those long winter months that have passed and almost transports you to a tropical country for a few hours.
4.Sligo
If you’re a surfer then you will probably have been itching for the winter to be done and the spring on its way bringing warmer temperatures so that you can hit those waves.
Sligo is by far the best surfing area in Ireland, yes you’ll definitely still need to wear a wetsuit in the spring but you may get a glimpse of the sun and can enjoy the ocean for longer as the temperatures rise.
While in the area you must definitely visit Gilligahan’s World in Knocknashee. Titled the ‘field of dreams’ these enchanted fairy gardens offer a beautiful, spiritual experience for all of the family. This is a really magical and arty place that you need to really see to understand.
Expect miniature villages, fairy habitats, ponds and pools, animals and loads more. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another little world and the spring light and sunshine will only make it more of a special visit.
5.Burren National Park
Burren National Park is located in County Clare and is a region of environmental interest made up of glaciated karst.
Late into spring in the May months the area comes alive with wild flower and walking any of the five marked trails is more beautiful than ever that take you through limestone grasslands, hazel and ash woods, and limestone pavements.
In May the Burren in Bloom festival comes to the national park where visitors are guided through the gardens learning about the unique flowers and cultural wealth of the area.
6.Liss Ard Gardens
Just outside of Skibbereen, County Cork, you’ll find Liss Ard Gardens, a magical estate of manors, gardens, trails, ponds and lakes. The gardens have been designed like a piece of art and are truly a peaceful, tranquil place to be.
However amid the beauty of this place is something amazing that is quite hard to put into words and really needs to be seen to be believed; The Crater. An architectural installation built in the gardens by artist James Turrell that from above looks like a huge bowl. It’s an incredible experience that we would highly recommend.
We hope you’re inspired to get out and about this spring and lets hope the sun makes an appearance too. Please do keep in mind though that St Patrick's Day is Saturday 27th March, so if you’ll either need to embrace the fun over that weekend or visit at another time when it might be a little quieter on the Emerald Isle.
Irish forest parks generally have a great emphasis on recreational facilities and most have marked walking trails, cafes, campsites and car parks, so if you feel like a woodland walk then this is a great way to do it. In total, there are twenty forest parks in Ireland so plenty to choose from. We’ve selected a couple of our favourites: Portuma Forest Park, Galway
Portuma Forest Park covers almost 450 hectares. There are four woodland walk trails of varying distances and two mountain bike trails; both are easy rides suitable for all ages that take you along beautiful lake shores and through the woodland. A notable feature of the park is the yew and juniper trees in open woodland along the lake shore. The park has a large population of fallow deer along with pine marten, fox, badger and red squirrel. There is also a big inland colony of cormorants nesting in one of the islands.
Avondale Forest Park, Wicklow
Avondale Forest Park is the birthplace of Irish Forestry. There are three main woodland walks at Avondale; The River Walk is definitely the longest and hardest with steep descents and climbs. Walking alongside the river you pass under two railway bridges and there are stunning river views not to mention the view of Lovers Leap further up the hill. Certainly worth the effort you’ll put in. The Second woodland walk is the Tree Trail where you will meet trees from many corners of the world. Thirdly The Railway Walk which is a linear walk from Rathdrum railway station through the forest to Avondale House. There are also some great leisure cycling routes, orienteering, a children’s playground and a picnic site.
Ards Forest Park, Donegal
Ard’s Forest is certainly one of the most beautiful places you could choose to do a woodland walk. It is 480 hectares and contains a large diversity of plants and wildlife. Ard’s Forest boasts sandy beaches and rivers for those who like to dip their toes and be by the water, plus nature walks, picnic areas and children’s play parks. There are also historical and archaeological interests with in the park including the remains of four ring forts and a number of megalithic tombs. You must also reach the numerous viewing points to see the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside – there is certainly something for all members of the family here. It has a really serene and relaxing feel so if you’re in need of some time out or just fancy a woodland walk in exquisite surroundings then it will be perfect for you.
