Green fields and hills give Ireland its "Emerald Isle" nickname. Rounding out all that unspoiled nature are ancient castles, historic villages, and pubs alive with traditional music. Here's the best way to experience this colorful corner of Europe.
Rocky coves
The southwest's rocky coves are rich with seaweed, revealing a little-known piece of Irish history. "In the past people couldn't eat meat so they would go down around these shores and get laver, or sleabhac, as it's high in protein," says Kerryann O'Farrell of Atlantic Irish Seaweed, whose guides lead educational sea vegetable walks at Derrynane Harbour.
Cape Clear Island
Located eight miles off the southern coast, Cape Clear Island (Oileán Chleire) is one of Irish-speaking Gaeltacht areas, which can be found in seven counties and on some islands. On Cape, the former girls school now houses the Heritage Centre with exhibits on the island's maritime history and culture. Don't miss the goat milk ice cream at local favorite Cléire Goats.
The River Corrib
While Shop Street and Eyre Square draw the crowds, the Western neighborhood across the River Corrib is the soul of the city. Soak up the bohemian vibe at places like Bell Book and Candle, a treasure trove for new and second-hand books; the monthly Flea Style Market inside the Galway Arts Centre; and the Crane Bar, which features some of the city's best "trad" fiddle and bodhrán players.
Great Lighthouses of Ireland
Great Lighthouses of Ireland offers a guide to noteworthy beacons around the country. One of the most remote, St. John's Point Lighthouse rises at the end of a narrow peninsula in County Donegal, looking out to Donegal Bay and County Sligo. Stay overnight in Clipper or Schooner, the former lighthouse keepers' residences, and experience the solitude of keeping watch. Naturally, there's no Wi-Fi, so umwind and read a book beside the fire, or explore the headland at sunrise.
