Beyond the Cliffs of Moher: 9 Places We Loved in Southwest Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher are probably the most famous attraction on Ireland’s west coast, but there are a few places we loved even more during our road trip in southwest Ireland. There are many ancient monuments, innumerable ruined abbeys, lot of spectacular cliffs and mountain panoramas, and a handful of colourful towns, but here are nine places that we genuinely enjoyed during our week-long road trip.

1. Poulnabrone Dolmen

In the middle of the Burren’s gray limestone landscape stands the Poulnabrone Dolmen, one of Ireland’s best-known prehistoric monuments. The portal tomb dates back 5200 to 5800 years and consists of several huge limestone slabs.

2. Corcomroe Abbey

Corcomroe Abbey is a partly ruined 13th-century Cistercian monastery, also located in the Burren.

The ruins are relatively small, but the location is beautiful.

3. Dunquin Pier

A small harbour offering a beautiful view of two distinctive, triangular-shaped rocks. The harbour can only be reached on foot, as the path leading down is narrow and steep. In the past, sheep grazing on the nearby islands were driven up here.

4. Ladies' View

Ladies' View offers a wonderful panorama over Killarney National Park and its lakes. The viewpoint got its name from Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who admired the view during the royal visit in 1861.

It is an easy stop, but definitely one worth making.

5. Torc Mountain Hike

If the view from Ladies' View makes you want to get a little higher, Torc Mountain is the answer.

The hike requires some effort, but the 360-degree panorama from the top is worth every bit of it. From here, you get a much better sense of the landscape of Killarney National Park.

6. Kenmare

Kenmare is a small, colourful town and the usual starting point for the Ring of Kerry.

Here you’ll find a market, a bookshop and even a real French bakery, Maison Gourmet, where it’s worth stopping for breakfast.

7. Kerry Cliffs

The Kerry Cliffs are called the little sister of the Cliffs of Moher. They are less famous, but the views are no less impressive.

The cliffs rise dramatically above the Atlantic, with the Skellig Islands visible in the distance.

8. Fogher Cliffs

On Valentia Island, the Fogher Cliffs offer another spectacular view of Ireland’s Atlantic coast.

After crossing to the island, we continued towards Geokaun Mountain, where an even wider panorama opens up over the rugged landscape and the ocean.

9. Cobh

Cobh is a colourful harbour town near Cork. Its most recognisable landmark is St. Colman’s Cathedral, standing high above the town.

One of the most characteristic views can be found on West View Street, where colourful terraced houses lead your eyes towards the cathedral.

Cobh is a completely different experience from the wild cliffs and mountains – but that is exactly what makes it a worthwhile stop.

These stops make Ireland unforgettable

Sometimes you just need to leave the main road, follow your instincts - or our recommendations, and be prepared to be amazed.