So, you’re looking for the best hidden gems in Ireland? I have you covered! My top 3 offbeat things to do in Ireland are Wesport House, Tollymore Forest Park, and Glencar Waterfall.
However, if you have a long trip planned I highly recommend you check out all 15 of these underrated places in Ireland.
Ireland is hands down one of the most magical countries in the world to visit. I have traveled there more than a dozen times. When I visit always find new hidden gems in Ireland off the beaten track.
Of course, when you are planning your trip to Ireland you will see the all usual recommendations. Popular tourist hot spots like the Cliffs of Moher, the Blarney Stone, Ring of Kerry, etc. make it on to every guide to Ireland.
I cover my experiences at these places and all my best travel tips for Ireland in my Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary.
While there are plenty of well-known and exceptional places to visit in Ireland, I highly recommend taking the time to explore Ireland’s secret places. There are so many secluded places in Ireland that you really cannot miss!
Read on to learn about the best magical hidden gems in Ireland you won’t see on the usual Ireland travel itineraries.
15 Magical Hidden Gems in Ireland
Bunbeg Beach Shipwreck
One of the most haunting secret places in Ireland, Bunbeg Beach Shipwreck is a must see. Located in the tiny Irish speaking town of Bunbeg in County Donegal, you’ll find the colossal wreckage of a ship called Bád Eddie (Eddie’s Boat) on Maheraclogher Beach.
The doomed ship was stranded on the beach in the 1970s due to bad weather. It is one of the best things to do in Donegal and you shouldn’t miss it!
County Donegal is in the rugged and beautiful Northwest corner of Ireland. It can be reached by car or the Donegal County Airport. Visiting the wreckage is easy as you can drive your car right down to the beach to explore.
Westport House
If you’re looking for different things to do in Ireland, you must visit the home of Ireland’s epic Pirate Queen.
Westport House is a beautiful historic estate in County Mayo. It was built and is still owned by descendants of the famous Grace O’Malley, the “Pirate Queen of Connacht.”
You can even see a part of the Pirate Queen’s original castle in the basement of the house!
While you’re here you can enjoy the estate, the pirate-themed adventure park, and the extensive grounds and gardens. There are several places to eat on-site including a Pizzeria/Bistro, a Victorian Tea Room and the “Old Kitchen Cafe”.
In addition, if you’re spending more time in County Mayo, make sure to check out my helpful guide of things to do in County Mayo.
Tollymore Forest
Tollymore Forest is one of the best hidden gems in Northern Ireland that you should check out! This huge and magical state forest park in Newcastle, has several trails for walking and exploring. The Shimna river there can be crossed over by 16 picturesque bridges.
Tollymore Forest is easy to get to from Dublin (2hrs by car), or Belfast (1hr 15 minutes by car) if you are visiting either of those cities on your trip to Ireland. The admission is only £5 per car. Parking is plentiful with bathroom facilities on site.
You may recognize bits of Tollymore Forest from the popular series Game of Thrones. Parts of the series were filmed here! For more information on exploring Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland, see our Game Of Thrones Ireland Itinerary.
Downpatrick Head
Want to take in some stunning seaside cliffs on your trip? This entry on our list of hidden places in Ireland has all the beauty Cliffs of Moher and none of the crowds. You can find this epic cliff along County Mayo’s rugged coastline. It is part of Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way.
When you arrive at the site, a view of majestic cliffs against the Atlantic ocean greets you. As you stand at the edge you will also have a great view of Dún Briste. This is a beautiful “sea stack” made of several layers of multicolored rock jutting out of the ocean.
Dún Briste set against the cliffs, ocean, and swooping sea birds makes for a truly breathtaking sight.
The area is also home to historic ruins, including the church that is, according to legend, the original church of Saint Patrick himself!
Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle is another one of the most unusual Ireland attractions! Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff in County Antrim, near the popular Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce castle also deserves your time and attention.
The 13th century castle, which is now in ruins, was said to have met its end in 1639 when its kitchen literally fell into the ocean during a storm
You may recognize the castle when you see it, as it has since featured in film and TV productions, most notably as House of Greyjoy/Castle Pyke in Game of Thrones!
You can access the castle via a footbridge and explore the grounds for a small admissions fee. This is a unique place to add to your off-the-beaten-path things to do Ireland itinerary.
Glencar Waterfall
Surrounded by gorgeous scenery and Glencar Lake, you can find this hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic way in County Leitrim, near the town of Manorhamilton.
Follow along the N16 until you spot the sign for Glencar Lake and Waterfall. There is free entrance to the site, restrooms, a picnic area, and even a tea room!
From the parking near the lake, there is a wooded path you can take to the waterfall itself. The waterfall is quite short, a quaint 50 ft high cascade from mossy stone.
This is an incredible place to take in the beauty of Ireland and enjoy a few hours in nature. If you want to climb to the top of Glencar Waterfall it’s only about a five-minute stairway climb up.
The surrounding area is also very lush and scenic. There are even a few other waterfalls nearby, but we think this is the best one! If you are planning to explore other waterfalls and unusual things to do in Ireland on your trip, don’t miss our guide to the prettiest waterfalls in Ireland.
Deck Of Cards Houses In Cobh
The Deck of Card Houses are a color lover’s dream! Situated on a steep hillside in Cobh, County Cork these iconic houses are right out of a postcard and make a great picture.
The 23 houses got their name because of how they appear to be stacked on top of one another as they ascend the hill.
You can find this amazing view by heading to this location. From here you can climb up the hill to get the iconic framing of the colorful houses with St. Colman’s Cathedral in the background.
You can even venture further up the hill to get more of the houses and the ocean in the background. It’s such a great photo op and should definitely not be missed on your unique places in Ireland trip.
If you’re looking for other things to do on your trip to Cobh, check out our guide to things to do in Cobh, here!
Dunlewey Ruins in Poison Glen, Donegal
This next secret spot sounds quite ominous but actually got its name due to a translation error! This is one of my favorite hidden things to do in Ireland.
You will find the Dunlewy Ruins in Poison Glen in Donegal at the base of the beautiful Mount Errigal.
The story goes that the glen was originally called the “Heavenly Glen” by the locals. However, when an English cartographer was putting it on the map he mistook the Gaelic word for heaven (neamh) with the word for poison (neimhe). Ever since then it’s been unfortunately known as “Poison Glen.”
At the site, you will find ruins of a 19th-century church, the “Old Church of Dunlewey”. With all its walls intact but no roof or glass in the windows, the structure is hauntingly beautiful. Many legends and stories surround the glen and church, including that of the Green Lady, the glen’s resident ghost.
You can reach the glen & ruins by way of the R251 by driving about 2km past the sign for Dunlewey, the closest town, and turning down the tiny road that leads to a walking path where you can explore the site.
Classiebawn Castle
Looking to visit a gorgeous castle that’s also one of the best alternative things to do in Ireland?
Classibawn Castle, a stunning 19th-century manor house nestled in the heart of County Sligo, Ireland, offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Classiebawn Castle is actually still a private residence so you cannot tour the inside. Even so, the surrounding views of Mullaghmore Head, the ocean and the castle exterior are enough to add this secret spot to your itinerary!
It’s a great place to take in the history, scenery, and get some beautiful photos. Because this is one of the best non touristy places in Ireland, you’re likely to have this stunning landscape all to yourself.
Dunquin Harbour
Dunquin Harbour is at the very end of the Dingle Peninsula in West Kerry. I always put this on the list of what not to miss in Ireland I make for friends.
Of course, the Dingle Peninsula itself is one of the most beautiful and unique spots in Ireland and a Dunquin Harbour visit will be the highlight of your visit there.
If you’re doing the famed Slea Head Drive around Dingle, this is one of the stops. The famous Dunquin Pier is only reachable on foot. You can get close in your car by taking the R559 from the town of Dingle and follow it until you reach signs for the Blasket Ferries.
There are no parking lots so you will have to park alongside the road where you can. Just don’t try to drive down the narrow path leading to the pier! The best view of the pier is from the cliff directly above it. Here you can take in the pier, cliffs, ocean and Blasket Islands.
Achill Island
Achill Island, Ireland’s largest offshore island, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for cool places in Ireland.
Located off the west coast of County Mayo, the island boasts stunning natural landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rugged mountains that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
This island was used as an important filming location in the award winning film Banshees of Inisherin. Come take a walking tour and see all the picturesque movie magic locations.
Achill Island’s rich cultural heritage, with its Irish-speaking communities, historic sites, and vibrant local pubs, provides visitors with a glimpse into the authentic charm of rural Ireland.
The Copper Coast
The Copper Coast is a lesser known scenic costal drive in Ireland. Some might call it one of the best kept secrets in Ireland!
Forget the traffic and crowds of the other famous costal drives in Ireland such as Ring of Kerry or the Wild Atlantic Way. Try a road trip along the Copper Coast instead! This area features dramatic cliffs, scalloped sandy beaches, and rocky headlands.
If you want to experience amazing views, unreal beaches, and excellent seafood, this entry on my list of Ireland secret spots is for you.
The Copper Coast is a 25-kilometer stretch of spectacular coastline in County Waterford, Ireland. It is located between the towns of Tramore and Dungarvan.
In addition to its natural wonders, the Copper Coast also has a rich cultural heritage. Here you can explore remnants of Neolithic dolmens, Iron Age forts, medieval churches, and other historical sites. The Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre provides information on the area’s geology, history, and outdoor activities.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
This castle is one of the hidden spots in Ireland beloved by locals. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park combines a 15th-century medieval castle with a reconstructed 19th-century Irish village and rural life museum.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many chambers top to bottom. This is one of the best preserved castles in Ireland, and it has authentic furniture, art, and weaponry sure to thrill any medieval history enthusiasts.
The adjacent Folk Park recreates an entire 19th-century Irish village, with over 30 lovingly preserved buildings including farmhouses, village shops, and schools.
This allows visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and traditions of rural Irish life from that era. The park also includes a pet farm with many adorable animals.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is a standout option among all the Ireland hidden gems.
Derryclare Lough
Derryclare Lough is a picturesque freshwater lake located in Connemara, County Galway. The lake is surrounded by the dramatic Twelve Bens mountain range. Moreover, the lough is known for its deep, mysterious waters and a tree-covered island in the middle.
Derryclare Lough is located right along the R344 road, making it easy to stop and admire the lake. There is also parking available for visitors. When visiting Connemara National Park this lough and its charming island are a must stop for anyone looking for underrated places in Ireland.
Visitors here have a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of this stunning region of Ireland that is often missed by tourists.
Garnish Island
Garnish Island, also known as Ilnacullin or Illaunacullin, is a small island located in the sheltered waters of Glengarriff Harbour in Bantry Bay, County Cork.
The island is renowned for its stunning gardens and plant life. Its sheltered position in a relatively warm Irish bay means that the owners have been able to cultivate many tropical plants here that wouldn’t normally grow in Ireland. Hence the nickname: Garnish Island.
The unique tropical plant life is only one draw to this little island. The other draw is the famous architecture. Visitors here can discover a range of fascinating garden buildings, such as a Grecian temple, clock tower, and an original Martello tower.
The island is accessible via a short and stunningly beautiful ferry ride from Glengarriff. It is quite literally off the beaten path in Ireland as it requires ferry to get to.
Make sure not to miss Garnish Island, one of the most unique things to do in Ireland.
In conclusion, I hope you have enjoyed my tour of Ireland off the beaten path. This land has no shortage of beautiful scenery, haunted castles, and gorgeous nature. Finally, I hope that this is helpful in planning your trip and that visiting these hidden gems makes your trip to Ireland all that more memorable.
15 West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Ideas!