As if two of the top 100 golf courses in the world and a future Ryder Cup venue weren’t enough, the region of Southwest Ireland offers golf travelers some of the finest sightseeing opportunities in the country.
So many, in fact, that one of Ireland’s most popular attractions – Killarney National Park – will warrant a post like this of its own. And while this list will barely scratch the surface of sites to see in Southwest Ireland, members of the H&B Forces should rest easy. You have the H&B Concierge at your disposal, who will guide you to the right set off attractions so that you can make the most of each and every minute of your Southwest Ireland golf tour.
But to get you started, here’s 5 things to see while sightseeing during Southwest Ireland golf vacations.
The Cliffs of Moher
Just north of Lahinch Golf Club and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher spectacularly rise over 700 feet above the crashing Atlantic and stretch for over five miles. O’Brien’s Tower is located on the highest point and offers the best views. On a clear day the Aran Islands and mountains as far apart as Kerry and Connemara are all visible. During the height of summer, the Cliffs parking lot resembles that of a Florida theme park, so arrive early and beat the crowds.
Dingle Peninsula
The drive out to the Dingle Peninsula will eat the better part of a day, but if you have the time around your visit to Tralee Golf Links, every minute of this detour is worthwhile. Although the Conor Pass route offers one jaw-dropping vista after another, it is a white-knuckle drive that is not for the faint of heart. The more relaxing coastal route to Dingle is still beautiful, as it meanders through a collection of small Irish hamlets. Once in Dingle, the charming village features a variety of shops, local seafood, and some of the best ice cream you’ll ever find at famous Murphy’s. Those wishing to continue the exploration can hardly go wrong with a drive all the way to the tip of the peninsula to marvel at the stunning views from atop the cliffs of Slea Head. Along the way, you’ll pass many early Christian ruins including the ancient beehive dwellings and the Kilmakedar Church.
The Burren
When it comes to fascinating natural landscapes, The Burren is as unique as they come. Its name comes from the Irish for ‘rocky place,’ which is the very definition of an understatement. In addition to the lunar landscape, The Burren is also home to a few notable prehistoric sites. The most recognizable of these is the Poulnabrone, commonly nicknamed as “Ireland’s Stonehenge.” The best way to take it all in is with a scenic drive of the Burren Coast Road. Like The Cliffs, however, you’ll want to get started early to avoid the tourist traffic on the narrow Irish roads.
Old Midleton Distillery
Of course, no amount of sightseeing would be complete without squeezing in at least one visit to a local distillery. Thankfully, about a 40 minute drive from Kinsale in the old Village of Midleton lies the home of Jameson Irish whiskey. The most recognizable name in Irish whiskey relocated here in the 1970s, and the beautifully restored complex offers one of the best distillery touring experiences in British Isles. For this reason, the Jameson Experience, as it’s known, ranks as one of the best combinations of golf and whiskey tours in Ireland in our book.
Kinsale
One of the most fashionable resort towns in the country, Kinsale is considered the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland”. After a round at nearby Old Head Golf Links, you will find plenty of restaurants to satisfy every craving and an abundance of views of this charming seaside town. The meandering, narrow, flower decorated streets are not only picturesque but filled with a variety of pubs, galleries, cafes, and shops. If you have yet to pick up a souvenir for your significant other back home, this might be your best – and maybe last – chance to avoid coming home empty handed.
Bonus Attractions
Blarney Castle
15th century castle and home to the famous Blarney Stone. Visitors who kiss the stone – while dangling upside down, mind you – are said to gain “the gift of eloquence.” It may be a little touristy, but we’d be remiss to not at least mention one of the most popular attractions in Ireland.
Cobh
Formerly known as Queenstown, this picturesque town was the final stop for the Titanic before its fateful voyage. Cobh was the single most important port of emigration, with some 2.5 million Irish departing for America from 1850-1950.
When it comes to sightseeing during a Southwest Ireland golf trip, the above list barely scratches the surface of notable and stunning sites to see along the way. Naturally, the best way to take in as much as possible is from the comfortable confines of a private coach led by an H&B Driver-Host. Not only will you be able to just sit back and marvel at the passing vistas, but you’ll do so with the insight and local flare of your new friend behind the wheel.
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