“In Lent, when people couldn’t eat meat, 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. The southwest’s rocky coves are rich with seaweed, revealing a little-known piece of Irish history. Learn about Irish history through seaweed
Small-group tours in inflatables led by Dingle Sea Safari offer up-close looks at marine wildlife near the Blasket Islands , an archipelago uninhabited since 1953 and known for its soaring “Cathedral Rocks.” Nearby, Brandon and Tralee Bays, separated by the Maharees sand spit, are ripe for diving, while Castlegregory’s plentiful swells draw surfers, experienced and new. The Dingle Peninsula section is one of the best places to soak up the area’s rugged beauty, particularly from the water.
See the Wild Atlantic Way from the waterįor 1,600 miles along the western coast, the Wild Atlantic Way driving route winds past prehistoric sites, lighthouses, and coves. Here’s the best way to experience this colorful corner of Europe. Rounding out all that unspoiled nature are ancient castles, historic villages, and pubs alive with traditional music. But with nearly 2,000 miles of coastline, rivers, and lakes, the island nation is also awash in blue. Green fields and hills give Ireland its “Emerald Isle” nickname.