By Soren Rivero
Ireland – the land of rolling green hills, incredible castles, St. Patrick's day... However you know think of the Emerald Isle, there's no doubt this country is absolutely magnificent.
But, did you know there are six wonderfully diverse and beautiful National Parks in Ireland? Each park holds different historical landmarks, natural wonders, and hidden gems to find. Keep reading to learn why you should add these scenic wonders to your Ireland vacation itinerary!
Killarney National Park, Killarney, County Kerry
Killarney National Park is Ireland’s first designated National Park. It was established 1932 and has since become a beloved aspect of Ireland’ nature scene. It’s here where you’ll find Carrauntoohil, the largest mountain in Ireland which is connected to the McGillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range. Just by that alone, it’s easy to see why this is the most popular National Park in Ireland.
Visitors can walk, rent a bike, or canoe to explore around the park. Be on the lookout for interesting species of animals, as Killarney National Park is known to house an outstanding diversity of wildlife. The park is also home to some of the best things to do in Killarney, like the 19th-century Muckross House. Explore the gardens, walk the mansion, and have afternoon tea at the on-site cafe. Another one of the great things to do in Killarney National Park is to visit Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house that previously served as a home to the ruling clan O'Donoghue Mor.
Burren National Park, Corofin, County Clare
Burren National Park might be the smallest National Park in Ireland, but it's also one of the most unique. What’s interesting about this park is the combination of rocky terrain juxtaposed with emerald green fields of grass.
On one side of the park, you’ll see acres of land bathed in grass with delicate touches of flowers and trees. On the other side, you’ll spot a terrain akin to the surface of the moon. It’s true! The rock formations around Burren National Park spiral on the ground in amazing, intricate patterns. The nearby river completes the park’s magnificent appeal.
Ballycroy National Park, County Mayo
This is the youngest National Park in Ireland, with it being designated semi-recently in 1998. Rolling fields of vibrant green grass and shrubbery paint the landscape similar to that of a forest. In opposition to a forest, however, Ballycroy’s linear dimension allows you to see far into the distance. You might even spot the Nephin Beg mountain range far across the horizon. Tiny streams and hills make the park an even more cohesive display of mother nature’s artwork. Wooden bridges, paved walkways, and service centers help the park feel more human-friendly.
Ballycroy was intentionally organized as a way to preserve the natural beauty as well as the local wildlife. You’ll find different species of geese, grouse, otters, and more that all claim this serene venue as their home. This is the best National Park in Ireland for peaceful retreats.
Glenveagh National Park, Letterkenny, County Donegal
Glenveagh National Park combines the excitement of touring a royal castle with the rejuvenating bliss of exploring a park. Located in the rugged heart of Derryveagh Mountains in County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park is a large park comprising woodlands and a sparkling lake.
The scenery combines nearly everything you’d want from a park: biodiversity, tall trees, clear lake water, walkable paths, and earth-toned small hills. Yet, the park has two additional features that helps it stand out among other National Parks in Ireland. First, Glenveagh is a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the rare Golden Eagle species. Second, there’s a giant 19th-century castle in the middle of the forest that you can tour.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, Powerscourt Mountain, County Wicklow
“Which national park should I visit in Ireland to hike?” is something you might find yourself asking while on vacation, and your answer would be Wicklow Mountains National Park in County Wicklow. This park is often noted as the best park to mountain climb in Ireland thanks to its deep, secluded mountain range. Adventurers and adrenaline-junkies will surely find the hours worth of climbable and hikable terrain to be to their liking.
Those that are in search of a real challenge (that’s fun yet manageable) should pack accordingly for the 5+ day stretch from Wicklow Way to Wicklow Gap. If you’re not so adept at extraneous physical activities, there are a handful of beginner-friendly hiking trails, in addition to absolute gorgeous spots to simply sit and relax.
Connemara National Park, Letterfrack, County Galway
Connemara National Park rests on the northwestern edge of Ireland, encompassing around 4,900 acres of stunning landscape. You’ll get the perfect “countryside Irish feel” when visiting this park. Some of the key features include bogs, tall and rugged mountains, woodlands, grasslands, and heaths. Connemara is arguably the most diverse park out of the six when it comes to scenery.
The best part of this park are the native Connemara ponies. These cute, yet sturdy, breeds of pony are known to mirror the land and lifestyle of Connemara Park. Take some time to admire their curiosity once you spot them, but be sure to keep your distance!
Which one of these incredible National Parks in Ireland will you visit on your next trip?
