Winter is a blissful time to visit Ireland. Though famed for greenness, Ireland in Winter is something quite rare and beautiful. While it’s true that winter is the darkest season in Ireland, the shorter days have many advantages as they give way to some dramatic sunsets and sunrises. This is also the season where you may have the chance to see the Northern Lights!
As evenings turn cooler, you couldn’t wish for a better excuse to nurse a pint or a whiskey in a cozy local pub with traditional Irish music for company. Experiencing winter in Ireland will definitely bring out your adventurous side and leave you with amazing memories.
Here are a few of the highlights of exploring Ireland at this time of year.
Try some tasty Winter warmers
Ireland’s food producers are amongst the best in the world. An impressive landscape provides some of the finest seafood, grass-fed lamb and beef, farmhouse cheeses, artisan breads and locally grown vegetables. Tuck into some of Irelands traditional dishes such as a hearty bowl of Irish stew or seafood chowder, beside a roaring open fire.
Goodbye crowds
Visiting the island of Ireland during Winter means you will avoid the crowds, while also getting the best value for money. Some of Ireland’s most well-known scenic touring routes are, unsurprisingly, the most popular. The Wild Atlantic Way is the longest continual coastal route in the world, dotted with country villages and fantastic places to stay – from five-star to boutique B&Bs. Shorter driving routes such as the Ring of Kerry, Connemara’s Sky Road or Slea Head provide the most stunning backdrops and at this time of year you can enjoy it all to yourself. Although the roads and popular tourist sites are quieter, the local pubs are where the locals gather on a cold, crisp evenng. Enjoy a warm meal, cold beer, and festive chatter all season long.
Dust off the cobwebs
Winter is the perfect time to visit Ireland’s countryside including the many national parks such as Killarney and Glendalough. Fewer visitors mean quieter trails, tranquil walks and even a chance to view stunning backdrops as Red Deer stags strut across the landscape. If you’re looking for peace and fresh air, then you’ll love hiking Ireland in winter. Thanks to Ireland’s mild winters, it’s rarely too snowy to go exploring. Explore the many mountains with a local guide to ensure you find the best vantage points.
Winter in Ireland is a time of gentle sunsets, wild waves, and hair-whipping winds. So grab a coat and make your way to the coast for a chilly beach adventure.
Stay in the cosiest places
Ireland is known for its famous hospitality and if you’re visiting Ireland over the Winter period, you’re in for a treat – there is nothing like the holiday atmosphere in Ireland! The weather is crisp, the fires are roaring, the food is just superb and, of course, festive cheer abounds wherever you go.
For those who prefer a more relaxed vacation, stay in some of Irelands luxury spa accommodations. Steam, soak, and sleep your way to total bliss in one of Ireland’s dreamy hotels. When the weather is fresh and energy is low, a winter spa break is a wonderful way to re-energize.
Irish Winter Festivals
Ireland has many lively events and festivals to enjoy throughout the Winter. From festive lights in nearly every town, spectacular sporting events and traditional Christmas markets there is something from everyone.
Leopardstown Christmas Festival, near Dublin, happens just after Christmas and is a four-day-long horse racing event. It is one of the biggest sporting highlights on Irish calendars and sees sporting enthusiasts, socialites, and thrill-seekers coming together to enjoy the entertainment.
A festival in itself, New Year’s Eve is also done well in many parts of Ireland. From the lively parties and musical performances at the New Years Festival in Dublin to organized ocean swims in Achill Island, ringing in the new year in Ireland has endless possibilities.
In Ireland, the air brims with genuine warmth and cheer as the holidays approach. The Christmas markets in Ireland are diverse and unique in each city and town. You’ll find a unique blend of rich traditions, vibrant culture, and friendly faces, making Ireland a distinct and welcoming winter experience.
