Beautiful Ireland: Top Scenic Spots from the Experts at CIE Tours

With its lush, rolling hills, sweeping mountain ranges, ancient stone ruins, and charming villages, Ireland is one of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful travel destinations. The Emerald Isle’s brilliant green landscapes ensure it lives up to its nickname. Whether you're standing atop a cliff overlooking the Atlantic or wandering through misty valleys dotted with sheep, Ireland’s scenery is the kind that stays with you long after your journey ends. If you're planning a visit—or simply dreaming of one—here are some of our favorite scenic spots that showcase the magic of this remarkable country.

Cliffs of Moher

When it comes to iconic views, it’s hard to top the Cliffs of Moher. Stretching for nine miles along Ireland’s wild western coast and towering over 700 feet above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs are among the country’s most beloved landmarks. The view is dramatic and unforgettable—windswept, rugged, and intensely photogenic.

These cliffs have been attracting visitors since the 18th century, and if they look familiar, there’s a reason: they’ve starred in several famous films. Movie buffs will recognize them as the “Cliffs of Insanity” in The Princess Bride, and they also make an appearance in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Irish cinema fans may recall them from Into the West, a classic tale of adventure and folklore.

Most CIE Tours vacations that travel through the west of Ireland include a visit to the Cliffs of Moher, including Irish Adventure, Irish Odyssey, Irish Legends, Irish Spirit and more—so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap that perfect windswept selfie with one of Ireland’s most spectacular backdrops.

Slieve League Cliffs

The Cliffs of Moher may be better known, but the cliffs at Slieve League in County Donegal are even more awe-inspiring in terms of sheer size. Soaring up to 2,000 feet above sea level, they are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe—nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher.

Despite their grandeur, Slieve League’s more remote location means they remain less crowded, offering a more peaceful, immersive experience in nature. The panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly into the horizon and seabirds circling overhead. You’ll feel on top of the world, surrounded by wild, unspoiled beauty.

Guests on our Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way tour enjoy this view complete with a warming cup of creamy Irish coffee to savor as they take it all in. And travelers seeking a more active vacation can hike along Slieve League on our new-for-2026 Ireland Walking and Hiking: The Northern Coast.

Glendalough

For a serene blend of natural beauty and spiritual history, Glendalough is simply unmatched. Nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just south of Dublin, this peaceful valley is home to one of Ireland’s most important early monastic sites. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, the settlement grew into a significant center of learning during the medieval era.

As you explore the site today, you'll find beautifully preserved stone churches, a soaring round tower, and one of Ireland’s oldest Celtic crosses. Walking among the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the lives of the monks who once lived and worked here, transcribing manuscripts and preserving vital knowledge through the Dark Ages.

You can visit this captivating site on several of our popular itineraries, including Irish Spirit and Irish Adventure.

Ring of Kerry

No scenic tour of Ireland would be complete without a drive along the famed Ring of Kerry. This 110-mile loop around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry offers an ever-changing parade of scenic wonders—rugged coastlines, sparkling lakes, windswept mountains, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns.

The journey typically starts and ends in Killarney, passing through charming villages like Sneem and Waterville. Along the way, you’ll find viewpoints like “Ladies’ View,” named for Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who were enchanted by the vista during an 1861 royal visit. Keep an eye out to sea for Skellig Michael, a steep rocky island where monks once lived in solitude—and where scenes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens were filmed.

Many of our tours take in this scenic drive, including Irish Spirit, Taste of Ireland and Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, giving you the chance to view some of Ireland’s most iconic vistas at a relaxed pace.

Giant’s Causeway

Located in County Antrim in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder that feels like something out of myth—which makes sense, given its legendary origin. Made up of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity, the Causeway’s geometric formations stretch like stepping stones into the sea.

But according to Irish folklore, it wasn’t lava that created them—it was the mighty giant Finn MacCool. As the story goes, Finn built the causeway to cross the sea to battle a Scottish rival named Benandonner. In one version, Finn wins through sheer might; in another, he uses his wits. When he sees that Benandonner is much larger, he has his wife disguise him as a baby. Benandonner, seeing the size of the "baby," imagines how large the father must be—and flees in terror, destroying the path behind him.

No matter which version you believe, the Giant’s Causeway is a spectacular site that’s not to be missed. It’s featured on several of our tours that circle the island, including Irish Adventure, Jewels of Ireland, and Irish Odyssey, and on tours that focus on Ireland’s northern half, including Mystical Ireland, Evergreen Ireland North, and Ireland Walking & Hiking: The Northern Coast.

Explore with CIE Tours

Every destination we’ve highlighted here is included in one or more of CIE Tours' expertly crafted itineraries—each designed to immerse you in the rich culture, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality of Ireland. Whether you prefer the structure of a Guided Vacation, the flexibility of a Self-Drive, the active small-group experience of our Walking & Hiking Tours, or the ultimate convenience of a Custom Private Driver experience, CIE Tours makes it easy to explore Ireland your way.

And the warm welcomes don’t stop with Ireland. CIE Tours also offers unforgettable travel experiences in Scotland, England & Wales, Iceland, Italy, and Spain. No matter where you dream of going, we’re here to help bring your adventure to life.

Ready to discover your favorite scenic spot? Contact your travel advisor today and start planning your perfect getaway with CIE Tours.