Ireland is easily recalled as a green wonderland. The Republic enjoys the privilege of six national parks, dedicated to preserving the unique lands that make up Ireland's gorgeous scenery. Come wander with us through the six majestic parks of the Emerald Isle.
The Burren is a gorgeous rocky landscape in County Clare and features the smallest, but no less glorious, of Ireland's national parks. This limestone-rich landscape uniquely supports Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean flora and fauna, with much of the parkland designated as a Special Area of Conservation. You can visit the legendary Cliffs of Moher or Poulnabrone Dolmen, one of Ireland's more famous portal tombs.
Located near Dublin, this gorgeous park, replete with stunning mountains, is an extremely popular tourist destination. Points of interest include Glendalough Valley featuring remnants of a Medieval monastery, the Lugnaquilla Mountain and the Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest in Ireland at 397 feet (121 meters).
Situated in County Galway, Connemara's park is an exquisite landscape. Much of the land was once the estate of the nearby Kylmore Abbey. The park boasts the Twelve Bens mountain range and is the origin of the athletic pony breed, the Connemara pony. Venture out to Ballynahinch Castle, situated 8 miles (13 km) from the park, a picturesque hotel with a magnificent spot for fly fishing.
An impressive park in County Kerry, established decades before any of the other national parks, Killarney National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, abundant with woodlands, lakes, and mountains. Walk the trail of the Black Valley, considered one of the remotest areas of Ireland, and see the oft-photographed Drumluska Cottage. Be enchanted by the Ancient Emerald Forest Trail, or the Ross Castle, resting on the shores of the park's lower lakes.
Ireland's second largest national park, Glenveagh, is situated in lush County Donegal. You can fish on Lake Lough Veagh, walk the many hilltop trails, or appreciate the lovely Glenveagh Castle. The park is home to Ireland's largest herd of red deer, and enjoys a population of formerly extinct golden eagle, which was reintroduced into the park in 2000.
Situated in County Mayo, is the newest addition to Ireland's six national parks. Close to the western seaboard, lies Ballycroy National Park, a largely uninhabited land and a wilderness unspoiled by industrialization. Home to the Nephin Beg mountain range and the Owenduff river, which encounters an impressive range of migratory birds. On a good day birdwatchers can spot rare species such the peregrine falcon, corncrake or whooper swan.
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
Some Places on Earth Look Like Theyāre Part of a Dream World
Through this photographerās lens, one can see how abundant the world is. These pictures just blew me away with their striking beauty.
You Will Be Amazed at the United Kingdom's Pure Natural Beauty
The British Isles are ancient lands, filled with history, and also places of sublime natural beauty. Come see these beautiful places close at hand, taken by talented photographers.
These Photos Appear To Have Been Taken In Another World...
Planet Earth is an incredible place - so incredible that we sometimes don't even recognise it. These locations could easily double up as alien planets.
These Incredible Photos Will Stir the Traveler in You...
The National Geographic Photo Contest is accepting new entries for past , and they have already received some incredible images...
Scotland Is One of the Most Beautiful Places on Earth
Scotland, as these 16 photos will prove, truly is a place of remarkable beauty.
Traveling to Two Gorgeous Dutch Cities...
Haarlem and Delft in the Netherlands are places where history and beauty come together...
The Best Museums to Visit in the City of London
No trip to London would be complete without visiting some of these well-known Museums, and we have compiled a list of the most recommended ones in this article
These Gorgeous Colorized Postcards Are Over 100 Years Old
You might think that colored photos in the early 20th Century were unheard of, but Photocrom already existed. Take a look at these stunning colorized postcards.
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
Check Out These Spectacular Award-Winning Drone Photos
Check out the spectacular winning images from the 2023 Drone Photo Awards.
The Tyrol Cow Festival - Celebrating With 100,000 Cows!
The Tyrol Cow Festival is an incredible occasion with 100,000 cows!
Surprising Facts to Know About the Aztecs and Their Empire
The Aztecs were way ahead of their time!
These Islands Are Quite Simply the World's Most Magical
The world is home to many beautiful islands, but only some can truly be called magical. Here are 12 of the most magical islands in the entire world.
Discover the Island of Capri in This Crisp 4K Video
Shot in 4K Ultra HD, this video will show you some of the most stunning sights Capri has to offer. Enjoy!
This Stunning Island Is Often Called the Eighth Continent
Madagascar is an island of outstanding beauty that's worth a visit. From stunning national parks, to picture-perfect beaches, here are its top 10 attractions.
8 Glorious Places on Earth That Are Largely Untouched
Here is a look at some of the most amazing untouched destinations on Earth that are inhabited by very few people.
15 Magnificent Royal Residences From All Around the World
In this article, weāll show you 15 of the most magnificent and extravagant royal palaces around the world, many of which are open to visitors
WATCH: Visit the Stunning Old Chinese Town of Lijiang
The beautiful Old Town of Lijiang in China's Yunnan province is a truly spectacular place that allows you to step into the past. View it in full high definition
Why Train Tickets Are so Expensive in America
Did you know traveling by train in the U.S. is often more expensive than flying? Find out why.
Wow! These Birdās Eye Views at ZĆ¼rich Take My Breath Away
Who knew the finance capital of Europe is THAT beautiful? Watch this HD video to see ZĆ¼rich in all its glory for yourself
10 Stunning Abandoned Islands and Their Eerie Histories
These islands used to be someoneās home, but today, they have been reclaimed by nature. Ready to see these islands and learn their histories?
The Incredible Sights and Sites of Salamanca, Spain!
Looking at the most interesting and beautiful parts of Salamanca, Spain
Two Weeks of Spanish Magic: The Recommended Itinerary
If you've always wanted to see all that Spain has to offer, this itinerary will make for a true full of opportunities to make good memories!
Traditional Japan's Best-Kept Secrets: 13 Cozy Villages
Join us on a beautiful journey of Japanās most charming villages and towns.
20 Gorgeous Routes to Drive On in the United States
America is a land full of open roads and Beautiful things to see. These are the top 20 trips I would definitely recommend you do.
Visit the Most Beautiful Monasteries in the World!
These monasteries are beautiful in both the spiritual and the architectural sense.
The Most Unusual Aspects of Life in Germany ā 15 Pics
Germany is full of famous and spectacular places. However, these images shoe some of the unique and quirky aspects of life in Germany.
Zalipie: The Beautifully Painted Village of Flowers
The small village of Zalipie can be found at a remote area of South Poland. But to those who make the effort to get there the trip is well worth it, because this village contains quite the surprise between its walls...
Why Are Countries Named the Way They Are? This Map Tells!
Have you ever wondered why the countries of the world are named the way they are, and what on Earth they might literally mean? Wonder no more...
What Dancing Looks Like Around the World
Dance is a universal sign of joy... but it looks quite different in every country! Check out these 20 fascinating dance styles from around the globe.
Escape From the World to These Beautiful US Hideaways
Did you know that you can escape from the world right here in the United States? Here are 10 beautiful US hideaways to escape to.
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
For the True Beauty of Italy, Look to the Small Towns...
Italy is blessed with so many beautiful cities, landscapes and places. Nowhere is it more evident than in these little picturesque towns, each more stunning than the next.
For Each US State, There is a Sight You Shouldn't Miss!
If you could only tell a visitor to do one thing in your state, what would it be? Did it make our list? This is the ultimate travel guide on things to do in each state.
Not Just in Japan: Where to See Cherry Blossoms Worldwide
In this post, we list 13 of the finest places to admire cherry blossoms beyond Japan.
The Australian Island of Tasmania Is Out of This World...
Many choose to visit to Australia at least once in their lifetimes, but the island of Tasmania is much less well-known. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
10 Beautiful Bays that Make Your Heart Sing!
The following 10 pictures show man and nature's relationship - how bays used to anchor ships only became the most beautiful places in the world.
Vegas to LA in Less Than 3 Hours?! Yes, It's Happening!
The U.S. is gearing up to build its first high speed railway project.
7 Amazing Wonders of the World Nobody Told You About
It's not all about the Great Wall of China and the pyramids of Giza, here are 7 amazing, ancient buildings that most of us have no idea about.
The Most Dazzling Ancient Castles and Fortresses on Earth
Featured in this sizeable collection of articles are the most noteworthy castles, palace and fortresses in Europe and beyond
Tour 20 of the World's Finest Wine Regions Right Now
Where does the most delicious and refined wine in the world come from? From these 20 sensational wine regions all over the world. Take this fine wine tour.
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
Eastern Europe's Jaw-Dropping Beauty Needs to Be Seen
Eastern Europe is often associated with poverty and the remnants of Communism, but it's actually quite exotic and beautiful. View these 20 amazing places.
Britain Has Many Destinations That Prove its Sheer Beauty
There's a lot more to the United Kingdom than just London, as these amazing destinations will prove to you. Take a look at 14 traveler hotspots in the UK.
10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching
If you wish to encounter whales, here are the top 10 destinations to do so
Take a Trip to China's Tianmen Mountain in Stunning 4K!
China is full of a natural beauty, but nothing comes remotely close to the stunning Tianmen Mountain. check it out in stunning 4K!