Cottages Ireland

Discover the Irish landscapes

Flora and fauna range on the island is quite similar to that of Britain but significantly less diverse. This is because Ireland was completely covered in the last Ice Age, and all animal and plant species that are now in the country have migrated from Britain and the rest of Europe. Don't get disappointed, though. Tourism experts describe the land as a world-class wilderness. One particular place that has intrigued people with its unique nature for many years now. This is the Cliff Coast. The region is striking because Ice-Age scenery meets the warm west-coast helping to create the perfect habitat for different species. The Burren region in County Clare, where you can observe Mediterranean and Arctic plants growing close together in peace and harmony. Next to the diversity of plants, making up 70% of the native Irish flora, The Burren region lures travelers with magnificent views of limestone formations, crystal clear lakes. If you're lucky, underground rivers might show up.

Overall, Ireland's natural vegetation was primarily forested, but now it occupies merely 5% of all land. The wildlife in the animal world has only a few dissimilarities to the one in Britain. Some species are missing, while others, like the spotted slug and woodlice, are only present in Ireland. The fox, tree marten, otter, and badger are among the 35 mammal species you can find in Ireland. Sometimes you can even spot a deer from your secluded cottage. The birds unique to the land are the jay, red grouse, dipper, and coal tit.

Go on adventures in Ireland

In Ireland, nearly all activities involve nature in one way or another. Thanks to the low population density outside of the cities, there's plenty of unique nature to explore. You could, for example, visit the Cliffs of Moher, which rise over 120 meters out of the Atlantic Ocean. Other possibilities for excursions in Ireland include the Irish Glendalough valley, the famous monastery Kylemore Abbey, Newgrange mound, a fishing trip, exploring caves, and visiting museums in Irish towns and cities. The warm Gulf stream makes hiking in Ireland one of the best activities to do all year round. Expect no weather extremes, but still be prepared for a lot of rainy days. There are plenty of hiking trails you can choose from. For the more inexperienced hikers, you can check The Causeway Coast with its amazing cliffs or Way Torc Mountain that uncovers views of the Killarney National Park and a few charming waterfalls along the way.

If you're up for a real challenge, then take The Dingle Way. It's a 179km hiking trail along the Dingle Peninsula. You can test your stamina by taking the whole path or visit just some of the beautiful spots, like the Annascaul glaciated valley. It's more off the beaten path so that you can enjoy the views unbothered by large crowds. Follow the thrashing stream that crosses the valley, sits by one of the waterfalls or the tranquil Annascaul Lake. Moreover, if you are a motorsport enthusiast, you can put North 200 on your bucket list, running between Port Stewart, Coleraine, and Portrush. So, if you are visiting Ireland in May, then you can enjoy this thrilling sport even live with 150,000 other spectators. If you are interested in music and dancing, then seeing The Riverdance live in Dublin is not a Bad Idea as the famous theatrical show consisting of top performers of the Industry is a must-go for you. For Nature Lovers, The Glenoe Waterfall nested in hills is a treat to watch and if you are visiting Belfast, the village of Gleno is a perfect stop for some amazing photography.

Let us tell you about Glasnevin Cemetery, which is the best place for the people interested in History and nerds. Being built in 1832, this large cemetery holds memorials of several notable figures and tombstones of various influential leaders like Daniel O'Connell, Michael Collins, and Charles Stewart Parnell tells their life stories. If you want to understand the unique concepts about life in Northern Ireland, then you should take a tour a black taxi tour through West Belfast with a group of knowledgeable drivers telling stories about political legends, peace walls, and all the historical stuff.