These five beautiful Irish locations might appear idyllic, but their beauty masks profound tragedies.
Ireland attracts many visitors because of its enigmatic atmosphere. The traditional culture remains very present, and legends add to that sense of mystery.
We sometimes forget that the beauty of these landscapes and the nostalgia they evoke have witnessed numerous dramatic events.
5. The Giant’s Causeway – a masterpiece of nature that has seen many deaths
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway is a geological masterpiece that attracts many tourists every year. The hexagonal columns made of basalt emerging from the ocean form a wonder of nature.
While geologists attribute its creation to ancient volcanic activity, Irish legends credit the story of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, an Irish giant who built a path to face his Scottish rival.
Although globally famous for its unique landscape, the coastline near the Causeway has seen numerous shipwrecks.
La Girona shipwreck lies in the water a few giant steps away from the famous rock pavement. Among the 1,300 people on the Spanish Armada’s galleon, only 9 survived, making it one of the greatest human losses in the fleet’s history.
Address: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU, Northern Ireland
4. Streedagh Beach – one of Ireland’s most beautiful and tragic beaches
On the Atlantic coast, this 3 km (1.8 mile) long beach lined with dunes is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland.
While a paradise for surfers and windsurfers, the weather exposure and reefs led to three Armada shipwrecks, causing the death of more than 1,000 men, some of whom were executed by the English forces after reaching land.
The Spanish Armada Visitor Centre in Grange provides an insight into the dark past of the Armada. The museum displays artifacts recovered from the three Armada shipwrecks at Streedagh Beach.
Address: Streedagh Beach, Co. Sligo, Ireland
3. Skellig Michael – a place of isolation and resilience
The island off Kerry is the site of a fascinating Christian monastery, dating back over 1,400 years. Raided by Vikings, Skellig Michael is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although the view is magnificent, life on the island was harsh, and the monks faced famine and extreme isolation. Even today, the boat trip to the island can be quite perilous, and climbing Skellig Michael is not for the faint-hearted!
Skellig Michael was named one of the most beautiful movie locations in the world. Its isolated and dramatic character is one reason why it was chosen as the location for Star Wars movies, The Force Awakens, and The Last Jedi.
Address: Skellig Rock Great, Co. Kerry, Ireland
2. Dunquin Pier – gateway to a place of no return
Dunquin Pier is well-renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The winding path leading to the pier opens up to a beautiful landscape with the Blasket Islands visible on the horizon.
The pier is a gateway to the Blasket Islands, often referred to as “the next parish to America”. The remote islands were home to a unique Irish community that lived there until their evacuation in 1953.
The pier still retains that atmosphere of a “place of no return” that has had such a profound impact on Irish history.
Address: Ballyickeen Commons, Co. Kerry, Ireland
1. Doolough Valley – a landscape of quiet remembrance
Nestled between the mountains, the Doolough Valley offers a raw and beautiful landscape. It is also the site of a great Irish tragedy.
In 1849, during the Great Famine, starving residents were forced to walk 19km to receive aid. Many perished enroute from malnutrition, cold, and exhaustion from the walk.
The Doolough Valley’s serene beauty contrasts sharply with its tragic past, still commemorated by the annual Doolough Famine Walk and widely documented.
Address: Doolough Valley Famine Memorial, R335, Clashcame, Co. Mayo
There you have it, here are five places that look beautiful but are deeply depressing. If you ask our opinion, knowing the dark history that shaped these beautiful places only allows us to truly appreciate their beauty!
