Dingle, Kinsale, Killarney, Westport – well known among locals and tourists alike. However, what about these Irish towns you’ve probably never heard of?
There are countless famous towns in Ireland that locals and tourists alike flock to for the well-known attractions, pubs, and whatever “best things to do” the town has to offer.
But there are so many towns in Ireland that simply don’t get the credit their famous brothers and sisters to.
There’s no gatekeeping here, so let’s check out the five best Irish towns you’ve never heard of.
5. Enniscrone, Co. Mayo – surf, yoga, and so much more
While you might have heard of the picturesque town of Westport, or the world-famous surfing town Mullaghmore, you perhaps haven’t heard of the coastal County Mayo gem that is Enniscrone.
It’s a tranquil seaside haven that’s home to awesome surf schools, peaceful yoga classes, and some of Ireland’s best seaweed baths.
A trip to Enniscrone feels like a peaceful escape to nature with friendly people, clean beaches, and lots to do to keep you busy while relaxing at the same time.
4. Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal – proper Irish feel
Most people have heard of Letterkenny, Killbegs, and Donegal Town in Donegal, but Rossnowlagh is perhaps not as well known and is certainly one of the best Irish towns you haven’t heard of.
Rossnowlagh is a beautiful stretch of beach where the sky meets the sea in an ambiguous blur. You’ll see people surfing, swimming, and having family picnics on the beach.
This is a true haven in the summer, and has some great pubs, like Smugglers Creek Inn for a drink and some great food overlooking the beach.
3. Rostrevor, Co. Down – a beautiful surrounding
Writer C.S. Lewis is said to have been inspired by Rostrevor and the Mourne Mountains when he wrote The Chronicles of Narnia.
The landscape of this small County Down town, that has under 3,000 residents, is something to be admired, and certainly an underrated town in the north.
Perhaps overshadowed by its neighbour Newcastle, there is so much to see and do in Rostrevor.
Some of the best things to do include the Fairy Glen or Kilbroney Park for a tranquil walk amongst nature. For something that’ll get the heart rate going a bit more, check out Slieve Martin.
Rostrevor really comes alive in July when the Fiddler’s Green Music Festival is on. Musicians from near and far come together to celebrate all things Irish music.
2. Ballina, Co. Mayo – one you should know about
Another County Mayo entry is Ballina. Known as the “salmon capital of Ireland” thanks to its location on the River Moy, it is home to the Ballina Salmon Festival – the longest running community festival in Ireland.
There is so much to see and do in Ballina, and some top-class places to stay, including Ice House Hotel. This hotel overlooks the River Moy and features excellent cuisine and a tranquil spa.
Belleek Castle Hotel and the surrounding Belleek Woods are some of the best features of Ballina.
Go for a leisurely stroll through the woods then check out the castle artefacts and grab a coffee and a bite to eat – the perfect afternoon spent in Ballina.
1. Carlingford, Co. Louth – good pubs, good food, good people
Last on our list of the best Irish towns you haven’t heard of is Carlingford, County Louth. Carlingford is one of those Irish towns you stumble across by accident, and you’re forever glad you did.
It’s the kind of town that quickly becomes a place you return to year after year. Sitting on the border between the Republic and the North, Carlingford is full of small-town pubs and eateries that give you a taste of proper Ireland.
Think trad music, friendly people, and all-round good vibes. There’s a small pebble beach as you enter the town, but if you go further around the pier, you’ll find a bigger stretch on the water to relax, go for a swim, and take in the beauty around you.
With lots of quaint B&B options to choose from, you’ll be close to everything. The Carlingford Greenway, which links Carlingford to Newry through Omeath, is a beautiful, scenic, walking and cycling route.
The Leprechaun and Fairy Underground Cavern is one of the top things to do in the area, so is a visit to Carlingford Brewing Company.
So, next time you visit the Emerald Isle, why not give the big hitters a miss and opt for one of these lesser-known, equally as enjoyable Irish towns instead?
