A study conducted by Active Iron has revealed which Irish counties enjoy the brightest weather conditions.
As it’s looking like 2021 will see another summer of staycations, you might want to check this new study revealing the sunniest Irish counties.
With international travel restrictions still in place, many people are planning their long-awaited getaway closer to home this year.
However, if you’re missing the Mediterranean sunshine, Ireland’s notoriously lousy weather may prove a disappointment. But fear not, as there are some spots across the Emerald Isle that enjoy more sun than you may expect.
Ireland’s sunniest counties – for that perfect seaside staycation
If you’re craving the feeling of the sun on your skin, there are a few spots in Ireland you may want to visit. A new study conducted by supplements company Active Iron has revealed the sunniest Irish counties.
While some of the results may be a bit predictable, there are also a few surprises you may not have expected.
So, if you’re sick of packing the wellies, raincoats, jumpers, and other winter attire for your Irish staycation, read on to find out where on the Emerald Isle you can get some sun.
Ireland’s sunny south-east – it got that name for a reason
The study reveals that County Wexford comes out on top when it comes to the sunniest Irish counties. Enjoying an impressive 1,600 hours of sunshine per year – that’s over 66 full days – Wexford may be your best bet for a sunny staycation.
Next up, Wexford’s neighbour County Waterford takes second place with 1,580 hours of sunshine per year. In third place, County Carlow basks in 1,540 hours of sunshine annually.
So, if you’re in the mood for a cloudless beach holiday, Ireland’s sunny south-east is probably your best bet.
However, don’t fret. If Ireland’s midlands are more to your liking, counties Longford and Cavan came in fourth and fifth place. These counties enjoy 1,520 and 1,440 hours of sunlight per year, respectively.
Ireland’s least sunny counties – still worth a visit
As expected, the counties that come in at the bottom of the list of sunniest Irish counties can be found along the Wild Atlantic Way.
At number 32 is County Mayo, which only gets 1,059 hours of sunlight per year. However, the Maritime County is still well worth visiting for its array of fun activities and attractions to enjoy.
Other counties that fell at the bottom of the list include Galway, Roscommon, Leitrim, and Offaly.
Ireland vs the U.K. – a close call
Active Iron also compared its results with the number of hours of sunshine enjoyed across the water in the U.K.
Despite England being situated closer to the Mediterannean, certain places across the Emerald Isle actually enjoy more sunshine than their U.K. counterparts.
For example, if you want a sunny city break, Dublin may actually be a better option than London. The Irish capital enjoys 1,424 hours of sunshine annually compared to London’s 1,400 hours.
However, if it’s a seaside break you’re after, England just takes the crown. Wexford was beaten by almost 300 hours by Brighton. The English seaside resort enjoys a fantastic 1,900 hours of sunshine per year.
Overall, if you’re planning an escape to Ireland this summer, the sunniest Irish counties will be waiting to welcome you with open arms. Just don’t forget your Factor 50!
