Craving some me-time in nature? Check out our list of the most scenic places for yoga in Ireland for inspiration.
The benefits of yoga for physical and mental health have been enjoyed by people for millennia. The word yoga means “yoking” or “union” in Sanskrit, and encompasses a union of breath, body, mind, and spirit.
During lockdown, even more people in the west have experienced how a regular yoga practice can help them stay in touch with the present moment, calm anxiety, and aid sleep.
Now that we can travel a little further afield on our beautiful island, why not shake up your practice with an outdoor session?
Yoga calls for our complete awareness in the present moment so practicing in nature can also be a great way of reconnecting with the world we live in.
We have added some popular paid retreats to our list, but you don’t have to spend a penny to enjoy yoga. It helps if you have a yoga mat, but you don’t even necessarily need one – just take yourself to one of these beautiful scenic spots and see what yoga can offer you.
10. Phoenix Park, Dublin – for a relaxing break from city life
This huge park in Dublin is a splash of serenity in a busy capital city. Throw down your mat and take it in.
If you are lucky, you may even be visited by some of the wild deer that live in the park during your practice.
Address: Northside, Dublin 8, Ireland
9. The Cliffs of Moher Yoga Retreat – for an immersive yoga experience
If you are feeling the need for a more immersive experience, or want to connect with others, a yoga retreat is always a good shout.
The yoga studio here overlooks the Atlantic Ocean at Liscannor Bay, so you can enjoy the breath-taking views while participating in a variety of different yoga classes.
Address: Ballard Rd, Ballysteen, Liscannor, Co. Clare, Ireland
8. Castlewellan Forest Park, Co. Down – for lake-side yoga and meditation
Castlewellan is a beautiful village nestled between the Mourne Mountains and the Dromara Hills in Northern Ireland.
Pick an early morning in summer to set up your mat beside the tranquil lake in the forest park and enjoy.
Address: Forest Park View, Castlewellan BT31 9BU
7. Burren Yoga Retreat – for lovers of hiking
If you prefer to mix your yoga practice with other outdoor activities like hiking, then you’ll enjoy the Burren Yoga Retreat.
Located in one of the most scenic parts of the country, this retreat continues to get rave reviews from attendees.
Address: Burren Yoga Retreat Centre, Normangrove, Cappaghmore, Co. Galway, H91 KN72, Ireland
6. St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin – for a tranquil lunch break
If you are low on time, why not fit in a moment of relaxation on your lunch break at St. Stephen’s Green? Pick a spot beside the swan lake and stretch it out.
Address: St Stephen’s Green, Saint Peter’s, Dublin 2, Ireland
5. Keem Beach, Co. Mayo – for rugged and beautiful views
Achill Island is one of the most ruggedly beautiful and tranquil places in Ireland.
While there are many spots ideal for yoga practice and meditation, Keem Beach is perfect due to its flat land and cliffs, which offer shelter from the wind. This is definitely one of the most scenic places for yoga in Ireland.
Address: Keel West, Keem, Co. Mayo, Ireland
4. Benone Beach, Co. Antrim – for refreshing northern air
This stunning spot on the North Coast of the island is the perfect spot for yoga or meditation.
It doesn’t get quite as busy as the beaches in the nearby Portstewart or Portrush, so you’ll get plenty of space to yourself.
Address: Benone Ave, Limavady
3. Murlough Nature Reserve, Co. Down – for stunning mountain and sea views
Beaches are great places to practice yoga due to their flatness.
Breathe in the refreshing salt air and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains during your practice.
Address: Keel Point, Dundrum, Newcastle BT33 0NQ
2. The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Dublin – for sweet aromas as you practice
Surround yourself with colourful seasonal flowers in the beautifully maintained National Botanic Gardens in Ireland.
If you want to have the place to yourself for your yoga or meditation practice, it is best to go early as this spot is popular with visiting tourists.
Address: Glasnevin, Dublin 9, D09 VY63, Ireland
1. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow – for a tranquil practice in a historic setting
There are plenty of spots at Glendalough to lay down your mat and take in the breath-taking views of the Wicklow Mountains National Park.
In the summer, the sounds of birds from the surrounding forest will serve as the perfect soundtrack to any practice.
Address: Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi, or have just always wanted to try it out, practicing in one of the most scenic places for yoga in Ireland is sure to add another level of tranquillity to your practice. Enjoy!
