Uncover Ireland’s hidden oddities with these ten unconventional activities.
Sometimes it can be a little boring to follow the usual tourist trail, so adding an exciting twist to your Irish adventure may occasionally be necessary.
While Ireland is renowned for its ancient castles, glorious landscapes and rich history, several unconventional experiences are guaranteed to give you a different perspective of the Emerald Isle.
Let’s unveil the top ten unconventional things to do in Ireland.
10. Swim at Lough Hyne – Europe’s only inland saltwater lake
Did you know Ireland is home to Europe’s only inland saltwater lake? Lough Hyne in County Cork is more than just an idyllic place to swim.
This unusual lake receives very little fresh water and has a fascinating ecosystem with sea urchins and bioluminescent algae, which make for an incredible out-of-the-ordinary activity.
9. Explore Ireland’s fairy forts – delve into Irish folklore
Ireland may be known for its fascinating folklore, but not many take the time to experience the magic around us.
Fairy forts in Ireland are scattered across the country and are said to be gateways possessing special powers to the other world, with the most famous being Knockgraffon Motte in Co. Tipperary.
8. Tempt lady luck at the casino – an unconventional pastime
One of the most unconventional things to do in Ireland is to visit a casino to try your hand at winning big. Ireland may not be the first country you think of when imagining casinos.
Still, plenty of privately owned casinos across the country feature roulette, slots, poker and blackjack, so why not?
7. Go bog snorkelling – get down and dirty
Bog snorkelling certainly isn’t the norm, but it is becoming increasingly popular in Ireland.
This atypical sport provides a thrill and can be done in various parts of the country, particularly Galway and Monaghan, plus there is even a Bog Snorkeling Championship that takes place each year.
6. Visit the Wicklow Pyramid – an unusual resting place
One of the most uncommon things to do is to visit Wicklow’s Pyramid, mainly because nobody associates Ireland with ancient pyramids.
There is no better way to get off the beaten path than to visit the Howard Mausoleum Pyramid located at the Manor Kilbride Cemetery, where 18 members of the Howard family have been laid to rest.
5. Victors Way – a piece of Indian culture in Ireland
One of the most unconventional things to do in Ireland is to stroll through Indian Sculpture Gardens, and Victors Way offers visitors an extraordinary experience.
This contemplative space for adults features abundant black granite sculptures and allows you to take part in forest bathing and walking meditation.
4. St Michan’s Mummies – an otherworldly experience
For a supernatural experience, a visit to St Michan’s 800-year-old mummies in Dublin is a must. While it is not the most common activity to do, it is one of the most intriguing for this very reason.
After navigating the dimly lit steps, you will emerge to this ancient church, which features a mummy with his hand out of the coffin.
3. Puck Fair – a 400-year-old festival
The Puck Fair in County Kerry, held every summer, is Ireland’s oldest festival. The festival, which features a mountain goat crowned ‘King Puck’ for the event, also has a horse fair, livestock exhibitions, craft markets, parades and music.
This ancient festival is one of its kind in Ireland and needs to be seen to be believed.
2. Visit a nude beach – not a typical Irish activity
Visiting a nudist beach is undoubtedly one of the most unconventional things to do in Ireland because, let’s face it, Irish people are naturally conservative.
Yet, in recent years more spots for nude sunbathing and swimming have emerged, and while there are no official nude beaches, some popular nude spots include Silver Strand, Galway and Clonakilty Bay, Cork.
1. Wine tasting – one of the most unique things to do
Believe it or not, Ireland has vineyards, and wine tasting is one of the most unconventional things to do in Ireland.
The country is officially listed as a wine-producing country by the European Commission. Some of the best wineries to visit are located in Wicklow, Waterford and Cork.
From Irish pyramids and ancient festivals to trying your luck at one of the country’s many casinos, Ireland has plenty of offbeat and engaging things to do that you might not have thought of.
So, why not get off the beaten path and experience something a little quirky?
Sponsored Content Disclosure
This article is a sponsored feature, and all content and links contained within should be considered promotional in nature. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, links included in this article are to be understood as sponsored. If you are interested in promoting content on our website, kindly refer to our contact page to arrange the elevation of your brand’s visibility.
