Ireland Beach, Flowers + Winter pictures

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The air is perfumed with rose varieties blooming in this peaceful retreat, a perfect place to catch up with Tralee’s literary greats.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Sitting on the west coast of Ireland, and therefore the very edge of Europe itself, is the unspoiled area sometimes referred to as ‘the real emerald of Ireland’, Connemara. Boasting landscapes that range from the tranquil to the dramatic, and encompassing mountains, bogs, beaches and villages, it is a genuinely magnificent setting within which to explore and enjoy the kind of warm welcome the people of Ireland have always been proud of offering to visitors.

Straddling the picturesque Carrowbeg River on the final stretch of its journey to Clew Bay on Ireland’s west coast, Westport boasts a beautiful Georgian town centre with a cosmopolitan array of multicoloured restaurants, shops and bars. Officially designated a Heritage Town, Westport is the jewel in Mayo’s brilliant green crown – but tear yourself away from the buzz of the centre and your choices multiply yet again.

Wander down medieval-style alleys lined with pubs, shops and galleries, then have a pint, listen to music or party.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Wander down medieval-style alleys lined with pubs, shops and galleries, then have a pint, listen to music or party.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Surf the legendary breaks or stroll along the sandy beach bordering the western flank of Knocknarea on the Cúil Irra peninsula.

Walk along this pretty beach to find great surf breaks, fossilized marine life and the remains of a Spanish Armada shipwreck.

Colorful local birds fly above a busy working windmill that looks over a historic port from which many thousands left for better lives.

This distinctive flat-topped hill and its mysterious summit cairn have been prominent landmarks in County Sligo’s folklore and culture for millennia.

Outdoor pursuits, culture and history aplenty: Connemara\'s largest town provides a full day or two of entertainment.