Thanks to St. Patrick's Day, Ireland might be on your mind now more than usual. Whether you're interested in visiting the country for its rich history, luscious greenery or delicious cuisine (and booze), there are so many different areas to explore. And one of the best Irish travel destinations to visit might surprise you.According to the Central Statistics Office, Ireland welcomed almost 6.6 million overseas visitors to Ireland in 2024—up by five percent compared to 2023. So, tourism is on the rise in Ireland and isn't going anywhere anytime soon.If you're looking for an area to visit in Ireland that's not necessarily Dublin or the Cliffs of Moher, Mickela Mallozzi, Emmy-winning travel host of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi on PBS, tells Parade about the one surprising Irish travel destination everyone should visit at least once.Related: The Surprising European Travel Destination Everyone Should Visit at Least Once, According to Getaway Guru Samantha Brown
Mallozzi recommends that people visit County Donegal, which she describes as the "hidden gem of Ireland.""It’s a bit of an adventure to get to, but well worth the journey," Mallozzi tells Parade. "It is located in the northwestern part of the Republic of Ireland and its coast runs along the top portion of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way scenic route."
Mallozzi's Top 6 Travel Tips for This Destination
Mallozzi recommends making your way south and more inland to check out the remote Glenties which is home to The Glen Tavern, known fondly as “Dinny’s” by the locals. "Depending on the season, they host weekly trad sessions (Traditional Irish live music sessions) [and] Irish language lessons, and every October, they host the Ceol na gCruach, an annual traditional Irish music festival," she says.
2. Visit Farren's Bar
If you're looking for a refreshing pint, then Mallozzi recommends taking a trip to Farren's Bar, which is at the most northerly bar in all of Ireland. "To me, they have the best pints of Guinness in all of Ireland," she tells Parade. The family-owned bar has been around since 1825 and has coffee and pizza available all day to patrons.
County Donegal has beautiful scenery and it's nearly impossible to see it all on foot. One way to get in touch with nature and really get a feel for the area is by taking a bike tour. "I recently did an e-bike tour, taking in the stunning views, riding to Banbas Crown along the Inishowen Peninsula," Mallozzi says. "The tour ended at Farren's Bar too, which is in the northernmost part of Ireland."Related: The Surprising French Travel Destination Everyone Should Visit at Least Once, According to Getaway Guru Darley Newman
4. Visit during shoulder season
Mallozzi says the best time to visit County Donegal and Ireland in general is during "shoulder season.""Shoulder season is in April/May and September/October and that's when prices are a little lower and there are less tourists in the country," she explains. "The good thing about Donegal is it’s still a hidden secret to most Americans, so it will always be less crowded than the more-known regions like County Kerry (Ring of Kerry), County Clare (Cliffs of Moher) and, of course, Dublin city."
One way to get a feel for a new place is by digging into the cuisine. "Nancy’s Barn in Ballyliffin is home to award-winning seafood chowder perfect to fuel up on prior to an adventure whether that's a bike tour along the peninsula or a stroll along the beach," she says.
6. Go to Malin Head
If you're looking for the best spot to take in the picturesque views and get the perfect Instagram photos, then you'll want to go to Malin Head. "Malin Head is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland, and Donegal’s windswept and rugged coastlines along the area will take your breath away," Mallozzi says. Ireland has so much to offer, especially County Donegal, so you'll want to book a trip to see it for yourself!
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Courtesy Mickela Mallozzi
Mickela Mallozzi, Emmy-winning travel host of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi on PBS Read More Details
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