HIDDEN HEARTLANDS

Take the road less travelled and discover Ireland's secret gems

- Words: Alexia Santamaria.

There's a well-worn tick list for Ireland that many travellers follow - visit Trinity College in Dublin, tour the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery, kiss the Blarney Stone and gaze on the Cliffs of Moher. And while these iconic sights are popular for very good reason, there's another side to this part of the world, away from the queues of tour buses and long entrance lines, that's equally worth getting to know.

One of the most quietly endearing parts of an Irish adventure is the craic - the cheeky banter and warm vibe found in small towns and cosy pubs. Here, daily life hums against a backdrop of ancient castles, crumbling ruins and centuries of history, alongside village gossip, riverside walks, winding cycleways and welcoming local hospitality. A journey through Ireland's hidden heartlands gives you the best of both worlds - plenty of “real Ireland” encounters, as well as all the usual impressive tourist attractions.

If you're flying into Dublin, it's criminal not to enjoy its historical, architectural and social delights. But once you've had your fill, head inland and check out some of these quietly fascinating spots...