5 Best Natural Wonders in Scotland & Ireland
The region of Scotland and Ireland is very famous for many reasons: spectacular cities, scenic landscapes, rich historical and cultural background, and of course, there is a significant nature factor. So, while visiting these stunning countries, you should pay attention to the natural wonders here, as there are many. That being said, we have prepared a list of the top 5 best ones you should definitely consider!
- The Three Sisters of Glencoe, Scotland
Located in the Scottish Highlands, The Three Sisters of Glencoe, or Bidean Nam Bian in Gaelic, are the trio of peaks and undoubtedly one of the most scenic sites in Scotland.
The Sisters, Beinn Fhada (Long Hill), Gearr Aonach (Short Ridge), and Aonach Dubh (Black Ridge), were shaped millions of years ago from the oldest sedimentary and volcanic strata in the world, making them the most exciting nature wonder in the area.
You can visit these prominent mountains any time of the year, as they are always fantastic, and as a bonus, you will pass many valleys and waterfalls on the way. So breathe in the fresh air of the Scottish Highlands, and stand before the looming peaks with such a beautiful name!
For more inspiration, check out Scotland tours!
Glencoe, Scotland: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/07/26/12/28/glencoe-2541548_1280.jpg
- Scottish Dark Sky Park, Scotland
If you find peace in the dark, and stargazing is something you find serene, romantic, and freeing, you should certainly make time to visit the Dark Sky Park in the Galloway Forest Park. It is the first place in the world, considered to be so dark that you can see every star extremely clearly, which is what the park was designated for. So few people live in the forest that the sky turns inky black at night, and tourists travel here to see planets, meteors, and thousands of stars, visible by a naked eye.
Exciting, natural, and once-in-a-lifetime. That is why Dark Sky Park is so wonderful!
Stargazing: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/11/21/13/01/backlit-1845281_1280.jpg
- The Green Loch, Scotland
We love a good story, and the Green Loch of Scotland has an amazing one! According to the legend, the loch got its emerald color when Domhnall Mor, the king of pixies, washed his clothes in the water, coloring it in this magical-looking shade of green.
In reality, though, it is most likely that the Green Loch got its striking color by the decomposing wood lying around. Whatever the reason might be, the lake is stunning and very picturesque.
You will come across it while taking a walk through Glenmore Forest Park, so take in all the stunning, untouched greenery and flora, all of which will lead you to the most mystical-looking lake you have ever seen!
Green lake: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/06/07/12/56/sunrise-2380281_1280.jpg
- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland
These absolutely spectacular rock formations in Ireland are so exciting and unique that many people consider them the 8th Wonder of the World. Since they were formed by nature and are completely untouched by human hands, Giant’s Causeway has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the only one in Northern Ireland. Seemingly perfect-shaped rocks create a scenic landscape, and tourists are eager to visit the site that most likely formed over 6 million years ago!
Of course, no natural wonder is left without a myth, and this one got its name due to the Irish legend of giants walking the earth, leaving these intricate stone formations in their wake.
For comfortable navigation through the country, look up Ireland trains!
Giant’s Causeway: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2021/06/07/14/07/giants-causeway-6318060_1280.jpg
- Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
You have probably heard Cliffs of Moher mentioned in any story regarding Ireland, and for a good reason! Located in Western Clare, they are staggeringly beautiful and impressive with their heights and forming.
There are many preparations to help tourists enjoy the sights, such as exquisitely paved routes for hiking, a high-tech visitor center, a 19th-century lookout tower, and accommodations as close by as possible.
If you are into your blockbuster movies, you will surely recognize the surroundings and the Cliffs of Moher from the most popular fantasy franchise ever, Harry Potter. In the 6th installment, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the main characters travel here, creating some beautiful shots of this natural wonder of Ireland. The site also appears in The Princess Bride, The Yank, Into The West, and The Mackintosh Man!
Cliffs of Moher: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2019/10/02/10/37/cliff-of-moher-4520630_1280.jpg
Now that you have a better idea of just how wonderful both Scotland and Ireland are in their nature, we suggest you expand your planning to include even more natural wonders here! So keep your eyes open and be open-minded – the beauty of Mother Nature is all around you if you look close enough!
