Table of Contents
Ireland is an island in Northwestern Europe, in the north Atlantic Ocean. It is the third-largest island in Europe, and the 20th-largest in the world. Ireland is sometimes known as the “Emerald Isle” because of its green landscape. This verdant reputation is well-deserved, as the island’s unique combination of physical features and temperate maritime climate creates an environment unlike any other in Europe. From rugged coastal cliffs to fertile central plains, from ancient mountain ranges to winding river systems, Ireland’s geography tells a story millions of years in the making.
The physical landscape and climate of Ireland are inextricably linked, each shaping and reinforcing the other to create the distinctive character that defines this Atlantic island. Understanding these geographical and meteorological features provides insight into not only the natural beauty of Ireland but also its agricultural productivity, ecological diversity, and the way of life that has evolved over millennia.
The Geographic Position and Size of Ireland
The island measures about 480 km (300 mi) north-south, and 275 km (171 mi) east-west, with a total area of 84,421 km2 (32,595 sq mi). It lies about 53°N 8°W, near the western edge of the European continental shelf, part of the Eurasian Plate. Ireland is separated from the island of Great Britain by the Irish Sea to the east, and from mainland Europe by the Celtic Sea to the south.
The Atlantic Ocean surrounds the western and southern coasts of Ireland, and the warm North Atlantic Drift, a major component of the Gulf Stream, is particularly influential on the climate of Ireland. This oceanic position is perhaps the single most important factor in determining Ireland’s weather patterns, temperature ranges, and the lush vegetation that covers much of the island.
The island’s location at the western edge of Europe places it directly in the path of Atlantic weather systems, which bring moisture-laden air masses across the island throughout the year. This positioning, combined with the moderating influence of surrounding waters, creates the mild, humid conditions for which Ireland is famous.
The Physical Features of Ireland
The Central Lowlands
Its main geographical features include low central plains surrounded by coastal mountains. The large central lowland is of limestone covered with glacial deposits of clay and sand, with widespread bogs and lakes. This central plain, often referred to as the Midlands, forms the heart of Ireland and represents a significant portion of the island’s total area.
The country consists of a large undulating plain in the centre, containing extensive peat-bogs, several large lakes (loughs), and surrounded on almost all sides by rugged coasts and highlands. The limestone bedrock underlying much of the central region is a legacy of ancient tropical seas that once covered this area, depositing thick layers of marine sediments that would eventually become the foundation of Ireland’s agricultural heartland.
The Bog of Allen is one of the largest bogs. These peatlands, formed over thousands of years through the accumulation of partially decomposed plant material in waterlogged conditions, are distinctive features of the Irish landscape. The lowlands also have peat bogs, swampy areas of thick muck that can be dried and burned. Historically, peat has served as an important fuel source for Irish households and continues to play a role in the country’s energy mix, though environmental concerns have led to increased protection of these unique ecosystems.
The lowlands in the center of the country have hills called drumlins, glacial deposits of rock and soil. These distinctive oval-shaped hills, formed by glacial action during the last Ice Age, create a characteristic “basket of eggs” topography in parts of the central region, particularly in the north-central areas.
Mountain Ranges and Highlands
Ireland consists of a mostly flat low-lying area in the midlands, ringed by mountain ranges such as (beginning in County Kerry and working counter-clockwise) the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, Comeragh Mountains, Blackstair Mountains, Wicklow Mountains, the Mournes, Glens of Antrim, Sperrin Mountains, Bluestack Mountains, Derryveagh Mountains, Ox Mountains, Nephinbeg Mountains and the Twelve Bens/ Maumturks group.
The highest peak is Carrauntuohill, which is 1041 m (3414 ft) high. It is in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, a range of glacier-carved sandstone mountains in County Kerry, in the south-west of the island. This peak, also spelled Carrauntoohil in some sources, stands as Ireland’s tallest point and attracts hikers and mountaineers from around the world.
Only three peaks on the island are over 1,000 m (3,300 ft) and another 457 exceed 500 m (1,600 ft). While Ireland’s mountains are modest by global standards, they create dramatic landscapes and significantly influence local weather patterns, with higher elevations receiving substantially more rainfall than lowland areas.
The coastal mountains vary greatly in geological structure. In the south, the mountains are composed of old red sandstone with limestone river valleys. In Galway, Mayo, Donegal, Down and Wicklow, the mountains are mainly granite, while much of the north-east of the country is a basalt plateau. This geological diversity reflects Ireland’s complex tectonic history and contributes to the varied landscapes found across the island.
The Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland formed due to volcanic activity about 65 million years ago. These granite mountains in County Down are among Ireland’s most scenic ranges and have inspired poets, artists, and songwriters for generations.
The Wicklow Mountains, located just south of Dublin, provide a dramatic backdrop to Ireland’s capital city and offer extensive hiking opportunities. There are a number of walking trails in the mountains, with the longest being that through the Wicklow Mountains. The Wicklow Way, stretching over 130 kilometers, is one of Ireland’s premier long-distance walking routes.
Rivers and Waterways
The River Shannon, at 360.5 kilometres (224.0 mi) in length, is the longest river in Ireland and Britain. With a drainage area of 16,865 km2 (6,512 sq mi), the Shannon River Basin covers one-fifth of the island. The Shannon crosses 11 counties and divides the west of Ireland from the south and east.
A copious spring called the Shannon Pot, at the foot of the Cuilcagh mountain, is the traditional source of the River Shannon—Ireland’s longest river. From this modest beginning in the uplands near the border with Northern Ireland, the Shannon flows southward through the heart of the country.
The river develops into three large lakes along its course, Lough Allen, Lough Ree, and Lough Derg. These expansive lakes, particularly Lough Derg, are important features of the Shannon system and support diverse aquatic ecosystems while also providing recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
The River Shannon enters the Atlantic Ocean at Limerick city along the Shannon Estuary. This broad tidal estuary is an important habitat for wildlife and has historically served as a vital waterway for commerce and transportation.
Other major rivers include the River Liffey and its leading tributary, the River Dodder, and the nearby Tolka River, River Slaney, the Three Sisters (the Rivers Nore, Suir and Barrow), River Lee, River Erne, Foyle River, River Bann, River Lagan, and River Boyne. Each of these rivers has played an important role in Irish history, supporting settlements, agriculture, and industry along their banks.
The rivers that rise on the seaward side of the coastal mountain fringe are naturally short and rapid. The inland streams, however, flow slowly, often through marshes and lakes, and enter the sea—usually by way of waterfalls and rapids—long distances from their sources. This contrast between the swift mountain streams and the meandering lowland rivers creates diverse aquatic habitats across the island.
In the Republic of Ireland there are over 74,000 kilometres (46,000 mi) of rivers and streams, more than 125,000 hectares (310,000 acres) of lake and over 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) of reservoirs; these are not evenly distributed—over 30% of the watercourse length is found in Counties Cork, Donegal and Mayo, while Counties Mayo and Galway hold over 40% of the total lake area.
Lakes and Loughs
Ireland is exceptionally rich in lakes, known locally as “loughs.” Lough Neagh, in Ulster, is the biggest lake in Ireland. Located in Northern Ireland, Lough Neagh is also the largest lake in the British Isles, covering approximately 392 square kilometers.
The largest lake in the Republic of Ireland is Lough Corrib 176 km2 (68 mi2). Other large lakes, besides the three major Shannon examples, include the two linked lakes known as Lough Erne, Lough Mask and Lough Corrib, and Lough Conn. These lakes support important fisheries, particularly for salmon and trout, and are popular destinations for anglers from around the world.
The abundance of lakes across Ireland is largely a result of glacial activity during the Pleistocene epoch. During the cold times, the ice formed glacial valleys and lakes. As glaciers advanced and retreated across the landscape, they carved out depressions that would later fill with water, creating the numerous loughs that dot the Irish countryside today.
The Coastline
The ocean is responsible for the rugged western coastline, along which are many islands, peninsulas, and headlands. The Atlantic coast of Ireland is particularly dramatic, featuring some of Europe’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
The coast is in general rocky, and occasionally very steep as may be observed at the scenic Cliffs of Moher which rise to a height of 155 meters (509 feet). This area contains the Cliffs of Moher, a notable geological feature that stretches for about 14 kilometers along the coastline of County Clare. These iconic cliffs attract over one million visitors annually and provide nesting sites for numerous seabird species.
The western and southern coasts are heavily indented with bays, inlets, and estuaries. The coastline is extremely indented, forming the peninsulas of Loop Head, Dingle, Iveragh and Beara, and inlets at the Shannon Estuary, Dingle Bay, Kenmare Bay, Bantry Bay and Cork Harbour. These peninsulas extend like fingers into the Atlantic, creating sheltered harbors and spectacular coastal scenery.
Inlets include Galway Bay, Killary Harbour (Ireland’s only fjord), islet-studded Clew Bay, the wild waters of Blacksod and Broad Haven Bay, as well as the funnel-shaped Bay of Killala. Killary Harbour, a glacially-carved fjord on the border between counties Galway and Mayo, is one of Ireland’s most distinctive coastal features.
Countless islands and islets are scattered around the coasts of Ireland, many of them very small. Over 200 of them were inhabited until the late 19th century, often with minute populations. At present, only about a dozen retain any permanent settlement. These offshore islands, including the Aran Islands, the Blasket Islands, and Achill Island, preserve traditional ways of life and are important cultural and ecological resources.
The Geological History of Ireland
Ireland’s diverse geology has developed over hundreds of millions of years and has an interesting pattern of development. The physical features of Ireland today look very different from its original features. Hundreds of millions of years ago, Ireland was made up of two continents, Laurentia and Gondwana, which were separated by an ocean, Lapetus.
Ireland formed when two continents collided millions of years ago and eventually moved north to where the island is located today. This continental collision, which occurred during the Caledonian orogeny approximately 400-500 million years ago, created many of Ireland’s mountain ranges and established the basic geological framework of the island.
Ireland moved to its present location about 25 million years ago. As the island moved north, the climate cooled; and as a result, the lush greenery that is present today began to emerge. This northward drift brought Ireland into the temperate zone where it currently resides, setting the stage for the development of its characteristic vegetation.
Ireland’s current landscape formed about 3 million years ago. For the past 1.7 million years or so, the hot and cold cycles of the earth have, of course, impacted Ireland. During the cold times, the ice formed glacial valleys and lakes. These glacial periods are partially responsible for the way the Irish landscape looks today.
Much of Ireland was covered by ice during the Pleistocene period. This ice finally melted away about twelve thousand years ago, leaving behind evidence of its former presence in most of the minor physical features of the landscape. The retreat of the glaciers left behind the drumlins, eskers, moraines, and glacial lakes that characterize much of the Irish landscape today.
The Climate of Ireland
Climate Classification and General Characteristics
The climate of Ireland is mild, humid and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes. Ireland’s climate is defined as a temperate oceanic climate, or Cfb on the Köppen climate classification system, a classification it shares with most of northwest Europe.
Ireland’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean gives it a mild maritime climate. As Ireland is downwind of a large ocean, it is considerably milder in winter than other locations at the same latitude, for example Newfoundland in Canada or Sakhalin in Russia. The Atlantic overturning circulation, which includes ocean currents such as the North Atlantic Current and Gulf Stream, releases additional heat over the Atlantic, which is then carried by the prevailing winds towards Ireland giving, for example, Dublin a milder winter climate than other temperate oceanic climates in similar locations.
This oceanic influence is the defining characteristic of Irish weather. The strongest factor determining Ireland’s climate is the Atlantic Ocean. The prevailing westerly winds blowing across the vast expanse of water are tempered by its comparatively warm surface, so that Ireland’s mean winter temperature is 10 to 15°C (20–30°F) higher than many places at the same latitude in America or Eastern Europe.
Temperature Patterns
Average temperatures range from 4°C to 7°C (39°F to 45°F) in January, and from 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 61°F) in July. January and February are the coldest months of the year, and mean daily air temperatures fall between 4 and 7 °C (39.2 and 44.6 °F) during these months.
July and August are the warmest, with mean daily temperatures of 14 to 16 °C (57.2 to 60.8 °F), whilst mean daily maximums in July and August vary from 17 to 18 °C (62.6 to 64.4 °F) near the coast, to 19 to 20 °C (66.2 to 68.0 °F) inland. The coastal areas tend to be slightly cooler in summer due to the moderating influence of the ocean, while inland areas can experience somewhat warmer temperatures.
Extreme heat and cold are both rare throughout the country. Summer temperatures exceeding 30 °C are rare, usually only occurring every few years (2025, 2022, 2021, 2018, 2016, 2013, 2006, 2003, 1995, 1990, 1989, 1983, 1976 and 1975 are recent examples), although they commonly reach the high 20s most summers.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Ireland was 33.3 °C at Kilkenny Castle, on 26 June 1887. The lowest temperature was –19.1 °C at Markree Castle on 16 January 1881. These extreme values, recorded over a century ago, demonstrate the generally moderate nature of Irish temperatures.
Air frost occurs frequently in the winter, with most areas seeing over 40 days of air frost every year. In northern areas, air frost occurs on average 10.2 days every January, the month in which air frost occurs most frequently. However, frost is rarer along the coast, in urban areas and also in western and southern areas. Roches Point, County Cork receives the fewest days with air frost, with an average of 7.0 days with air frost recorded annually.
Rainfall Distribution
Average annual rainfall ranges from roughly 750 mm (30 in) in the eastern part of the country to over 2500 mm (100 in) in the western highlands. This dramatic variation in precipitation across relatively short distances is one of the most striking features of Irish climate.
Rainfall is therefore a particularly prominent part of western Irish life, with Valentia Island, off the west coast of County Kerry, getting almost twice as much annual rainfall as Dublin on the east (1,400 mm or 55.1 in vs. 714 mm or 28.1 in). The western regions, exposed to moisture-laden Atlantic air masses, receive substantially more precipitation than the eastern areas, which lie in a relative rain shadow.
Rainfall is frequent throughout the island, but especially along the west coast, where it rains on average even more than once every two days; rainfall is more abundant on the slopes of the western hills, where it exceeds 2,000 millimeters (80 inches) per year. The mountainous areas of the west and southwest receive the highest rainfall totals, with some locations recording over 2,500 mm annually.
The wettest months, almost everywhere are December and January. April is the driest month generally but in many southern parts, June is the driest. This seasonal pattern reflects the influence of Atlantic weather systems, which are most active during the winter months.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover
The sunniest months are May and June, with an average of five to seven hours sunshine per day. During these months sunshine duration averages between 5 and 6.5 hours per day over most of the country. Late spring and early summer offer the best combination of long daylight hours and relatively sunny conditions.
The sunniest months are May and June, when there is sunshine for an average duration of 5.5 and 6.5 hours a day, respectively, over most of the country, and the ancient patchwork of fields and settlements making up the landscape glows under a clear, vital light. During these months, the Irish countryside is at its most beautiful, with long evenings and vibrant green landscapes.
Rosslare is the sunniest destination in Ireland, enjoying 1,600 hours of sunshine per year, with May the brightest month at 213 hours. Located on the southeast coast, Rosslare benefits from its position in the driest and sunniest part of the country.
Seasonal Variations
Winter, from December to February, is quite cold but not freezing. The sky is often cloudy, the rains are frequent, and the most intense low pressure systems can cause wind storms. Temperatures are slightly above freezing during the night, while during the day they range from 7/8 °C (45/46 °F) in inland areas, to 8/10 °C (46/50 °F) along the coasts.
The sea near Ireland is at its coldest in February and March and consequently the rise of mean air temperature is slow in spring. However, on clear days with light winds, afternoon temperatures can reach summer values even in March. Spring can be a season of contrasts, with warm sunny days alternating with cool, wet periods.
In Summer, from June to August, temperatures are cool: average highs are around 17/18 °C (63/64 °F) in the north, and around 19/20 °C (66/68 °F) in the rest of Ireland. The rains are also frequent in this season. Irish summers are characterized by mild temperatures and changeable weather, with sunny spells often interrupted by passing showers.
From late summer through Autumn there is a risk of former tropical depressions mixing in with the North Atlantic weather pattern depressions to produce severe storms. These are quite rare but are very significant weather events. While Ireland is far from tropical storm tracks, remnants of Atlantic hurricanes occasionally affect the island, bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
Soil Types and Agricultural Potential
The soils of the north and west tend to be poorly drained peats and gleys, including peaty podzols. In contrast, in the south and east the soils are free-draining brown earths and brown and grey-brown podzols. This distribution of soil types reflects the rainfall patterns across the island, with wetter western areas developing waterlogged soils and drier eastern regions supporting better-drained agricultural soils.
This is reflected in the rainfall distribution on the island, with the poorly-drained regions being those with the highest rainfalls. The relationship between climate, drainage, and soil development is clearly evident in the Irish landscape, with implications for land use and agricultural productivity.
The precipitation, combined with the equable climate, is particularly beneficial to the grasslands, which are the mainstay of the country’s large livestock population. Ireland’s climate is ideally suited to grass growth, making the country particularly well-adapted to pastoral agriculture, especially dairy and beef cattle production.
Ecosystems and Biodiversity
Ireland’s diverse physical geography supports varied ecosystems: Mountain ecosystems – Support specialized plant and animal communities · Coastal habitats – Provide nesting sites for seabirds · River systems – Support freshwater fish and aquatic life The range of habitats across Ireland, from coastal cliffs to mountain peaks, from peat bogs to river valleys, supports a diverse array of plant and animal species.
National parks protect some of Ireland’s most important ecosystems. Killarney National Park (Kerry) – Protects mountain and lake landscapes · Glenveagh National Park (Donegal) – Preserves highland wilderness · Wicklow Mountains National Park – Protects upland ecosystems These protected areas safeguard representative examples of Ireland’s natural heritage for future generations.
The rivers and lakes have salmon, trout, char, pollan, perch, pike and eels. Ireland’s freshwater systems support important fish populations, including both native species and introduced game fish that attract anglers from around the world.
Forests originally covered most of the Emerald Isle but now only make up about 11 percent of Ireland’s landscape. This decrease in forestland is a result of blanket bogs as well as farming and industrialization. The extensive deforestation of Ireland, which began in prehistoric times and accelerated during historical periods, has dramatically altered the island’s ecosystems. Efforts are now underway to increase forest cover and restore native woodland habitats.
Other notable geographical features of Ireland include peat bogs, which are common in the Central Lowlands, and drumlins, hills formed by glacier deposits. The peat bogs, in particular, are unique ecosystems that support specialized plant communities and provide habitat for distinctive wildlife species.
Regional Variations in Geography and Climate
Leinster: The Eastern Province
Defined by the banks of the Shannon to the west and the shores of the Irish Sea to the east, Leinster includes much of Ireland’s flat and fertile midlands, with some hill country especially in its southern half, notably the Wicklow Mountains just south of Dublin. This eastern province benefits from being in the rain shadow of the western mountains, receiving less precipitation than other parts of the country.
Important anchorages, all on the relatively straightforward East Coast, include Carlingford Lough, Dublin Bay and Wexford Harbour, major rivers are the Boyne (An Bhóinn), Liffey (An Life) and Slaney (Abhainn na Sláine). The eastern coast, with its accessible harbors and proximity to Britain, has historically been the most developed and populated region of Ireland.
Munster: The Southern Province
Although Munster includes a very fertile part of the Central Plain, much of its south and west is rugged and mountainous, including the Galtees, the Derrynasaggart range and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest rise in the country. Munster encompasses some of Ireland’s most dramatic scenery, from the fertile Golden Vale to the wild peninsulas of the southwest.
With its mixture of a fertile and river-fed inland and the rugged peninsulas of the West, Munster is like a miniature of Ireland, encompassing virtually all its landscape types, including the unique limestone “desert” of the Burren The Burren, a karst landscape in County Clare, is one of Ireland’s most distinctive geological features, with its exposed limestone pavements supporting a unique flora.
Connacht: The Western Province
Connacht is sometimes considered the “Wild West” of Ireland. It is the smallest of the provinces, with the lowest population. The inland areas are reasonably flat, while the coastal areas have mountain ranges including the Ox Mountains, Nephin Beg and Mweelrea.
The heavily indented shoreline features peninsulas like Connemara (the coastal part of County Galway), Erris and the Mullet in County Mayo, the famous Aran Islands, as well as Ireland’s largest offshore island, Achill. The western coast, exposed to the full force of Atlantic weather systems, experiences the highest rainfall and strongest winds but also boasts some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
Connacht is well-watered: apart from rivers like the Shannon and Moy (An Mhuaidh), there are several large lakes, among them Lough Corrib, Lough Mask and Lough Conn, as well as expansive areas of blanket bog and other wetlands. The abundance of water in this region reflects the high rainfall characteristic of western Ireland.
The Influence of Climate and Geography on Irish Life
The combination of Ireland’s physical features and temperate maritime climate has profoundly influenced the development of Irish society, economy, and culture. This map shows the physical features that continue to impact the economy, culture and way of life of people in Ireland.
The mild climate and abundant rainfall create ideal conditions for grass growth, making Ireland particularly well-suited to pastoral agriculture. The country has developed a strong agricultural sector focused on dairy and beef production, with Irish dairy products and beef exported worldwide. The fertile soils of the central plain and eastern regions support both livestock farming and crop cultivation, though the wetter western areas are primarily devoted to grazing.
The regular rains mean that the whole country is fresh and bright with new life, and all the undulating hills are a vivid green. Grass grows luxuriantly in nearly all parts of the island, and forest trees retain their leaves long after similar trees have lost their leaves This verdant landscape, maintained by the combination of mild temperatures and regular rainfall, is central to Ireland’s identity and appeal.
The dramatic coastal scenery, mountain landscapes, and historic sites attract millions of tourists annually, making tourism a vital component of the Irish economy. The Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal touring route stretching along the western seaboard, has become one of the world’s most popular scenic drives, showcasing the rugged beauty of Ireland’s Atlantic coast.
The river systems have historically provided transportation routes, water power for mills and industry, and continue to supply water for domestic and agricultural use. Over the years, this network has provided a route system for transport and continues to help tourism on Ireland’s inland waterway. Today, Ireland’s rivers and canals also support recreational activities including boating, fishing, and waterside walking trails.
The climate also presents challenges. The high rainfall and humidity can make outdoor work difficult and contribute to issues with dampness in buildings. The changeable weather requires flexibility in planning outdoor activities and agricultural operations. Ireland’s weather is humid and highly changeable. This variability is a defining characteristic of Irish weather, with conditions often changing rapidly throughout the day.
Climate Change and Future Considerations
Six of the warmest ten years in Ireland have occurred since 1990. Due to climate change, it is estimated that the temperatures will rise everywhere by up to 3.4 degrees by the end of the century. Like the rest of the world, Ireland is experiencing the effects of climate change, with implications for agriculture, ecosystems, and society.
Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events pose challenges for Ireland’s future. Coastal areas may face increased flooding and erosion, while changes in temperature and precipitation could affect agricultural productivity and water resources. The peat bogs, which store significant amounts of carbon, are particularly vulnerable to climate change and require careful management to prevent degradation and carbon release.
Understanding Ireland’s current climate and physical geography provides a foundation for addressing these future challenges. Conservation of natural habitats, sustainable land management, and adaptation strategies will be essential for preserving Ireland’s distinctive landscapes and supporting the communities that depend on them.
Conclusion
Ireland’s physical features and climate are inextricably linked, creating a unique environment that has shaped the island’s ecology, economy, and culture. From the limestone plains of the Midlands to the granite peaks of the southwest, from the dramatic Atlantic cliffs to the gentle river valleys, Ireland’s diverse landscapes tell a story of geological processes spanning hundreds of millions of years.
The temperate maritime climate, moderated by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream, provides the mild temperatures and abundant rainfall that maintain Ireland’s famous green landscapes. While the weather can be changeable and wet, the lack of temperature extremes and the equable conditions throughout the year create an environment ideally suited to grass growth and pastoral agriculture.
The interplay between physical geography and climate continues to influence life in Ireland today, supporting productive agriculture, diverse ecosystems, and a thriving tourism industry. As Ireland faces the challenges of climate change and environmental pressures, understanding and preserving these distinctive physical and climatic features will be essential for maintaining the character and vitality of the Emerald Isle for future generations.
For visitors and residents alike, Ireland’s combination of rugged beauty, verdant landscapes, and mild climate creates an environment unlike any other in Europe. Whether exploring the windswept cliffs of the Atlantic coast, walking through the ancient mountains of Kerry, or enjoying the pastoral tranquility of the central plains, one experiences the unique character that arises from Ireland’s distinctive geography and climate—an island where green fields and rolling hills are maintained by the gentle rains and mild breezes of the Atlantic Ocean.
To learn more about Ireland’s geography and climate, visit the Met Éireann website, Ireland’s national meteorological service, or explore the National Parks and Wildlife Service for information about Ireland’s protected natural areas and ecosystems.