Breathtaking Views of Ireland

Carly Ball is a student at Lewis-Clark State College and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Dublin, Ireland.

My time here in Ireland has been full of traveling, sight-seeing and most importantly, adventuring. Every place I have been has something truly beautiful to offer and that is one of the many reasons I love Ireland.

Several weeks ago I made my way down south to visit the little town of Killarney. This trip was full of delicious foods, good talks and magnificent sights. The picture below was taken on a beautiful boat ride through the mountains and into the the Gap of Dunloe. After a mile cycle to the dock, my friends and I loaded our bikes onto this little red motor boat. We glided through glass-looking water and soaked in the overwhelming sights of nature that surrounded us. This photo captures the color, openness and breathtaking beauty in Killarney, Ireland.

The second photo that beautifully captures Ireland was taken on the Western shore in Lahinch. Standing on the edge of the ocean, looking out into the horizon was an absolute incredible experience. Earlier that day, I had my first ever surfing lesson in these waters and can confidently say it was one of the most fun things I have ever done. Feeling the cold ocean water leak its way into my wetsuit, getting a mouth full of salt water after turning my head into a wave and feeling invincible while standing on my surf board (for only just a moment) was an experience of a lifetime. This photo captures the memories, new experiences and breathtaking beauties in Lahinch, Ireland.

The last photo captures nature in its process of change. This photo was taken in Blarney, just a short walk from the Blarney Castle. This tree is not only enchanting, but it’s unlike any others due to its size, color, build and location.  The bonus of this picture is the unmistakable presence of the sun. In my opinion, that is the true beauty of this photo. On its own, the sun is a brilliant star; however, much of its splendor comes from making other things beautiful. This tree is stunning on its own—size, color, build and location all still unique. The beauty of this picture comes from the combination of this rare tree along with the presence of the sun—whose job is to magnify the already existing work of art. This photo captures the change, uniqueness and breathtaking beauty in Blarney, Ireland.

Beauty exists in all areas of life and I would argue that one of the greatest ways it is portrayed is through nature. Being in Ireland has allowed me the opportunity to experience nature in a whole new light and see things that overwhelm me in a way that nothing else can. I am thankful for such a beautiful place to live in and explore. I am thankful for the breathtaking views of Ireland.

The world awaits…discover it.