The Northern Lights in 2019



Six places to see the Aurora Borealis in Ireland



Walkway with Northern Lights in the back ground, Aurora Borealis

Car Rental Ireland is an Irish owned company, based in Dublin City offering luxury car rentals in Ireland. These Luxury car hires can be made through our online booking service. We provide informational guides on Irish destinations, activites and, attractions for your holiday planning & resources.



Whether you are traveling from Dublin Airport, Kerry Airport, Shannon Airport, Dublin City or any Irish destination taking the time out to really explore the Northern Lights.

When the weather is bad we would suggest taking a look at our indoor actitives , Spa Getaways , Museums and Galleries or any of our Driving Routes to keep dry and warm away from the widy Irish weather.

Ireland has some of the greatest, most unspoiled natural beauty in the world. It offers a jaw dropping backdrop to view, if you’re lucky, the glorious and glistening northern lights. Here is a list of what Car Rental Ireland thinks are the top 6 places to see the Aurora Borealis in Ireland, while you’re never guaranteed to see them, chasing the ‘lights’ is an adventure all in itself.

1. Malin Head Co. Donegal

Located on the Inishowen peninsula Malin Head, Co. Donegal, is, as Ireland’s most northerly point the place where you are most likely to view the northern lights here. Head up to Banba’s Crown, the very northern tip of the head on a night when solar wind activity is strong and if the sky is clear you might catch a glimpse of nature’s most wondrous spectacle



2. Moville, Inishowen, Co. Donegal

If the rough country of Malin Head are too much for you, you can find sanctuary on the eastern side of the Inishowen peninsula at Moville. A picturesque cove of a town overlooking Lough Foyle. Perfectly placed to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights should they decide to put on a show.



3. Tory Island, Donegal

One of Ireland’s most unspoilt places retains its mystery and rugged beauty. Tory can be difficult to reach, it can be equally difficult to leave due to unpredictable weather and seas. Take a ferry from the stunning harbours of Bunbeg and Magheroarty when the weather is nice. If you get a chance to see the Northern Lights over rugged cliffs on three sides, it might be one of the most spectacular things you will ever experience.



4. Belmullet, Mayo

Forever linked with John Millington Synge who wrote Playboy of the Western World based on his experience in Belmullet. Known as the town that has two bays, Blacksod Bay and Broadhaven Bay, over which you can gaze upon the northern lights show, if the sky is clear. The town has just enough life to keep you entertained while it’s a great vantage point to explore the countless sandy beaches, towering cliffs and even get in a spot of golfing if that’s your thing.



5. Mullaghmore, Sligo

The small island of Inchydoney is connected to the mainland by two causeways and is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque beaches that West Cork has to offer. With a cast expanse of sand, dunes and spectacular views, the beach is also ideal for novice surfers. The only downside is that it does tend to get quite busy during the summer holidays.



6. Mamore Gap, Donegal

The Gap of Mamore offers a total black out, ideal for viewing the northern lights and a good panorama of northeast to northwest views. The sheltered Gap is slightly off coast so it’s a good place to park the car during the night to await the show.



As these brillaint spots are spread across the Country we would highly suggest renting a Car Rental Ireland car to insure you don’t miss any of these spectacularly beautiful spots.

If you want to keep traveling around Ireland, why not take take your rental car and have a look at our other suggested driving routes. If you have any questions regarding car hire, please take a look at our car rental guide. There is so much beauty around Ireland just waiting for you to capture it on your cameras. Don't forget to send in your pictures and review of any of the trips you've taken, we love getting feedback from our customers.