Ireland is celebrating a major global travel win after Lonely Planet named County Tipperary one of its Best in Travel destinations for 2026, placing it among just 25 locations worldwide to watch. Announced in late 2025, the accolade praised Tipperary’s blend of hiking trails, deep history, and standout food tourism, shining a spotlight on a part of Ireland often overlooked by first-time visitors.
The recognition is already sparking curiosity among U.S. travellers seeking authentic, less crowded alternatives to Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher. We spoke with Luxury Travel Expert Denise McCabe at Ireland Prestige Tours about why the Tipperary moment has arrived, and how travellers can experience it at its most exceptional.
Travel Expert Denise McCabe at Ireland Prestige Tours says,
“Tipperary has always been one of Ireland’s most atmospheric counties, but Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel recognition has finally brought global attention to what locals have long known. This is ‘postcard Ireland’ with depth: dramatic landscapes, ancient landmarks, and living traditions that feel deeply personal rather than packaged.
From the Rock of Cashel rising above the plains to quiet hiking routes through the Galtee Mountains, Tipperary offers history you can walk through, not just photograph. Its food scene is equally compelling, with artisan producers, farm-to-table dining, and even a locally made blue cheese inspired by Cashel itself: a detail Lonely Planet specifically highlighted.
As interest grows, the key to experiencing Tipperary well is access and context. Luxury travel here isn’t about excess, but about intimacy, staying in historic manor houses or castle hotels, meeting local storytellers, visiting cheesemakers and distillers privately, and exploring heritage sites without crowds.
We’re seeing more travellers asking to go beyond Dublin and discover regions with soul. Tipperary delivers that in spades, and 2026 is shaping up to be the year it truly steps into the spotlight.”
Why Tipperary Is Having a Moment
- Global recognition: Named one of Lonely Planet’s top destinations for 2026
- Iconic heritage: Home to the Rock of Cashel and centuries of Irish history
- Outdoor appeal: Scenic hiking routes and unspoiled countryside
- Food tourism hotspot: Artisan cheesemakers, local producers, and regional flavours
- Crowd-free luxury: Authentic experiences away from Ireland’s busiest routes
About Denise McCabe
Denise McCabe is a luxury travel specialist and co-founder of Ireland Prestige Tours, with decades of experience designing bespoke Irish journeys. She specialises in high-end, heritage-led travel, managing seamless itineraries for discerning international clients from arrival to departure.
About Ireland Prestige Tours
Ireland Prestige Tours is a luxury travel specialist designing bespoke, private journeys across Ireland. The company curates high-end experiences for discerning travellers, managing every detail from airport arrival to exclusive accommodations, private guides, and seamless transfers. With deep local expertise and a focus on personalised service, Ireland Prestige Tours delivers effortless, elevated travel experiences throughout Ireland.
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