10 Best Road Trips in Ireland for your Next Adventure

Discover the Best Road Trips in Ireland in our guide!

Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, is a country that beckons travellers with promises of history, natural splendour, and a warm embrace of hospitality. And what better way to immerse yourself in the essence of this captivating land than embarking on the best road trips? 

(Also read Govt Invests €9 Million in Heritage Restoration Projects.)

Join us as we traverse through picturesque landscapes, delve into ancient legends, and unravel the hidden gems scattered across this enchanting island.

List of the Best Road Trips You Should Go To

1. The Wild Atlantic Way

Our journey commences along the mesmerising Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route spanning over 2,500 kilometres along the rugged western shores of Ireland. Brace yourself for a sensory feast as we navigate through dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and quaint villages. Our first stop? The iconic Cliffs of Moher, where the mighty Atlantic crashes against towering cliffs, leaving us spellbound by nature’s grandeur. The Wild Atlantic Way promises an adventure that whispers tales of the sea and leaves imprints of awe in our hearts. 

2. The Ring of Kerry: 

Prepare to step back in time as we embark on the legendary Ring of Kerry, a circular route winding through County Kerry’s verdant landscapes. Along the way, we’ll encounter ancient stone forts like Cahergall and Staigue, standing as silent sentinels of bygone eras. The picturesque village of Sneem beckons with its colourful charm, while the ethereal beauty of Killarney National Park invites us to wander amidst its shimmering lakes and lush forests. The Ring of Kerry is one of the best road trips. Also it’s a journey through the annals of Irish history and folklore.

3. The Causeway Coastal Route:

Our adventure takes a breathtaking turn as we traverse the Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic marvel stretching along Northern Ireland’s coastline. Prepare to be awestruck by nature’s artistry as we marvel at the hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway and explore the ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched precariously atop rugged cliffs.

For the daring souls among us, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge offers a thrilling passage to unparalleled vistas. The Causeway Coastal Route is a testament to the raw beauty of Ireland’s landscapes, leaving us humbled by its majesty. 

4. The Boyne Valley: 

Our journey through Ireland’s heritage leads us to the ancient landscapes of the Boyne Valley, where myths and legends intertwine with the passage of time. Here, amidst the rolling hills, we’ll discover the enigmatic Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage site older than the pyramids of Egypt. 

Trim Castle stands stoically, whispering tales of knights and battles, while the Hill of Tara exudes an aura of ancient mysticism. In the Boyne Valley, history comes alive, inviting us to uncover the secrets of Ireland’s mythical past. 

5. The Dingle Peninsula: 

As we traverse the rugged terrain of the Dingle Peninsula, we’re greeted by a landscape that seems straight out of a painting. Craggy cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, while verdant hills roll into sandy beaches. In the colourful streets of Dingle town, we’ll find warmth amidst the quaint charm, while the ancient Gallarus Oratory stands as a testament to Ireland’s enduring spirit. 

Driving along the Slea Head Drive, each turn unveils a new panorama, each vista more breathtaking than the last. The Dingle Peninsula is a symphony of nature’s finest, a melody that lingers in our hearts long after we’ve left its shores.

6. The Connemara Loop: 

Leaving behind the hustle and bustle, we venture into the tranquil landscapes of the Connemara Loop, where time seems to stand still amidst misty mountains and shimmering lakes. Our journey through County Galway unfolds like a dream, with each turn revealing vistas of unparalleled beauty. At Kylemore Abbey, we pause to admire its serene grandeur, a haven nestled amidst the rugged terrain. 

Hiking the Twelve Bens mountain range offers a glimpse of untouched wilderness, while the Inagh Valley whispers tales of tranquillity. In Connemara, the soul finds solace, and every moment is a melody of serenity. It is definitetly, one of the best road trips for nature lovers.

7. The Old Military Road:

The Old Military Road, constructed by the British circa 1800, was a strategic response to conflicts with rebellious Irish clans. It facilitated the construction of military barracks along its path, aiding in the tracking and subjugation of these clans who often sought refuge in remote areas of the Wicklow Mountains Park. Running centrally through the park, the road provides direct access to Glendalough, a renowned archaeological site. Accessible by bus or car, the route is also traversable by bicycle.

8. The Causeway Coastal and Glens: 

Our journey takes a mythical turn as we merge onto the Causeway Coastal and Glens road trip, where ancient legends come to life amidst breathtaking landscapes. Amidst the ruins of Dunluce Castle, we feel the echoes of centuries past, while the enchanting Glenariff Forest Park beckons with its mystical allure. 

In the village of Cushendun, we’re transported to a world of timeless charm, where every stone tells a story. The Causeway Coastal and Glens road trip is a fusion of history and natural splendour, a journey that ignites the imagination and awakens the soul. 

9. The Midlands:

Next on our list of Ireland’s best road trips, is the Midlands. Exploring the enchanting landscapes of the Midlands, we delve deeper into Ireland’s rich tapestry of folklore. Here, amidst rolling hills and ancient ruins, we uncover the myths and legends that have shaped Ireland’s identity. The Hill of Uisneach whispers secrets of ancient druids and kings, while Clonmacnoise stands as a testament to Ireland’s monastic heritage. 

In the shadow of Birr Castle’s ancient walls, we’re transported to a realm where time seems to stand still, and the past merges seamlessly with the present. The Midlands road trip is a journey through the heart of Ireland’s soul, where every step is a step back in time. 

10. The Skellig Ring:

Our odyssey concludes with a journey to the remote paradise of the Skellig Ring in County Kerry, where rugged beauty meets untamed wilderness. As we traverse the winding roads, we’re greeted by breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, while the ancient monastery of Skellig Michael stands as a beacon of resilience against the elements. 

In the village of Portmagee, we find warmth amidst the rugged terrain, a testament to Ireland’s enduring spirit. The Skellig Ring is a journey to a world untouched by time, a reminder of the timeless beauty that awaits those who dare to seek it.