Top 10 Road Trips of Ireland-An ultimate guide
Discover the heartbeat of the Emerald Isle through the lens of its winding roads. In this guide, we’ll unveil top 10 road trips of Ireland, inviting you to traverse ancient landscapes, coastal wonders, and charming towns that define the essence of this beautiful country. From the majestic cliffs of Donegal to the poetic landscapes of Yeats Country, each drive is a tale of breathtaking views and timeless adventure. So, grab your snacks, cue the playlist, and let’s hit the road!
(Read our latest blog Dublin New Year’s Eve Celebrations 2023- What to Book?)
List of the Road Trips of Ireland
1. Copper Coast, Co Waterford
The first one on our list is Copper Coast in Co Waterford. This place used to be all about mining in the 1800s, but now it’s a UNESCO Global Geopark. Which means it has mind-blowing landscapes, ancient rocks, and Insta-worthy sea stacks. And the bonus point is that Bunmahon has got a Geopark Visitor Centre, and Stradbally is as pretty as a postcard. Hence it’s definitely worth a shot.
Recommended time: One day
2. Inishowen 100, Co Donegal
Next up is Inishowen 100 getting its name from its 100-mile circuit around Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula. Following the road signs, begin near the border with Northern Ireland and skirt the eastern coast through Muff and Greencastle. The breathtaking stretch between Dunree and Mamore Gap steals the show.
Recommended time: A full day & a night.
3. Cooley Peninsula, Co Louth
Next destination on the list is Cooley Peninsula, a meandering route rich in Irish mythology.It includes historical sites such as the Proleek Dolmen and the Anglo-Norman Castle Roche. You can also take a ferry to the historic Greencastle in Northern Ireland, or you can explore Carlingford. Carlingford is a Historic place settled by the Vikings. Cap it off with a stroll along Carlingford Omeath Greenway–Because why not?
Recommended time: One day
4. Ring of Hook Peninsula, Co Wexford
Next up is Wexford’s Hook Peninsula–A slender crook chasing the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The highlight is the Hook Lighthouse, the world’s oldest working lighthouse. There are options for you to explore Tintern Abbey, Fethard Castle, and the haunting Loftus Hall. You can conclude your trip with the seafood or better fishing at the village of Duncannon, known for its fresh catch.
Recommended time: One day
5. Kinsale to Baltimore, Co. Cork
Foodies, this one’s for you! It’s a 50-mile drive from Kinsale to Baltimore, exploring charming towns and villages in West Cork. You will get the opportunity to visit undiscovered locations such as Toe Head, Glandore, Union Hall, and Galley Head during this journey. West Cork’s renowned food scene, with highlights like Clonakilty’s black and white pudding and gourmet hotspots in Rosscarbery and Baltimore.
Recommended time: Two-three days.
6. Galway to Westport, Co Galway & Co Mayo
Take the N59 out of Galway City, leaving the hustle behind. Each mile leads you deeper into Connemara’s wild beauty. This area is famous for silent boglands, slate-coloured lakes, and views of the majestic Maamturk mountains. Take a detour onto the 10-mile Sky Road, where hairpin bends reward you with breathtaking views of Inishturk and Turbot islands. The trip ends in Westport, where the adventure meets the cosy charm of Ballynahinch Castle, nestled deep in the wilderness.
Recommended drive time: Two or three days.
7. The Vee, Co Waterford and Co Tipperary
If you’re in the mood for a short but sweet trip, kick off this scenic journey from the picturesque town of Lismore. As you ascend through the Knockmealdown Mountains, you’ll be treated to a visual feast. The Vee Gap offers such a realistic view that sometimes it feels like the painting of Tipperary below. Then there’s this romantic Swiss Cottage with a breathtaking view. The quaint town of Cahir is right next to it. Cahir is home to a 13th-century castle that’s basically a fairy-tale come to life.
Recommended drive time: Two hours.
8. Atlantic Drive in Achill Island, Co Mayo
Just off County Mayo’s western coast is Achill Island, so get ready for that surreal experience.This is a two-for-one excursion as the Atlantic Drive begins on the Currane peninsula and crosses the Achill Sound on a bridge. Views of Clew Bay’s 365 islands, which are dispersed like polka dots, can be seen to the south.
Some of Ireland’s nicest beaches may be found on Achill Island; don’t miss Keel’s Trawmore and Keem Bay’s crescent. Finally, the road takes you to Croaghaun mountain, offering a hill-top vantage point with widescreen views across the island and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.
Recommended drive time: Five to six hours.
9. The Ring of Kerry, Co Kerry
Time for a classic Irish road trip! A beautiful treat is the 111-mile Ring of Kerry, which begins and ends at Killarney. Rotate counterclockwise, taking a detour off the main route just beyond Cahersiveen to enjoy the sights. Trust us, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Skellig Michael is like Ireland’s superstar, and you wouldn’t want to miss it. Remember to stop at Moll’s Gap to take in the breathtaking views of Killarney National Park’s glittering lakes below.
Recommended drive time: Two-three days.
10. Yeats Country, Co Sligo and Co Leitrim
Yeats Country is the last on our list. You can trace the footsteps of W.B. Yeats through the picturesque landscapes of County Sligo. Begin near the Lough Gill shoreline, where the little island made famous in “The Lake Isle of Innisfree” can be seen. Continue to Sligo town, and soak in the childhood memories at Rosses Point.
Next is the grand Lissadell House, and then you cross the border to County Leitrim and the mighty Glencar Waterfall, which Yeats mentions in “The Stolen Child.” Finally the Drumcliffe Cemetery, that’s a fitting resting place for a literary legend like Yeats.
Recommended drive time: A full day
