Ireland’s emerald landscapes, rugged coastlines, and rich history make it an ideal destination for a memorable road trip. From winding coastal routes to tranquil inland drives, the Emerald Isle offers a diverse array of scenic journeys that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, or charming villages, Ireland’s roads will lead you on an unforgettable adventure. Let’s embark on a journey through some of the most captivating driving routes this enchanting country has to offer.
The wild atlantic way: ireland’s iconic coastal drive
The Wild Atlantic Way is arguably Ireland’s most famous road trip, stretching 2,500 kilometres along the western coast. This breathtaking route offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Ireland’s Atlantic coastline. As you drive, you’ll encounter dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages that seem frozen in time.
Exploring the cliffs of moher and burren national park
One of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way is undoubtedly the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. These majestic cliffs rise 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, offering awe-inspiring views that stretch as far as the Aran Islands on a clear day. Just a short drive from the cliffs, you’ll find the otherworldly landscape of the Burren National Park, characterized by its unique limestone pavements and rare flora.
As you navigate through this section of the route, be sure to stop at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience , where you can learn about the geology and wildlife of the area. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a boat tour to view the cliffs from sea level, where their immense scale becomes even more apparent.
Connemara’s rugged landscapes and kylemore abbey
Continuing north along the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll enter the rugged beauty of Connemara in County Galway. This region is known for its wild mountains, expansive bogs, and tranquil lakes. The drive through Connemara National Park offers stunning vistas at every turn, with the Twelve Bens mountain range providing a dramatic backdrop.
A must-visit stop in Connemara is Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century castle turned Benedictine monastery. Set against the backdrop of Connemara’s mountains and reflected in a tranquil lake, Kylemore Abbey is a picture-perfect sight. Take time to explore the Victorian walled gardens and enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore.
Dingle peninsula’s slea head drive and ancient ruins
The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry offers one of the most scenic sections of the Wild Atlantic Way. The Slea Head Drive, a 47-kilometre loop around the westernmost point of the peninsula, showcases some of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal scenery. Along this route, you’ll encounter ancient stone forts, early Christian sites, and breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Gallarus Oratory, a remarkably well-preserved early Christian church built between the 6th and 9th centuries. Its unique boat-shaped structure is a testament to the skill of Ireland’s ancient stoneworkers. As you drive, keep an eye out for the peninsula’s famous resident, Fungie the dolphin, who has been delighting visitors in Dingle Harbour for decades.
Ring of kerry’s lakes, mountains, and killarney national park
The Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometre circular route that takes you through some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery. This drive encompasses the Iveragh Peninsula, offering views of pristine lakes, rolling mountains, and picturesque coastal villages. A highlight of this route is Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first national park and home to the country’s only native herd of red deer.
As you navigate the Ring of Kerry, be sure to stop at Ladies View, a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the Lakes of Killarney. For a unique experience, consider taking a jaunting car (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass carved by glacial ice.
“The Ring of Kerry is like a greatest hits album of Irish landscapes, offering a little bit of everything that makes the country so special.”
Ancient east: historical road trip through ireland’s heritage
While the Wild Atlantic Way showcases Ireland’s natural beauty, the Ancient East route offers a journey through 5,000 years of Irish history and culture. This driving itinerary takes you through the eastern and southern regions of Ireland, where ancient monuments, medieval castles, and historic towns tell the story of Ireland’s rich past.
Newgrange and brú na bóinne archaeological landscape
Your journey through Ireland’s Ancient East should begin at the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Meath. This prehistoric landscape is home to Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old passage tomb that predates the Egyptian pyramids. The sophisticated engineering of Newgrange is particularly evident during the winter solstice when a shaft of sunlight illuminates the inner chamber.
As you explore Brú na Bóinne, you’ll also encounter the equally impressive passage tombs of Knowth and Dowth. These ancient monuments offer a fascinating glimpse into Neolithic Ireland and the astronomical knowledge of our ancestors.
Rock of cashel and medieval kilkenny city
Continuing south, your next stop should be the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. This iconic site, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is a collection of medieval buildings set atop a limestone outcrop. The 12th-century round tower, Romanesque chapel, and Gothic cathedral create a striking silhouette against the Irish sky.
From Cashel, head to the medieval city of Kilkenny. Known as the “Marble City” due to its black marble quarries, Kilkenny boasts a wealth of historic architecture. Be sure to visit Kilkenny Castle, a 12th-century fortress that has been beautifully restored and now houses an impressive art collection.
Glendalough monastic site in wicklow mountains
No journey through Ireland’s Ancient East would be complete without a visit to Glendalough in County Wicklow. This early Christian monastic settlement, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, is set in a glacial valley of extraordinary natural beauty. The well-preserved round tower, stone churches, and ancient cemetery offer a tangible connection to Ireland’s monastic past.
After exploring the monastic site, take time to enjoy the scenic walks around the Upper and Lower Lakes of Glendalough. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Glendalough one of the most memorable stops on your Irish road trip.
Northern ireland’s causeway coastal route
Venturing into Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coastal Route offers a spectacular drive along the north coast. This 313-kilometre journey from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry showcases some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the British Isles, along with unique geological formations and historic castles.
Giant’s causeway and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
The undisputed highlight of this route is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological wonder. This unique landscape of interlocking basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago, has inspired legends of giants and sparked scientific curiosity for centuries. As you explore the site, listen for the story of Finn MacCool, the mythical giant said to have built the causeway.
Just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, you’ll find the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This thrilling attraction spans a 20-metre chasm between the mainland and a small island. Originally built by salmon fishermen, the bridge now offers visitors a heart-pounding crossing and stunning coastal views.
Dark hedges and game of thrones filming locations
For fans of the hit TV series Game of Thrones , the Causeway Coastal Route offers the chance to visit several filming locations. The most famous of these is the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century that served as the Kingsroad in the series. The intertwining branches create an atmospheric tunnel that’s particularly photogenic in the early morning or late evening light.
Other Game of Thrones locations along the route include Ballintoy Harbour (the Iron Islands), Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow creature), and Murlough Bay (Slavers’ Bay). Even if you’re not a fan of the show, these locations offer stunning scenery and a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s diverse landscapes.
Belfast city and titanic quarter
Your journey along the Causeway Coastal Route should include time to explore Belfast, Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital city. The city’s troubled past has given way to a dynamic present, with a thriving food scene, lively pubs, and world-class museums.
A highlight of any visit to Belfast is the Titanic Quarter, where the ill-fated ship was built. The state-of-the-art Titanic Belfast museum tells the story of the ship’s construction, launch, and tragic maiden voyage through interactive exhibits and full-scale reconstructions. After your visit, take a stroll along the Maritime Mile to see the last remaining White Star Line vessel, the SS Nomadic.
Ireland’s hidden heartlands: Off-the-Beaten-Path discoveries
For those seeking a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands offer a chance to explore the country’s rural interior. This region, encompassing parts of counties Leitrim, Roscommon, and Longford, is characterized by tranquil waterways, rolling hills, and charming small towns.
Lough derg and shannon blueway water activities
Lough Derg, the third-largest lake in Ireland, is at the heart of this region. The lake offers a variety of water-based activities, from leisurely cruises to more adventurous kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The Shannon Blueway, a network of multi-activity recreational trails, provides opportunities for both water and land-based exploration.
Consider renting a canal boat for a unique perspective on the Irish countryside. As you navigate the peaceful waterways, you’ll have the chance to moor at small villages and explore at your own pace. The slow pace of travel allows for a deeper connection with the landscape and local communities.
Athlone castle and clonmacnoise monastic site
The town of Athlone, situated on the banks of the River Shannon, is an excellent base for exploring the Hidden Heartlands. Athlone Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle, offers interactive exhibits that bring the region’s history to life. From the castle’s upper levels, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and river.
A short drive from Athlone brings you to Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites. Founded in the 6th century by St. Ciarán, Clonmacnoise was a major center of learning and artistic excellence for over 1,000 years. The site’s round towers, high crosses, and ancient churches provide a tangible link to Ireland’s early Christian history.
Cavan burren park and marble arch caves global geopark
In the northern part of the Hidden Heartlands, you’ll find the Cavan Burren Park, part of the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark. This unique landscape combines geological wonders with archaeological sites dating back to the Neolithic period. The park’s walking trails offer the chance to explore prehistoric tombs, glacial erratics, and fossilized coral reefs.
Nearby, the Marble Arch Caves provide an opportunity to explore an extensive underground network of rivers, waterfalls, and winding passages. Guided tours take you through this subterranean wonderland, revealing the geological processes that have shaped the landscape over millions of years.
Dublin to galway: Cross-Country adventure
For a journey that takes you from Ireland’s east coast to its west, consider a road trip from Dublin to Galway. This route allows you to experience the contrast between the bustling capital and the laid-back charm of Ireland’s west coast, with plenty of historical and cultural stops along the way.
Trim castle and hill of tara in county meath
As you leave Dublin, make your first stop at Trim Castle in County Meath. This impressive Norman castle, the largest of its kind in Ireland, was used as a filming location for the movie Braveheart . Climb to the top of the keep for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Not far from Trim is the Hill of Tara, an ancient site that was once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. While little remains of the original structures, the site holds great symbolic importance in Irish history and mythology. On a clear day, the views from the hill stretch across vast swathes of the Irish countryside.
Clonmacnoise and athlone castle along the river shannon
As you continue westward, you’ll cross the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. Stop at the monastic site of Clonmacnoise, as mentioned earlier, to explore its rich history and atmospheric ruins. The site’s location, at a crossroads of water and land routes, made it a major center of religion, learning, trade, and politics for over 1,000 years.
In Athlone, take time to visit Athlone Castle and learn about the town’s strategic importance throughout Irish history. The castle’s exhibitions use cutting-edge technology to bring the past to life, offering an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Galway city’s latin quarter and salthill promenade
Your journey concludes in Galway, a vibrant city known for its arts scene, traditional music, and friendly atmosphere. Explore the colorful streets of the Latin Quarter, where you’ll find a mix of traditional pubs, artisan shops, and street performers. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy some fresh seafood at one of Galway’s excellent restaurants.
For a refreshing end to your road trip, take a stroll along the Salthill Promenade. This 2-kilometre walkway offers stunning views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. If you’re feeling brave, join the locals for a dip in the bracing Atlantic waters at Blackrock diving tower.
Practical tips for irish road trips
Before embarking on your Irish road trip adventure, it’s essential to keep a few practical considerations in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Navigating narrow roads and roundabouts
Many of Ireland’s rural roads are narrow and winding, often with stone walls or hedgerows on either side. Drive cautiously and be prepared to pull over in passing places to allow oncoming traffic through. Remember that Ireland drives on the left side of the road, which may take some adjustment if you’re used to driving on the right.
Roundabouts are common in Ireland, especially in towns and cities. Always give way to traffic already on the roundabout, and use your indicators to signal which exit you intend to take. If you’re unsure, it’s better to go around the roundabout again rather than make a sudden lane change.
Wild atlantic way discovery points and photo opportunities
Along the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll encounter numerous Discovery Points marked by distinctive wave-shaped signs. These points highlight particularly scenic or interesting locations and often provide information about the area’s history or natural features. They make excellent stopping points for photographs and to stretch your legs.
When stopping for photos, always ensure you park safely and don’t obstruct traffic. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially near cliff edges or in areas with strong winds. Remember that the weather can change quickly in Ireland, so be prepared for sudden showers even on sunny days.
B&B network and farm stay experiences
Ireland has an extensive network of
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) offer a unique and personal way to experience Irish hospitality. These family-run accommodations are often more intimate than hotels and provide an opportunity to interact with local hosts who can offer insider tips on the best places to visit in the area. Many B&Bs are located in historic homes or on working farms, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your Irish road trip experience.
For a truly immersive rural experience, consider a farm stay. These accommodations allow you to stay on a working farm, often participating in daily activities if you wish. It’s an excellent way to learn about Irish agriculture and enjoy fresh, locally-produced food. Whether you’re helping to feed animals, watching a sheepdog demonstration, or simply enjoying the peaceful countryside, a farm stay can be a highlight of your Irish road trip.
Irish weather considerations and packing essentials
Ireland’s weather is notoriously changeable, and it’s not uncommon to experience “four seasons in one day.” When planning your road trip, be prepared for a mix of weather conditions. Pack layers that you can easily add or remove as the temperature fluctuates. A good waterproof jacket is essential, as are comfortable, waterproof walking shoes for exploring outdoor attractions.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, and consider packing a pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting or admiring distant views. If you’re planning to visit historic sites or attend traditional music sessions in pubs, pack some slightly dressier clothes for these occasions.
Remember to bring adapters for your electronic devices, as Ireland uses the same plug type as the UK (type G). It’s also a good idea to have a physical map as a backup, especially when driving through rural areas where mobile signal may be patchy.
“In Ireland, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” – Irish Proverb
With these practical tips in mind, you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable Irish road trip. From the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast to the ancient monuments of the east, from bustling cities to tranquil rural retreats, Ireland offers a diverse and captivating journey for every traveler. So buckle up, turn on some traditional Irish music, and get ready to explore the Emerald Isle at your own pace. Sláinte!