Driving itineraries are in abundance across the island of Ireland, and we are lucky to have such scenic landscapes which constitute magical road trips. From top to toe, you can cross the island of Ireland in seven hours, but here we’d like to illustrate the intricacies of Ireland’s wild, untamed routes, which give rise to our rugged coastline, dramatic mountain passes and hidden gems.
When the time is right, take to the wheel and marvel at our highways to heaven from the comfort of your seat.
Causeway coast
The Causeway Coastal Route is a 120-mile driving route (with nine scenic loops) running along the coast between Northern Ireland's two main cities, Belfast and Derry~Londonderry. Often considered by many as ‘one of the world’s greatest road journeys,’ The Causeway Coastal Route hugs the coastline, with the Atlantic Ocean taking you along imposing cliffs, crystal-clear waterfalls and Game of Thrones filming territories. Dotted along the way, you’ll encounter: Carrickfergus Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval structures from 1177, the Gobbins, an exhilarating cliff-face path and masterful feat of Edwardian architecture, the Glens of Antrim, an area of outstanding natural beauty and the Giant’s Causeway, a geological and mythological wonder.
Burren Loop
Otherworldly in its beauty, the Burren loop landscapes are a must-see. Encircling County Clare’s moonscape paradise, the route follows a trail of approximately 51 miles, taking in ancient towns and villages along the way. Beginning in the quaint harbor village of Ballyvaughan, many consider this to be the prefect starting point and it’s filled with picturesque cafes, B&Bs and pubs. Heading west, stop off at Lisdoonvarna, one of Ireland’s premier spa towns and home to the famous matchmaking festival and modern-day cupid Willie Daly. Next, visit the ancient town of Kilfenora, home to the Burren Interpretive Centre, an interactive exhibit which shows how the Burren developed over 320 million years. Upon reaching the shores of the Wild Atlantic Way as you journey north to complete the loop, visit the colourful town of Doolin, believed by many to be the spiritual home of Ireland’s traditional music.
Ring of Kerry
Crowned as a photographer’s paradise, even the locals stop their cars to gawk at the breathtaking surroundings and so from a visitor perspective, it’s an absolute must. Beginning and ending at Killarney, the Ring of Kerry sits in the beautiful surrounds of Killarney National Park – and when it comes to stunning scenery, this is one of the island’s unparalleled spots. Some delightful gems include the stately home of Muckross House in Killarney National Park, Ladies View (named for Queen Victoria and her ladies), with its sprawling vistas of the Lakes of Killarney, as well as Valentia island, one of Ireland’s most westerly points. Not to mention, this is also the heartland of quintessential villages, with Sneem, Waterville and Derrynane as just some of the brightly coloured, postcard-perfect stop-off points.
Sperrins Mountains
The Sperrins are Northern Ireland's most extensive mountain range and can be explored on several different driving routes. Pretty fields intertwined with hedgerows, soft valleys and heather-clad hills with sweeping views; this is one of Northern Ireland’s dreamiest driving routes. As one of Ireland’s largest upland areas, stretching from Strabane in County Tyrone to the shores of Lough Neagh in the east, the Sperrins range is an undiscovered gem – wild, untouched and so beautiful it has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Thanks to the ice age, there is a variety of landscapes carved out including Barnes Gap, Gortin Glen and the beautiful valleys of Owenkillew and Glenelly, which were all scoured out by ice, leaving behind spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Ireland’s Ancient East
Charting 5,000 years of history across 15 counties, Ireland’s Ancient East unveils an early world, acting as a gateway to the past. Framed by the River Shannon and the Irish Sea, Ireland’s ancient east is a verdant landscape, carpeted by lush rolling hills and idyllic towns. Upon closer inspection, we discover woeful tales of battles and invasions scattered throughout megalithic tombs, medieval castles, holy treasures and Gothic architecture. Here, you’ll find tombs that predate the pyramids, feuding families and paths that have seen footfall for millennia. Whether you're scouring the streets of the Viking town of Waterford, exploring the 6th century monastic retreat of Glendalough; or gazing across the Celtic Sea from the world’s oldest lighthouse at Hook Head, it is clear Ireland’s ancient history is still very much alive.
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