Best Drives in Ireland: Adventure Awaits!

Ireland is a land of enchanting beauty, where rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and rich history create a truly magical driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or exploring Ireland for the first time, there’s no better way to experience the country’s breathtaking landscapes and charming villages than a road trip.

From rugged coastal routes to serene mountain passes, these drives will take you on a journey through some of the Emerald Isle’s most scenic and culturally rich areas. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best drives in Ireland, where adventure and unforgettable moments await around every turn.

Best Scenic Drives in Ireland

1. Wild Atlantic Way (2,500 km)

• Starting Point: Donegal
• Direction: South towards Cork
• Time: Approx. 7-10 days
• Description: The Wild Atlantic Way is the longest-defined coastal driving route in the world, stretching over 2,500 km along Ireland’s west coast. This drive offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll journey along rugged coastlines, towering cliffs, golden beaches, and rolling green hills while passing through charming seaside towns and historic villages.
• The route meanders through nine counties and showcases Ireland’s ever-changing coastline, from the raw beauty of Donegal’s headlands to the scenic bays of West Cork. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints, ancient stone forts, and welcoming local communities eager to share their stories. The Wild Atlantic Way is about more than just the scenery; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, tasting local delicacies, and feeling the ocean’s presence every step of the journey.
• Points of Interest: Slieve League Cliffs, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Connemara National Park.
• Tips for Travelers: The roads along the Wild Atlantic Way can be narrow and winding, so take your time and drive cautiously. The best time to drive this route is during late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Make sure to bring a raincoat, as the weather can change quickly.
• Food Stops: For fresh fish, stop at The Seafood Shack in Killybegs, enjoy traditional Irish stew at Moran’s Oyster Cottage near Galway, or try a hearty meal at Dursey Deli in Cork.
• Accommodations: Book a room at The Great Southern Hotel in Killarney to easily access local attractions.

2. Ring of Kerry (179 km)

• Starting Point: Killarney
• Direction: Loop via Kenmare and Sneem
• Time: 3-4 hours (without stops)
• Description: The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives. It takes travellers on a picturesque loop around the Iveragh Peninsula, characterized by rugged coastlines, mountain passes, and glistening lakes that create an unforgettable landscape.
• As you make your way around the loop, you’ll pass through quaint towns like Kenmare and Sneem, where you can explore traditional Irish culture, sample local seafood, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the region. The route also includes spectacular viewpoints such as Ladies View and Moll’s Gap, offering panoramic vistas of lush valleys and the Atlantic Ocean.
• The drive takes you through Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where you can discover the beauty of Muckross House and Gardens, hike to Torc Waterfall, or take a jaunting car ride through the park. The Ring of Kerry is best enjoyed leisurely, allowing time to stop, explore, and take in the natural beauty surrounding you.
• Points of Interest: Killarney National Park, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, Skellig Michael (accessible by boat).
• Tips for Travelers: The Ring of Kerry can be busy during the summer months, so it’s recommended to start early in the morning to avoid crowds. Drive counter-clockwise to minimize traffic and have better access to the scenic viewpoints. Be cautious of tour buses on narrow roads.
• Food Stops: Enjoy lunch at The Strawberry Field Pancake Cottage, known for its homemade pancakes, or have a seafood dinner at Packie’s Restaurant in Kenmare.
• Accommodations: The Killarney Park Hotel offers luxury accommodations with easy access to Killarney National Park, while The Kenmare Bay Hotel provides a comfortable stay near the charming town of Kenmare.

3. Causeway Coastal Route (195 km)

• Starting Point: Belfast
• Direction: North towards Derry
• Time: 2-3 days
• Description: The Causeway Coastal Route is an awe-inspiring journey along Northern Ireland’s scenic coastline, offering some of the country’s most breathtaking views. Starting in Belfast, the drive takes you along the coast towards Derry, passing dramatic cliffs, historic castles, and charming seaside villages.
• The route’s highlight is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. As you drive, you’ll also have the chance to walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, perched high above the ocean, and explore the ruins of Dunluce Castle, which teeter on the edge of a cliff.
• The Causeway Coastal Route is known for its natural beauty, cultural significance, and connection to popular TV shows like Game of Thrones. Its stops include the Dark Hedges, a mysterious avenue of ancient beech trees. This captivating mix of history, mythology, and rugged scenery leaves a lasting impression on all who travel it.
• Points of Interest: Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges.
• Tips for Travelers: Take your time to explore each attraction. Consider booking guided tours at key sites like the Giant’s Causeway to gain insights into the area’s history and geology. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the rugged terrain.
• Food Stops: Try seafood chowder at Harry’s Shack in Portstewart or visit the Bushmills Inn for a traditional Irish meal.
• Accommodations: For a cosy and convenient location near the Giant’s Causeway, stay at The Bushmills Inn, or consider Ballygally Castle Hotel for a unique overnight experience in a historical setting.

4. Conor Pass (20 km)

• Starting Point: Dingle
• Direction: North towards Castlegregory
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Description: Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland and one of the most scenic drives in the country. It offers stunning views of mountains, valleys, and distant lakes. The narrow, winding road is not for the faint of heart, but those who venture along it are rewarded with some of the most dramatic landscapes the Dingle Peninsula has to offer.
• The route climbs through rugged terrain, with sheer cliffs on one side and steep drops on the other, providing an exhilarating experience for adventurous drivers. At the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the lush Brandon Bay, the expansive Atlantic Ocean, and the patchwork fields below.
• The drive takes you through areas rich in history and folklore, with ancient cairns and remnants of early settlements dotting the landscape. Conor Pass is not just a road; it’s a gateway to the raw, untouched beauty of Ireland’s wild countryside, offering a sense of solitude and tranquillity that makes the journey unforgettable.
• Points of Interest: Brandon Bay, Dingle Peninsula, charming mountain streams and lakes.
• Tips for Travelers: Conor Pass is narrow, so it is important to drive slowly and prepare to give way to oncoming traffic. The road is best in good weather, as visibility can be challenging during fog or heavy rain.
• Food Stops: Visit Murphy’s Ice Cream in Dingle for a sweet treat made with local ingredients, or enjoy a hearty meal at The Boatyard Restaurant in Dingle.
• Accommodations: The Dingle Skellig Hotel offers beautiful views and easy access to the town of Dingle. At the same time, the Pax Guesthouse provides a peaceful retreat with stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

5. The Burren Loop (100 km)

• Starting Point: Kilfenora
• Direction: Loop through the Burren region
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Description: The Burren Loop takes you through one of Ireland’s most unique and otherworldly landscapes. The Burren, meaning “rocky place” in Irish, is a vast limestone plateau that spans County Clare and offers a surreal driving experience. The landscape is dotted with ancient dolmens, ring forts, and prehistoric tombs, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s distant past.
• The rocky terrain is also home to a diverse range of flora, with rare wildflowers that bloom amidst the crevices in the limestone. As you drive, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Burren National Park, where you can hike through this unusual terrain and discover hidden caves and underground rivers. The route also passes close to the Ailwee Caves, a popular attraction offering guided tours of the underground caverns. The Burren Loop is a journey into a mystical landscape where history, geology, and natural beauty converge to create an enchanting and educational experience.
• Points of Interest: Poulnabrone Dolmen, Burren National Park, Ailwee Caves, Cliffs of Moher.
• Tips for Travelers: Bring sturdy walking shoes to explore the rocky terrain and visit the historical sites along the way. The Burren is best visited in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
• Food Stops: Enjoy a meal at Burren Smokehouse, famous for its smoked salmon, or stop by The Roadside Tavern in Lisdoonvarna for a traditional Irish pub experience.
• Accommodations: For a luxurious stay with views of the Burren, stay at the Gregans Castle Hotel, or book a room at The Burren Hostel, a more budget-friendly option close to the main attractions.

Final Thoughts

Ireland’s scenic drives are more than just routes—they are journeys that immerse you in the country’s culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Each drive offers something unique for travellers seeking adventure and tranquillity, from the wild Atlantic coastline to ancient limestone landscapes.

Whether you’re an experienced road-tripper or a casual explorer, these routes promise unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your map, pack your bags, and set out on an Irish adventure that will take your breath away and fill your heart with wonder.

Which of these incredible drives will you choose for your next journey?