Summer is the perfect time to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland by road. From charming coastal towns to stunning mountain ranges, Ireland has an abundance of natural beauty to offer. If you’re planning a summer road trip, here are some of the best routes to make the most of your journey.
Summer Road Trips in Ireland
Driving around Ireland’s magnificent scenery is best done during the summer. Ireland’s natural beauty is abundant, ranging from beautiful mountain ranges to quaint coastal towns. Here are some of the best routes for summer road trips to maximise your time on the road.
Ireland is a land of natural beauty, with winding roads that lead through stunning landscapes and picturesque villages. Summer is the perfect time to embark on a road trip and explore the country’s diverse scenery.
Whether looking for breathtaking views, lively towns, or peaceful countryside, Ireland has something to offer every traveller. In this article, we’ll look at some of Ireland’s best summer road trips.
Planning Your Road Trip
Before embarking on your road trip, planning ahead is important to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Plan your route, considering the time you have and the sights you want to see.
- Ensure your car is in good condition and serviced before the trip.
- Pack a map or GPS device and a backup charger for your phone.
- Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
1. The Wild Atlantic Way
From Donegal to Cork, the breathtaking 2,500 km Wild Atlantic Way follows Ireland’s west coast. The route passes through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, which include rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills. The Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Connemara National Park are among the highlights.
2. The Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route is a 120-mile drive that takes you along the stunning coastline of Northern Ireland. The route starts in Belfast and takes you past the famous Giant’s Causeway and picturesque villages like Cushendun and Ballintoy. The route also involves the stunning Glens of Antrim and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.
3. The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km circular route that takes you around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery, including a rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and rolling hills. Highlights include Muckross House, the Skellig Islands, and the Gap of Dunloe.
4. The Copper Coast Drive
The Copper Coast Drive is a scenic route that takes you along the coast of County Waterford. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches and historic landmarks like Dunhill Castle and the Mahon Falls. The route is also known for its rich copper mining heritage.
5. The Boyne Valley Drive
The Boyne Valley Drive is a 225 km route that takes you through the historic Boyne Valley in County Meath. The route takes some of Ireland’s most important historical sites, including the ancient megalithic tombs at Newgrange and Knowth, the medieval Trim Castle, and the Hill of Tara, the legendary seat of the High Kings of Ireland.
6. The Lough Derg Drive
The Lough Derg Drive is a scenic route that takes you around Lough Derg, the third-largest lake in Ireland. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most stunning natural scenery, including the Slieve Bernagh Mountains and the Clare Glens. The route also takes you through charming villages like Killaloe and Garrykennedy.
7. The Barrow Valley Drive
The 116 km long Barrow Valley Drive winds through County Carlow’s picturesque Barrow Valley. The Wicklow Mountains and the Blackstairs Mountains, two of Ireland’s most picturesque mountain ranges, are included in the trip. Along the way, you pass through quaint communities like Graiguenamanagh and Borris.
8. The Hidden Heartlands Drive
The Hidden Heartlands Drive is a new tourism initiative that takes you through the heart of Ireland, from Lough Derg in the west to the River Shannon in the east. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most charming towns and villages, as well as stunning natural scenery like the Slieve Bloom Mountains and the Shannon Callows.
9. The Wexford Heritage Trail
The Wexford Heritage Trail is a 120 km route that takes you through the historic county of Wexford. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most important historical sites, including the medieval town of Wexford, the John F. Kennedy Arboretum, and the Dunbrody Famine Ship. The route also takes you through picturesque villages like New Ross and Enniscorthy.
10. The Sky Road Drive
The Sky Road Drive is a scenic route that takes you along the coast of Connemara in County Galway. The route takes in some of Ireland’s most stunning coastal scenery, including the Twelve Bens mountain range and the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. The route also takes you through charming towns like Clifden and Roundstone.
Wrapping Up
Ireland is a country rich in natural beauty, with breathtaking views and charming towns waiting to be discovered. A road trip in Ireland is ideal if you seek a rocky coastline, green hills, or historical sites. So why not travel this summer and explore all that this stunning country has to offer?