Top 10 Scenic Drives in Ireland
If exploration and breathtaking scenery is your thing you’ve come to the right place!
There is no shortage of stunning views across Ireland with many being accessible only by road. Good thing we’re here to help 😉
Whether you’re looking for a short drive to get away for the weekend or for longer to explore the beautiful and historic landscapes, these 10 scenic driving routes should be on your bucket list to try 🤩
10 Gengesh Pass
1. Wild Atlantic Way
The most iconic and longest of the scenic drives in Ireland in the Wild Atlantic Way, this 2,500km long coastal road takes you along some of the most breathtaking views of Ireland’s extraordinary coast from Donegal in the North to Cork in the South.
2. Ring of Beara Drive – Cork
The Ring of Beara Drive is about a 2-hour drive in total along 137km of road spanning the Beara Peninsula in Co. Cork. Some peninsula highlights are the Uragh Stone Circle, Healy Pass, and Gleninchaquin Park.
3. Wicklow Mountains Drive
Drive south from Dublin along the coast and make your way up the mountains towards Glendalough. The trip is only 170km and can be done in just under three hours without stopping. This beautiful scenery has been the backdrop for many films, and it’s easy to see why.
4. Skellig Ring Scenic Drive
The Skellig Ring Scenic Drive is a small ring just off the famous Ring of Kerry. It takes you along winding roads with sweeping views of the Skellig and Valentia Islands and makes for a short trip stretching around 18km.
5. Causeway Coastal Route
Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist trail stretches 212km along the north Antrim coastline from Belfast to Derry. There are some wonderful attractions along the way, including the Mussenden Temple and the Dunluce Castle, for you to enjoy a bit of history with a view.
6. Dingle Peninsula Loop Drive
The Dingle Peninsula Loop Drive weaves across the ancient landscape bringing together small towns, beachy coves, and historic stone remains. Some points of interest along this route include the Sleeping Giant and the Three Sisters.
7. Ring of Kerry
Travel through the stunning scenery of Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula on a looped trail that begins and ends in the town of Killarney. Take in some great views of the Skellig Islands and take a trip to the Killarney Nation Park while you’re there.
8. Slea Head Drive
Located in beautiful Co. Kerry, Slea Head Drive begins and ends in the town of Dingle. Some of the most popular stops along this route are the Dunmore Head viewpoint, the Dunquin Harbour, and the Dun Chaoin Pier.
9. Sally Gap Drive
The Sally Gap Drive is popular in Co. Wicklow and is a short 60-minute drive that takes you on a scenic route through the Wicklow mountains. The drive has quite a few places to stop and take a walk along the landscape to take in the breathtaking views.
10. Glengesh Pass
This winding road links Glencolmcille to Ardara and is one of the most magnificent drives through a meandering valley. You get to take in incredible mountain views and enjoy the old cottages and farmsteads along the way.
Planning your road trip?
We hope this list helps for some inspo for your next adventure on the road.
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