Road Trips: 7 Best Scenic Drives in Ireland

Road tripping through Ireland is an amazing experience and one not to miss, especially if you live in Ireland; it's a journey through a landscape filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Each turn in the road brings you closer to understanding the soul of Ireland. 

This guide to the seven best scenic drives in Ireland invites you to explore the island at your own pace, discovering the diverse beauty that has inspired poets, artists, and travellers for centuries. Whether you're tracing the rugged coastline of the Inishowen Peninsula or meandering through the historic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry, each route offers a unique story waiting to be told. From the comfort of your car, watch as varied landscapes unfold—from serene lakes and lush forests to dramatic cliffs and ancient ruins.

1. Ring of Beara Drive

• Length: 137 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Kenmare
  
  
• Direction: Clockwise or counterclockwise around the Beara Peninsula
  
  
• Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
  
  
• Description: The Ring of Beara is less crowded than its more famous neighbour, the Ring of Kerry, offering a more intimate glimpse into the serene views and authentic local experiences of Ireland’s southwest coast. This drive meanders through small, charming villages, past dramatic rugged cliffs, and alongside serene bays.
  
  
• Points of Interest on Route: Glengariff National Park which offers a mystical forest walks, Healy Pass, with its winding roads and panoramic views; the picturesque fishing town of Castletownbere; Dursey Island, accessible via Ireland’s only cable car, provides a unique vantage point away from the mainland.

2. Wild Atlantic Way

• Length: 2,500 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Kinsale, County Cork
  
  
• Direction: South to north, finishing in Derry
  
  
• Time: Recommended several days to explore fully
  
  
• Description: As Ireland's ultimate scenic drive, the Wild Atlantic Way stretches the entire west coast and offers an incredible diversity of sights. This extensive route weaves through some of the most majestic coastal scenery on the planet, including towering cliffs, lush loughs, and expansive beaches, encapsulating the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast.
  
  This route is split into 14 different stages, some of these stages are mentioned in this list (such as the Ring of Kerry or the Inishowen Peninsula 100 Mile Scenic Drive). You can check more information about these stages on the Wild Atlantic Way website.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher; vibrant cultural experiences in Galway; the starkly beautiful islands of Connemara; and the surfing meccas along Donegal’s rugged coast.

3. Ring of Kerry

• Length: 179 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Killarney
  
  
• Direction: Typically driven clockwise to avoid tour buses
  
  
• Time: 3.5 to 5 hours
  
  
• Description: The Ring of Kerry is a quintessential Irish scenic drive, offering an encapsulating tour of County Kerry’s mystical and varied landscapes. The route is renowned for its exquisite mountainous vistas, deep forests, and mystical lakes, all set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The historic Killarney National Park; the cascading Torc Waterfall; the stately Muckross House; panoramic views from the Dingle Peninsula.

4. Sky Road Scenic Drive

• Length: 16 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Clifden, County Galway
  
  
• Direction: Loop from Clifden
  
  
• Time: 1-2 hours
  
  
• Description: This short but stunning drive is renowned for its expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, Clifden Bay, and the offshore islands. The Sky Road climbs above the ocean, offering expansive views that are particularly enchanting at sunset.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The ruins of Clifden Castle; the elevated Sky Road viewpoint, offering one of the most photographed scenes in Ireland.

5. Inishowen Peninsula 100 Mile Scenic Drive

• Length: 160 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Derry
  
  
• Direction: Loop around the Inishowen Peninsula
  
  
• Time: 3-4 hours
  
  
• Description: This scenic drive circles the Inishowen Peninsula, Ireland's northernmost point, and offers a mix of coastal beauty, rugged landscapes, and significant historical sites. The route is a journey through Ireland’s raw northern beauty, featuring stark landscapes and wide oceanic vistas.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The windswept Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point; ancient Grianan of Aileach ringfort; the dramatic Five Fingers Strand with its expansive sandy beaches.

6. Atlantic Drive on Achill Island

• Length: 40 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Achill Sound
  
  
• Direction: Loop around Achill Island
  
  
• Time: 1-2 hours
  
  
• Description: Achill Island's Atlantic Drive is a compact tour through some of Ireland's most powerful and untamed natural beauty. The route offers a dramatic contrast between peaceful beaches and the raw, rugged cliffs that face the fierce Atlantic.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The picturesque Keem Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters; the haunting Deserted Village at Slievemore; and the dramatic cliffs along the island’s coast.

7. The Causeway Coastal Route

• Length: 190 km
  
  
• Starting Point: Belfast
  
  
• Direction: Northeast towards Derry
  
  
• Time: 3-5 hours
  
  
• Description: This spectacular route winds its way from Belfast to Derry and is famed for its extraordinary coastal scenery. It passes through charming villages, rugged coastline, and various geological wonders.
  
  
• Points Of Interest on Route: The Giant's Causeway with its unique basalt columns; the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge; and the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle.

Planning Your Trip

Before you set out on any of these scenic drives, it's crucial to be well-prepared. This means ensuring your vehicle is in good working order, checking weather conditions, and planning your route with stops for fuel, food, and sightseeing. Packing essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit can make your journey more comfortable, especially in more remote areas of Ireland where amenities might be scarce.

For longer drives, consider accommodations along the way to fully enjoy the experience without rushing. Detailed maps or a GPS device will be invaluable on these drives, as cell service can be intermittent in rural areas. Make sure that when you drive around Ireland that you take safety into consideration and never speed or drive while tired, some of the roads in these routes will need your full attention. To learn more about staying awake and aware, read our blog on how to stay awake on the road.

Lastly, familiarise yourself with local driving laws and etiquette to ensure a smooth journey. For more tips on driving around Ireland, check out our hub featuring safe driving practices and tips

Conclusion

Exploring Ireland by car is one of the most fulfilling ways to connect with the landscape and its history. As you navigate these scenic drives, remember that each kilometres travelled brings you closer to understanding the essence of the Irish spirit—resilient, enchanting, and deeply rooted in the land.

While you enjoy this freedom, remember to secure AIG car insurance to safeguard your journey against any unforeseen circumstances. This way, you ensure peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the stunning views and rich heritage that the best drives in Ireland has to offer.

For those looking to extend their adventure, consider exploring options for weekend breaks for families, which can offer a deeper dive into specific regions and their unique attractions. Dive into the heart of Ireland at your own pace, and let each scenic drive unfold the myriad stories of the land.