Road trips are becoming an increasingly popular way for people to spend their holidays, as international travel remains somewhat expensive for the average family following the coronavirus pandemic. While there is much to see within the shores of Britain, many haven’t quite made it across the Irish Sea – a crime, given the outstanding beauty Ireland has to offer. Here are just four road trips you could take across Ireland:
The Ring of Kerry Road Trip
The Ring of Kerry is an incredibly rewarding 120-mile trip around the Inveragh Peninsula, with breath-taking scenery and an optional visit to the Skellig Ring, which itself offers a multitude of spots of natural beauty. The Ring of Kerry begins in Killarney, home to a National Park of the same name – encompassing 10,000 acres, with outstanding views of rolling hills and rewilded tors and the sublime Torc Waterfall. The Ring takes you through picturesque Kilmare to Sneem, an old Irish fishing village with a rich history and a beautiful landscape. The Ring takes you up the west coast and back around, via Cahersiveen and Glenbeigh, for a true tour of what Kerry’s communities have to offer.
The Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip
The Wild Atlantic Way is a formidable trip along the entirety of Ireland’s west coast, starting in Derry and spanning 1600 miles to the shores of Kinsale, south of Cork – an representing the longest uninterrupted coastal route in the entire world. You will take in countless sights on your journey down: from kissing the Ring of Kerry to tracing the Kilkee cliffs, this coastal drive is an unforgettable experience for many.
The Donegal Road Trip
A 260-mile road trip around Ireland’s northernmost county, the Donegal road trip takes in a vast array of sights and sound: the Slieve League cliffs are an edifying spectacle, representing the highest sea cliffs on the Irish coast, while Glenveagh National Park in Letterkenny is a must-stop, comprising wondrous waterfalls and lakes as well as a smorgasbord of forests and fields. Donegal is a county rich in nature and history alike – and Grianan of Aileach as a stop on your trip is evidence of the latter. An old hillfort, a quarter of a kilometre above sea-level and an inspiring construction to connect you to Ireland’s pre-Victorian roots.
The West Cork Road Trip
Starting and ending in the city of Cork, this near-800-mile circular route takes in the absolute best the county of Cork has to offer. Clonakilty is your first stop, with charming rustic venues and a community spirit to die for. You’ll also take in the world-famous Drombeg Stone Circle, before touching the Sheep’s Head Pensinsula and making your way back via Gougane Barra Forest Park.
Conclusion
Ireland is an unforgettable country, with winding, snaking country roads and an untamable landscape. Travelling through it is a bucket list entry for sure, and this list ought to be inspiration enough to pack your bags, ensure your car insurance is up to date and draw up a route of your own. Just be careful on those roads – especially the coastal ones!
