What are some of the Best Scenic Drives in Ireland?

Ireland is a country with plenty of spectacular scenery to offer. Whenever a high-budget TV show calls for an unspoilt, windswept landscape, it’s usually Ireland that the location scouts head for first. If you’re based in the UK, then a trip to the Emerald Isle is a great way to unwind. And among the best ways to see the country is with the help of a road-trip.

If you’re going to be driving in a foreign country, then it’s certainly worth thinking about whether your insurance will cover you. Investigate the options available, and make sure you’ve got that safety net before you think about ferries or accommodation.

With that done, let’s consider the amazing scenic drives to which you might treat yourself.

Wicklow Mountains

If you’re taking a city break in Dublin, then you can start your excursion through the countryside right in the capital, with a trip up the Wicklow Mountains. On a good year, more than a million people pay a visit to this part of the country – and it’s thanks to attractions like Glendalough and Powerscourt Waterfall.

Blessington Lakes

Once you’re in the vicinity of Glendalough, you might take a drive around the Blessingdon Lakes. They were actually formed just fifty years ago, with the creation of the Poulaphouca Dam. But they’ve quickly established themselves as tourist gold – and so if you’re in the vicinity, treat yourself to a visit.

Wild Atlantic Way

This stretch of Ireland’s coast can plausibly claim to be the longest signposted coastal drive anywhere in the world. It runs across 2,500km, and it’ll take you through Galway, Kerry, Limerick and Clare. If you’re in search of a two-week road-trip, there are few better choices.

Ring of Kerry

If you’re headed to County Kerry, then you should consider the famous Ring of Kerry a must-drive (though you might equally tackle it on a bicycle). It’s the road that encircles the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula, and it’ll take around three hours to drive the whole thing (not including stops). Incredible sea views and unspoiled hillside awaits!

Giant’s Causeway Coast

No list of Irish scenic destinations would be complete without mention of the Giant’s Causeway. We’re crossing the border to Northern Ireland for this route, which will take you from Derry to Belfast. There are several must-visit tourist destinations along the way, including the Carrick a Rede rope bridge, and the Giant’s Causeway itself.