Ireland has some magical scenery and some of the best driving experiences in Europe making it an ideal choice for self drive tours. Rugged coastline, majestic mountains, craggy limestone landscapes and dense forestry can all be seen in a single journey. Before setting off on an Ireland vacation of a lifetime remember:
1. Irish cars drive on the left
2. Drive carefully on narrow country roads
3. Take your time and enjoy the scenery
4. Remind yourself of national driving laws
5. When planning your journey allow for extra time for unplanned stops, rests and weather conditions.
6. Shop around when renting a car
7. Check your route on your phone before you leave
8. Check your fuel levels
9. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions along the way
10. Never drink and drive
1. Ring of Kerry
The ring of Kerry is located in the sunny south west of Ireland and is a must see when visiting. Kerry is known as the kingdom for its incredible views and regal scenery. Starting in the beautiful town of Killarney the ring of Kerry is a famous tourist loop which brings visitors through the very best of the Kingdom. This 170km loop is an unforgettable journey through the Iveragh Peninsula.
We recommend taking the time to stop and enjoy some of the locations such as the wonders of Killarney National Park, the awe inspiring Gap of Dunloe, The Skellig islands (Ireland’s ancient island monastery and hide out of Jedi Luke Skywalker) and the Derrynane house; former home of Irish Emancipator Daniel O Connell situated on one of Ireland’s greatest beaches. There is no debate, when it comes to Ireland travel the ring of Kerry is one of the greatest driving experiences anywhere!
2. West Cork
West Cork is one of the most charming and welcoming locations in all of Ireland. West Cork receives some of the best weather conditions anywhere in Ireland and is a popular staycation area for locals. Starting in the food capital of Cork, Kinsale boasts a Michelin star restaurant along with some of the finest seafood straight from the neighbouring sea. Kinsale is a vibrant town painted to impress, lined with flowers and the famous 18 hole “Old Head” golf course must be seen to be truly appreciated. Next onto Clonakilty , home of Ireland's revolutionary Michael Collins there is a fascinating museum , model railway village and the marvelous Inchydoney beach. Schull is a harbour town located in west Cork nearing Mizen Head, the most southerly point in Ireland. Schull is the perfect launching point for Barleycove beach, Three Castle Head, Goleen and of course the breathtaking Mizen Head itself. West Cork is a top driving route that will leave you with memories to last.
3.The Burren
You would be forgiven for thinking that you have been transported somewhere totally otherworldly when visiting the Burren. This remarkable location is unlike anything you can experience elsewhere, so much so that it is now a listed UNESCO recognised national park. This limestone landscape stretches for as long as the eye can see, making for a truly consuming vista. The Nobel prize winning Irish poet Seamus Heaney remarked; “some time, make the time to drive out west” when referring to the must see nature of this striking and truly dramatic location.
4. Wicklow Mountains
The Wicklow Mountains are an ideal journey from the capital, watch as the city scape turns to the green and greys of the Irish countryside. This journey introduces you to the myth and wonder of Ireland’s Ancient East. This region is steeped in history and culture. It would be a sin not to travel to the Monastery of Glendalough, founded by st. Kevin in the 6th century AD. Make sure to photograph the ancient round towers used as refuge from raiding Vikings. Powerscourt Waterfall is also on this route and will leave you feeling truly at one with your surroundings.
5. The Giants Causeway
The Causeway Coastal Scenic drive offers remarkable and rugged sights as you journey along Derry towards Belfast. For some of you these incredible sights may seem strangely familiar as this is the home of the HBO series Game of Thrones. The Kings Road and Ballintoy Harbour from the series are especially worth a visit. For the brave amongst you the Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge is an extremely popular and worthwhile venture. Finally the Giants Causeway itself, an area where science , sea and mythology come crashing together. Words fail to capture the sense of wonder when standing on these perfectly hexagonal stone pillars rising from the sea.
6.Cliffs of Moher
There are few drives where the journey is as beautiful as the destination. Clare is a wonderfully diverse and picturesque county. Travel down winding country roads lined with hand built stone walls, wide open fields and the stunning coastline that is the wild atlantic way. These juggernauts of cliffs stand 702 feet at their highest point (more than two Statues of Liberties standing end to end) for nearly 9 miles. Photos simply do not capture the size of these cliffs nor do they grasp the ferocity of the waves that they endure. This drive can be extended to see the beauty of Galway city or be transported back in time on the Aran Islands which can be seen from the cliffs in good conditions.
7.Sky Road Galway
Sky road is the definition of short and sweet. This drive may only be 16km but it offers truly breathtaking scenery at every straight and bend in the road. At its highest point there is a car park and looking point perfect to have a little picnic and stretch your legs while gazing down on the natural beauty and grace of Cliffden
8. Galway - Cong- Westport
Galway has established itself as the festival and events capital of Ireland. The fun and nightlife here is simply unmatched. Once you’ve experienced the joy and music of shop street and walked the promenade of Salt hill you it will be difficult to leave but trust us it’s worth it! As you journey towards Cong you will be rewarded with the spectacular views of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, some of Ireland’s largest lakes.
Cong is a small and beautiful oasis situated on the border of Galway and Mayo. This little village punches well above its weight in terms of what it has to offer. The famous John Wayne and Maureen O Hara movie “The Quiet Man” was filmed here and you can still visit the cottage itself which acts as a pleasant museum. The hidden gem of Cong is Ashford castle, popular with those on Ireland honeymoons. The castle is a five star resort hotel offering best in class equestrian, falconry and golfing experiences. Next stop is Westport, a delightful riviera town bustling with cafes and restaurants, it is a perfect stopping point surrounded by idyllic beaches and the famous Croach Patrick pilgrimage.
9. Boyne Valley Scenic Loop Drive, Meath
This journey will bring you in contact with Irish heritage and folklore like no other drive could. Set in the green and lush valley of the Boyne you will see the Hill of Tara, the Kells Crosses and most importantly Newgrange. Newgrange is a 85m tall stone age passage tomb outdating the great pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge in the UK. The passage of the tomb is astronomically aligned to be lit up on the winter solstice’s rising sun. An incredible feat of engineering and accomplishment, the inner chambers lie in dormant darkness for the next 365 days of the year. This left the ancient Romans in awe and we have no doubt it will have the same effect on you.
10. Lough Gill and Yeats Scenic Drive, Sligo
Discover the landscape and the people from whom WB Yeats derived his inspiration and muse. Gaze in awe of the imposing and dominant face of Benbulben or listen to the lake water lapping on the shore of Bunowen bay. Getting a boat tour of Yeat’s beloved island of Innisfree is a wonderful experience when in this majestic and humbling land. Finish with the spectacular Glencar Waterfall and you have made a lifetime’s worth of memories in a single day.
At Discovering Ireland Vacations we have many self drive tour packages to suit every taste and need. Our self-drive Ireland vacation packages can additionally be tailored and customized and if you have any special requests please mention to our travel advisors who will be more than happy to set them up for you.