Get the Inside Scoop! Subscribe!

Ireland’s Breathtaking Routes: Best Scenic Drives (Handpicked Havens for 2024)

sheila-heydublin
Best Scenic Drives in Ireland

Ready for an adventure through Ireland’s most breathtaking scenic drives? I’ve been there, and let me tell you, it’s a journey filled with awe at every turn. From the dramatic coastline to the lush, green landscapes that seem to stretch forever, each drive is a story waiting to be told.

I remember my first time driving along one of these routes; the beauty was so overwhelming, that I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. The rolling hills, dotted with sheep and ancient stone walls, seemed like something out of a fairy tale. And the coast? Simply majestic, with cliffs dropping into the sea and waves crashing below.

This isn’t just about driving; it’s about discovering the heart and soul of Ireland. Trust me, whether you’re a solo traveller thirsting for adventure or looking to create unforgettable memories with loved ones, these scenic drives are your gateway to the essence of the Emerald Isle. Have you ever wondered what magic awaits around the next bend?

☝️ How we rated the services below:

In our quest to highlight the “Best Scenic Drives In Ireland,” we meticulously evaluated each route based on the following criteria:

  • Scenery and Natural Beauty: We prioritise routes that offer stunning landscapes, ensuring each drive presents breathtaking views of Ireland’s natural wonders, from rugged coastlines to verdant hills.
  • Cultural and Historical Significance: We look for drives that not only mesmerize with their beauty but also enrich with a sense of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and history, including ancient ruins and historical landmarks.
  • Accessibility and Road Conditions: We consider how accessible these scenic drives are for all types of travellers, ensuring the roads are in good condition and safely navigable, enhancing the overall driving experience.
  • Opportunities for Stops and Exploration: We value routes that offer plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and immerse in the local atmosphere, including quaint villages, local eateries, and panoramic viewpoints.
  • Overall Experience and Uniqueness: We seek out drives that offer a unique and memorable experience, ensuring that each recommended route provides a distinct and unforgettable journey through Ireland’s diverse landscapes.
See also
Best Irish Pubs In Ireland: Where Music & Guinness Flow ([year] Insider Favourites)

Escape to Ireland’s Most Breathtaking Drives: Beyond Imagination

☝️ Our team, family, and friends have embarked on countless journeys, testing and experiencing firsthand the breathtaking allure of the Best Scenic Drives In Ireland, to bring you the cream of the crop. Each route has been carefully selected to ensure you discover the heart and soul of Ireland’s unparalleled landscapes.

Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal Route is a great way to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. The route takes you through incredible coastal scenery, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the way and take in all the sights. Every turn offers something new and exciting to explore, whether it’s breathtaking cliff sides or charming villages nestled among rolling hills.

The service that McComb’s coaches provided us was excellent too – our driver and tour guide Patrick was so knowledgeable about each location we visited on our day trip from Portstewart to Ballycastle – giving us background information and stories about local landmarks throughout our journey. This made for an incredibly enjoyable and interesting experience! We were even able to make stops at various tourist spots as he went his expert advice on what there was top see in every area.

Overall, I would definitely recommend taking the Causeway Coastal Route when visiting this part of Northern Ireland – it’s absolutely worth experiencing! From its mile after mile of gorgeous landscapes,to its well-informed drivers who can show you everything worth seeing along your trip – they guarantee one amazing nature-filled adventure like no other!

Name Causeway Coastal Route
Website https://www.causewaycoastalroute.com/
Address Ballintoy, Ballycastle BT54 6NE, United
Kingdom
Contact Details 07415 751828
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.8 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 687+ reviews

Lough Tay Viewing Point

This spot is definitely worth visiting! It’s a great place to just relax, soak in the scenery and recharge. The area around the lake is beautiful for picturesque walks and there are plenty of excellent photographic opportunities with nature surrounding you. It was also used as one of the locations from the popular Viking series so seeing it in person is an experience you won’t want to pass up on.

The location has ample parking so everyone can easily find a spot to either take in the views or wander off along paths nearby. Lough Tay Viewing Point provides stunning sights that really make this place stand out even among Ireland’s remarkable natural beauty. Even if weather doesn’t permit your viewing pleasure, you still have plenty of options for relaxing activities like short hikes here and there in Wicklow’s fantastic forests meadows and hillsides.

Overall, I had an excellent day when visiting Lough Tay Viewing Point thanks not only to its beautiful setting but because of how well maintained this part of County Wicklow remains despite high amounts of tourist foot traffic annually!

Name Lough Tay Viewing Point
Website https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/lough-tay-guinness-lake/
Address Ballinastoe, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Contact Details
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.9 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 617+ reviews

Gleniff Horseshoe

I can’t recommend this place enough. The Gleniff Horseshoe is so gorgeous and peaceful and it was one of the highlights of my trip. It’s a great spot to get away from hustle and bustle, relax in the natural beauty around you, go for a hike, or even just have some tea with friends before exploring further along. Best of all, safety measures are taken into account for those who may wish to try their hand at rock-climbing – special footwear is required!

The views from up top are something else too – I couldn’t quite believe how picturesque everything was! The local wildlife in Gleniff gives you an extra dimension that isn’t found many places; mixed with stunning countryside scenery including forestry hiking trails plus nature ponds (and lots of wildflowers!)

This area truly has it all in terms of both natural wonders as well as modern luxury such as fine dining restaurants close by. That being said, if you’d like suggestions on planning your visit here allow me to make clear that it doesn’t need to cost much – if anything at all besides time out of your day. With 550+ reviews on Google constantly scoring 4/5 stars or higher more than speaks volumes about why this should absolutely be visited while staying here near Co Sligo Ireland

Name Gleniff Horseshoe
Website https://www.discoveringireland.com/gleniff-horseshoe/
Address Gleniff, Co. Sligo, Ireland
Contact Details
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.8 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 550+ reviews

Conor Pass

The Connor Pass is a gorgeous and awe-inspiring work of nature. Situated near Dingle, there are plenty of opportunities to stop to take in the stunning landscape that surrounds you. The pass is easily navigable, even with its single lane roads – however this can be cause for delays if another vehicle comes both ways while on the road. Nonetheless, it’s an experience that you won’t forget any time soon!

One key note about visiting Connor Pass is that you must dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as winds can pick up making the experience chillier than expected! Also joining a tour guide would provide additional advice and guidance along your journey through Conor Pass. Be sure to look into tours in advance so you don’t miss out on have an insightful local expert by your side on your adventure through connors pass – explore all corners as these guides enjoy showing off their homeland like no other!.

Visiting Conner’s pass will indubitably result in unforgettable memories! The views are some of the finest nature has left us with (just remember those sweaters!) This coupled with passionate locals guiding visitors though make experiencing Connors’ Pass worth every second spent here!

Name Conor Pass
Website http://www.connorpass.com/
Address R560, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Contact Details
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.8 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 2341+ reviews

The Magic Road

The Magic Road in Coummahon, Co. Waterford, Ireland is an absolute must-visit. Not only does it offer two trails that offer stunning views and enjoyable hikes, it also offers the unique phenomenon of a optical illusion. The Magic Road is situated on the drive to Mahon Falls and features a strong magnetic field which causes cars to move quickly when driven through in either direction – making this experience both exciting and truly magical! With over 173+ Google reviews and 4.6 stars out of 5 ratings, I can assure you that this comes highly recommended by travelers all around the world; so if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary then look no further than The Magic Road!

No matter what destination or traveler type you are-whether looking for scenic hikes with breathtaking views or some harmless thrills – The Magic Road has something guaranteed to suit your needs and leave you spellbound . Taking a brisk 20min walk from the first carpark will allow visitors access to the bottom of Mahon Falls , one of Ireland’s finest natural landmarks as well as several lookout points along its trails -all just steps away from main attractions such as zip lining (the longest zipline in Europe!) waterfalls rock climbing! Truly nature at its best awaits those who choose venture there-which again undoubtedly warrants both excitement AND joy!

All things considered , alluring beauty coupled with spiced entertainment provide sound reason why any stay here should be unforgettable ! If my recommendation isn’t ample enough Be sure check out their reviews , photos & other available info before making your way down ; You won’t regret booking tickets..I’m always so delighted!/At home now too many memories 😉 For me Its amazing place worth visiting anytime ! Thanks everyone:)

Name The Magic Road
Address Coummahon, Co. Waterford, Ireland
Contact Details (058) 41741
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.6 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 173+ reviews

Eagle’s Rock

Eagle’s Rock in County Leitrim, Ireland is a must see destination. With its stunning views of the mountain and peaceful countryside shear tranquility – it always leaves me in awe. The car park at Eagle’s Rock is primed for easy access making it convenient to get there with minimal fuss, plus ample parking if you plan on bringing your own vehicle or any other means of transport.

The hike to the peak requires decent footwear but don’t let that deter you! Give yourself around 30-45 minutes depending on your hiking speed and fitness level, not forgetting to pause for photo opportunities. The vistas are spectacular and much worth effort needed to reach them! We even met a local man during our visit – an unplanned but great way to add authenticity from an experienced individual in this part of the country side . He gave us tips on how best approach our trek up as he grazed his flock alongside us in route!

Overall, Eagle’s Rock was such a treat; peaceful ambiance surrounded by beautiful landscapes makes for one memorable outing. If you’re looking for some nature therapy without too many crowds then this should be high up your list during your visit here in Ireland.

Name Eagle’s Rock
Website http://leitrimtourism.com/stories/eagles-rock/
Address Unnamed Rd Ireland, Co. Leitrim,
Ireland
Contact Details
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.7 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 198+ reviews

Burren National Park

The Burren National Park is an amazing destination and a breath of fresh air. Its stark rocky landscape and bright blue skies provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, climbing, nature observation, photography and exploration. Located in County Clare, the park features 70% of all Irish flowers – including some rare varieties – as well as plenty of fauna such as goats and other animals living on the land. Not just that but it’s also tranquil enough so you can relax amongst all this beauty without getting tired or feeling overwhelmed!

For hikers keen on tackling a bit more than just a stroll in the park there are multiple trails available which take you through varied terrain from rolling hills to bog-land to limestone pavements and caves. There truly is something for everyone here no matter their fitness level. And if your interests lie beyond physical activities then why not look out for fossils? It has been reported that people have found amonites at the top!

The Burren National Park is worth making time for during any visit to Ireland: with its unique flora & fauna paired with breathtaking views – you won’t be disappointed by your experience here! Make sure to plan ahead though since popular hikes will surely attract plenty of visitors throughout spring/summer months; don’t let yourself miss out on this fantastic opportunity!

Name Burren National Park
Website http://www.burrennationalpark.ie/
Address 2 Church Street, Corofin, Co.
Clare, V95 T9V6, Ireland
Contact Details (065) 682 7693
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.7 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 1284+ reviews

Glendalough

This place is amazing, and I would highly recommend it for a peaceful nature retreat. The forest trails meander around the Glendalough Lakes, providing stunning views from several vantage points. There are bridges to cross small streams and plenty of picnic locations close by for those wishing to rest outdoors in clean fresh air. You can walk along quietly or you can explore some of the well-marked tracks that take you even further afield to explore some wild places.

The area also has an easy graded mountain route including Brockagh Mountain which provides spectacular 360 degree views over both lakes as well as distant stretches of Wicklow National Park, so don’t forget your camera! For those with more energy there are two longer loops known as Miner’s Road trail (something like 5 miles) and Spinc &Glenealo Valley Walk (~8 miles), both routes taking hikers through incredible scenery such 10th century ruins, hidden valleys & almost untouched ancient forests before looping back round again to the start point near Visitor Centre on opposite side of lake – worth doing if appropriate footwear/ layers worn!.

If you’re looking for somewhere special with plenty of things to do then definitely visit Glendalough – families need no excuse :). Even less athletic visitors will find something here -it’s incredibly beautiful as long as you come prepared!

Name Glendalough
Address Unnamed Road, Derrybawn, Co. Wicklow,
Ireland
Contact Details
Opening Hours Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Google Rating 4.9 Stars out of 5
Total Reviews 659+ reviews

⚠️ Expertise and Transparency – Our Review and Ranking Process: At HeyDublin, we are committed to providing comprehensive, trustworthy, and unbiased reviews. Our review and ranking process involves extensive research, testing, and verification by our team of experts.
Learn more about our review and ranking process.


My Final Thoughts

I’ve always felt that Ireland’s scenic drives offer a magical escape into a world where the beauty of nature knows no bounds. Cruising along these routes, from the rugged cliffs to the lush, rolling hills, and quaint villages, I’m reminded of the sheer wonder that travel brings into our lives. Ireland’s roads are more than just pathways; they are a journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that leave you spellbound. Each drive is a unique adventure, promising unforgettable vistas and heartwarming encounters with the warmth of Irish hospitality. So, here’s to the open road, the stories waiting to be discovered, and the memories waiting to be made on Ireland’s most scenic drives. Let the journey begin!

What draws me to Ireland’s scenic drives?

Ireland’s scenic drives captivate me with their unparalleled beauty, weaving through landscapes dotted with ancient ruins, lush greenery, and dramatic coastlines. Each route offers a unique glimpse into Ireland’s natural splendour and cultural heritage, making every journey an adventure into the heart of the Emerald Isle.

How do I choose which scenic drive in Ireland to explore first?

Choosing a scenic drive in Ireland depends on what you’re eager to see. I look for routes that highlight Ireland’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic cliffs along the coast to the serene beauty of its countryside. Starting with drives that offer a mix of both gives a wonderful introduction to Ireland’s natural wonders.

Can scenic drives in Ireland be enjoyed all year round?

Yes, Ireland’s scenic drives can be enjoyed throughout the year, each season bringing its charm. Spring and autumn, with their mild weather and vibrant colours, are particularly magical. However, I always check local weather conditions before setting out, as some routes can be more challenging in winter.

What should I bring on my scenic drive journey through Ireland?

When embarking on a scenic drive through Ireland, I make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views, comfortable walking shoes for any impromptu hikes, and a detailed map or GPS device to navigate the winding roads. Packing a picnic also adds a lovely touch to a scenic roadside stop.

How do I prepare for driving on Ireland’s rural roads?

To prepare for driving on Ireland’s rural roads, I familiarize myself with driving on the left side and practice handling a manual transmission if necessary. Being cautious and alert, especially on narrow, winding roads, ensures a safe and enjoyable journey through Ireland’s picturesque landscapes.

Are there opportunities for cultural experiences along Ireland’s scenic drives?

Ireland’s scenic drives are dotted with opportunities for cultural experiences, from visiting local craft shops and markets to exploring historical sites and engaging with the local communities. I cherish these moments that allow me to immerse myself in Ireland’s rich culture and history.

What makes Ireland’s scenic drives uniquely appealing?

Ireland’s scenic drives are uniquely appealing because of their ability to seamlessly blend natural beauty with historical depth. The chance to drive past centuries-old castles one minute and gaze out at the wild Atlantic the next is a testament to Ireland’s diverse and enchanting character, making each drive an unforgettable experience.

🙋‍♂️ Are we missing something?

💁‍♀️ Want to be featured here?

Previous Article
Best Rock Climbing Spots in Ireland

Thrill-Seekers' Dream: Ireland's Ultimate Rock Climbing Spots ( Critic's Choice)

Next Article
Best Historic Sites in Ireland

Ireland's Hidden Gems: Best Historic Sites Off the Beaten Path ( Exclusive Selection)

Related Posts