Get Ready for a Wild Irish Adventure: Top Coastal Drives and Scenic Routes
Explore 5 Breathtaking Landscape Routes in Ireland to Immerse in the Irish Countryside's Charm
Ireland’s rugged coastline and breathtaking landscapes hide some seriously sensational drives that'll leave you enchanted and yearning for more. Don’t believe us? Here's a lowdown on the unmissable coastlines and scenic routes Ireland has to offer:
The Legendary Wild Atlantic Way
Stretching over 2,500 km from Donegal to County Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way promises an Irish odyssey like no other. You won’t be able to conquer it all in one go, but trust us, some sections are well worth the detour. Skirting the famed Cliffs of Moher, crossing the Burren, and journeying into the peat lands of Connemara, the route astounds, enchanting those who dare to venture.
Further south, it runs across the craggy landscapes of the Iveragh peninsula and hugs the cliffs of Slea Head. Allow at least three days to truly enjoy a segment of this fabled route.
The Hidden Gem: Inishowen 100
In the wild north of Ireland, nestled in County Donegal, the Inishowen 100 winds a 160 km loop around the Inishowen peninsula. This often overlooked route showcases raw, majestic Ireland at its finest. From the village of Muff, it hugs the rugged shores of Lough Foyle, scales the captivating Stroove lighthouse, and then follows the north coast to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northern point. Verdigris cliffs, secluded beaches such as Five Fingers Strand, and stunning 360° panoramas punctuate this grandiose route.
The Sky Road: Clifden Bay at Its Best
In the heart of Connemara, the Sky Road forms a 16 km loop starting from Clifden, treating visitors to uninterrupted views over Clifden Bay. Dotted with islets, beaches like Eyrephort, and hamlets scattered amongst dry stone walls, this short yet impressive route can be enjoyed in as little as an hour. However, on a clear day, the vistas are sublime, and it's well worth the trip!
The Iconic Ring of Kerry
A classic doesn’t get more classic than the Ring of Kerry, an 180 km loop orbiting the Iveragh Peninsula between Kenmare and Killorglin. The route is a hodgepodge of mountain vistas, high-altitude lakes, ruined castles, rocky coastline, and wild beaches. From Killarney National Park to Derrynane Bay, via Moll’s Gap or Ladies View, the Ring of Kerry is postcard-perfect Ireland at its best.
A Wilder Alternative: Ring of Beara
Oft-overlooked in favor of the Ring of Kerry, the Ring of Beara snakes around the Beara Peninsula for about 140 km between counties Cork and Kerry. Skirting steep cliffs, passing through peaceful villages such as Allihies and Eyeries, and crossing the Healy Pass, at an altitude of 334 metres, where panoramic vistas of the Caha Mountains unfold, the atmosphere here is more rugged, more isolated, ideal for those drawn to the spirit of the wild.
Explore More of Ireland
Ready for an Irish adventure you'll never forget? Lace up your boots, hit the open road, and revel in the beauty that awaits you on these unforgettable coastal drives. Pack your bags, book your plane ticket, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Embarking on these unforgettable coastal drives in Ireland is not just a travel experience; it's an adventure-travel journey that immerses you in the country's lifestyle and offers stunning landscapes. As you explore the legendary Wild Atlantic Way, Inishowen 100, the Sky Road, the Ring of Kerry, or the Ring of Beara, you'll be delving into cultural-travel experiences that enrich your understanding of Ireland's unique identity. So, lace up your boots and prepare for a wild Irish adventure that'll leave you captivated, yearning for more, and with memories that'll last a lifetime.
