Did you know there are some wonderful road trip routes where, in just a few hours, you can travel from rugged Atlantic coastlines to peaceful mountain passes, historic towns and hidden beaches?
If you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer journey this summer, these five routes offer some of the most rewarding drives in Ireland.
Ring of Kerry (179km loop, Co. Kerry)
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s best-known scenic drives, looping around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The full route is around 179km and usually takes about 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, although most visitors take a full day to enjoy the scenery and explore along the way.
The drive combines mountain landscapes, Atlantic coastline and traditional Irish towns. Highlights include Killarney National Park, the panoramic viewpoint at Ladies View, and the colourful town of Kenmare.
Tip: Many drivers travel counter-clockwise from Killarney, which is the same direction used by tour buses and can make the drive easier on narrow roads.
Wild Atlantic Way (West Coast Route)
Stretching more than 2,500km along Ireland’s west coast, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal driving routes in the world.
Rather than driving the entire route, many people choose a shorter section for a weekend trip. Some of the most popular stretches include the Cliffs of Moher in Clare, the dramatic landscapes of Connemara in Galway, and Achill Island in Mayo.
The route is famous for its rugged cliffs, powerful Atlantic views and charming coastal villages.
Causeway Coastal Route (Approx. 190km, Northern Ireland)
The Causeway Coastal Route runs roughly 190km between Belfast and Derry, following Northern Ireland’s Antrim coastline.
This drive combines spectacular scenery with historic landmarks. Along the route you’ll find the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle overlooking the sea.
Allow at least four to five hours if you plan to stop at the main attractions along the way.
Inishowen 100 (160km loop, Co. Donegal)
The Inishowen 100 is a 160km circular route around the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. It offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Ireland.
One of the highlights is Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. Other notable stops include Five Finger Strand, one of Donegal’s most beautiful beaches, and Fort Dunree, a historic coastal fort with sweeping views of Lough Swilly.
Beara Peninsula and Healy Pass (Cork–Kerry)
Often described as one of Ireland’s hidden gems, the Beara Peninsula offers spectacular scenery without the crowds found on some of the country’s more famous routes.
The highlight is Healy Pass, a winding mountain road that climbs through the Caha Mountains. Built during the 1840s, the road twists through dramatic landscapes and offers panoramic views across the peninsula.
The drive also passes colourful villages such as Allihies and quiet coastal stretches that feel far removed from busier tourist routes.
Before You Set Off
A scenic drive in Ireland is as much about enjoying the journey as the destination. A little preparation can help make the experience even more enjoyable.
Allow extra time for scenic stops and viewpoints, keep an eye out for narrow rural roads, check the weather before travelling, and plan fuel stops if you’re heading into more remote areas.