Ireland, the land of rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and ancient castles, is tailor-made for exploration. But ditch the fast-paced highways; the true magic unfolds along the winding, Scenic drives in Ireland.

These routes are more than just journeys from A to B – they’re immersive experiences. Imagine yourself cruising along the Wild Atlantic Way, with salty spray tingling your face as you admire the jagged cliffs of Donegal. Or perhaps picture traversing the Ring of Kerry, where emerald valleys cradle charming villages and majestic mountains pierce the sky.

This guide is your roadmap to unlocking the secrets of Ireland’s scenic drives. We’ll delve into routes that cater to every taste, from rugged coastal adventures to mystical journeys through ancient landscapes. We’ll provide tips on navigating the narrow roads, choosing the perfect pitstops, and soaking up the local culture. So, buckle up, get ready to shift gears, and prepare to be enchanted by Ireland’s captivating scenic drives.

The Top 10 Scenic Drives in Ireland

Embark on a breathtaking journey across the Emerald Isle with these 30 spectacular scenic drives, each offering a unique perspective of Ireland’s natural beauty.

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is the undisputed champion of Irish scenic drives. Stretching a staggering 2,500 kilometres along Ireland’s western coastline, it’s not just a route; it’s an immersive journey that unveils a breathtaking tapestry of landscapes, rich history, and charming local culture. Buckle up for a voyage of discovery from the wind-battered cliffs of Donegal to the gentle southern shores of County Cork.

The Wild Atlantic Way is a constant visual spectacle. Dramatic cliff faces like Slieve League in Donegal plunge into the churning Atlantic Ocean, while the Connemara coastline boasts a softer beauty with its long, sandy beaches and sheltered coves. Look out for hidden gems like the Trá na mBlascaíl beach in Kerry, a haven for surfers with its rolling waves, or the dramatic cliffs of Moher in Clare, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you breathless.

The Wild Atlantic Way isn’t just about scenic beauty; it’s a journey through Ireland’s fascinating past. Scattered along the route are ancient sites that whisper tales of bygone eras. Explore the megalithic tombs of Newgrange in County Meath, marvel at the engineering marvel of Dun Briscoe, a prehistoric sea stack fort in Kerry, or stand in awe at the monastic ruins on the Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These historical gems add depth and intrigue to your exploration of the Wild Atlantic Way.

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer circular route around County Kerry, is a legendary scenic drive for a reason. Buckle up for a journey that weaves a tapestry of emerald valleys, charming villages pulsating with Irish culture, and the awe-inspiring McGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.

The Ring of Kerry’s magic lies in its ever-changing vistas. One moment, you might be cruising along a coastal road with salty spray tingling your face, and the next, you’ll be enveloped by lush green valleys carpeted with soft grass. These havens of tranquillity are dotted with traditional sheep farms, their white flocks grazing peacefully against the emerald backdrop.

Look out for stone walls snaking along the hillsides, silent testaments to generations of farmers who have tended this land. You might even stumble upon a hidden waterfall cascading down a moss-covered rock face, adding a touch of untamed beauty to the scene.

The Ring of Kerry isn’t just about scenery; it’s about immersing yourself in the vibrant Irish spirit. The route winds through charming villages that seem to have sprung straight out of a postcard. Kenmare, with its colourful shopfronts and bustling harbour, is a delightful starting point. Waterville, a haven for golfers and beachcombers alike, offers a chance to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

In every village, you’ll find a welcoming pub, the heart and soul of the community. Sink into a comfy chair, savour a pint of Guinness, and converse with the locals – they’ll regale you with stories, local folklore, and maybe even a traditional Irish song or two.

The Skellig Ring

The Skellig Ring, a scenic drive on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, promises an unforgettable adventure. This route winds along some of Ireland‘s most dramatic coastlines, with towering cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean. But the Skellig Ring holds a secret – Skellig Michael, a monastic island steeped in history and mystery, awaits those who dare to venture there.

The Skellig Ring is a feast for the senses, showcasing the Atlantic Ocean’s raw power and untamed beauty. Imagine cruising along narrow roads that hug the coastline, the salty spray tingling your face as you take in the breathtaking panoramas. Towering cliffs, sculpted by wind and waves over millennia, rise majestically from the ocean. Some sections of the Ring even traverse through tunnels carved directly into the cliffs, offering a unique perspective of the wild scenery.

The star attraction of the Skellig Ring is undoubtedly Skellig Michael, a monastic island located roughly 8 kilometres (5 miles) offshore. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a cluster of beehive huts perched precariously on the cliffs – remnants of a monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. Early Christian monks chose this remote and windswept location for its solitude and spiritual significance. Imagine the harsh conditions these monks endured as they built their ascetic dwellings and carved out a life of prayer and contemplation on this isolated island.

Today, Skellig Michael is a fascinating reminder of Ireland’s rich monastic heritage. Be aware that landings on Skellig Michael are strictly limited due to weather conditions and conservation efforts. However, boat tours offer the opportunity to see the island up close and appreciate its dramatic setting. For movie buffs, Skellig Michael might look familiar – it served as a filming location for the iconic scene where Luke Skywalker finds refuge in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The Slea Head Drive

The Slea Head Drive, a 26-kilometre loop branching off the Ring of Kerry, offers some of the most breathtaking panoramas in Ireland. This dramatic clifftop route takes you along the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula, showcasing the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean, secluded beaches, and a glimpse into Ireland’s rich past.

The Slea Head Drive is a photographer’s paradise. Imagine standing on windswept cliffs, gazing out at the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The winds along the peninsula’s edge offer ever-changing vistas that will leave you speechless. One moment, you might be admiring a secluded cove with turquoise waters lapping against a pristine white sand beach, and the next, you’ll be witnessing the power of the ocean as waves crash against towering cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for curious puffins nesting on the cliff faces or playful dolphins frolicking in the waves below. The Slea Head Drive is a journey of dramatic beauty where the raw power of nature takes centre stage.

The Slea Head Drive is not just about scenic beauty; it’s also a chance to delve into Ireland’s ancient history. Dunmore Head, a dramatic peninsula jutting into the ocean, is a must-see. Here, you’ll find a wedge tomb dating back to 4,000 BC, a testament to the presence of Neolithic settlers in this region.

Explore the tomb’s chambers and imagine the lives of the people who built it millennia ago. A short walk from Dunmore Head lies the Blasket Centre, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Great Blasket Island, a former Irish-speaking community. Learn about the hardships and resilience of the islanders who lived a traditional way of life on this remote island until the 1950s. The Slea Head Drive allows you to appreciate not just the beauty of the landscape but also the rich tapestry of human history woven into this corner of Ireland.

The Sally Gap Drive

The Sally Gap Drive, a scenic route through Wicklow Mountains National Park, offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Dublin. This narrow, scenic route winds through a landscape of heather-clad mountains, glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Here, you can delve into the beauty of the Wicklow Mountains, encounter fascinating wildlife, and discover hidden gems like the Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Ireland.

The Sally Gap Drive isn’t just about dramatic landscapes; it’s also a haven for various wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for red deer and their majestic stags roaming freely across the heather-clad slopes. Listen for the calls of buzzards soaring high above, or watch playful otters frolicking in the crystal-clear rivers. The Wicklow Mountains also have a unique bird population, including the elusive red grouse and the brightly coloured curlew.

Be sure to pack your binoculars for a chance to spot these feathered residents in their natural habitat. Navigating the route, don’t miss hidden gems like the Glenmacannas Waterfall. This cascading waterfall tumbles down a moss-covered rock face, creating a scene of serene beauty. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air and listen to the soothing sounds of the rushing water – a perfect spot for a picnic or a moment of quiet reflection.

The Sally Gap Drive contrasts the Wicklow Mountains’ wild beauty and Powerscourt Estate’s cultivated grandeur. This sprawling estate encompasses meticulously landscaped gardens, a grand house steeped in history, and captivating architectural features. Step into the Italianate Gardens and be transported to a world of manicured hedges, cascading fountains, and vibrant flower displays.

Explore the serene Japanese Gardens, a haven of tranquillity with koi ponds, stone lanterns, and meticulously raked gravel. Marvel at the architectural details of Powerscourt House, a grand mansion with Palladian facades and a rich history dating back centuries. The estate also boasts a variety of shops and restaurants, offering a chance to relax and indulge after your adventures on the Sally Gap Drive.

The Boyne Valley Drive

The Boyne Valley Drive takes you beyond the typical Irish landscapes of dramatic coastlines and rolling hills. This route, located northwest of Dublin, delves into Ireland’s rich history, showcasing some of the country’s most important archaeological sites. Here, you’ll step back in time and explore passage tombs older than the Egyptian pyramids, unravel the mysteries of ancient burial rituals, and discover the seat of Irish kings.

The Boyne Valley Drive is a journey into Ireland’s Neolithic past. Imagine yourself standing before Newgrange, a massive passage tomb dating back to approximately 3,200 BC. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, a testament to its builders’ ingenuity and engineering skills.

Explore the tomb’s chambers, marvel at the intricate megalithic art adorning the walls, and contemplate the rituals and beliefs of the people who built it. Newgrange is just one of several passage tombs in the Boyne Valley. Knowth, another impressive tomb, boasts even more elaborate megalithic art, while Dowth offers a unique experience of entering the tomb itself (subject to availability and guided tours). Exploring these ancient tombs allows you to connect with a bygone era and appreciate the enduring legacy of Ireland’s Neolithic inhabitants.

The Boyne Valley Drive isn’t just about tombs; it’s also about unearthing the stories of Irish kings and high kings. The Hill of Tara, a sprawling archaeological complex, was once the seat of power for Gaelic kings for centuries. Explore the earthworks, standing stones, and mounds remnants of this once-powerful political and religious centre.

The Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains Drive offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city of Dublin. This scenic route winds through Wicklow Mountains National Park, a sanctuary of dramatic mountain scenery, glacial valleys, and ancient monastic sites. Here, you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, immerse yourself in tranquillity, and discover the natural wonders and rich history that lie just outside Ireland’s capital city.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise. The landscape here is dominated by granite peaks, their rugged slopes a testament to millions of years of erosion. Explore Glendalough Valley, a glacial valley dotted with lakes and the ruins of a monastic settlement. For a challenging hike, climb Luggala Mountain, the highest peak in the park, and be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch to the Irish Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats precariously perched on rocky outcrops, and listen for the calls of buzzards soaring high above.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park is not just about scenic beauty; it’s also steeped in history. The ruins of ancient monastic settlements are dotted throughout the park, silent testaments to Ireland’s rich Christian heritage. Glendalough, the most well-known monastic site, was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century.

The Dingle Peninsula Loop

The Dingle Peninsula Loop, a 50-kilometer scenic drive in County Kerry, offers a concentrated taste of Ireland’s captivating beauty. This finger of land jutting into the Atlantic Ocean promises dramatic coastlines, charming villages steeped in Gaelic culture, and the majestic backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains.

The Dingle Peninsula Loop isn’t just about dramatic landscapes; it’s also about experiencing the warmth of Irish hospitality and the unique charm of Gaelic culture. Dingle Town, a colourful harbour town nestled on a horseshoe-shaped bay, is the beating heart of the peninsula. Wander along the narrow streets with brightly painted pubs and shops selling locally-made crafts, from hand-knitted sweaters to intricately carved bog oak souvenirs. Listen to the lilting sounds of Gaelic spoken in the streets, a testament to the area’s strong Irish identity.

Dingle is a haven for traditional Irish music – head to a pub in the evening and soak up the lively atmosphere as local musicians play jigs and reels on fiddles, bodhráns, and uilleann pipes. Don’t be shy to join in a céilí, a traditional Irish dance where everyone is welcome to participate and experience the joy of Gaelic culture firsthand. Savour a steaming bowl of Irish stew in a cosy pub or sample fresh seafood caught by local fishermen in Dingle Bay.

The Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is a dramatic and historic journey that hugs the coastline between Belfast and Derry. This scenic route isn’t just about stunning ocean views; it’s also a gateway to geological wonders and charming seaside towns steeped in history.

The undisputed star of the Causeway Coastal Route is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that awakes visitors. Imagine standing on a vast expanse of over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns like a giant’s forgotten causeway leading into the sea. These columns, formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, create a mesmerising geometric landscape unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Explore the different shapes and sizes of the columns, some reaching up to 12 meters (39 feet) tall.

Delve deeper into the history and folklore surrounding the Giant’s Causeway. According to Irish legend, the Irish giant Finn McCool built the causeway as a stepping stone to battle a Scottish giant across the sea. While science tells a different story of volcanic eruptions and lava flows, the legend adds a touch of whimsy and intrigue to this remarkable geological formation. Climb the Shepherd’s Path for breathtaking views of the entire causeway, or descend the steps to the Organ Pipes, a section where the columns resemble giant organ reeds. The Giant’s Causeway is a powerful reminder of the earth’s fascinating history and the enduring power of myths and legends.

The Causeway Coastal Route winds through a string of delightful seaside towns, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Portrush, a popular resort town, boasts beautiful beaches, a historic amusement park, and a bustling harbour. Wander along the promenade, enjoy fresh fish and chips, or try your luck at the arcade games. Delve deeper into history at Dunluce Castle, a dramatic ruin perched on a rocky outcrop.

The castle’s turbulent past, involving sieges, fires, and even a vanishing kitchen, offers a glimpse into the region’s dramatic history. Learn about the region’s maritime heritage at the Portstewart Maritime Museum, where you can explore exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and local seafaring traditions. Ballintoy, a picturesque harbour village, might look familiar to fans of Game of Thrones – it served as a filming location for the popular series.

As you explore these towns, sample the local seafood, visit the artisan shops selling handcrafted souvenirs, and start conversations with the friendly residents who embody the warm Irish spirit.

The Ring of Beara

The Ring of Beara, nestled on the rugged Beara Peninsula, offers a captivating alternative to the more tourist-frequented Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Beara showcases the raw beauty of Ireland’s western coastline. Imagine yourself cruising along a route carved into cliffs, the wind whipping your hair as you gaze out at the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.

The landscape here bears the scars of ancient glaciers, evident in the U-shaped valleys and jagged peaks. Look out for dramatic sea stacks, pillars of rock that stand defiantly against the relentless waves. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins leaping out of the water or even a pod of whales migrating along the coast.

Be aware that the weather here can be unpredictable, so bring layers of clothing and be prepared for occasional rain showers that can add a touch of drama to the scenery. The Ring of Beara offers a chance to witness the power of nature in all its glory, a landscape that has shaped the lives of the people who call this remote peninsula home.

The Ring of Beara is dotted with charming fishing villages that seem frozen. Another delightful village is Durrus, boasting a rich artistic heritage. Here, galleries showcase the work of local painters and sculptors, capturing the essence of the Beara landscape and its people.

A visit to a traditional pub here is a must – savour a pint of locally brewed craft beer and chat with the friendly locals, who will be happy to share stories about their way of life, the challenges and rewards of living on a remote peninsula, and the rich history of the Beara region. Perhaps they’ll even point you towards hidden coves or lesser-known hiking trails, offering a glimpse into a more secluded side of the Ring of Beara.

In conclusion, Ireland is a treasure trove of breathtaking scenic drives just waiting to be explored. From the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way to the enchanting beauty of Glendalough Valley, there is something for everyone to discover in the Emerald Isle. So grab your car keys and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through Ireland’s stunning landscapes in 2023. Happy driving!