Take Five: Ireland’s best road trips revealed

by Gazette Reporter
0 comment

WITH most of us staying local this summer road trips are making a welcome comeback as a fun way of exploring our beautiful island.

Culture Trip is ahead of the curve and has launched a new online tool – Road Trips Near Me – enabling users to map out bookable and free experiences all within driving distance.

More than half of Irish searches on Culture Trip this summer are looking for activities and experiences on our doorstep (www.theculturetrip.com/near-me).

Culture Trip’s Dan Etheridge said: “Ireland has breath-taking scenery, incredible history and great “craic” – and this year, we’re here to help the Irish reacquaint themselves with their island’s dramatic beauty and charm.”

Here are Culture Trip’s top five road trips for staycationers who want to satisfy their wanderlust…

The Wild Atlantic Way: An obvious choice, but one you can’t overlook. The Irish Atlantic coastline presents some of the world’s most scenic views. The sprawling 2,750 coastal road offers up a range of perfect stop-off activities, from adventure parks to gruelling hiking trails and towering cliffs. Must: Coastal Seaweed Walk and Abalone Farm Tasting Tour.

Ring of Kerry: If you’re looking for some rugged terrain to sink your heels into look no further than the 179km stretch of the western Iveragh Peninsula. The route presents plenty of opportunities for stop offs along the way so you can enjoy the handful of tiny villages and castles scattered along the tour. Must: Three-Hour Star Wars Tour around the Skellig Islands.

The Burren Loop: Those dreaming of experiencing some of Ireland’s otherworldly qualities we suggest you make your way to The Burren Loop, which offers an almost lunar landscape. It is made up of 250sqkm of limestone which coats the surface creating what can only be described as an ethereal scene. Set in the east of Ireland, the area also offers great spots to stop such as the ancient tomb Poulnabrone, Newtown Castle, and the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Must: Cliffs of Moher Cruise.

Wicklow Mountains: Just 30 minutes south of Dublin city centre, the Wicklow Mountains are by far the most accessible route for those travelling from Ireland’s capital. The area is made for a little road trip, it has bundles of hidden finds like lakes and walking trails to help you stretch your legs after the drive. Must: Half-day Fatbike Tour – Wicklow Ballinastoe.

Lough Derg: Love a picnic with some still water scenic views? Then this route is for you. You’ll be able to take routes which hug up to the shoreline and pass by Mountshannon, which boasts a beautiful beach and marina – worth a stop off itself. But if you’ve got some time on your hands then you can book a boat ride out to Holy Island. Must: Fishing in Lough Derg.

Related Articles