FROM GLACIAL MOUNTAIN passes and sea cliffs to walled Victorian gardens, Ireland is a haven of spectacular views, whatever corner of the country you’re in.
To inspire you on your next drive, we’ve profiled some of Ireland’s most incredible bucket list viewpoints to the north, south, east and west – and we’ve even listed the roads you’ll need to take to get there.
Now all that’s left is to pack up the car, pick a destination and head off.
Slieve League, Co Donegal
Rising almost 2,000 ft from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, the Slieve League cliffs are among the highest in Europe, with views taking in Sligo Bay and Donegal.
From Donegal town it’s a fairly straight route out west for just over an hour, through Mountcharles and Killybegs. Take the first exit at the roundabout onto the N56, then follow signs for Donegal Rd/R263. If you fancy a walk, park up and stroll the last few miles to the cliffs.
The Dark Hedges, Co Antrim
If you’re a Game Of Thrones fan, the tree tunnel at Dark Hedges in Co Antrim may look familiar – a number of Season One scenes were filmed here. Even for non-GOT addicts, this eerie but beautiful stretch of forest road is worth a visit.
From Dublin, head for the M50 and north through Louth and into Belfast, getting on the M1 towards the A26 in Ballymena. From there, it’s a further 30 minutes’ drive north to The Dark Hedges.
Conor Pass, Co Kerry
A visit to Dingle wouldn’t be complete without a drive along the Conor Pass, the highest mountain pass in Ireland. The narrow road runs between Dingle and Kilmore Cross on the north side of the peninsula, and offers breathtaking mountain and glacial lake views. From the summit you’ll spot the Aran Islands on a clear day.
From Tralee it’s a 40 minute drive along the N86, and you’re less than ten minutes from Dingle once you come through the pass. Due to the uneven nature of the road surface, camper vans and trucks should steer clear.
Old Head Of Kinsale, Co Cork
While you’re down south, stop off in Co Cork for a visit to the lively seaside town of Kinsale, before taking the 20 minute drive out the peninsula with its dramatic cliff face, lighthouse and flower-covered headland.
From Cork city, head for the Kinsale Rd/N27, and at the airport roundabout take the second exit onto the R600. Once in Kinsale, take the Pier Rd and turn onto the R604.
Montpelier Hill/Hellfire Club, Co Dublin
Make a pilgrimage here before the proposed visitors’ centre is built, to enjoy the wooded site in all of its unspoilt glory. The site here was originally a neolithic tomb and is rumoured to have been used by the Hellfire Club for some questionable Satanic gatherings in the 1700s. Scary.
From Dublin, take the M50 southbound and exit at Junction 12/Firhouse and continue on Scholarstown Rd to Montpelier Hill. From there you can park up and take the 15 minute walk up the forest paths.
Powerscourt Gardens, Co Wicklow
An afternoon stroll among the gardens of Powerscourt Estate is a summer must-do for anyone in Dublin or Wicklow. You’ll find rose gardens, a beautiful Palladian mansion, a waterfall and acres of vibrant flowers – though there is an entry fee of €10 per person or €25 per family.
From Dublin city, you can be at the gardens in 40 minutes, making it a perfect mini-road trip. Take the M50 southbound and exit at Junction 15 towards Cornelscourt. From there, follow the Glenamuck Rd and the R117 toward Eagle Valley.
Kylemore Abbey, Co Galway
Built in the 1860s, Kylemore Abbey has been home to the Benedictine nuns since 1920, but both the abbey and the six-acre Victorian walled gardens are open to the public.
From Galway city, it’s an hour and twenty minutes out west along the N59, and the Abbey is well signposted once you turn off onto the R344 at Glynsk.
Kilkee Cliffs, Co Clare
Less talked about than the Cliffs of Moher but just as imposing, the Kilkee Cliff Walk offers views of the Aran Islands, Kerry and Loop Head. Plus, unlike the Cliffs of Moher, there’s no entry fee.
From Ennis, it’s an hour’s drive to Kilkee along the N68 and N67. Park up and enjoy the views, and if you’re in the mood for a moderate hike, take the 2-3 hour 8km cliff loop walk.
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