Top 6 Scenic Drives in Ireland

Ireland is made for road trips. Every corner reveals cliffs, castles, colorful villages, and hidden beaches. Here’s a friendly guide to the drives you have to do, with starter and end points so you can plan your route.

1. Ring of Kerry – County Kerry

Start: Killarney
End: Killarney (loop)

The classic. Mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic coast all in one loop. Think misty mornings over Killarney National Park, little fishing villages, and dramatic cliff views.

Tips from a friend:

• Don’t rush — stop in Kenmare for a coffee and a wander.

• Skellig Ring detour is worth the extra miles.

• Bring your camera — seriously, every corner is postcard-worthy.

2. Dingle Peninsula – County Kerry

Start: Tralee or Dingle Town
End: Dingle Town

Less touristy than the Ring, more rugged, with brightly painted houses and wild beaches. Slea Head Drive loops around the peninsula for epic coastal views.

Insider tips:

• Stop for seafood in Dingle town, it’s some of the freshest in Ireland.

• Take your time around the cliffs, the scenery is cinematic.

3. Wild Atlantic Way (Select Section) – West Coast

Start: Galway City
End: Lahinch / Cliffs of Moher

The Wild Atlantic Way is 2,500 km of coastal bliss. Pick a section if you don’t have time for the whole thing, Galway to Lahinch is incredible.

Tips from a local:

• Detour to small villages along the coast, secret beaches and artisan shops await.

• Bring layers , the Atlantic winds hit hard.

• Take a short hike along the cliffs for views you can’t get from the road.

4. Causeway Coastal Route – North of Ireland

Start: Belfast
End: Derry 

Northern Ireland’s most cinematic drive. Think bridges, cliffs, beaches, and the Giant’s Causeway.

Insider notes:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is scary but unforgettable.

• Stop in Ballycastle or Portrush for a proper café break.

• Sunset at the Giant’s Causeway = instant picture gold.

6. Copper Coast Drive – County Waterford

Start: Dungarvan
End: Dunmore East

The Copper Coast Drive is a stunning coastal route along the southeast, full of dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and old mining history. Fewer tourists than the west coast, so it feels like your own secret slice of Ireland.

Tips from a friend:

• Stop at Tra na mBo for a peaceful beach walk.

• Check out old copper mines and coastal ruins along the way, it’s part of the charm.

• Benvoy Beach has a great beach if you want to stretch your legs.

• Sunrise or sunset drives along the cliffs are magical, pack your camera!