Search icon

Life

22nd Aug 2017

Around the island in under 10 days: the ultimate home-grown road trip

Time to hop in the car, bang out the tunes and enjoy what Ireland has to offer.

Her

Brought to you by 123.ie 

Sometimes a good old road trip is just the getaway we need to feel as though we’ve escaped!

And you needn’t go far either. This little island has plenty to offer when it comes to finding a quick adventure.

So, we’ve popped together some pretty epic suggestions for spots that MUST be seen and explored while venturing around within 10 days. Let’s be honest, on a sunny day, is there anywhere else you’d rather be?

So, hop in the car with the pals, get the tunes ready and set off on this spectacular loop!

Dublin to Wicklow

Ireland’s Ancient East is simply stunning, so why not set off to the gorgeous Wicklow mountains? The 6th century monastic settlement of Glendalough and its scenic views are only spectacular, and you’ll find very nice eateries and ice-cream shops dotted around nearby for any peckish moments. The Sally Gap and Lough Tay are perfect for the bikes if you want to get in some outdoor fitness too.

Copper Coast Scenic Drive and Cycle Route

Oh yippee, more biking ensues if that tickles your fancy. This route includes Waterford, Tramore and Dungarvan, and you can take in the Comeragh Mountains too if you’re feeling all adventurous. The Victorian seaside of Dungarvan is truly magnificent and makes for an incredibly old-worldly scenic route around the south east.

Sheep’s Head

Sheep’s Head in County Cork is quite the scenic spot if you feel like touring on towards that direction. The jaggedy, unspoilt peninsula allows for magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean while visitors are submersed in luscious green surroundings. Get your comfy shoes on for the 200km walking route offered on site too. The nearest town is Bantry but little villages like Kilcrohane and Ahakista are perfect for a delightful rustic pitstop and a bit o’ craic.

Dingle Peninsula

Dingle Peninsula in Kerry is an absolute must. The beaches are simply superb and if you take a road trip through Ireland without hitting these… well you’ll missing out big time! We also can’t help but wonder, is Fungi still swimming in those parts?

Lough Corrib


You could say the Lough Corrib Scenic Route Drive in Galway is mesmerising. Although there’s 150km worth of driving to get through, don’t be put off. You’ll find the various parts of the second largest lake in Ireland are absolutely stunning and untouched. There’s no shortage of extraordinary views – between Ashford Castle, the Maumtauk and Connemara Mountains, plus visiting the lake’s largest island Inchagoill, you’ll have endless amounts of eye candy.

The Kingfisher Trail

The Kingfisher Trail in Fermanagh is unlike anything else. Its surroundings remind us of something from a fairy tale, with its bucolic and lakeland scenery, woods and country parks. Beware of cyclists during your drive however as this spot is an incredibly popular cycling trail.

Glenties

Where two glens meet. This Donegal town, with the Bluestack Mountains to the north-west, is steeped in history. Whether it be the Bronze Age dolmens, the Famine houses or the War of Independence historical aspects you might be interested in, there’s plenty of learning to do and beauty to see. And, of course, there are a number of warm, friendly local pubs to be spotted in the town too.

Cooley Peninsula

Before heading to Dublin, you’ll want to stop by for the immensely picturesque and attractive sight that is The Cooley Peninsula, in Co. Louth. This place pretty much has it all! Think mountains lined with beautiful trees, valleys for all that hiking (ideal for moving those legs again after all that driving) and long, sandy beaches perfect for any summer getaway.

While you’ll undoubtedly have heaps of gorgeous pictures to choose form for your Instagram, you’ll want to have a moment to take in ALL of the sites as they are truly spectacular, and best of all, they’re ours to enjoy!

Brought to you by 123.ie.

If it’s Comprehensive Car Insurance or Third-Party Fire & Theft cover you are looking for, 123.ie has got Car Insurance you can count on. We combine great value Car Insurance with high quality customer care so our customers count on us to protect them and their car every day.