A seven-day drive through the green landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites of Southern Ireland is one of the best of road trips. From the capital city of Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, a leisurely drive itinerary provides an intrepid traveler with a perfect blend of Ireland's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and famous hospitality. The journey we describe below takes in the history of ancient monasteries, castles, the legendary Blarney Stone, the rugged coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way, the vistas of the Ring of Kerry, and the bohemian atmosphere of Galway City. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to savor the flavors of Irish cuisine, enjoy traditional music in lively pubs, and meet the locals up close.
When to go? The shoulder season on either side of the peak summer months is ideal. The crowds are fewer, the sites more accessible and the locals have more time to spend with you. Working with a good travel consultant ensures the details will be handled for you, the pace is suited to your preferences, and your overnight accommodations are booked and awaiting your arrival each day.
If you haven’t driven on the left side of the road before, you may have some hesitations, and not without some justification. However, many North Americans do so, and it takes very little time to get the hang of it. Do some study and reading about local driving customs and road conditions. Find a good, safe space and practice driving on the “other” side of the road. Think through situations like 4-way stops, turning left or right at a streetlight with multiple lanes, merging lanes, and, of course, the dreaded roundabout. Remember too, that the steering wheel in your destination country may be on the other side. In counties that drive on the left, approaching traffic will come at you from a different direction. All in all, with practice, you can easily master the new habits. Once you arrive in Ireland, don’t head right out onto high-traffic roads. Rather, find a quiet area to practice and gain your confidence. Drive more slowly at first and be sure to make good use of your mirrors. Of course there is also always the option of touring with a guided tour as well, if you don’t want to brave the roads on your own.
Day 1: Dublin
Our Irish adventure begins in the capital city of Dublin. Start the day with a visit to historic Trinity College, where you can marvel at the intricate artwork of the Book of Kells, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript. A walk about town and the Temple Bar area allows beer lovers to take in some refreshment, good food, and the Guinness Storehouse, learning about the history of Ireland's most famous beverage and enjoying a pint at the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic views of the city.
Day 2: Cork
Head south to the “rebel county” of Cork ,a well-earned title for a region with a history of revealed by taking a Viking Tour or reading about the many rebellions initiated from Cork against the British. But make your first stop at the iconic Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence. Tour the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle before visiting the Cobh Heritage Centre. Here, you'll learn about Cobh's fascinating history as a major port of emigration and its poignant connection to the Titanic.
Day 3: Kerry
Traveling on from Cork, prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of County Kerry. Killarney National Park, home to the serene Lakes of Killarney, the historic Muckross House and Gardens, and the cascading Torc Waterfall are all a part of any agenda through Kerry. In the afternoon, drive along the scenic Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula, stopping at some of the villages and taking in the wonderful coastal views.
Day 4: The Ring of Kerry
It is necessary but very worthwhile to dedicate a full day to experiencing the famous Ring of Kerry, a 179-km circular route that showcases the best of Ireland's rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and countryside. Take your time to soak in the landscapes, stop for a picnic lunch along this iconic route.
Day 5: Clare
It’s in County Clare where the magnificent Cliffs of Moher await. These awe-inspiring cliffs tower 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering a chance to spot seabirds nesting along the cliffs. In the afternoon, step back in time at Bunratty Castle, a beautifully preserved 15th-century tower house. The adjoining Folk Park recreates a 19th-century Irish village, complete with thatched cottages and traditional crafts.
Day 6: Galway
Continue the drive adventure in Galway, known for its wild rugged landscapes and bohemian charm. Start the day in Connemara National Park, where you can hike through the challenging terrain, discover ancient bogs, and spot the iconic Connemara ponies. A visit to Kylemore Abbey and its gardens is certainly a worthwile option to consider. In the afternoon, explore the bohemian city of Galway, famous for its colorful streets, lively pubs, and street performers in the Latin Quarter.
Day 7: Dublin
As you make your way back to Dublin, stop at the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise, founded in the 6th century. Along the way explore the ruins of churches, round towers, and high crosses, and learn about the site's fascinating history. End your trip with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old passage tomb that predates the pyramids of Egypt and take in the amazing ancient engineering and astronomical alignment of the site.
Need more information on this itinerary? Reach out to your favorite expert travel advisor and let us design a custom Ireland vacation for you and yours!