Ireland has so much to offer adventurous travelers hungry for journeys, and the best way to experience it all is through a road trip. From sleeping on secluded beaches to climbing hidden fortresses and learning to surf, this ultimate guide for a road trip in Ireland has you covered.
- The Best Time to Travel to Ireland
- Getting Around Ireland
- Two-Week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
- Day 1: Dublin to Skibbereen
- Day 2: Ring of Kerry, Skellig Ring and Valentia Island
- Day 3: From Ring of Kerry to Killarney
- Day 4: Killarney to Dingle Peninsula
- Day 5: Dingle Peninsula to Cliffs of Moher
- Day 6: From Cliffs of Moher to Galway
- Day 7: Galway, Aran Islands and Rossaveel
- Day 8: Rossaveel to Westport
- Day 9: Croagh Patrick, Achill Island to Sligo
- Day 10: Sligo and Donegal
- Day 11: Donegal and Northern Ireland
- Day 12: Portrush, Belfast and Carlingford
- Day 13: Carlingford and Athlone
- Day 14: Optional Attraction and End of Tour
If you only have two weeks in Ireland, this is the ideal trip for you. It will take you to nearly all the country’s main attractions like the Cliffs of Moher and Newgrange, as well as some of the more unique and off-the-beaten-path sights that many native Irish people don’t even know about. This 14-day road trip itinerary in Ireland starts in the southern county of Cork, follows the coast and the Wild Atlantic Way up to Northern Ireland and ends in Athlone. You can start your Irish road tour from anywhere since the country is small enough that you won’t have to drive far to reach the starting point. Most people will depart from Dublin, home to the country’s largest airport. But you can also start in Galway or even Cork. For this itinerary, we assume you are beginning your trip in Dublin.
Since this itinerary aims to take you to as many attractions as possible to make the most of your trip around Ireland, it is essential to start each day as early as possible.
The Best Time to Travel to Ireland
The weather in Ireland remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with March to September seeing some change to warmer conditions. For the most part, however, the country has a damp and cool environment, so be sure to pack waterproof clothing and warm sweaters.
March and August are peak tourism times, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, so it might be best to skip these months to avoid crowded attractions and limited accommodations. The best time to travel depends on how you plan to get around the country. If you intend to rent a campervan in Ireland, most campsites are only open from April to September. Some campsites are open year-round, though it would be easier to plan your campervan tour when all parks are open. If you plan to rent a car, any time of the year should be fine as long as you don’t mind a few degrees less in the winter months.
Getting Around Ireland
There are two options for touring Ireland by car. The first is renting a campervan. While there are many manual campervan rental options near Dublin, such as West Coast Campervans and Retro Camper Hire, options for those needing automatics are scarce. If you need a cheap automatic camper, RetroVentures Motorbike and Camper Rental outside Limerick is the best. A train goes directly to Limerick from Dublin and takes just under three hours.
You can also choose to explore Ireland by car, staying in Airbnbs and hotels along the route. The best website to rent a car is Booking FullTravel and you can pick up rentals in Dublin, Galway, or Cork depending on where you’d like to start your tour. Alternatively, you can opt for a campervan tour in Ireland.
Two-Week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
This road trip is a journey like no other. Not only will it take you driving through narrow winding hills of the Irish countryside, but you will also explore abandoned villages, horseback ride on a secluded beach, and climb a steep mountain.
Your trip begins as you leave Dublin behind and take a three-hour drive toward Blarney Castle and the Wild Atlantic Way in County Cork. The Wild Atlantic Way is a beautiful coastal region stretching from County Cork to County Donegal and is known for its stunning cliff views, magnificent bays, and postcard towns.
Once you reach Blarney Castle, be sure to wear your ChapStick and lean back to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. According to legend, anyone who kisses the enchanted limestone block will receive the gift of eloquence. After sharing a kiss with the stone and exploring the grounds, you can head along the Wild Atlantic Way to the small Celtic seaside village of Kinsale, County Cork.
Kinsale is a lively fishing town with two imposing forts, James Fort and Charles Fort, perched opposite each other overlooking the waterway entering the bay. The town is steeped in a rich history of battles and invasions.
Charles Fort is a well-preserved fortress dating back to the 1600s. This British fort is one of Ireland’s largest historic military installations and offers breathtaking sea and bay views. It is in surprisingly excellent condition considering its history of siege and fire. Visitors can wander the grounds and rooms of the fort at their leisure with a self-guided tour.
James Fort is less preserved than Charles Fort and has been overgrown by nature over the years. However, if you have time, I still recommend a visit to the ruins. It is free to visit but a bit of a hike to reach. Parking near the edge of Kinsale, it takes about 45 minutes to walk to the fort. The upside is many tourists don’t bother reaching the fort, so you will most likely have the grounds all to yourself to explore!
As you make your way along the coast toward Skibbereen, you will find another hidden treasure resembling Stonehenge. Drombeg Circle, also known as the Druid’s Altar, is a fascinating self-supporting structure dating back to 1100-800 BC. These ancient two-meter stones are tucked behind country lanes and fields and seem to erupt out of nowhere. The site also preserves the remains of an ancient primitive kitchen and a holy well. It’s a fun small stop during the trip as there are informational plaques to read and it gives you a chance to stretch your legs. Plus, the visit is free.
Leap Historic Waterfall, near Skibbereen, is another niche neat pit stop giving you the chance to see some truly unique things. Not only is there a decently sized waterfall to see, but there is also a metal walkway above the waterfall where you can stand and see the river below. The owners have done a lovely job decorating the riverbank with fairy houses and ornaments, creating a tiny fairy village. The waterfall is hidden in the back; you must pass through a quirky little building to get there.
If you have ever dreamed of kayaking at night in bioluminescent waters, then you are lucky. This enchanting experience is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. Atlantic Sea Kayaking is the only company that runs tours on this lake near Skibbereen.
The lake, Lough Hyne, hosts a rare bioluminescent plankton that dazzles and glows at night when you interact with the water. It is a fascinating phenomenon extremely rare in this kind of climate. However, it is usually only visible during Ireland’s warmer months, May through September. Even if the waters don’t sparkle during your tour, it’s still worth it because the area is one of the best places in Ireland to see stars. So sit back, paddle, and enjoy the sparkling skies and glowing waters.
Best places to stay in Skibbereen:
- Camping: The Hideaway Camping & Caravan Park
- Hotel: Ilenroy House B&B
Start day two by driving an hour and a half north toward the Ring of Kerry, a very popular scenic route full of breathtaking cliff views and picturesque Irish towns. Head into County Kerry to the bustling town of Kenmare. Once there, you can take a pleasant stroll down the main street and stop at boutiques where you can find some truly unique souvenirs and traditional Irish wool clothes. Kenmare is a great spot to grab a bite and refuel before continuing on the Ring of Kerry.
The next stop is Derrynane Beach, voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. There are several different sections of this beach, with only a few lifeguarded areas. If you explore the south end of the beach, you will find the ruins of an ancient church on Abbey Island. The island is only accessible at low tide, so be careful not to stay too long and get stranded.
After some swimming and exploring, proceed south on the Ring of Kerry for about 45 minutes through the Skellig Ring to Valentia Island. Most travelers are unaware of the hidden attractions on this island. First, visit the tetrapod footprints, where you can see the footprints of one of the earliest animals to walk on land nearly 370 million years ago. The footprints are verifiable for free and are one of only four Devonian track sites worldwide.
After a refreshment stop, drive five quick minutes to O’Shea’s Faux Pub and Saint Brendan’s Well. O’Shea’s Faux Pub is a niche piece of Irish culture. Guinness built this fake pub years ago solely for commercial advertising, and the footage is still used in Guinness commercials today. The building has since been abandoned, but many visit to take a picture of themselves enjoying a pint of the black stuff outside this forgotten piece of pop culture.
Saint Brendan’s Well is a 10-minute walk along a trail from O’Shea’s. Legend says St. Brendan, also known as the Navigator, sailed from Dingle Bay to Valentia Island in the 5th century. When he landed, he encountered two dying pagan men along the cliff. He anointed the two men where the well is now and brought Christianity to the island.
Saint Brendan is known as the saint of all sailors and adventurers. Some believe he sailed to North America and discovered it before Christopher Columbus. Regardless of your religious beliefs, if you’re a travel adventurer, say a small prayer at this well to protect you on your journeys. Begin Saint Brendan’s prayer: “Help me travel beyond the familiar and into the unknown.”
Best places to stay near Valentia Island:
- Camping: Kerry Cliffs
- Hotel: Seagull Cottage Bed and Breakfast
Start Day 3 with a tour from Portmagee to Skellig Michael, where Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed. Skellig Michael is a small, rugged island with a remarkable monastery atop its steep peak. It is one of Ireland’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and visitors can take a 2.5-hour boat trip around the island between April and September. If you visit between May and November, you can book a half-day landing tour on the island, but keep in mind the schedule and duration may change due to weather.
After a morning boat tour of the island, get back in the car and finish the Skellig Ring. Return to the Ring of Kerry to Cahergall Ring Fort. This beautifully restored stone ring fort dates back to the Iron Age and is an absolute must-see (and climb) on your Ireland trip. At the center of the fort are the ruins of a stone circular dwelling to explore. If you’re feeling brave, climb the small stairs to the top of the fortress walls for phenomenal views of the Irish coast. This Irish national monument is located four kilometers from the Ring of Kerry, behind the town of Cahersiveen, and is completely free to visit.
About a five-minute walk from Cahergall Fort are the ruins of Leacanabuaile Stone Fort. This fort is structured more like a maze with remains of several small buildings and huts. The fortress was built between the 9th and 10th centuries as a form of protection for a wealthy farm owner.
After reaching the forts, continue along the winding roads of the Ring of Kerry to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. This lovely 150-year-old cottage marks the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe, a lush mountain pass with large waterfalls, hiking trails, and sheep pastures made famous when Queen Victoria visited in the 1800s. Enjoy a cup of soup in the famous restaurant or browse their craft shop for souvenirs. The owners also offer traditional horse-drawn carriage rides through the gap if walking or driving is not your style.
End the day in Killarney, about a 20-minute drive away.
Best places to stay in Killarney:
- Camping: Fossa Caravan and Camping Park
- Hotel: The International Hotel Killarney
Killarney has many attractions close to each other. Start Day 4 with a visit to Ross Castle, located on the Lower Lake of Killarney. The castle was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century and was the last stronghold against Cromwell in the Munster region. It was eventually overcome in 1652 by British General Ludlow. Visitors can tour the castle and castle park, as well as take a boat ride on the lake.
Muckross House is a luxurious 19th-century mansion down the road from Ross Castle boasting expansive grounds full of ruins and breathtaking gardens. Among the grounds is Muckross Abbey, a must-see on your Ireland trip. The Abbey was built in the 14th century and features incredibly well-preserved architecture, dramatic arches, and cloisters to explore. Have lunch at the Muckross Garden Restaurant or picnic in one of the many open fields.
After lunch, hop in the car for another short drive to the Torc Waterfall. There is limited parking near the waterfall entrance, so grab whatever spot you can. Once parked, this stunning 20-meter waterfall is just a 10-minute walk along a well-marked trail.
After visiting the waterfall, lace up your hiking shoes and head to Derrycunihy Church, where you can park and take a 45-minute hike to the Derrycunihy Waterfalls. The falls and trail are much less crowded than Torc Waterfall and its hiking paths and feature ruins of old houses to explore along the way.
Once back at the church, you will likely be ready for a snack. If you drive a few minutes down the road to the Ladies’ View Gift Store Café Bar & Roof Terrace, you can enjoy an excellent meal and a pint with exceptional panoramic views of the Ring of Kerry and Killarney lakes.
Now that you’ve completed the Ring of Kerry, it’s time to reach Dingle, just under three hours from Ladies’ View.
Best places to stay in Dingle:
- Camping: Aragail House Camping
- Hotel: base accommodation Dingle
See also: luxury homes in Ireland
Next on the Ireland itinerary is a car tour of the Dingle Peninsula. Start your day heading to the Gallarus Oratory, a small stone building dating between the 6th and 9th centuries. The original purpose of the building is unknown. However, researchers have found a large Celtic cemetery nearby and now believe it was some kind of church or funeral building. Local legend says that if you manage to crawl through the small oratory window, your soul will be purified.
After attempting a good soul purification, it’s time for a short drive to Dunquin Pier. The pier offers breathtaking views of Blasket Island and the rugged coastal cliffs. This is truly one of the most magical and majestic places showcasing Ireland at its best. Visitors can walk along the winding pier or stroll along the lush cliff trails to find the perfect photo spot.
Next, head north along the peninsula toward Saint Brigid’s Well and the Cliffs of Moher. Your first stop will be Saint Brigid’s Well, which is a brief but interesting pit stop. Brigid was such a popular goddess within Celtic religion that when Christians arrived in Ireland, they were unable to rid her from the island. Instead, they made her a patron saint and foster mother of Jesus. The Saint Brigid’s Cross can be seen throughout Ireland, and there are other wells dedicated to her name. But this particular well is the oldest in Ireland. The running water in the stone well cave is said to have healing powers, and many visitors come from all over the world to leave mementos and pray inside. Today tourists can visit the well and the underground fountain and wander the ancient cemetery behind the well.
If you have been planning an Ireland trip for a while, you have probably already heard about the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, known for their stunning ocean views and interactive visitor center. These dramatic cliffs have also been featured in many famous movies, such as Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride.
Best places to stay near Cliffs of Moher:
- Camping: Nagles Camping & Caravan Park
- Hotel: The Pipers Rest
Day six begins with a tour of the Doolin Cave, located just 10 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher. The caves host the longest free-standing stalactite in Europe and are a must-see when visiting Ireland. The guided tour lasts about 45 minutes, after which visitors can have lunch at the onsite cafeteria.
The next stop is Thoor Ballylee Yeats Tower, about an hour’s drive from the caves. On the way to Thoor Ballylee, you can stop at Kilmacduagh Abbey, where Ireland’s tallest round tower stands, along with the impressive ruins of an 800-year-old abbey. After a brief walk around Kilmacduagh Abbey, drive 15 minutes to Thoor Ballylee. The tower is famously known as the summer residence of Irish Nobel Prize-winning poet WB Yeats. Yeats purchased the property in 1916 and it inspired many of his most famous writings, including The Tower and “A Prayer for My Daughter.” Today, visitors can enjoy a free cup of tea offered by volunteers in the tea room and visit the beautiful gardens and house that inspired the writing power behind the Irish literary movement. While exploring, keep an eye out for the ghost of an Anglo-Norman soldier who Yeats claimed haunted the house.
After warming up with a cup of tea, it’s time to head an hour north to Galway, and the Brigit’s Celtic Garden and Café. This garden consists of 11 acres of magical meadows, gardens, and woods designed to reflect the four seasonal Celtic festivals. As you wander the paths, you will learn about Celtic traditions, beliefs, and festivals dating back thousands of years.
After a day discovering caves, gardens, and towers, it is time to go to Galway for the night. If you are looking for a unique pub to visit, head to Áras na nGael, a pub entirely in the Gaelic language that welcomes tourists and newcomers to come learn to speak the traditional Irish language.
Best places to stay in Galway:
- Camping: Salthill Caravan Park
- Hotel: The Residence Hotel
On day seven, it is time to put your sea legs to the test and take the ferry to the Aran Islands. The ferry departs from Rossaveel, about 45 minutes west of Galway city center. It is highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the high season. It runs a couple of times a day, and schedules depend on the month you plan to visit. Check here for ferry times for your vacation month.
The best island to visit is Inishmore as it is much larger and has more things to see. The trip takes about an hour and will drop you off at the small village of Kilronan. From Kilronan, head to Teampall Bheanáin, ruins of an 11th-century church said to be the smallest in Ireland. You will need to park and take a short walk to reach the ruins, but you should take your time to explore the nearby grounds. Below the church are remains of a monastery, a round tower, and a Celtic cross dating back to the 6th century.
After exploring the grounds, get back in the car and take a short drive to Dún Dúchathair. Also known as The Black Fort, Dún Dúchathair is a less crowded island attraction. Visitors can wander around the bastions, the walls, and the ancient stone dwellings of this cliff fortress. If you feel like swimming after visiting the fort, head to Poll na bPéist. Also known as Wormhole, Poll na bPéist is a natural saltwater pool carved into the edge of a rocky cliff and is also one of the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition sites.
After a dip in the rocky pool, take a short coastal drive to the more popular fortress of Dún Aonghasa. Unlike Dún Dúchathair, this prehistoric fort has a visitor center and is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Atlantic. If you’re not up for packing your lunch, Teach Nan Phaidi restaurant is less than 10 minutes from the fort and serves classic Irish dishes.
After lunch, it is time to conclude your island tour with a visit to the famous Na Seacht dTeampaill (Seven Churches). There is much debate about why the site has this name since there are only two churches on the grounds. Regardless, visitors can visit ruins of both churches and surrounding monastic dwellings. There are also seven graves marked with Celtic crosses said to be the last resting place of seven saints.
The last ferry back to Rossaveel leaves around 6 pm, so be sure not to miss it! Alternatively, you could spend the night on Inishmore in an Airbnb or bed and breakfast. However, keep in mind it is a one-hour ferry back to the mainland in the morning, which can put strain on the next day’s travel itinerary.
Best places to stay near Rossaveel:
- Camping: Spiddal Caravan and Camping Park
- Hotel: Arran View B&B
The next part of this Ireland road trip itinerary will take you north along the Wild Atlantic Way through the stunning Connemara region. There is only one attraction to visit this day because it is so incredible that you won’t want to rush. Drive for an hour through winding lush green hills and you will arrive at Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Wall Gardens.
Kylemore Abbey is a stunning 1,000-acre estate full of history. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the property’s rich past through a tour of the Victorian villa. However, there is much more to see beyond just the house. Guests can stroll through a six-acre walled garden, walk the woodland trails of the estate, explore the neo-Gothic church, enjoy a warm cup of tea from the tea room, and grab a bite at the cafeteria. Although the house is currently home to Benedictine nuns, visitors are invited to explore the entire park, and can even purchase a souvenir at the gift shop after their visit.
After a day at Kylemore Abbey, it is time to pack up and head to the beautiful town of Westport. The town is fantastic for boutique shopping and traditional Irish pub culture.
Best places to stay in Westport:
- Camping: The Caravan & Camping Park at Westport House
- Hotel: Drummin House B&B
On day 9, it is time to continue your journey around Ireland by lacing up your hiking boots and heading to Croagh Patrick, also known as The Reek. This pilgrimage route is relatively difficult, although many elderly people manage to reach the summit; keep in mind this is not a leisurely hike. At the top of the mountain, visitors will find breathtaking panoramic views of Clew Bay and the surrounding area.
Croagh Patrick has been a place of worship for thousands of years and at its peak stands a small church. According to legend, St. Patrick climbed the Reek in 441 AD and fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. Since then, many tourists have come from around the world to walk the barefoot path as penance during their pilgrimage.
The hike takes three to four hours round trip, which is why you should start early to have a chance to rest and enjoy the view when you reach the top.
Once back down, it is time to drive just over an hour to Achill Island. First, head to Slievemore Deserted Village. A mile of abandoned stone house ruins is all that remains of this once-thriving booley village. Booleying was a lifestyle in Ireland where families moved from town to town seasonally so the farmer’s livestock could graze grassy fields year-round. Slievemore was abandoned during the Irish famine due to rising rents and the economic recession associated with the famine. Today visitors can explore the stone ruins on the hill and admire the island’s scenery.
The next stop is Keem Beach, a small sandy cove with turquoise waters that looks like it belongs in a tropical locale. The road to Keem is steep and winding and offers picturesque views of the sea and Clare Island. Watch out for sheep on the road though! If you’re thirsty for a pint, stop at Gielty’s Bar and Restaurant and enjoy a beer at Europe’s westernmost pub.
After a visit to the beach and a refreshment at Gielty’s, it’s time to end the day and head to Sligo, just over two hours away. For campervan travelers in Ireland, the best place to stay overnight is Dunmoran Strand, outside Sligo. You can park your van with a view of the secluded beach and watch the sunset over the North Atlantic. It is free to camp in the parking lot, and there are toilets onsite.
Best places to stay near Sligo:
- Camping: Dunmoran Strand
- Hotel: Tranquility B&B
See also: sleep in a cottage in Ireland
Day 10 is one of the few days including tours you need to book in advance, but it’s worth it. Island View Riding Stables is 20 minutes north of Sligo and offers group horseback rides along a private beach. The folks at Island View are fantastic and can accommodate everyone regardless of experience level. If you are an experienced rider, they will happily take you on a brisker ride along the beach. If you have never ridden in your life, that is fine too! The guides will show you all the ropes of riding and lead you on a gentle tour along the beach. An hour beach ride costs €35 per person, but they also offer longer tours along nearby beaches, islands, and marshes.
Today is about learning and enjoying the beach. That’s why your next adventure is learning to surf at Murfs Surf School on Tullan Strand. The beach is less than 20 minutes by car from Island View Riding Stable in the Irish surfing capital of Bundoran. The town is a great place to stop and refuel with a hearty lunch before heading to the surf school. If you’re worried the water may be too cold, don’t worry. A five-millimeter thick wetsuit is included with surfboard rental and lessons to keep you warm. You can choose to book a private one-hour lesson for €75 or join an adult group lesson for €35.
After a day spent riding surfboards and horses, it’s time to drive an hour and a half north to your final destination of the day, Dunfanaghy, County Donegal. Dunfanaghy is a picturesque fishing town full of lively pubs and restaurants. If you’re traveling in a campervan, the best place to stay is the Killahoey Beach car park, where there are toilets onsite and camping is free.
Best places to stay in Dunfanaghy:
- Camping: Killahoey Beach Car Park
- Hotel: The Mill
See also: sleeping in a castle in Ireland
Day eleven ends along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal and takes you into Northern Ireland. There are no borders when crossing from Ireland to Northern Ireland, so you won’t need to show your passport. But keep in mind that driving in Northern Ireland is not the same as driving in Ireland. Speed limits are shown in miles per hour, not kilometers per hour like in Ireland. They also use the British pound instead of the euro as currency. The day is jam-packed with attractions, so it’s best to start no later than 8:30 am.
Start the day by heading to Grianán of Aileach, one of the best ring forts in Ireland. The fort was built around the 8th century, but the site is believed to have been important since 1700 BC. Over the years, sundials, bones, and even an ancient board game have been uncovered on the site. According to Irish folklore, you shouldn’t reveal any secrets while in the fort because if you do, it will no longer be a secret and soon everyone will know. Visitors today can tour the well-preserved fortress ruins perched atop a massive hill. It has one of the best panoramic views of County Donegal.
After exploring the ringfort, it’s time to head to Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland. Game of Thrones fans might recognize the castle as House Greyjoy, rulers of the Iron Islands. Once home to the McDonnell clan, this medieval castle is located on steep rocky walls and is only accessible via a bridge. This would have been a strategic environment for the McDonnell house to protect itself from Viking raids. Visitors can tour the castle and the village park surrounding it.
The next stop is probably Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction, the Giant’s Causeway. The raised causeway is a beach covered by raised hexagonal basalt columns that formed naturally over six million years ago. However, Irish folklore tells a different story of how the stone beach was created. It is said Irish giant Finn McCool was challenged to battle by Scottish giant Benandonner. Finn used nearby rocks to build a bridge to Scotland to fight Benandonner, leaving behind the hexagonal rock formations we see today. On a clear day, you can see Scotland on the horizon.
If you’re looking for a late afternoon meal, stop at Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy. The pub hosts an entire room dedicated to Game of Thrones. When a storm struck one of the Dark Hedges trees (also used in GoT filming), Tourism NI decided to carve six heavy, intricate wooden doors from the fallen tree and dedicate each door to an episode of the series’ sixth season. Fullerton Arms hosts door six and has even built a custom replica throne where fans can take a photo.
Next, continue along the coast to the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge. This attraction is not for the faint of heart. The 66-foot rope bridge connects the mainland to the small island of Carrickarede and hangs about 100 feet above the rocky waters. Before heading to the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge, you should always check that it is open since strong winds and bad weather can temporarily close the attraction for safety reasons.
You can spend the night in Portrush, a lively seaside resort with tons of nightlife, attractions, and restaurants.
Best places to stay in Portrush:
- Camping: Sandhill Drive Campervan Park
- Hotel: The Harbour Studio B&B
Start the day with a hearty Irish breakfast in Portrush and drive 30 minutes to The Dark Hedges. The Dark Hedges is a famous road framed by majestic beech trees that snake and twist along the avenue. The Stuart family planted the trees in the 18th century to impress visitors traveling to their home. It has since become an icon of Northern Ireland, made even more famous by Game of Thrones, which used it for the road to King’s Landing.
After snapping some photos at the Dark Hedges, it’s time to head to Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast. It’s about an hour’s drive from Belfast city center. Before parking to explore the city, take a tour past the Peace Wall on Cupar Way. There are many of these peace walls in Belfast, but this one is one of the easiest to visit on a self-guided tour. These walls were initially built to separate Catholic republican, nationalist neighborhoods and Protestant loyalist and unionist neighborhoods during the 1969 sectarian riots. The purpose of the walls was to protect citizens from the violence of the thirty-year conflict. After the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, local artists decorated the walls with vibrant murals representing the Troubles.
Once finished with the Peace Wall tour, head downtown to Belfast City Hall. There is plenty of paid parking nearby. Stroll the lively streets and watch street performers, shop in boutiques, and grab a bite. Since the Titanic was built in Belfast, it only makes sense to check out the Titanic Belfast Museum. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of nine interactive exhibits and learn how it was constructed, the people on board, and what remains in the ocean.
After Belfast, it’s time to head back across the Irish border to the town of Carlingford for the night. It is just over an hour’s drive from Belfast city center.
Best places to stay near Carlingford:
- Camping: Gyle’s Quay Caravan & Camping Park
- Hotel: Shalom B&B
Day 13 begins with a leprechaun hunt hike on the Slieve Foye Loop. To understand why this is a thing, you need to know a bit of Carlingford history. In the 1980s, a businessman in town was walking on a hillside and found a tiny hat and pants with gold coins near a burned patch of grass. Since then, the town has hosted an annual national leprechaun hunt where people search the mountain for the tiny magical creatures. In 2010, the European Union officially recognized Carlingford as the home of Ireland’s last leprechauns. Tourists come from all over the world to hike the Slieve Foye Loop hoping to see these magical creatures. The hike takes about 2.5 hours round trip and starts behind downtown shops. Head to the Ln River, then turn right onto Mountain Park, and follow red and blue markers.
The next stop on your Ireland road trip is Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne, located 45 minutes south of Carlingford. Brú na Bóinne, also known as the Boyne Valley Tombs, hosts ancient Celtic tombs that predate the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge. The most famous tomb is Newgrange, dating back to 3200 BC. Here visitors can discover some of the best neo-gothic artwork in Europe. There is lots of history and other tombs to explore. Head to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre Newgrange and Knowth where you can take a guided tour of the grounds and learn all about the High King of Ireland who lived in the area, the rituals that took place, and why the winter solstice is so important here.
You should be finished with Newgrange by mid-afternoon and have a 25-minute drive to Tara Hill. Tara Hill is where every High King of Ireland sat from 600 BC to 400 AD. St. Patrick himself visited in the 5th century. The hill was sacred to ancient Irish as they believed it was a home of the gods and a portal to the other world. Today not much remains of the great palace, but there are other places to see, such as the Lia Fáil, also known as the Stone of Destiny. You can take a guided tour from the visitor center of the grounds or choose to self-guide.
Spend the night in the town of Athlone, located just under 90 minutes from Tara Hill. Athlone is home to the Sean’s Pub, officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest pub in Ireland. The pub claims to have been established in 900 AD and has a fascinating history. Be sure to stop by for a pint and check out the documented history and the building.
Best places to stay near Carlingford:
- Camping: Lough Ree East Caravan & Camping Park
- Hotel: Prince of Wales Hotel
Depending on when you need to return the rental, you can choose to continue your journey in Ireland and visit Birr Castle, located 40 minutes south of Athlone. The castle is completely intact and hosts a museum of its history and the history of the family who lived here. It also has vast grounds full of rare trees and breathtaking gardens. The top attraction is the Leviathan of Parsonstown, a gigantic telescope built by the third Earl of Rosse, William Parsons, in 1840. The imposing telescope is 50 feet tall and 70 feet long.
So concludes your two weeks in Ireland! It is just under two hours from Dublin Airport and an hour from Galway Airport from Birr.
If you are heading to Dublin and find yourself with a few extra days, be sure to check out the best things to do in the city or consider 7 days in Southern Ireland.
