Summer is here and what better way to enjoy your well-earned break than an adventure around the island of Ireland, be it for a campervan mini break, a camping break or just getting away for a day or two and exploring somewhere different.
To help you on your journey, we’ve put together a list of the top routes so all you need to do is pack up and head off with a sense of fun and freedom for what lies ahead.
Causeway Coast road trip
Start – Belfast; End – Derry/Londonderry
Distance – approx. 183 miles/295km
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Belfast before heading towards the Glens of Antrim. There’s nine Glens in total just waiting to be explored with rugged hills, quaint villages and a sense of peace and tranquillity.
Follow along the coast road towards Ballycastle and take in the spectacular views as the road hugs the edge of the coastline bringing you past the famous Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Dunluce Castle.
Next is Portrush and Portstewart, home to miles of golden sands with some of the best paddleboarding and surfing spots around before you head on and finish your trip in the exciting city of Derry/Londonderry.
Wild Atlantic Way
Start – Inishowen Peninsula; End – Kinsale
Distance – approx. 1,600 miles/2,600km
The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. On the outer edge of Europe, it winds its way all along the west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula, in County Donegal, down to the picturesque town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south of Ireland.
This is the perfect route to dip in and out of as there is so much to see and do and that’s a huge part of its attraction – you can drive the stunning coastal routes, explore the beautiful scenery and ancient monuments, savour the culinary delights of the local fishing villages and enjoy what lively Galway city has to offer.
Ring of Kerry
Start – Killarney; End – Ross Castle
Distance – approx. 125 miles/202km
Beginning in Killarney, the Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives. There is so much to see and explore along this incredible circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula.
Highlights include Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall, the epic Lakes of Killarney, boat trips to Valentia Island and to the must-see UNESCO World Heritage site Skellig Michael, hiking in the Gap of Dunloe and sampling delicious food from local renowned producers before ending your trip back in Killarney.
Ireland’s Ancient East
Start – Wicklow; End – Meath
Distance – approx. 230 miles/373km
The roots of Ireland’s Ancient East run deep through the counties of Wicklow, Carlow, Laois, Offaly, Tipperary, Kildare and Meath. Begin your adventure in Wicklow and head east, where is there is so much to explore in this vast, beautiful area including the magnificent Glendalough, Rock of Cashel, Powerscourt and the mystical Hill of Tara. The River Shannon is also just waiting for you to try out some paddleboarding, boating or canoeing. With plenty of bustling towns and villages in addition to the atmospheric surroundings, there really is something for everyone.
At Jans Lifestyle we’ll provide all the practical equipment and essentials that you need for your break on the Island of Ireland – including the campervan and the paddleboards – all you need to do is choose which amazing road trip is for you and let the adventure begin!
Visit: https://bespokeleisure.co.uk/ or if you have any queries about our products or services, email: info@janslifestyle.co.uk.
Let us know in the comments where your favourite road trip location is.