Car Touring
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Take to the open road with an exhilarating drive through Ireland. Is there any better way to see a country?
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So what are the other benefits of bringing a car to Ireland?
A new generation of ferries means that that the travelling time to Ireland can be a as little as 99 minutes! As well as being good value for money (no money needs to be spent on train fares, bus fares or taxis, plus petrol in the Republic is cheaper than many countries at the moment), you can also bring everything with you: the kids, the dog, the golf clubs, the barbecue, the granny…Getting here from the UK couldn’t be easier by sea!
So where do I start?
Design your own itinerary with our easy to use interactive e-brochure. Rainbow Routes helps you plan your trip around Ireland taking in all sorts of places of interest and activities – from heritage and culture, to castles and gardens, food and drink, to literature and music! You can email your bespoke brochure to other members of your travelling party and print your own copy to take with you.
Download your e-brochure now!
What if I don’t have a car?
That doesn’t matter. Car hire is available all over Ireland and can be a really time effective option, especially if you are only going for a few days as you can pick up a hire car at any Irish airport. So what are you waiting for?
I don’t want to be one of a crowd, where can I go?
Well, the other wonderful benefit to travelling by car around Ireland is getting off the beaten track and discovering a deserted beach, a remote country pub, a staggering cliff face or even just enjoying the winding country roads, which cut through spectacular scenery and are frequently dotted with sheep – so take care! If you want to get away from it all, you can take to the hills or delve into a wooded glen – all at your own pace!
Like where, for example?
Well, take the Burren or the Beara Peninsula for starters. You really need to have a car with you to make the most of both these places – unless, of course, you’re feeling energetic enough to do them by bike! Then there’s the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, which weaves through exceptional glens and offers some of the country’s most dramatic views; the beautiful Sally Gap drive in County Wicklow and its breathtaking scenery.
I can't read maps, what if I get lost?
Don’t worry about losing your way - asking for directions is a great way to strike up a conversation with the locals! With a car you can explore the countryside at your own pace – turn off the sat-nav and go with your instincts. If you’re lucky you may find yourself rolling up a hill on one of Ireland’s magic roads or watching the coronation of a wild mountain goat at one of Ireland’s many unique festivals!
If I’m in my car will I get to meet any locals?
Why not experience the legendary Irish welcome by staying with some of the most hospitable people in Ireland! Take your pick from family run Bed and Breakfasts, historic homes or rural farmhouses. You’ll get a lot more than a comfy bed and a full Irish breakfast. Your hosts will be happy to recommend driving itineraries and local hidden gems for you to explore.
I’m an outdoorsy type, why should I bring my car?
With your own transport you’ll find it even easier to fill your holiday with action and adventure in the great outdoors. Surfers are in for a treat with a huge variety of quality uncrowded surfing locations. Find remote mountain trails and passes to explore. If fishing is your thing then with a car you’ll be able to exploit the massive variety and quality of fishing Ireland has to offer. Why not bring your golf clubs along with you and play on one of Ireland’s 400 plus golf courses?
How do I get a flavour of the real Ireland?
If you fancy some truly Irish culinary delights you need to get into the heart of the countryside and coastline – put together a picnic of fresh produce at a local farmers’ markets and find a hidden spot in the countryside to enjoy it. Find the places the locals eat and enjoy some of the best seafood in the world in restaurants where you can smell the sea as you watch the trawlers bringing in the catch-of-the-day.
