If you’re celebrating your honeymoon or simply looking for a romantic weekend getaway, many people are exploring the best destinations to spend quality time with their loved ones.
In the last three months, searches for ‘Irish road trip’ have risen by 227%, as individuals seek out the most scenic routes across the Emerald Isle. That’s why Diamonds Factory Ireland has pulled together a list of five of the most breathtaking Irish road trips for a romantic getaway.
The Ring of Kerry | 179 km
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive located in the southwest region of Ireland. This circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula is filled with charming seaside villages, historic castles, and stunning mountain views. It’s an ideal road trip that can be enjoyed as a day trip or over several days.
The route is well-known for its minimal light pollution, making it a perfect location for stargazing, couples and dark sky enthusiasts. There are also numerous detours and adventures available, such as visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site Skellig Michael, which offers an adventurous yet challenging climb up the rocky cliffs. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Killarney National Park is highly regarded by locals as the perfect spot for a romantic stroll.
Slea Head Drive | 30 km
A short yet stunning drive starting from the town of Dingle. The Slea Head Drive is one of Ireland’s most photogenic trips, perfect for making memories together and soaking up breathtaking views at every turn.
Romantics will enjoy the soothing sounds of the Atlantic as they cruise past the Blasket Islands and the surrounding coastline. The drive takes around 3-4 hours, which is usually done in a clockwise direction. However, it’s easy to extend the duration as there are plenty of opportunities to make stops along the way, as charming roadside stands offer homemade food and handcrafted blankets.
Image: Causeway Coast & Glens
The Causeway Coastal Route | 185 km
Stretching from Belfast to Derry, the Causeway Coastal Route is shrouded in rugged beauty and Irish history. Perfect for couples who enjoy a blend of history, nature and storytelling, this road trip is perfect for creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds as you travel along Northern Ireland’s coastline.
The drive hugs the seafront, revealing hidden beaches and dramatic headlands. Couples can walk hand in hand across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which is suspended 30 meters above the sea. Or hop along 40,000 basalt columns shrouded in mythical history at the Giant’s Causeway. There are days worth of activities to take part in on the trip, perfect for couples who seek adventure.
Beara Peninsula | 148 km
The Beara Peninsula is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets, offering a quieter alternative to the Ring of Kerry and located next to the Sheep’s Head Peninsula. This road trip is renowned for its secluded spots, allowing travellers to enjoy solitude and a slower pace of life.
Along the route, you’ll encounter narrow roads and a rugged landscape. The Glengarriff Nature Reserve, which covers 300 hectares of woodland, is home to the beautiful Glengarriff Waterfall. This is a perfect spot for couples to pause, take in the sights, or enjoy a romantic picnic immersed in nature. The trip can take 2 to 3 days, depending on how frequently you stop along the way. Couples can also take a ferry ride to Garnish Island, famous for its vibrant Italianate Gardens that are bursting with colour during the summer, creating a romantic and memorable getaway.
Connemara to Galway | 120 km
Connemara is considered one of the most romantic destinations in Ireland, renowned for its charming traditional villages and serene viewpoints. Couples can begin their journey from either Connemara or Galway, depending on their preference. Along the way, they will encounter scenic spots such as the Quiet Man Bridge and the Lough Inagh Viewpoint, which overlooks a large freshwater lake and the picturesque Maumturk Mountains.
A road trip between these two destinations typically takes 1 to 2 days and is filled with numerous sites that highlight the history and culture of Ireland. Couples may find it relaxing to stop in one of the many villages along the route, such as Oughterard, which is often regarded as one of the best places to stay near Galway due to its warm hospitality. Just a 15-minute drive from the village is Aughnanure Castle, where couples can explore the remains of this 15th-century castle.
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