Getting Started: Preparing for Your Adventure
Before you hit the road, a bit of preparation ensures your trip is smooth and memorable. Here’s what you need to know:
When to Visit:
Ireland’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, but the best time to embark on this adventure is from late spring (May) to early autumn (September). This period offers the mildest weather and the lengthiest days.
Car Rental Tips:
Renting a car in Ireland is straightforward, with numerous services available at Dublin Airport. Consider booking your vehicle with reputable companies like Hertz or Enterprise. Opt for a smaller car, as some rural roads can be narrow.
Essential Packing:
A good pair of waterproof hiking boots, layered clothing for shifting temperatures, a dependable raincoat, and either a reliable GPS or a solid map will make your journey easier, although getting pleasantly lost is a very Irish tradition.
Arriving by Ferry:
If you’re traveling from Britain, one of the most scenic and convenient ways to begin your Irish adventure is by taking the Holyhead to Dublin ferry. The crossing takes around three and a half hours, giving you a relaxed, atmospheric introduction to Ireland before you even reach the city.
Day 1: Dublin – Immerse in the Buzz of the Capital
Kick off your journey in Dublin, a city pulsing with energy and rich in culture. Here are highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Trinity College and The Book of Kells:
Begin your exploration at Trinity College. Wander through the historic campus, and be sure to visit the Old Library to see the illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells.
Guinness Storehouse:
Head over to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour that concludes at the Gravity Bar with a panoramic view of the city paired with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
Temple Bar District:
Wrap up your day with a walk through Temple Bar. This cultural quarter is vivid with cobblestone streets, colorful pubs, and the echoes of live music spilling into the night.
Day 2-3: Dublin to Galway – Discover the Heart of Ireland
Buckle up and set a westward course towards Galway. This leg of your journey is about 2.5 hours if you drive directly, but you should definitely take time for some delightful detours.
Stop at Cliffs of Moher
While not directly on the way, consider a slight detour to visit the Cliffs of Moher on the edge of County Clare. These stunning sea cliffs are some of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes.
Explore Galway
Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum:
Arrive in Galway and start with a stroll by the Spanish Arch, followed by a visit to the Galway City Museum to familiarize yourself with the area’s rich history.
Quay Street:
This vibrant street in Galway is a must-see. It’s lined with cheerful shops, cafés, and street performers, and it beautifully captures the city’s bohemian spirit.
Stay overnight at a cosy B&B or a charming hotel like The House Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the city.
Day 4-5: Galway to Clifden – The Gateway to Connemara
Leave the bustling city behind and drive through the serene landscapes of Connemara, with its bogs, lakes, and wild hills.
Visit Connemara National Park
Hiking Trails:
Spend your day hiking in Connemara National Park, where trails offer varying levels of difficulty but all promise breathtaking views.
Kylemore Abbey:
No trip here is complete without a stop at Kylemore Abbey. This fairy-tale castle-like structure offers picturesque gardens and lakeside views.
Overnight in Clifden
Relax for the evening in Clifden, known as the “Capital of Connemara.” Enjoy dinner at Mitchell’s Restaurant, noted for its fresh seafood.
Day 6: The Sky Road Loop – Coastal Wonders
A day just for you to explore this spectacular winding road. The Sky Road loop offers views that define the Wild Atlantic Way concept with crashing waves and windswept cliffs.
What to Expect:
- Stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- The charming village of Claddaghduff.
- Photo opportunities at Derrigimlagh Discovery Point.
Return to Clifden for your overnight stay and reflect on the day’s incredible landscapes.
Day 7-8: Finish on a High Note – Westport and Beyond
Head to Westport, a scenic town and superb spot to end your road trip. Here’s how to spend your last days:
Westport House and Gardens:
Spend a leisurely morning exploring this stately home with its beautiful gardens and a pirate adventure park for the young at heart.
Croagh Patrick:
For the adventurous, climb Croagh Patrick, known as Ireland’s holy mountain. The views at the top make the challenging ascent worthwhile.
Relax in Westport:
Enjoy your final evening in Westport by relishing a meal at An Port Mór, famous for their local produce.
Embrace the Call of Adventure
Ireland is a land that captivates at every turn. From Dublin’s urban delights to the timeless beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, each mile unfolds a new story, a new vista that beckons you to stay a while longer.
Start planning your unforgettable journey today. Feel the wind of the Atlantic on your face, taste the warmth of an Irish stew, and hear the storied past in a fiddle’s tune.
Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Don’t wait. Book your ferry tickets with OpenFerry.com and begin your Irish adventure now. The roads are calling, promising discovery and delight at every turn. Bon voyage!
