camping road trip ireland

The Best Camping Sites Ireland Has To Offer: 9 Campsites With STUNNING VIEWS

By Author Elisha Donkin

Posted on Last updated: June 3, 2023

The Best Camping Sites Ireland Has To Offer: 9 Campsites With STUNNING VIEWS

I f you’re in search of the best camping sites Ireland has to offer, you’ve landed in the right place.

There’s nothing better than living the simple life in a campervan and spending a night under the stars. Throw in some magnificent scenery and you’re living the dream.

There are plenty of incredibly breath-taking campsites in Ireland where you can pitch a tent or park your van.

Table of Contents

The best camping sites Ireland has to offer

Unlike Ireland’s top spots for glamping , campsites rarely get the attention or the recognition that they deserve, despite the unique experiences many offer.

In the guide below, you’ll discover everything from luxurious campsites to family-friendly caravan parks. Go on – dive on in!

1. Chleire Haven

Photo via Chlere Haven Camping on Facebook

Chlere Haven is arguably one of the most unique camping sites Ireland has to offer. You’ll find it on the remote and beautiful Cape Clear Island in Cork.

The property has a number of cosy Central Asia-inspired yurts that are fully furnished with all the comforts you’ll need for a relaxing stay.

From wooden double beds to the wood burning stoves, it’s camping with added luxuries. You can still enjoy the outdoor experience of camping at Chleire Haven with an outdoor BBQ area and firepit available for use.

2. Clifden Eco Beach

Photo via Clifden ECO Camping

I’ve heard from several people that Clifden ECO Camping is one of the best camp sites in Ireland for those exploring the west of Ireland.

Whether you bring your own tent or book one of their already assembled setups, this beautiful camping spot is perfect for a beach holiday.

The property is located amongst the sand dunes on the shoreline of Connemara. It has stunning views across the ocean and access to its own secluded private beach.

You can stay in one of their tents that are scattered across the lawn with comfortable double beds. Otherwise, you can bring your own setup and rent a pitching space. There are additional charges for using the various facilities available.

For the eco-conscious, the place is also an eco-certified carbon-neutral accommodation property.

3. Eagle Point Camping (one of the best camping sites in Ireland for families)

Photo via Eagle Point Camping on Facebook

Eagle Point Camping and Caravan Park is situated on a large 20-acre slice of the peninsula overlooking Bantry Bay on County Cork’s Atlantic Coast.

It’s the perfect spot for family holidays with great facilities and activities to do nearby. The park offers spots for motorhomes, tents and caravans with free hot showers and toilet facilities.

The kids will love the playground, basketball court, football pitch and pebbled beaches to keep them entertained. While the proximity to great fishing and boating spots is ideal for any ocean escape.

4. Portsalon Luxury Camping

One of the most luxurious camping sites in Ireland: Photo via Portsalon Luxury Camping

This breath-taking campsite is all about luxury in the far north of County Donegal. The property has five elegant yurts with king-sized beds and wood-burning stoves.

Outside of the comfort of the yurts, you can enjoy the decking area, BBQ, firepit and hammock with views of the ocean and surrounding hills.

The nearby village of Portsalon has a 3-mile Blue Flag beach that you can spend the day, or you can just enjoy the peaceful nature of the property. It’s the perfect romantic camping experience.

5. Rosguill Holiday Park (one of the most scenic campsites Ireland has to offer)

Photo via Rosguill Holiday Park on Facebook

This is a classic caravan park on the stunning Rosguill Peninsula in the far north of County Donegal.

Whether you have a campervan or just pitching a tent, each spot has beautiful views over Mulroy Bay and the rugged coastline.

There are some great facilities at the park that you can use, from the communal kitchen to the tennis court and the onsite Ice Cream & Coffee Shop, you won’t need to leave the holiday park for anything.

This is one of the best camp sites in Ireland for those of you in search of an active break. It’s a short distance to great walks and beaches and is ideal for a relaxing seaside getaway.

6. Mannix Point Camping

This place is regularly considered one of the best family campsites Ireland has to offer. Located on the Gulf Stream coast in south-west Kerry, this waterfront caravan park has incredible views in all directions.

There are plenty of pitches where you can either park your van or put up your own tent overlooking the water.

There is a full range of facilities available such as a communal kitchen, BBQ area and toilet and shower blocks. It’s a convenient short walk into town for the nearest pubs, supermarkets and restaurants.

7. Pure Camping

Photos via Pure Camping on Instagram

Pure Camping is where you should head for a completely peaceful and comfortable off-grid escape.

The eco-conscious camp site is near the Querrin shoreline on four hectares of woodlands. It has grassy tent pitches available, as well as, beautiful glamping options.

Whether you opt for your own setup or stay in one of the off-grid wood cabins on the property, you can enjoy the full range of facilities.

It’s more than just a regular camping ground though with communal amenities, as well as, a yoga and meditation centre where you can join in the classes.

8. Wave Crest Camping

Photo via Wave Crest Camping on Facebook

You’ll find Wave Crest Camping in Caherdaniel on the Ring of Kerry where it has an amazing waterfront site offering magnificent sea views.

The family-run park has great facilities for all types of holidays and camping setups. You can bring your tent, motorhome or caravan and enjoy the full array of camping amenities from the laundry to hot showers and an onsite café.

For the kids, there’s a games room, TV room and playground area so you don’t have to worry about keeping them entertained.

Open all year round, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area no matter what time of year you decide to visit.

9. Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park

Photo via Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park on Facebook

There’s no better way to enjoy the Donegal coast than at this caravan park in Portsalon. It’s located between the Knockalla Mountains and the beaches of Ballymastocker Bay, with beautiful landscapes to explore along the entire coast.

The longstanding family-run park offers the usual pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes and has all the ideal comforts of a great caravan park.

You can use the onsite facilities such as the indoor pool, outdoor playground, tennis court, communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi and shower and toilet blocks. There’s nothing more that you need for a great camping experience.

The best campsites in Ireland: where have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out plenty of other great camping sites Ireland has to offer from the guide above.

Have a camp site you’d like to recommend? Let me know in the comments section below!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Orla Bourke Maguire

Saturday 29th of July 2023

You missed Greenacres in Doonaha County Clare. It’s close to Pure camiping. Family run. Beautiful views of the estuary. Ricky shore and beach to walk and swim

Wednesday 22nd of June 2022

Sleepy hollows in Crolly Donegal. Riverside doolin Great campsites and greats hosts.two of the best in Ireland .t

Wednesday 26th of January 2022

Roosky island sneem co Kerry fantastic spot

Monday 24th of January 2022

Thanks this is a great site. Grea help. We absolutely looooove cliftden beach are looking for more gorgeous sites like it. Hopefully heading over for Easter. Thank you.

Keith O'Hara

Cheers Fiona!

Dermot Byrne

Wednesday 28th of July 2021

Nagles camping and caravan park in Doolin, second to none. Facilities second to none, even has freshly cooked bread in the morning.

CLAIRE OGRADY

Monday 13th of September 2021

brilliant site , and location is prefect, Ken the owner runs the site brilliantly .

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Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

Home » Blog » Europe » Ireland » Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

This guide has everything you need to know about camping in Ireland, from what to expect to packing lists. We’re also sharing the best campsites in Ireland so you can plan the perfect adventure.

From craggy seaside cliffs to charming villages to thick forests, there’s a whole lot of beautiful places to explore in Ireland, making for an incredible camping adventure.

We personally spent 2 weeks on an epic Ireland camping trip . We gathered all sorts of tips to share with you (and had an incredible time!). We’re sharing everything we learned and all the tips we picked up along the way with you in this ultimate guide to camping in Ireland.

In this article, we’re covering everything from what to expect at Ireland campsites (hint: it might be different from what you’re used to!), to essential items to pack, to whether to make reservations or just wing it. We’re also letting you in on our list of the best campsites in Ireland !

Whether you’re embarking on a bucket list Ireland road trip or you’re a local planning a weekend camping excursion, this guide will equip you with helpful tips and things you should know about camping in Ireland.

Camping in Ireland guide

What to expect at caravan parks

Wild camping in Ireland

Camping in ireland faqs, what to pack for camping in ireland, ireland camping apps.

Ireland campsites map

Best campsites in Ireland

More resources for planning your ireland camping trip.

Before we dive right in, be sure to bookmark these additional articles. They’ll be a huge help as you plan your trip .

Best campervan rentals in Ireland

If you’re planning on traveling around Ireland in a campervan or motorhome (yay!), you don’t want to miss this article . We walk you through all the things to consider when choosing a rental vehicle so you don’t make some of the mistakes we have in the past.

(We’ve rented campervans/motorhomes in 4 countries around the world and have owned 3 campervans ourselves. We really do know what we’re talking about!)

Renting a car in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the Emerald Isle. Explore at your own speed and cruise the Irish countryside.

There are a handful of things we wish we would have known before getting a rental car in Ireland, so we’ve put together a complete guide with everything you need to know. This way you’ll be much more prepared than we were!

Black Lake Killarney National Park Ireland

When to travel to Ireland

Find out the best time to visit Ireland based on regional weather patterns and your personal travel style and preferences.

Fun things to do in Ireland

If you’re planning a road trip, you don’t want to miss this list of unique things to do in Ireland ! This includes the must-sees (like the Cliffs of Moher), but also has tons of gems you won’t find on other Ireland bucket lists. Trust us, we spent lots of time researching and on the ground to create this roundup for you!

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free Ireland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Ireland that you won’t find anywhere else!

What to expect at campgrounds in Ireland

While each campground is a bit different, here are some general things you can expect:

Parking spot

We found most campgrounds in Ireland don’t have private, wooded spaces like you might be used to if you do a lot of camping in the USA or Canada.

Instead, the caravan parks are more open with designated spaces for you to park a rig or pitch a tent.

The types of parking spaces vary. Some caravan parks have gravel spots where you’re allowed to park a van or RV. Other campgrounds are more or less big open fields where you can find a vacant space to park.

Some campgrounds have great views, while others are, well, just a spot to park for the night.

Insider Tip: If great views are important to you, we’d encourage you to do a little extra advanced planning, read reviews, scroll through photos, and make reservations.

Ireland Campsites can be a little different than what you may be used to, so we created a video to show you what a typical site will look like:

Electric hookups

Most campgrounds in Ireland also have the option to choose an electric or non-electric site.

Some caravan parks require RVs to park in the spots where there are electric hookups (because those are the parking spots that can accommodate larger vehicles). So regardless of whether you need electricity or not, you may still need to pay for it.

All established campgrounds in Ireland will have toilets. The quality of the bathrooms varies a bit — from modern and clean to a truly rustic camping experience.

All toilets we encountered at campgrounds were flush operated, a.k.a. not porta-potties or outhouses. That doesn’t mean they don’t exist, but flush toilets seem to be the norm.

Most campgrounds will have showers, and for the most part, hot water seems to be standard.

On our trip, we only encountered one shower that had a time limit and required payment (by coins). All other showers were free to use. That said, the quality of the showers can vary quite a lot.

Insider Tip: Be sure to pack shower shoes (like flip flops) so you don’t have to go barefoot!

Dish cleaning area

Most campgrounds will have dish cleaning areas. This is nice because you don’t have to do dishes in your campervan or RV if you don’t want to. It’s particularly helpful if you’re trying to conserve water or not make a mess.

Personal experience: We found it to be less work to just do them in our motorhome instead of walking over to the cleaning area with our dirty dishes. However, if you are tent camping or have a campervan in which you cannot stand up, this could be very helpful.

Many campgrounds have washers and dryers, which are typically coin-operated. If you’re on a long road trip and want to freshen up your wardrobe, this can be very convenient.

Insider Tip: Pack laundry detergent sheets ( like these ) so you don’t have to worry about finding it on the road. They are super lightweight and will take up no room in your luggage. We use these as our normal detergent at home and really like them (as well as being able to reduce single-use plastic ).

Water fill-up

Campgrounds should have a place to fill up your tank with fresh, potable water. This should be free of charge if you have paid to stay in the campsite.

Note: Some very basic campgrounds may not have fill or dump stations. Be sure you plan accordingly if you know you’re staying somewhere without this service.

Dump stations

There should be a gray water dump station as well as a place to dump your chemical waste (a.k.a. your toilet).

In addition to places to pitch a tent or park an RV, some campgrounds have glamping facilities, like pods or safari-style tents.

If you’re looking to switch it up for a night along your road trip, you could opt to stay in a pod or a little cabin.

There were a few campgrounds that advertised wifi, but it was very mediocre. We wouldn’t recommend relying on campgrounds for your internet needs.

So how can you get cell service or internet on an Ireland road trip? Good question!

We recommend getting an eSIM. We got ours by using the Airalo app and were really happy with the service we had on our entire trip. Plus, it’s super easy and relatively cheap — you basically download the app and pay for the data you need.

Other amenities

Some campgrounds go above and beyond just the basic facilities. You might see things like a common seating area, a cooking/kitchen space, playground facilities, or even onsite cafes.

One campground we stayed at had an amazing playground with a gigantic slide and a video game arcade! But these are above and beyond what you should expect.

Want to save time and energy on planning?

In June 2023, we spent 2 weeks traveling around Ireland and living in a campervan. We were lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 2-week travels and are in the process of creating the perfect Ireland road trip itinerary . We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice, once it’s finalized! Just click below to get on the waitlist for our 2-week Ireland road trip itinerary !

Wild camping refers to staying overnight in a place that is not a designated campsite.

While wild camping is legal and very popular in Ireland, there are some important things you need to know before parking or pitching a tent for the night.

Wild camping is a bit of a complex subject. We’re gonna break it down so you have everything you need to know about wild camping in Ireland (legally!).

It is possible to park overnight in places that aren’t designated campgrounds, but — and this is a big but! — you can’t just camp anywhere .

Many parking lots have signs that say “no overnight parking” or “no camping”, and it is important that you obey these.

Also, there are pull-outs that are just not safe for parking overnight as they are too close to the road and difficult for oncoming traffic to see a vehicle at night.

So how do you know where you can legally and safely park overnight?

Using an app like Park4Night , you can read descriptions and reviews of wild camping areas to find ones that will work for you. Pay extra attention to the comments, as people typically will indicate when a spot is not legal for overnight camping.

What can you expect when wild camping?

Expect that there will be zero facilities . You will likely just have a place to park for the night.

Important: There will not be a toilet, a garbage, or any place to fill or dump your water. This means you must prepare accordingly. Don’t plan on wild camping if you don’t have enough water in your tanks or if you desperately need to dump.

Things to look for when wild camping

Not all wild camping is equal, so we always pay careful attention to reviews so we know what we’re getting into. Before simply rolling up to a spot, we scour apps, like Park4Night , to read reviews from people who’ve stayed recently.

Here are the things we look for:

Recent reviews: If the reviews are years old, it may indicate that this is no longer a legal place to camp.
Legal: Often in reviews, people will point out when a site listed is not in fact legal. In Park4Night, you’ll also notice the “P” icon is yellow to indicate places that are day use only.
Height barrier: One thing we noticed in some parking lots in Ireland is height barriers at night. This prevents larger campervans and motorhomes from getting in. You should be able to find out if this is the case on Park4Night.
Flat: We pay attention to whether reviews mention anything about the parking spot being level or slanted. If you have a longer vehicle, this is especially important to look out for, as sleeping on a slope can be really uncomfortable.
Noise: Some wild camping spots are next to busy roads or popular pubs. This might not be a deal breaker for everyone, but since we travel with our child , we want to be sure we’re choosing spots that are as quiet as possible.
Safe: A lot of wild camping spots are simply pull outs on a main road. We personally don’t love this type of spot, as people driving at night might have a difficult time seeing our vehicle.
Number of spaces: If you’re searching for a place to park for the night, try to choose ones that have multiple spots available, or at least have a backup plan in mind. Too many times, we’ve headed to a place that only has one parking spot to find it already occupied. In Park4Night, there is a place that lists the estimated number of available parking spots.
Good reviews: If all the other boxes are ticked, it is nice finding places that have great reviews or even those that are beautiful locations. Obviously, this will make the wild camping experience much better than simply rolling up to a parking lot.

Leave No Trace

This should be common sense, but it is very important that you do not leave any waste behind when you are wild camping.

When you leave, there should be zero trace that you were ever there:

No toilet paper or human waste
No gray water dumped

Psst! Read up on the 7 principles of Leave No Trace before your trip!

Our advice: Don’t plan on wild camping every night. Plan on staying in established campgrounds at least every few nights so you have the facilities to dump and fill your water tanks and dispose of your garbage properly.

Okay, so how does one find campsites in Ireland?

Search on Google Maps
Use a camping app
Look at our list of top campsites in Ireland

We’re going over each of these below with our favorite tips.

Google Maps

iOS | Android

We love using Google Maps to plan out our road trips . We typically pin all the places we want to stop along the way, including campground options.

To find campgrounds in Google Maps, simply zoom into the area of the map where you’re searching and type “campground” into the search bar. All the nearby campground options will pop up, along with reviews, photos, and a website (if available).

Be sure to save each campground you are interested in by marking it with a flag so you can find it later.

This is a European camping app that we have used in both Scotland and Ireland. It has established campgrounds listed, but we’ve found it most helpful for finding wild camping spots.

You can easily look at a specific location on the map and see all types of campsites nearby. Once you click on them, you can find reviews and information about what type of campsite it is (established campground vs. wild camping). You can also see the amenities and price.

It is free to download and is pretty user-friendly.

iOverlander

This is one of our favorite camping apps in the USA and we were happy to find it also works in Ireland! That said, there are fewer spots listed than on Park4Night, so I’d recommend starting there.

In addition to campgrounds, iOverlander shows other facilities you may need on your campervan trip, like where you can fill water and dump your tanks.

Our advice: Familiarize yourself with the apps above prior to your trip and figure out which you prefer using. Flag the campsites you’re interested in so you can find them easily.

If you’re planning a camping trip in Ireland and still have questions, we’ve got answers for you…

How much do campgrounds cost?

Each campground is slightly different, but in our experience, campsites in Ireland averaged between €30 – €35 euros per night (about $33 – $38) .

The cheapest campground we stayed at cost €20 per night, but it did not have any facilities other than toilets. If you plan to stay at caravan parks with electricity, showers, and a water fill-up, expect to pay somewhere closer to the €30-35 range per night range.

Do I need reservations at campgrounds in Ireland?

To be safe, yes. And when traveling over holiday weekends, definitely.

The good news is that you can often reserve just a day or two in advance, either by calling or booking online.

If there is a specific site where you really want to stay, we’d recommend booking those further ahead of time as they do actually fill up a while out. Especially in popular areas, like Killarney National Park or the Ring of Kerry.

How do you find campgrounds in Ireland?

We have everything you need to find campgrounds in Ireland…

We’ve got a list of handy apps as well as a map of some of the best campsites in Ireland .

Campervan vs. tent: Which is better?

This is very subjective, and each will be better for a different type of traveler.

While we love tent camping, we’d personally much prefer staying in a campervan or motorhome in Ireland for a few reasons .

a) As we’ve already explained, most campgrounds in Ireland don’t have private, wooded sites with picnic tables and fire rings, like many North Americans are used to when tent camping. Essentially, you’ll be pitching a tent in a field within sight of many other vehicles, which isn’t quite as idyllic.

b) Depending on what time of year you’re visiting Ireland , you may encounter a lot of rain and wind . Personally, I don’t love setting up or tearing down a tent in the rain.

c) Think about the set-up and tear-down time . If you’re on an extended road trip, you will have to do this each day. A campervan, on the other hand, is all ready to go once you park for the night.

All those points considered, if you’re on a super tight budget or are a local looking for a quick and cheap getaway, tent camping might be a better choice for you.

Personal story: We did a tent camping trip in Iceland (which is colder than Ireland most of the time) because we were on a very tight budget . It wasn’t nearly as comfortable as a campervan would have been (we rented a campervan in Iceland a few years later!), but it was one heck of an adventure and, at that point of our lives, we were happy to trade comfort for savings.

I’m still unsure if I want to camp or stay in hotels… help?!

If you’re still unsure about camping, why not split your trip and do half camping and half in hotels? (This is what we did!) That way, you get the best of both worlds!

Logistical tips:

Look for a campervan rental company that allows you to choose different pick-up and drop-off locations . This is ideal as it’ll save you driving time and gas, however, there are very limited numbers of companies that do this, so you’ll need to reserve your vehicle early. We missed out on this opportunity because we booked too late.
Psst! If you’re taking this route, you won’t want to miss our guide to the best things to do in Galway!

What you pack will vary a bit depending on whether you’re camping in a tent or an RV, but here are a handful of items we were very happy we packed:

Psst! If you’re planning on renting a van, we’ve got a list of campervan essentials just for you!

Random items

Packing cubes : Essential for keeping your van organized.
Dry bag : Crucial for keeping valuables dry in Ireland’s wet climate.
Reusable baggies : These come in super handy for snacks and storing small items.
Rain gear : Precipitation is pretty much a guarantee on a trip to Ireland, so don’t forget your rain gear. We each had rain jackets as well as these travel umbrellas , and we’re glad we had both for different purposes.

Rubber bands & chip clips : Trust us, you’ll need a way to keep those food bags closed so they don’t spill all over your car/campervan.
Garbage bags : Pack a couple of small garbage bags from home to keep your trash in one place.
Spices : We like bringing our own salt (sea salt or Himalayan), pepper grinder & cayenne, plus any others we feel like packing.
Snacks : Dried fruit, nuts, protein bars
Note: Our particular rental came with a French press, but most of our campervan rentals in the past have not had this, so look into what’s included with your rental.
Dehydrated meals (optional): These are a super quick meal idea and work great for a quick hot lunch or dinner.
Dr. Bronner’s biodegradable soap : To wash dishes.
Quick-dry towel
Body wipes: For a way to freshen up on days you don’t feel like showering
Dry shampoo
Hand sanitizer ( this one is our favorite! )
Mini First Aid Kit
Shower shoes (your normal flip flops will work fine): Trust us, you’ll need these for showering in campgrounds. You’ll thank us later!

Electronics

FYI, Ireland uses Type G plugs, the standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Portable battery pack : Keep your phone and other devices charged.
Inflatable solar lamp
During a camping trip in Iceland , our campervan battery died in the middle of nowhere during a torrential rainstorm. It took us hitchhiking to a nearby farm to find jumper cables. As soon as we got home, we bought this device and now we will always travel with it when we’re renting a car or campervan. We brought it to Ireland but thankfully didn’t need to use it!

Be sure to download our complete packing list for Ireland ! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your Ireland trip. And it’s completely FREE , so why not!?

Ireland Campsite Map

The map above shows all of the best campsites in Ireland so you can easily figure out where each is located and map the distance to major attractions.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the most highly-rated Ireland campsites broken down by region so you can flag the ones that would work best for your Ireland camping trip.

County Kerry

If you plan on driving the Ring of Kerry , here are our top suggestions for camping along the route:

Kerry Cliffs Camping : This isn’t advertised as a campground very well, but while at the Kerry Cliffs we saw signs that said they allow campers. We parked our motorhome in a grassy field that we had all to ourselves for €20 for the night. Smaller vehicles could drive further up the cliffs for some pretty epic views. While there were no facilities to fill or dump our tanks, it was a perfect place to camp for the night. Plus, we got access to the Kerry Cliffs after they closed to the public (at 7:30 p.m.) and before they opened in the morning (9:30 a.m.).
Personal note: We traveled to this area on a holiday weekend and Fleming’s required a 5-night stay, so we stayed at Fossa Caravan Park (which is a 10-minute drive from town). Unfortunately, we do not recommend staying there unless you have no other options!
Insider Tip: Check out the nearby Sneem Seaweed Baths for a relaxing soak!
Glenberg Camping Park : Better for campervans than tenting, this campground is situated just above a beautiful, sandy beach and has basic but clean facilities.

County Donegal

Sliabh Liag Camping : Right next to the Slieve League Visitor Centre and just a short hike from the lookoff, this campground offers spectacular views, hot showers, and an attentive host.
Killybegs Holiday Park : The tiered layout of this campground built in an old quarry is like stadium seating for RVs, so everyone gets a view and there are grassy oceanfront spots for tents.

County Cork

Eagle Point Camping : A large, well-maintained campground in a beautiful waterfront setting with generous, well-spaced pitches and a small playground.
Mountain Forge Escape : Caravan, tenting, and glamping options by the sea. Clean showers (with no timer!), a fully-equipped kitchen area, and a nearby playground make this a perfect campground for families.

County Clare

Green Acres Camping Park : Peaceful seaside campground with grassy tent pitches, hardstanding RV sites, and all-season mobile homes, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and passing boats.

County Mayo

Clifden Eco Beach Camping : This site was recommended to us by our Irish friends, and wow – it looks stunning! With ocean views, beach access, glamping options, rave reviews, and some great restaurants nearby (check out Dooncastle Oyster Trailer ), this is one of the very best campgrounds in all of Ireland!

County Westmeath

Lough Ree East Caravan And Camping : If you need a place to camp in the center of the country, this lakeside campground is a great choice. We spent the night here when making our way back from Galway to Dublin, and it was great. The sunset over the water was wonderful, and if you get there early, there are some pretty sweet spots to choose from.

County Wicklow

Tip : Be sure to check out nearby Beyond the Trees , which is one of the most unique things to do in Ireland !

Campsites in Northern Ireland

Maddybenny Campsite : A unique tent & caravan park on a farm, so you can hang out with the horses and the… peacock?! Conveniently located close to the Giant’s Causeway, beaches, and coastal walks.
Millstone Caravan Park : Despite being less than an hour from Belfast, this seaside campground has a private, peaceful vibe. Though it’s close to the main road, the trees help muffle any traffic sounds.
Slieve Croob Camping : Located in the heart of the rolling green Dromara Hills, this campground looks like a postcard. The large field lets you spread out and have your own space and there are showers, toilets, and dishwashing facilities onsite.

Best glamping in Ireland

If you like the idea of camping, but like a little added comfort (or you aren’t planning to rent a motorhome), glamping can be a great option.

It really is the best of both worlds and combines nature with a little dash of luxury, and there are all sorts of glamping opportunities across Ireland.

The most common glamping accommodations you’ll find in Ireland are pods, but you’ll also see some yurts, teepees, and treehouses.

Psst! If you’re interested, we put together an ultimate guide to glamping in Ireland with all of the best stays and everything you need to know before you book.

Ireland’s glamping amenities vary drastically. Some accommodations may include electricity, heat, proper bathrooms, and even a hot tub, while others provide nothing more than a physical structure to sleep in.

Good to know: Sometimes glampers need to bring their own bed linens and cooking supplies, much like a traditional camping trip, so be sure to read the fine print before booking!

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

We’re creating lots of resources for travel in Ireland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ireland Travel Homepage for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

Ultimate 2-week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid!
Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!
Travel Insurance Comparison: Which is the Best Policy for You?

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a camping trip in Ireland and still have questions? Any tips or amazing campsites that we missed? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comment (1) on “ Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites ”

Excellent list! Very thorough. I haven’t gotten to Ireland yet–only as close as Scotland and England but I do plan on getting to County Kerry in the near future

Motorhoming and Campervanning in Ireland- The Ultimate Guide

Campervanning in Ireland- Complete guide for touring Ireland in a motorhome or campervan

Planning to visit Ireland with a motorhome or campervan? Want to get some tips for places to visit, where to stay, routes to take and more? Here’s everything you need to know about motorhoming or campervanning in Ireland.

Don’t forget to download your FREE motorhome travel checklist below to help you plan your Irish road trip.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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Campervanning in Ireland – why you should go!

As I write this, I’m sitting in my motorhome by a beach in the Republic of Ireland. Sure, it’s rainy, but that’s not detracting from the beauty of this country. It’s not called the Emerald Isle for nothing!

Put simple, Ireland is a beautiful place for a road trip. There’s so much history, beautiful roads and places to explore and plenty of hospitable places to find food and entertainment, both in Northern and Southern Ireland (which they prefer to call the Republic.)

You can of course explore Ireland using public transport, but it’s so much better if you have your own vehicle- whether that’s a motorhome or campervan (our preferred options), or a car, caravan or even motorbike.

One of the best things about being able to explore Ireland on a motorhoming holiday is that you can see the differences between the regions and really get a feel for the country in a short space of time. It can also make your trip cheaper if you can buy and prepare your meals instead of having to buy them all- not to mention being able to stay overnight at some breathtaking locations.

In this guide, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know to go motorhoming or campervanning in Ireland, including getting to Ireland from the UK (or elsewhere), planning your route, where to stay (motorhome campsites, alternatives or wild camping with your camper), some road trip ideas and places to visit, driving tips and other practical advice to help you have an amazing Irish road trip.

Don’t forget to grab your free motorhome travel checklist which will help you plan and organise everything you need.

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Motorhoming in Ireland- When to go

Like most of the UK, the best time for a road trip is probably between April and October if you’re just considering the weather.

However, remember that it’s called the ‘Emerald Isle’ because it’s so green… and it’s green because it rains. A lot. Expect rain at any time of the year (yet another reason to be glad of your own vehicle… you can hide inside if the weather turns!) Of course, there are some sunny days as well, and you’re most likely to get those during the summer.

July and August are the main school holidays, so everything will be a lot busier then AND prices for everything will be higher- ferries, campsites and even some attraction fees.

Other major events in Ireland include the Rugby Six nations at the beginning of the year (which is mainly centred on Dublin), The Gathering- a traditional dancing and music festival held each February in Kilkenny and St Patricks Day on 17th March each year- the entire country celebrates it with a passion (celebrations often last a week!)

There’s also the Galway Food Festival in April, the Taste of Dublin food festival in June and National Heritage Week at the end of August, as well as many others.

So there’s never a ‘bad’ time to visit Ireland. If you’re able to travel outside of school holidays we highly recommend it, and you’ll never forget a St Patrick’s Day in Dublin! (Actually, that’s not strictly true; friends of mine moved to Dublin with their kids and I’ve spent many St Patrick’s Days there- I can’t seem to remember much of them at all… ? )

motorhoming in Ireland - Complete guide for touring Ireland in a motorhome or campervan

Highlights of an Ireland campervanning holiday

Some of the best places to visit in Ireland with a campervan or motorhome include:

Cliffs of Moher – unbelievably dramatic
The Wild Atlantic Way- 1700 miles of dramatic coastline and traditional Irish culture
Giants Causeway (Northern Ireland)
Dark Hedges road- famous as a Game of Thrones filming location . You can drive down it, but not in a motorhome!
Dublin- one of our favourite cities in Europe
The Ring of Kerry- one of the best road trips in Ireland
The Rock of Cashel- Ireland’s most visited Heritage site
Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone
Dunmore Head- mainland Ireland’s most westernmost point
Torc waterfall- one of the best waterfalls in Europe

Talking of TV shows and movies, here are some of the biggest which were shot in Ireland:

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Cliffs of Moher, Lemon Rock)
Star Wars: The Force Awakens/The Last Jedi (Skellig Michael island)
Braveheart (yes, I know it’s about Scotland!)- Bective Abbey, Curragh Plains, Trim Castle)
Saving Private Ryan Ballinesker Beach- the setting for the D-Day landings in opening 20 minutes
The Princess Bride (Cliffs of Moher)
Game of Thrones (see some guided tours here )

Of course, there are MANY other incredible locations and places to visit in Ireland- we can’t possibly list them all.

If you enjoy reading books before a trip, here are some we recommend:

Take the Slow Road: Ireland: Inspirational Journeys Round Ireland...

See more fun and practical motorhoming books we recommend reading

Getting to Ireland from Britain with a motorhome or camper

Ok, before we go any further, let’s clear up the confusion.

Northern Ireland IS part of the UK. The Republic of Ireland is not
The Republic of Ireland is in the EU. Northern Ireland is not
Great Britain (or Britain) refers to the landmass of England, Scotland and Wales
The British Isles is the UK AND the Republic of Ireland (plus the Channel Islands, Scilly Isles and thousands of other small islands.) There’s an excellent article explaining it all here

However, even knowing all that, many people (myself included!) incorrectly say going from the UK to Ireland, when they mean from Britain. So, my apologies should I make that error elsewhere.

Crossing from Northern Ireland to Southern Ireland

To get to Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland you… drive across the border. It used to be incredibly easy- it’s now a little harder thanks to BREXIT, but it’s still just a matter of driving south. There will be a border to cross and you’ll need to carry all the correct documents. Depending on your route, there may be a toll charge.

Getting to Ireland by Ferry from rest of the UK

For the rest of the UK (otherwise known as Britain!), if you want to take your own motorhome or campervan across to Ireland, you’ll need to get on a ferry. There are a few ferry routes to choose from:

Holyhead to Dublin (Irish Ferries)
Pembroke to Rosslare (Irish Ferries)
Liverpool to Dublin (P&O Ferries)
Cairnryan to Larne (P&O Ferries)
Cairnryan to Belfast (Stena Line)
Liverpool to Belfast (Stena Line)
Holyhead to Dublin (Stena Line)
Fishguard to Rosslare (Stena Line)

Getting to Ireland from France

There are also ferries which go directly from France to Ireland.

Cherbourg to Dublin which usually runs 3 times weekly (Irish Ferries)
Cherbourg to Rosslare once per week (Brittany Ferries)
Roscoff to Cork twice weekly (Brittany Ferries)
Roscoff to Rosslare once weekly (Brittany Ferries)
Cherbourg to Rosslare which runs three times a week (Stena Line)

Travelling around Ireland

Once you’re over in Ireland, whether it’s North or South, the road system is very good and easy to navigate. We’ll talk more about the rules, speed limits and other things to know shortly.

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

Tour Europe in a Motorhome; Motorhome Europe Travel

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

Hiring a motorhome to tour Ireland

Of course, if you don’t have or want to pay to take your vehicle to Ireland, or you’re travelling from further away, the easiest option is to fly in to Ireland and rent a motorhome or campervan to use during your stay. Just make sure to ask how to get from the airport to the rental agency- not all of them are at the airport itself and you might need to book a taxi.

The biggest airports in Ireland are:

Dublin Airport – east coast
Cork Airport – south coast
Shannon Airport – west coast (near Limerick)
Knock Airport – mid/ north West (but still in the Republic of Ireland)
Belfast Airport – in Northern Ireland

To rent a vehicle in Ireland you must:

be at least 21 years old, although many hire car companies have a minimum age of 25 (certain car categories may require older)
There may be restrictions for over 70s as well
have had a driving licence for more than one year
show identification (identity card for EU citizens or a valid passport for other nationalities)

You can expect to pay around £100/ day for a campervan in June out of peak season- be sure to ask the right questions so you know what to expect from your motorhome or campervan rental

Bear in mind that you might need to pay an additional fee to drive from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland (or vice versa) so check with your hire company before you book.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the driver, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Campervan rules in Ireland- what gear you need to carry

Things you need to carry to legally drive in ireland.

You’ll be pleased to know that, unlike motorhoming in France or much of the rest of Europe, Ireland is similar to the rules in the UK, so there are very few things you LEGALLY have to carry (although we recommend them anyway.) There are:

UK sticker attached to the back of vehicle or reg plates (and trailer if you have one)
A spare wheel (and tools to change it!), or a tyre repair kit.
If you wear glasses you MUST carry a spare pair
Crash helmets are mandatory for motorbike/ moped riders and passengers

NOTE: Hi-vis reflective jackets , Warning triangles and Headlight beam converters (if you have a UK vehicle) are not required in Ireland. If you have a European vehicle (ie- you normally drive on the right), you will need headlight converters.

Runmeihe® UK Magnetic Car Sticker, 8PCS Fully Magnetic Extra...

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What documents do you need to road trip in Ireland?

If you’re driving in Ireland, you need to carry the following documents:

Passport (or identity card)
Driving licence (check it is in date!)
Motorhome Insurance documents- check you are covered for driving in Europe
Breakdown cover
Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
Trailer certification
Green card (get from your vehicle insurer)
International Driving Permit if required
Personal travel insurance

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Ireland?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in Ireland, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

You might need one if you have:

a paper driving licence only
a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

(If you do need an IDP, here’s an in-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permit and which one(s) you need from a UK post office.

Touring Ireland in a campervan- Other useful things you might need

We’ve been touring Europe in our motorhome for several years. We’ve tried all sorts of kit- some useful, some not so much.

Here is a list of things we highly recommend when motorhoming in Ireland, but which are NOT essential:

Motorhome WiFi – learn our favourite way to get internet on the road
Toll pass (see below)
TV- If you’d like TV in your motorhome or camper , here’s how to get it.
Motorhome sat-nav – get one you can enter your motorhome dimensions into, like these
Motorhome security camera – this thing is GOLD for allowing us to go exploring and leave the van for a short time.
Solar panel- perfect if you want to wild camp in Ireland with your motorhome
Inverter- a motorhome wild camping essential
An awesome motorhoming logbook to record and remember your adventures!

Motorhome Stopovers and Overnight camper parking in Ireland

Like most countries in Europe, there are several types of places where you can stop with your motorhome or campervan overnight in Ireland.

Free/ approved motorhome parking schemes
Wild Camping (we’ll talk more about the legality of that shortly)

Motorhome Campsites in Ireland

Campsites in Ireland are much like other campsites anywhere around the UK or Europe. Some are all-singing and dancing, with pools, entertainment and more, while others are more basic (and usually cheaper!) It’s pretty easy to find a campsite near to you or near to where you are going, especially if you’re a member of club or have a book!

You normally don’t need to book in advance unless you’re visiting in peak season or during a festival (or over St Patrick’s weekend. Also, if you’re a member of one of the UK’s biggest motorhome clubs , they have some sites in Ireland which you can book through their systems.

Be aware that many campsites close for winter, some as early as September and don’t re-open until Easter. So do your research, especially if you’re travelling out of season.

TOP TIP: If you can travel outside peak times, use your ACSI Camping Card to reduce the cost of campsite stays

Aires in Ireland

Ireland, like the UK, does not have ‘aires’ in the same way you might be used to if motorhoming in France , Germany or Italy.

An aire is just an approved overnight motorhome parking area which isn’t a campsite. Ireland DOES have many places where motorhomes and campervans can stay overnight- with permission. But they don’t work in the same way as aires.

Approved overnight motorhome parking

There are several schemes which connect motorhomers and campervanners who don’t want to stay in campsites every night to businesses and places happy to allow overnight parking (usually without facilities). This is in exchange for you buying some of their products or services, such as a meal in a restaurant.

Safe Nights Ireland

One such scheme is Safe Nights Ireland – which has over 350 locations around Northern and Southern Ireland. You can join the scheme for just 15€ a year and get access to any places which are part of the scheme.

Pub Overnight Stops in Ireland

Pubs are a great option for a free overnight parking stop if you’re already going to eat at them. Many of them will allow motorhomes and campervans to stay overnight in their car parks (some even allow caravans). Obviously, this is only for the night- you probably wouldn’t be able to stay there for a week, although I suppose there’s no harm in asking!

READ MORE: How we find places for free overnight motorhome stopovers

Wild camping in Ireland for motorhomes and campers

Is wild camping for motorhomes and campervans allowed in Ireland? The legal answer is no- you’re not allowed to stay anywhere with a motorised vehicle apart from on approved campsites, unless you have the landowners permission.

However, in reality, many people do motorhome wild camping all over Ireland and rarely have a problem.

There is a difference between ‘camping’ and ‘overnight parking’. Many people (us included) incorrectly refer to parking up overnight somewhere as motorhome wild camping, instead of overnight parking.

Overnight parking is parking up for one night and then moving on again in the morning. No awnings, outdoor furniture, BBQs, motorhome generators , washing lines or anything OUTSIDE the vehicle. In many remote places, if you arrive late in the afternoon and leave early-ish in the morning, you’ll be absolutely fine to stay overnight, unless there’s a clear sign banning motorhomes or campers overnight.

For tips on how to park overnight without upsetting local residents or drawing unwanted attention, read our complete guide to motorhome overnight parking (which we call wild camping. Sorry)

Wild Camping is a different matter, and is forbidden in Ireland. You will probably be asked to move on and/ or fined by the Police if you look like you are camping with your van.

Remember, you can always ask if you’re allowed to stay. The Irish are incredibly hospitable and if you’re polite and respectful, they’re very likely to allow you to stay without issue (especially if you’ve just paid money to them for something!)

Motorhome wild camping guides for the UK & Europe

For information on how to find good wild camping places, WHAT to do when you’re there and how to stay safe, check out our step-by-step guide for motorhome wild camping in the UK and Europe, complete with database of 250+ overnight spots we’ve stayed with our motorhome.

Don’t forget to grab your free wild camping checklist here

Motorhome and campervan service points in Ireland

Unlike in Europe, there are very few places to discharge waste and water and refill with fresh water apart from on the campsites. For this reason, it’s worth booking into a campsite for a night every few days, in order to use its services.

Some campsites will allow you to pay a small fee and use the services without paying for an overnight stop- you’l have to ask as you go.

Driving tips for Ireland

Some useful tips for driving in Ireland, whatever your vehicle. Ireland has a fairly good road network, especially around the major towns and cities. However, some of the smaller rural roads can be VERY narrow and many are marked as unsuitable for larger vehicles, like motorhomes.

Often, these small roads are single track, and have passing places. These are places to pull in to let another vehicle go past from the other direction, NOT somewhere to park up and go for a walk.

Also, expect slow-moving farm vehicles on these roads- it can take a while to get anywhere and no-one in Ireland is in much of a hurry. So don’t over-estimate how far you can travel in one day. Also, expect sheep, cows and other animals to wander out into the road in front of you at any moment.

Drive on the left (like in the UK, the opposite to most of Europe)
Stay to the left on roads with more than one lane and overtake on the right.
At roundabouts and junctions, traffic already on the road and coming from the right has priority.
Motorways are marked with an ‘M’
Seatbelts are compulsory for front and rear passengers
All children up to 135 cms in height or up to 12 years of age, must use a suitable child seat (Northern Ireland)
Handsfree kits are required if using a mobile phone
Devices warning of speed cameras are forbidden
Dipped headlights are to be used during poor visibility.
Motorcycles must use dipped headlights during the day at all times.

Speed Limits in Ireland

IMPORTANT: The Republic of Ireland drives in km/h (like most of Europe). Northern Ireland drives in mph (like the rest of the UK). If you change the settings on your motorhome sat-nav , remember to change it if you cross the border!

Breaking the speed limit in either Northern or Southern Ireland will result in a fixed penalty and/ or penalty points on your driving licence.

On the spot fines are rare, but it is possible to be pulled over by the police force for speeding and given a fixed penalty notice and/ or plus a £100 fine.

Republic of IRELAND

Speed Limits for vehicles under 3.5t are as follows (unless otherwise signed!)

Motorways- 120km/h (74mph)
National roads/ dual carriageways- 100 km/h (62 mph)
Regional roads- 80km/h (50mph)
Built up areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Speed limits for vehicle OVER 3.5t

Motorways/ – 90 km/h (55 mph)
National roads/ dual carriageways- 80 km/h (50 mph)

Speed limits in Northern Ireland

Motorways/ – 70 mph (
National roads/ dual carriageways- 60mph
Built up areas- 30 mph (50kph)

Speed cameras in Ireland

There are both static and mobile speed cameras in Ireland. The mobile ones are mostly in vans which are moved around as the Irish police force (Garda Síochána) see fit.

Drink driving laws

The Republic of Ireland has stricter drink driving laws than Northern Ireland, only allowing 50 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood (the UK and Northern Ireland is 80). As always, don’t drink and drive. If you are a new or a professional driver, the levels are even lower.

Tolls in Ireland

There are currently no toll roads in Northern Ireland.

There are 11 toll roads in the Republic of Ireland- not as many as you might be used to in France (and luckily not as expensive as Norway! ) You can see where they are here .

You can pay for the tolls using cash at the toll plazas (cards are accepted at a few but not all). Alternatively, you can sign up for a TollTag account and that will charge you as you drive.

The only road where you cannot pay as you drive is the M50. The M50 works a bit like a Dartford Tunnel- you need to pay for using it by 8pm the following day. You can pay at many garages and shops in the area, but the easiest way is online here.

If you are renting a vehicle, you will need to ask them how to pay for tolls/ the M50 but its common for you to need to pay yourself.

Petrol/ Diesel in Ireland

There are plenty of fuel stations across Ireland. As with everywhere, you’ll find the prices slightly higher on the motorways.

Petrol is Unleaded (95 / 98) – Green handles on pump

Diesel has black or yellow handles on pump

Some places are 24h pay at the pump, but may require you to go into the shop and pay the cashier either in advance or after you’ve filled up- there will be a sign to tell you what to do. (Leave your car in front of the pump and make a note of the pump number.)

You can pay using cash or a credit card. Many places do NOT take American Express. You can use your UK cards without a problem.

Parking in Ireland

Many places which allow parking during the day or night require payment. Usually you need to pay at the ticket machine display your parking ticket in the windscreen. Not doing this is likely to result in a fine.

Parking is prohibited when the road is marked with a red line or a double yellow line.

A disadvantage of a campervan in Ireland is that parking in cities and towns can be tough- many places have height barriers of around 2.5m (and most vans and motorhomes are taller than that!) Therefore, you would need to find on-street parking in the town, which can be difficult. Alternatively, park up or use a campsite nearby and use public transport to get in.

Getting LPG in Ireland

LPG (GPL) can be found at selected petrol stations and at autogas stations. If buying from a petrol station, you may need to wait for an attendant to turn the system on for you.

You can find places which sell LPG using MyLPG.eu Ireland mostly uses the ACME connector.

LEARN MORE: Learn how we find LPG in Europe for our motorhome

More useful things to know when campervanning in Ireland

Some more tips to help you enjoy your time touring in Ireland.

Emergency Numbers: 112 will get you everything. 999 works as well.

Language – Irish Gaelic and English

Currency – Euros in the Republic of Ireland, GBP (British Pound) in Northern Ireland

Cards – most major credit and debit cards are accepted. American Express is only taken in large stores (often not at fuel stations)

Timezone – GMT (or the same as Britain) Ireland follows Britain in terms of moving forwards or backwards for summer time

Mobile Phone and Internet – You should be able to use your UK mobile and data without any issue in Ireland. If in doubt, check with your provider before you travel.

Tipping- It’s normal to leave around 10-15% of your bill as a tip after eating a meal in a restaurant. A tip for a barman is always appreciated (and can get you access to some hidden whiskies!) Tips for cab drivers and other services are also appreciated.

Shops – Neither Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland are particularly expensive in terms of food or goods- it’s about on par with the rest of the UK and you’ll see many of the same shops, especially in Northern Ireland. Tesco and Lidl are common.

The Republic of Ireland is staunchly Catholic and you may find many shops closed on Sundays and religious days. Some of the larger supermarkets and garages may be open for a few hours. Most shops close between 5pm-7pm during the week- supermarkets may be open as late as 10pm.

Northern Ireland follows the UK, so shops are often open 10-4pm on Sundays and close between 5pm-7pm during the week.

Campervanning in Ireland- security

Ireland, like the UK, has good areas and not-so-good areas in terms of crime rates. Vehicle break-ins do happen, as do petty theft and pickpocketing.

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your motorhome security when travelling in Ireland. You might even wish to fit an extra camper habitation door lock and never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecure area.

READ MORE: Essential tips for protecting your van at home and on the road

Touring Ireland with a dog

Sadly, both Northern and the Republic of Ireland are not particularly dog-friendly, although some areas are better than others. Most places do not allow dogs into restaurants, cafes or pubs, although they do allow you to sit outside.

You might be allowed to take them on a train, but most buses ban all but the smallest lap dogs. They are allowed on beaches out of season, but during summer they are banned.

Having said all that, there are some INCREDIBLE places to walk your dog, so if you’re not fussed about eating out or using public transport, then you’ll have no problem with your dog in Ireland.

Getting to Ireland from Britain with a dog

Now that BREXIT has been and gone, the rules for entering Ireland with a dog have changed.

In order for your dog to travel into Ireland, you will need:

A Microchip
A rabies vaccination (you must wait 21 days before travel)
An Animal Health Certificate (or Pet Passport for European pets)
A Tapeworm treatment, administered 1-5 days before travel by an approved vet. (Note: you do NOT need tapeworm for going from Ireland to Britain)

You shouldn’t need to do anything to take your pet from Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland, or vice versa. For the most up-to-date information, check the Deara website

Using a Drone in Ireland

You can use a drone in Ireland, but there are certain things you need to do first.

READ MORE: What’s the best travel drone (and how to choose)

To use your drone in Ireland you need to register here (unless your drone weighs less than 250g!) If you do not do that, you must not fly higher than 15 meters.

Drones and similar remote-controlled flying devices must be kept at least a minimum 30m from people, vehicles and buildings that are not connected with the drone operator. Flying must happen in daylight only, below 120m and never fly closer than 5km to airports. The drone must always remain within the sight of the operator.

Please check for local regulations and military or other special restricted areas where all the aforementioned activities are forbidden by law.

Ferry or Eurotunnel- which is best? (Driving to Europe road trip tips)

Motorhome / Caravan speed stickers- do you need them?

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Motorhome Towing – Your Complete Guide

Crossing the Millau Viaduct in a Motorhome

Motorhoming & Campervanning in France- Your Complete Guide

Click Here For The Glamping Business Academy »

Ireland road trip – best places to visit and go camping.

From exclusive luxury to rustic charm, Ireland’s great outdoors has something for everyone. This amazing country has attracted pioneering adventurers for centuries, who travel there for its abundance of stunning natural beauty and ample exploration opportunities. Nowadays, more and more people are booking Irish camping holidays—not only to save money but also to embrace mother earth’s bounty.

There really is no better way to embrace your ‘wild-side’ than spending time at one with nature. The variety of Ireland’s camping spots is pronounced. Whether you’re after a glamorous glamping experience, an eco-friendly retreat or an outdoorsy digital detox for all the family, you’ll find something for you on the Emerald Isle.

Please remember, most land in Ireland is owned by someone so, if you opt to go wild camping, always seek the landowner’s permission and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace .

Top Camping Spots in Ireland

Source: radoherty

Here’s a flavour of some of the best places to go camping in Ireland this year:

1. Pure Camping

County clare.

An eco getaway in Querrin, near Kilkee , this site is a 15-minute walk from a gorgeous shingle beach. You can either bring your own tent or camper van, use a pre-pitched one, book into a bell tent—kitted out with bed and stove, or head into the woods for some wild camping. You’ll find a communal dome for escaping bad weather and the kids will love the donkeys, dogs, cats and hens.

A relaxing sauna and daily yoga is available. Solar showers, rainwater harvesting and discounts for cyclists add to the eco-friendly vibe.

Tent pitches start at €9 per night and €4.50 per child; furnished glamping accommodation starts at €55 per night.

2. Rock Farm

Slane, county meath.

For a dose of camping indulgence coupled with a romantic ambience, head to Rock Farm, county Meath to let your hair down in an idyllic forest setting. Ideal for a lovers’ weekend retreat, this site, set among ancient trees, offers double beds in yurts and shepherd’s huts, or bell tents for groups—where mattresses on the floor are made up with pristine linen.

The spot is situated within walking-distance of Slane Castle: the venue of the internationally acclaimed Slane Concert . (Pictured below: Slane Hill.)

Perfect for those who want to connect with nature but don’t want to leave the comforts of home, Rock Farm is a great ‘way-in’ regarding outdoor holidays. On-site activities include kayaking, electric biking and tree climbing. Glamping accommodation starts at €40 per person.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

3. Fin Lough Forest Domes

County fermanagh.

These forest domes, featuring 180° transparent walls, bring you closer to nature than ever before, while you lie in a comfortable four-poster bed. Witness bats flying overhead and spot the constellations in a cosy, outdoor setting.

Sleeping under the stars is magical; it’s one of the most alluring things about camping. In this quirky accommodation, you can enjoy celestial wonders and the forest’s midnight splendour.

The site also has a spa called the Element Trail Experience. It ‘was designed to reward guests for their physical efforts exploring the rugged beauty of the Fermanagh and Donegal landscape.’ Domes cost from €234 (£195) per night for two people.

Source: Free-Photos

4. Coomshanna Wild Camping

County kerry.

This spot is one of the many true wild-camping spots designated by Coillte: Ireland’s state-owned forestry business . (As with all wild camping in Ireland, ensure that you’re not trespassing on anyone’s land when you pitch your tent here.)

This particular spot is a flat area with a stream running nearby. The relaxing sounds of the water will make the ideal soundtrack to your holiday. From your tent, you’ll get breathtaking views over Dingle Bay (pictured below).

No fires are permitted and Leave No Trace rules apply. Near the site, you can visit the Glenesk Viaduct, between Glenbeigh and Cahirciveen, not far from Kells Bay.

Source: Ireland Information

Top Places to Visit in Ireland

On your epic Irish road trip, you’re bound to want to see some awe-inspiring locations along the way. Luckily Ireland is teeming with areas of spectacular natural beauty, UNESCO world heritage sites and historical spectacles. Read on to discover our top three must-see sights in Ireland:

1. The Ring of Kerry

Source: Alex Ranaldi

Perhaps the most scenic of Ireland’s tourist trails, the Ring of Kerry, spans 120 miles of southwestern Ireland’s most impressive landscapes and coastline. For many people around the world, this area of Ireland epitomises their image of the nation: ancient monuments, idyllic castles, spectacular gardens and colourful towns and villages.

Here, the idealised view of Ireland as a green and pleasant land becomes reality. Windswept outcrops, stunning lakes, rolling hills and plunging cliffs abound in this delectable stretch of fairytale-inducing land.

2. The Giant’s Causeway

Source: Giuseppe Milo

Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO world heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway is proof that only natural wonders provide the most dramatic tourist attractions. This coastal area of about 40,000 polygonal basalt columns, near the town of Bushmills in County Antrim, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

Be bowled over by the immense scale of the site and imagine the Irish giant, Finn MacCool, who, as Irish folklore has it, created the causeway in a bid to fight a rival Scottish giant named Benandonner.

In reality, the causeway was formed by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago—not quite as fantastical then!

3. Skellig Islands

Reminiscent of a swashbuckling Hollywood film set, the Skellig Islands are a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site and worthy side trip from the popular Ring of Kerry tourist trail.

Majestic and stoic, these precipitous islands proudly rise up from the ocean’s surface like the tip of an iceberg. As they are incessantly buffeted by the Atlantic ocean, birds of all types soar around the islands’ cliffs and rich waters. Look out for Gannets, Guillemots, Cormorants, Razorbills and, if you’re lucky, even Puffins.

Rugged and steep like the Himalayan mountains, Skellig Michael, the larger of the two islands (pictured below), is home to an ancient monastic complex perched on a 230-meter high cliff top.

Climb a hair-raising 600 steps to reach the monastery—this isn’t one for those with a fear of heights!

(Feature image: Christian_Birkholtz)

What are you looking for?

Our ultimate 2 week ireland road trip itinerary.

In June and July 2019, we embarked on perhaps our most epic road trip to date ...

A 2 week, Ireland road trip that literally took us EVERYWHERE!

Instead of driving a few hours a day and seeing perhaps just a small part of the country, we took it upon ourselves to plan the most full-on Irish road trip possible.

In just 16 days, we did a full loop of Ireland , starting and finishing at the Spaceships Rentals site just outside Dublin.

The total we drove over 3,000km, making our way through 26 out of the 32 Irish counties, and seeing all of the top sites we wanted to see.

This included driving almost all of the famous Wild Atlantic Way, all of the Ring of Kerry and seeing about 40 castles along the way.

If you are planning your own road trip around Ireland, then this full-on 2 week Ireland itinerary should give you everything you need to help you plan your own epic trip .

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck into day 1 …

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

Interactive map of our Ireland road trip itnerary

Travellerspoint

Ireland road trip video

Day 1: Dublin to Wexford

We arrived at Dublin airport in the morning and immediately set off north to the Spaceships Rentals pick-up point, located about a 40 minute drive from the airport.

For the next 2weeks this would be our little home, carrying us a total of 3,338km (2,074 miles) around Ireland.

Our first stop was the Powerscourt House & Gardens , located just south of Dublin city, after travelling around the busy ring road.

What’s nice is that, once we got off this busy toll road, that is the last of bad motorway traffic we saw in Ireland!

Much of the country is still made up of uncluttered country roads, which is the best way to discover the Emerald Isle.

Dublin isn’t actually a part of our 2 week itinerary, as we have visited for a few days before.

But it is certainly worth adding in 2 days here either at the start or end of your Ireland itinerary.

By far the best part of the day was spent driving through the Wicklow National Park and stopping off at Glendalough.

We continued on our way south, stopping off for a bit in Wicklow, before driving on to Carnavan Bay, about a 40 minute drive from Wexford.

This ended up being one of my top 5 favourite wild camping spots in Ireland , and we had ourselves a BBQ whilst watching the sun slowly set over the cliffs whilst laying in our bed.

Quick day 1 itinerary:

Picked up our Delta campervan van from Spaceships Campervan Rentals
Visited Powerscourt House & Gardens
Drove through Wicklow Mountain National Park (including Sally Gap & Glendalough)
Stopped off in Wexford
Camped down by Carnavan Bay

Total Drive Time:

Useful guides:.

‍ Hiring A Campervan In Ireland - Everything You Need To Know ‍
The Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)

Day 2: Wexford to Cashel

After a good old fashioned fry up, we made our way over to the famous Hook Lighthouse , widely regarded as the oldest operating lighthouse in the world.

The coastal drive here is lovely, and once we arrived at Hook Lighthouse, we found out that it’s possible to wild camp right next to the lighthouse in a big car park on the edge of cliffs.

So, if you’re in the area and looking for somewhere to spend the night, then you should definitely give this a go; there are lots of other campervans that regularly use the spot.

We then made our way northwards towards Waterford, a quaint little town that had one sight we were in dire need of visiting … Tesco!

After stocking up on supplies and checking out Waterford, it was time to head up to Kilkenny.

This is a lovely classic town with old-fashioned buildings, cobbled streets and lots of tourist-oriented Irish bars.

Definitely a great place to spend a day or two.

But the best sight by far here is Kilkenny Castle; we made ourselves some salads and sat on the large lawn outside having lunch whilst enjoying views of the castle … perfection.

Our final stop of the day was the incredible Rock of Cashel.

You’ve probably seen pictures of this castle before, and it’s possibly Ireland’s most famous castle.

Built hundreds of years ago it was where kings of Ireland resided for generations.

The best views of the Rock of Cashel are from far away, most notably the road towards Cashel if you're coming from Killarney.

Sure, inside is nice, but I wish we'd taken more time to experience the Rock of Cashel from far away as that is when it’s at its most inspiring.

That night we camped at Apple Camping & Caravan Park , which turned out to be the best campsite from our whole trip!

You get free homemade apple juice for every guest, and you can go strawberry picking there (honest to God, these were the best strawberries we had in all of Ireland!).

Quick day 2 itinerary:

Stopped off at Hook Lighthouse
Drove through Waterford
Went north to Kilkenny and had lunch at Kilkenny Castle
Explored the famous Rock of Cashel
Camped at Apple Camping & Caravan Park

Useful Guide:

‍ The Best Things To Do In Tipperary (Ireland)

Day 3: Cashel to Blarney

Our first and most surprising stop of the day was Cahir Castle.

I hadn’t seen this castle mentioned very much before our visit and merely thought it would be a fleeting visit.

But in the end, we loved it!

It’s one of the nicest and best-preserved castles to visit in Ireland , and the town of Cahir is a great wee place as well.

After this, we embarked on what ended up being one of the best drives from all over Ireland!

The route from Cahir to Lismore takes you through winding Irish roads right up through mountains until you reach a point called The Vee.

The views from here really were incredible, and we were blessed to have a warm, sunny day to enjoy them.

From there, we visited Lismore Castle, once again one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles.

You are only able to walk the grounds as the castle itself is still a full-time residence, but the lawn outside proved to be the perfect lunch spot.

From there, we headed on further south to the popular port town of Cobh, home to The Titanic Experience .

This is built at the site of the old White Star Line ticket office and it is here that the last passengers boarded the Titanic before its doomed voyage across to America.

Our stop in Cork city proved to be a bit damp, though we still enjoyed a couple of hours walking the streets and picking up some fresh ribs and chicken wings for the BBQ that night.

Camping in Cork is not possible, so we headed out to Blarney for the night so that we could arrive early to Blarney Castle.

Quick day 3 itinerary:

Went for a walk around Cahir Castle
Drove up to The Vee viewpoint
Had lunch in front of Lismore Castle
Enjoyed ice creams and walked around Cobh
Visited the Titanic Museum
Visited Cork just in time for the rain
Camped opposite The Huntsman pub
‍ The Best Things To Do In Cork (Ireland)

Day 4: Blarney to Castletown-Bearhaven

Blarney Castle was one of my most anticipated stops of the whole trip and I was super excited to kiss the Blarney Stone !

My grandparents have told me countless times of when they kissed the Blarney Stone many years ago, and it’s certainly a unique experience.

The grounds around the castle are wonderfully maintained, so I recommend taking an hour to explore these before leaving.

From here, we went south to Charles Fort, a spot we were very excited to use our travel drone ; however, on this day the skies were full of mist and we could barely see the fort, let alone the river below.

Kinsale is another lovely seaside town in Ireland, a place you could easily spend a few days exploring and relaxing in.

The rest of the day was spent enjoying the magnificent coastal drive all the way to Castletown-Bearhaven on the Beara peninsula.

On the way, we drove as close to Castlefreke castle as we could get, which was hard to track down but very worth it.

We spent that night camped in the town of Castletown-Bearhaven in one of the bays that the local council has set aside solely for campervan use.

It was a great spot, and we also made good use of the local pubs in town.

Quick day 4 itinerary:

Kissed the Blarney stone at Blarney Castle
Had lunch outside Charles Fort
Drove through the small town of Kinsale
Drove up to Castlefreke castle
Camped in Castletown-Bearhaven

Day 5: Castletown-Bearhaven to Killarney

This ended up being one of our most epic days from our Ireland road trip, completing the rest of the Beara peninsula and the whole of the Ring of Kerry as well!

Though the Ring of Kerry is the much more famous of the two, the Ring of Beara is better in many ways. It is uncrowded, and we went virtually the whole way without bumping into more than a dozen cars.

The landscape out near Allihies is extremely rugged and I loved the twisty, turning country roads.

But of course, the Ring of Kerry is famous for a reason and the 3 to 4 hours it took to get around it was a lot of fun.

Especially when you reach the Western tip and can enjoy the cliff views near Portmagee.

You pass through numerous villages and towns along the way, all of which you could happily stop in for lunch, dinner and a few pints of Guinness.

But the highlight of the day was our night spent in Killarney town; here, you will find some of the best Irish bars anywhere in Ireland.

It’s popular all days of the week with stag nights and hen nights and it’s no surprise why.

You’ll find at least a dozen bars blaring out live music and there is an incredible atmosphere.

Our favourite bars were:

Murphy’s Bar
O’Connors Pub

If you plan on doing the same, I recommend staying at Killarney Flesk Caravan & Camping Park which is cheap, has great facilities and is just a 20 minute walk from the centre of town.

Quick day 5 itinerary:

Drove all the way out to Allihies
Drove the whole Ring of Beara
Drove the entire Ring of Kerry
Spent the night out in Killarney town
Camped in Killarney Flesk Caravan & Camping Park
‍ The Best Things To Do In Kerry (Ireland)
‍ Driving The Ring Of Beara: What To See And Why You Should Do It! ‍
Driving The Ring Of Kerry: Everything You Need To Know!

Day 6: Killarney to Dingle

This was another one of my favourite days spent road tripping Ireland, as much of the day included touring Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Torc Waterfall are all lovely and worth a visit; but by far the best things to see are the Gap of Dunloe, Molls Gap and Ballaghbeama Gap.

As the guy who ran the campsite in Killarney put it …

“If Leprechauns were to live anywhere in Ireland, then the Gap of Dunloe is where you would find them.”

It is hands down the most magical and scenic part of Ireland and my favourite place to visit in Ireland.

We ended up driving the whole way through the Gap of Dunloe (not recommended or encouraged) and came out on the other side and spent a good couple hours driving through gorgeous valleys.

This is Ireland at its most scenic and if you were to roadtrip any part of Ireland, this is the part I would recommend most.

At the very least, you should take a few hours to walk the entire length of the Gap of Dunloe, as the scenery changes again and again, the further through it you walk.

By the way, the reason we drove through the Gap (which once again, you should try to avoid as it is an extremely narrow road) is because the road was closed south of Killarney and there was no other way for us to get through to Molls Gap.

If the roads were all open, the best approach would be to walk the Gap of Dunloe first thing in the morning and then afterwards head round to Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall and then carry on down that road to Molls Gap.

Afterwards, our route took us around Carrauntoohil (Ireland’s tallest mountain) and on up to the Dingle Peninsula.

After stopping off at Inch Beach and Minard Castle, we picked up some fish and chips and enjoyed them at our wild camping spot for the night, in a secluded layby right on the cliffs, just outside Dingle.

Quick day 6 itinerary:

Discovered the Killarney National Park
First stop of the day was Ross Castle
Took some time to walk around Muckross Abbey, House & Gardens
Headed on down to Torc Waterfall
Walked and then drove the legendary Gap of Dunloe
Found ourselves in Molls Gap
Headed on through Blackvalley
Drove through Ballaghbeama Gap
Headed on round Carrauntoohil
Went for a stroll on Inch Beach
Took some cool shots at Minard Castle
Picked up fish & chips in Dingle
Camped just up the road from Dingle
‍ The Best Things To Do In Dingle (Ireland) ‍
The Best Things To Do In Killarney (Ireland)

Day 7: Dingle to Limerick

The Dingle Peninsula ended up being just as magical as the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry.

When leaving Dingle, you enter what is called the Slea Head Drive; essentially a loop that takes you to the rest of the peninsula and back to Dingle.

The first stop we found was a small parking spot on the left, where you can park up and head over the road to pet and feed the sheep.

The spot isn't yet marked on Google Maps, so here are the coordinates: (52°06'30.5"N 10°23'34.9"W).

It’s just a few euros per person and you can feed sheep, horses, goats and even pigs!

And the setting is one of Ireland’s ancient neolithic sites.

The drive on round takes you to the popular Coumeenoole Beach and we decided to visit an old church in Kilmalkedar.

For lunch, we headed round to Brandon Point, where you can enjoy sweeping views all out across the Atlantic Ocean.

The rest of the day was spent driving on up to Kilteery Pier where we wild camped for the night.

Quick day 7 itinerary:

Drove the Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive
Found ourselves petting and feeding sheep at the Lios Stone Circle (52°06'30.5"N 10°23'34.9"W)
Boiled up some tea overlooking Coumeenoole Beach
Visited Kilmalkedar Church
Had lunch out at Brandon Point
Stopped off in Tralee for supplies
Camped at Kilteery Pier near Limerick

Day 8: Limerick to Doolin

On the way into Limerick, we stopped to get a few shots of Adare Manor before visiting King John’s Castle .

I won’t lie, it looks a lot better in the images, but is still worth a visit if you are passing by.

The rest of Limerick doesn’t seem to offer too much, but has a big high street, great for picking up supplies or grabbing a coffee and stealing some much-needed WiFi.

Bunratty and Dromoland Castle proved to be much nicer, with Dromoland being my favourite (mainly because of the gorgeous golf course located on its grounds!).

From there, we followed the coastal road (Wild Atlantic Way) and had some brief stops in Kilkee and Lahinch.

This drive is very nice and well worth it, but the stand out attraction of the day was Doonagore Castle.

We arrive as the sun was starting to go down and managed to capture some awesome shots on our drone.

We spent the night in a campsite in Doolin called O'Connor's Riverside Camping & Caravan Park ; and for dinner headed to the local pub for some cider, bangers & mash and a bit of traditional Irish music.

Quick day 8 itinerary:

Took some shots of Adare Manor
Went for a wander around Limerick
Took in King John’s Castle from the riverside
Had lunch outside Bunratty Castle
Drove up to Dromoland Castle and longed to play golf there
Stopped off in Kilkee and Lahinch
Had a great time photographing Doonagore Castle
Had dinner in a quaint, traditional pub in Doolin
Camped at O'Connor's Riverside Camping & Caravan Park in Doolin
‍ The Best Things To Do In Clare (Ireland)

Day 9: Doolin to Galway

We arose early for a morning visit to Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction … the Cliffs of Moher.

Few people come to Ireland without visiting the cliffs of Moher and it gets very busy at around 10am.

We got there an hour or so beforehand when there was hardly anyone around and had a great time walking along the cliffs and enjoying some of Ireland’s most extraordinary views.

Afterward, our route took us up into the Burren National Park, which is fascinating because the landscape is very unique and looks more like the Moon than Ireland.

On the drive through, you pass by Father Ted's house (if you don’t know what this is, then you’re missing out on some of the best classic Irish comedy!)

Our next stop was Galway, and on the way took a break at Dunguaire Castle.

We decided to camp in an area called Salthill, which was about an hours walk from Galway centre.

On this day, the weather must have been hitting almost 30 degrees and the skies were so clear we felt like we were strolling along beaches in the south of France!

In Galway town, you will find tonnes of great Irish pubs, serving up fresh pints, traditional music and great craic. I recommend stopping in at:

O’Connell’s Bar (The outdoor area is one of the best beer gardens EVER!)
The Front Door (One of just 5 bars in the same building!)
The Skeff Bar

Quick day 9 itinerary:

Walked along the Cliffs of Moher
Went for a stroll through Burren National Park
Snapped some cheeky shots of Father Ted’s House
Played frisbee in the grounds of Dunguaire Castle
Walked the promenade from Salthill into Galway
Had a night out in Galway
Camped at O'Hallorans Caravan Park in Salthill, Galway
‍ The Best Things To Do In Galway (Ireland)

Day 10: Galway to Roundstone

I planned this day to be a little shorter, as I figured I may be a little hungover from the night before.

So this day was a bit more chilled out and we didn’t get going until a bit later, which was nice!

Our first stop was Ashford Castle , possibly the best preserved and most renovated castle in Ireland.

When we were there, a helicopter was landing and then taking off from the helipad outside. Turns out you can stay here for about €800 a night and it is frequented by celebrities and millionaires.

As you leave Ashford Castle you pass through the town of Cong; this didn’t mean much to us at first but we later found out it’s famous for being the filming location of the 1952 movie Quiet Man starring John Wayne.

On our drive down to Roundstone, we took lengthy drives around Lough Mask and Lough Inagh.

They really are gorgeous, and the whole landscape is breathtaking; so allow plenty of time here for photo stops.

Read More: Our Top 23 Travel Photography Tips!

Our final major stop of the day was the 1897 Happening Statue which turned out to be built on one of Ireland’s most historic and important locations.

If you are interested in Irish history then this is a spot you simply cannot afford to miss on your Ireland road trip.

Finally, we spent the night wild camping on a small secluded pier called Glynsk Pier.

Quick day 10 itinerary:

Took a walk in the grounds of Ashford Castle
Headed out through Cong (for The Quiet Man museum)
Drove alongside Lough Mask and Lough Inagh
Was amazed by the “1897 Happening” statue
Camped at Glynsk Pier

Day 11: Roundstone to Achill Island

On the day we were here, there was a wedding at Ballynahinch Castle work we couldn’t get into the grounds.

However, there are spots along the river you can get out and view it, and it really is magnificent, with a river flowing the whole way down from the castle.

As you head further round the coast you come to Roundstone, another lovely little seaside village in Ireland.

We stopped off at Dog's Bay just further along, here you’ll find clear blue waters and a nice beach to walk along.

We stopped off in Clifden for a couple of hours so we could get some work done in a cafe and once again steal some much-needed WiFi.

The Abbeyglen Castle is located just on the outskirts of town and from there we went on to Connemara National Park.

At the Connemara National Park Visitor Centre you can choose from a few different walks to take; each one taking you higher up the mountain and offering better and better views.

Kylemore Abbey was a nice place to get out and walk, though we didn't take the longer route which allows you to visit the gardens as well.

This whole morning of driving is one of the best days of the whole Ireland itinerary, and one of the best spots to stop off and appreciate the views is the Misunderstood Heron.

It’s located right on the edge of a fjord stretching into Ireland and on a warm day, the views are unbeatable (oh, and the coffee isn’t too bad either).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Misunderstood Heron (@misunderstood_heron) on Jun 11, 2019 at 6:45am PDT

We arrived at Croagh Patrick an hour or so later after taking the longer coastal route up.

We didn’t walk up ourselves, as it’s a good few hours arduous climb up and down, but the views are meant to be spectacular!

It’s also a very important religious pilgrimage site, which you can read more about here .

Much of the rest of the day was spent finding somewhere to wild camp and we eventually found ourselves on Achill Island.

We picked up fish & chips from a spot just as you enter the island and found an incredible spot located right on the edge of a cliff!

This was one of my favourite camping spots from the entire trip.

Quick day 11 itinerary:

Tried to sneak some glimpses of Ballynahinch Castle
Ventured on round to the village of Roundstone
Had a dander at Dog’s Bay
Enjoyed a coffee in Clifden
Took some photos at Abbeyglen Castle
Walked in the Connemara National Park
Took in the beautiful Kylemore Abbey
Had coffee at the Misunderstood Heron
Stared up in awe at Croagh Patrick
Stopped in Westport
Drove on round to Achill Island
Camped on the edge of cliff on Achill Island

Useful Guide: ‍

‍ The Best Things To Do In Mayo (Ireland)

Day 12: Achill Island to Sligo

From Achill Island we headed north all the way up to Downpatrick Head.

When you check this out online, your first thought is probably “isn’t that just a bit of rock out in the water?”

Well, yes! But there’s more to see there than that, and it’s a great place to walk up around the cliffs, watch people fishing and to see old WW2 outposts.

Our next 2 stops were Markree Castle and Parkes Castle, with the latter being situated beside a lovely large lough.

The drive around here is once again spectacular and the most enjoyable part of the day.

From here, we headed into Sligo and then north around Benbulbin.

This is a large mountain which, from the right angle, looks as if it’s just standing there on its own.

We spent that night up in Mullaghmore, wild camping once again on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean.

Quick day 12 itinerary:

Walked around Downpatrick Head
Lusted after Markree Castle
Checked out the lake by Parkes Castle
Ventured into Sligo
Were impressed by the magnificent Benbulbin
Camped in Mullaghmore
Our 90 Top Travel Tips

Total Drive Time:

Day 13: sligo to mullaghderg beach.

After 3 nights of wild camping, we were in desperate need of a shower (as I’m sure you could imagine)!

So we headed across the border into Northern Ireland to a small village called Kesh.

From her years spent camping at nearby Lough Derg, Cazzy knew there were free public showers here we could use; and, no word of a lie, they were the best showers we found all over Ireland!

On the way, we visited Bundoran, which is a typical family seaside town.

For lunch, we stopped at Lough Derg at the same spot where Cazzy has been camping since she was young.

We then drove on up to Lough Eske Castle, which is a privately owned castle, which you can stay in and which was being used that day for a wedding.

Our stop in Donegal was short but sweet, as the town is surprisingly small, as is the castle.

The most impressive part of the day was Slieve League, which is a mountain situated right on the coast.

You can walk up it and on the way check out the grandiose cliffs; this is a very popular tourist spot and well worth a visit.

That night, we had our 4th night of wild camping at a small beach called Mullaghderg.

Quick day 13 itinerary:

Passed through Bundoran
Headed to Kesh for a cheeky free shower
Had lunch at Lough Derg
Checked out the expensive supercars at Lough Eske Castle
Took a walk around Donegal & Donegal Castle
Walked up to Slieve League
Camped at Mullaghderg Beach
‍ The Best Things To Do In Donegal (Ireland)

Day 14: Mullaghderg Beach to Derry

On your way up into Glenveagh National Park, you come across Errigal, which was in many ways the most impressive mountain in Ireland.

It stretches up into the clouds, completely separated and on its own, and is far more impressive than Carroutohill in Kerry, even though that’s the highest peak in Ireland.

You can then drive into Glenveagh National Park and walk to the Glenveagh Castle (which we weren’t able to do, unfortunately).

The drive on up to Doe Castle is lovely and you can really see a stark difference in the landscape here compared to countries in the deep south of Ireland.

Doe Castle is a relatively small, but well preserved castle that is worth visiting.

From here, you come out and do the Atlantic Drive which is a relatively short route that heads out into one of the Donegal's peninsulas.

After driving the rest of the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll find this to be a bit of a let down as it’s nothing special or unique compared to the rest of the coastline, but still nice.

On up in Fanad Head you come across another one of Ireland’s old and significant lighthouses.

We then took the coastal road south to Letterkenny before driving all the way back up to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point.

It was a great sense of achievement to have reached this point, driving from the deep south all the way to the north.

We didn't stay too long as it was getting late and windy and we wanted to get to our campsite!

So we drove straight on down to Quigley’s Point, not far outside of Derry.

We both highly recommend staying here and visiting the pub over the road; here we had the best food from our entire Ireland road trip!

Quick day 14 itinerary:

Took in the impressive size of Errigal
Drove through the Glenveagh National Park
Ventured on up to Doe Castle
Went round the Atlantic Drive
Saw the lighthouse at Fanad Head
Stopped off in Letterkenny
Drove up to Malin Head
Camped at Quigley’s Point

Day 15: Derry to Belfast

On our drive down into Derry, we came across a sign heralding the end of the Wild Atlantic Way.

This was another symbolic moment, having driven almost all of it on our way up the west coast of Ireland.

Derry is an important city to visit, as it has played a central role in Ireland’s rough and tumultuous history .

There are stark reminders of the British atrocities committed there when you visit Free Ferry Corner and the peace murals surrounding it.

Just remember, it’s called Derry not Londonderry!

After this, we spent the rest of the day with Cazzy’s folks heading to a string of Northern Ireland's best sights, all located on the north coast Causeway Coastal Route.

This includes Mussenden Temple, Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Another popular spot that we skipped was the Bushmills whiskey factory.

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, it's worth stopping off at the Dark Hedges on your way south to Belfast.

I’d recommend spending a day or two in Belfast if you can, being that it’s the capital of Northern Ireland and Ireland’s second biggest city.

We’ve been there tonnes of times before, and you can check out what to do there in this post here .

We then spent the night just outside Belfast with Cazzy’s family.

Quick day 15 itinerary:

Visited the murals at Free Derry Corner
Walked around Derry city
Played frisbee near Mussenden Temple
Stopped off for family fun at Portstewart
Took some photos of Dunluce Castle
Walked down and around the Giant’s Causeway
Strolled to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Walked through the Dark Hedges
Spent some time exploring Belfast
Stayed just outside Belfast
‍ The Best Things To Do In Belfast (Ireland)
‍ The Best Things To Do In Northern Ireland

Day 16: Belfast to Dublin

The final day from our epic 2 week Ireland road trip itinerary involved us essentially heading south back to the Spaceships Rentals site.

On the way, we visited Tollymore Forest Park and the Hillsborough Castle & Gardens.

Again, we have been here before, as Cazzy grew up around here; but both are well worth a visit!

As are the Mourne Mountains which, if you can spare a few hours, are well worth hiking up.

Back near the drop off site you have Slane Castle (famous for hosting a number of major concerts over the years) and the Hill of Tara which is an ancient site dating back thousands of years.

It has been the crowning point for kings of Ireland for generations, and today you can still walk up ancient mounds built there.

This was literally our final stop and we had 5 minutes to reach Spaceships before they closed (so we really did use all of our available 16 days!)

Quick day 16 itinerary:

Strolled around the Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
Took another walk in Tollymore Forest Park
Stared up at the Mourne Mountains
Checked out Slane Castle
Enjoyed our final stop, the Hill of Tara
Dropped van off at Spaceships Campervan Rentals

Total Driving Time:

Other places to add to your ireland itinerary, other places in ireland we’ve been.

Though they don’t fit into this 2 week Ireland itinerary, there are a few extra places we have been to in Ireland that we would recommend you try to fit in. This includes:

Castle Saunderson and West Wing Crom Castle
Glenariff Forest
Taking time to climb the Mourne Mountains
Cabra Castle
Tullynally Castle

Places in Ireland we still need to visit

As you’d imagine, there is always more to see in this gorgeous country, and we fully intend to take more driving tours of Ireland in the future.

In particular, there are a few key things we didn’t get to squeeze into our itinerary, but would love to go back and see.

This includes:

A day trip to the Aran Islands
A day trip to Skellig Michael & other islands
Dursey Island cable car
Cuilcagh boardwalk
Carrickfergus Castle
Trim Castle
Malahide Castle
Johnstown Castle
Athlone Castle
Birr Castle
Leap Castle
Sean’s Bar (the World’s oldest pub)

Read Also: Backpacking Ireland: 30 Top Travel Tips!

Common questions when planning your Ireland road trip

What is a sensible budget for road tripping ireland.

Road tripping Ireland really isn’t that expensive.

Sure, it’s pricier than some other countries in Europe, and you will quickly burn through the cash if you spend most nights in pubs drinking 4 or 5 pints of Guinness.

But if you are sensible, like I think we were, then you will end up spending between €40 and €50 per day, per person (excluding the cost of the car or camper rental).

Our average daily expenditure ended up being a little under €50 a day each, but as you can see, that covered a heck of a lot! Including:

Fuel for our entire trip
Usually 1 meal a day at a pub or cafe
A drink in a pub most nights
Entry to a number of top attractions
Return flights from London to Dublin
The cost of staying in a few campsites

Of course, you will then need to factor in the price of a campervan or vehicle itself (or just convert your own van into a campervan like we've now done!).

This will vary greatly depending on the size of the vehicle you need, which company you choose to hire with & whether you're travelling as a couple and can split the costs.

If you are keen to drive in a vehicle, then check out our guide on the best car rentals in Ireland .

Our journey around Ireland was in collaboration with Spaceship Rentals, so we saved on the cost of the van hire itself, however, we did still choose to pay an additional €22 per day for full, no excess insurance cover.

We did a LOT of searching before our trip and decided to work with Spaceships for a few reasons. Most notably because:

They offer the most competitive prices out of any rental company we could fine
All of their vehicles are very new and custom fitted
They offer a massive range of vehicle sizes

We decided to opt for the Volkswagen Delta which, at the time of year we visited, usually costs €59 per day.

If you wish to opt for a larger motorhome, prices will be more.

Either way, if you stop and work it out, you’ll soon realise that the cost of hiring a campervan is a LOT cheaper than paying for hotels , Airbnbs and transport the whole way around Ireland.

Plus, it offers up so much more fun and flexibility, so I would highly recommend it!

You can check out Spaceships Rentals prices here , and you can read our full review of them here .

If you want to check out the best campervan rental all of Ireland has to offer then read here!

Where do you stay each night?

This is the great thing about road tripping Ireland, it’s completely up to you!

There are campsites everywhere, and you can find a cheap spot for the night for maybe €20 to €30.

Alternatively, the much better option is to wild camp!

Out of 15 nights on the road, we wild camped 10 of those, and they were the 10 best nights!

Don’t get me wrong, staying at a campsite is nice, and actually very necessary as it gives you a chance to have a proper shower and get clothes cleaned.

But aside from that, wild camping is so much more fun and you get to stay in some truly beautiful spots with amazing views to wake up to.

Here’s a list of our favourite wild camping spots in Ireland .

How long do I need to road trip Ireland?

It is completely up to you, all I will say is, the longer … the better!

As you can see, we spent 16 days road tripping it, and we got to see almost all of the best spots we had planned.

However, we did need to skip a few places and our itinerary every day was pretty full-on.

We would often be on the road/seeing places for about 10 hours a day, with about 3 to 4 hours of that spent driving.

Don’t get me wrong, I loved every minute and wouldn’t have had it any other way!

But if you do have longer to spare, then I would say you could easily follow the same Ireland itinerary as us, but extend it to a month or more.

That being said, if you only have a week or less to spend, then no problem!

Simply pick the places you like most and create a loop.

For example, many people spend a week driving across to Killarney, doing the Ring of Kerry and then heading to Cork and Wexford on the way back.

Others head north and see the northern coast of Northern Ireland, stopping off at famous locations like the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations.

It really is up to you!

What should I pack for an Ireland road trip?

Well, it almost depends on which time of year you plan on visiting, as the weather in the summer months is almost entirely different to the winter.

That being said, it's well worth having some waterproof gear with you all year round, as you really do never know when it might suddenly rain in Ireland!

For a better idea of what to pack at different times of the year, check out my full guide on what to pack for Ireland .

What are Ireland’s top sites?

That’s such a hard question! But if I had to pick 10, then they would perhaps be (in no particular order) …

Giant’s Causeway
Ring of Kerry
Beara peninsula
Dingle peninsula
Rock of Cashel
Gap of Dunloe
Cliffs of Moher
Wicklow National Park
Slieve League Cliffs

For a more comprehensive idea of what there is on offer, check out these posts we wrote:

The Best Things To Do In Ireland
The Best Places To Visit In Ireland

Is it difficult driving in Ireland?

No, not at all.

They drive on the left in Ireland and the vehicles are right-hand drive.

It helps to have a decent vehicle, as many of the roads are county roads and quite windy.

They can get quite narrow at times, but in 16 days of driving more than 2000 km, we never had any issues at all with traffic.

That being said, they roads can be dangerous when wet and late at night, so avoid driving recklessly and you should be okay.

Read Also: A Guide To Getting Around Ireland: Everything Explained!

Well, that’s about it!

If you have any more questions about our 2 week road trip itinerary of Ireland, then just drop me a comment below.

I would encourage more people to head to Ireland and to experience the beauty on offer.

It really is an incredibly diverse country and easily one of my favourite places I’ve ever been to.

Also, if you think we missed any locations that you’d recommend, I’d love to hear your thoughts below ...

Let us know what you think.

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Two people embracing as they look out over the water and beach at Barley Cove in Cork.

Discover the best camping in Ireland and plan your next trip into the great outdoors.

Enjoy a classic camping holiday

Roundwood caravan and camping park, wicklow.

Go camping in Wicklow and embrace a slower pace of life at Roundwood Caravan and Camping Park . Pitch your tent in the highest village in Ireland and set off on foot around the Wicklow Mountains National Park . Satisfy an empty stomach after a full day of exploring with a hearty meal in The Roundwood Inn ; this cosy spot dates back to the 17 th century.

Blue lake set in the middle of rolling green hills in the Wicklow Mountains, Wicklow.

The Trading Post Camper Park, Wexford

Experience the best of both worlds in the Sunny South East with a seaside holiday and camping trip in one at The Trading Post Camper Park . Discover this scenic caravan park between two of Wexford’s best beaches, Morriscastle and Curracloe . Spend a day swimming in the sea and wash the sand away with a hot shower back at the campsite.

Two people walking up the sand dunes at Curracloe Beach in Wexford.

North Beach Caravan Park, Dublin

Visit Dublin and see a different side of the capital from North Beach Caravan Park in Rush. Watch the sun rise over the Irish Sea before meandering along the cliff paths on a gentle hike. Pick up a jar of homemade jam for breakfast at the local Skerries Mills Farmers Market , it’s open every Saturday in Skerries Mills . Keen golfers can’t leave without checking out Rush Golf Club - tee up on the nine hole course and admire stunning views of Lambay Island.

Blue windmill behind a stone wall at Skerries Mills in Dublin.

Boyles' Caravans and Camping Ground, Donegal

Enjoy evenings toasting marshmallows by the fire at Boyles' Caravans and Camping Ground in west Donegal . Bed down in a comfy caravan or bring your tent and wake up to the sound of the sea. Look out for pods of dolphins and basking sharks when you go camping in the County of the Gaels. Campers can spot these magical creatures from Narin and Portnoo Beach , just a three-minute walk away from the campsite.

Dolphin swimming in the water in Donegal

Valentia Island Caravan and Camping Park, Kerry

Hit refresh in a truly unique setting and pitch your tent at Valentia Island Caravan and Camping Park for an epic home holiday. Roam the rugged landscape where dinosaurs once walked, go for a swim in the sea and hop on a boat to Skellig Michael to explore one of Ireland's most famous landmarks.

Sun shining on Bray Head on the coast of Valentia Island, Kerry.

Beirne’s of Battlebridge, Leitrim

Visit Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and spend a night at Beirne’s of Battlebridge iconic camping ground in Leitrim . Soak up the lively atmosphere at the gastropub once you’ve settled into your campsite or cast your fishing rod in the River Shannon and sit back as you wait for the perfect catch.

Boats in a marina with a backdrop of trees and a church in Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim

Rosses Point Caravan Park, Sligo

Pack your trunks, take yourself to Sligo ’s stunning coastline and book a stay with Rosses Point Caravan Park . Surf the famous Atlantic waves or keep your eyes peeled for seals on a breathtaking Sligo Charters boat trip. With access to two beaches on either side of the caravan park, there’s lots of choice when it comes to activities on the water.

Mobile homes parked at Rosses Point Caravan Park in Sligo.

Streamstown Caravan and Camping Park, Tipperary

At the heart of a dairy farm, this classic caravan and camping park in Roscrea is all about tranquil living but you don’t have to go without your creature comforts like hot showers and a full camper kitchen. Hire a mobile home or curl up in your sleeping bag in a cosy tent at Streamstown Park . You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the cattle roaming around.

Get back to nature in an eco-friendly hideaway

Clifden eco camping and caravanning park, galway.

Journey to Galway for a getaway at Clifden Eco Camping and Caravanning Park . Perched on the Atlantic coast, enjoy panoramic seascape views from the private beach where bottlenose dolphins are a familiar sight.

As the first climate neutral campsite in Ireland, sustainability is at the heart of everything here so disposable barbecues and single use water bottles should be left at home in favour of environmentally friendly choices. Soak up stunning coastal views as you experience camping in Connemara .

Two people relaxing on sunloungers at the beach

Purecamping, Clare

A little piece of heaven on the Loop Head Peninsula, Purecamping is an idyllic place to recharge. Wake to the sounds of country life and find peace and quiet in the fairy tale woodland or book a restorative session in the rustic wooden barrel sauna. Pop into nearby Kilkee and spend a memorable day out on the Kilkee Cliffs .

Lough Key Caravan and Camping Park, Roscommon

Make your way to Lough Key Caravan and Camping Park for an action-packed camping holiday with the whole family. Go on a magical journey through the treetops on Ireland’s first tree canopy walk in Lough Key Forest and Activity Park or hire a rowing boat and cruise around the islands of Lough Key at your leisure. Spend some time in the woodland park and later, set up your tent or get comfortable in your caravan.

Children in a Toy Car at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, Boyle, Co Roscommon

Hidden Valley Holiday Park, Wicklow

In Rathdrum , Hidden Valley Holiday Park is a great choice for a family break with activities to keep everyone entertained. Choose from kayaking, rock climbing, bungee trampolines, laser tag, bingo, and bumper boats. A short walk from all the action, grab a glamping lodge suitable for all the family or find a spot by the lake in the caravan and camping park. Treat the kids to a visit to Clara Lara Fun Park for a day of water adventures.

Dog looking out the window of a caravan at Clifden Eco Camping and Caravanning Park in Galway.

Dunmore East Holiday Resort, Waterford

Hit the road in your motorhome and prepare yourself for an amazing weekend in The Déise at Dunmore East Holiday Resort . Stretch your legs on the Woodland Trail or take on the exhilarating Wipeout course at Dunmore East Adventure Centre ’s incredible aquapark, just make sure to book in advance. The much loved village of Dunmore East has wonderful pubs and restaurants for holidaymakers looking for a great meal out.

A kayak beside the water at Dunmore East Beach, Waterford

Nore Valley Park, Kilkenny

Make special memories on a fantastic family trip to Nore Valley Park . Have some time out while the children feed animals at the pet farm or let them run wild in the playground. Later, test your need for speed on the go kart track open to kids big and small. Enjoy camping in Kilkenny or rent one of the motorhomes on the Nore Valley campsite, and make sure to stock up your picnic basket at the on-site shop.

Discover unique camping getaways

Clissmann horse caravans, wicklow.

Set up camp somewhere new every night and stay in a colourful caravan pulled by a friendly horse for a truly unique holiday experience with Clissmann Horse Caravans . Venture around the Wicklow countryside with your trusty steed and reconnect with nature on a camping trip that you’ll never forget. Don’t worry if you haven’t handled a horse before as the owners provide you with training before setting off.

Lough Arrow Touring Park, Sligo

Make it a romantic weekend for two at the adult only Lough Arrow Touring Park where a warm welcome is guaranteed. Wander the countryside and immerse yourself in the area's history with a stroll around the ancient monuments at Carrowkeel Megalithic Site .

Ancient stone tombs at Carrowkeel, Sligo

Want the perks of the great outdoors without giving up your home comforts? Step up your camping experience and discover the best glamping spots in Ireland.

Couple walking on a trail beside a lake in Glendalough, Wicklow

The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors. Keep outdoor areas clean, ensure our own safety and help protect the natural environment.

Want to get away and have an adventure in the wilderness, without the faff of pitching a tent or foraging for firewood? Well, glamping makes it easy to embrace the great outdoors with minimal effort. All around the country, there are glamping spots where you can sleep in any number of set ups, from a bell tent kitted out with luxury beds and antique furniture, to little pods set right on the seafront.

People walking through Wild Nephin National Park in County Mayo

There’s nothing quite like escaping to the great outdoors, leaving the world behind and finding a fantastic location or experience that you can’t wait to tell your friends about. You might think that you know all the hotspots in Ireland, but there’s always a secret beach or a secluded waterfall that you’ve yet to visit.

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.

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Caravan & camping holidays in Ireland can take many forms. Pitch your tent, hook up your motorhome, park your caravan and get out and experience the great country of Ireland. Road trips will weave you around epic coastal routes and sheep-dotted countryside, offer you miles of golden sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, live it up in the vibrant cities and towns where you can taste the fabulous food and enjoy the hospitality in the local pub and experience Ireland’s famous Céad Míle Fáilte. More…

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The Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary and Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 5, 2024

The ultimate guide to planning an epic Ireland road trip itinerary!

We’ve been lucky enough to explore countless countries, and it’s fair to say that it takes a lot to impress us.

But when we visited the Emerald Isle and explored the country on a two-week Ireland road trip, it honestly took our breath away.

Ireland boasts a rugged coastline, rolling pastures, picturesque lakes, quaint villages and some of the friendliest people we’ve ever met.

It also has more pubs per capita than any country we’ve ever travelled to, and we knew that was going to help cement Ireland in our list of favourite countries ever.

When we found out we were heading to Ireland in October to speak at the TBEX Europe conference we decided to rent a campervan and do an epic road trip around the country.

Ireland had been at the top of Alesha’s list of must-visit destinations since she was a kid, and we couldn’t be more excited to finally explore the European nation.

Having travelled in a campervan around Canada, Australia and Chile we knew that it was definitely the best way to see a country, and with the stories we had heard from travellers about the landscapes in Ireland we were sold on the van life.

After some research we found out the best campervan company in Ireland is Bunk Campers , and we decided to get something a bit more luxurious for our journey.

All the campervans we had owned or rented over the years were just basic vans, with a small bed and tiny kitchens.

This time we rented a fully kitted out campervan, and it was nice to have luxuries like running water, hot showers, a toilet (only number ones!!!) , a heater (so good on those cold mornings) and a dining table to sit at.

Once we picked up our campervan in Dublin we had two weeks for road tripping Ireland the best we could.

Of course two weeks is nowhere near enough time to see everything on a road trip in Ireland, but we were lucky that we had about eight days beforehand as well to see more of Kerry County, Dublin and Ireland’s Ancient East.

What we did see though made us fall in love with Ireland even more, and we’re already making plans on returning in the near future for a longer trip.

Here’s our guide, including tips, highlights and our full Ireland road trip itinerary.

Table of Contents

The Ring of Kerry

Ireland’s ancient east, donegal’s wild atlantic way, loop head peninsula, the giant’s causeway, achill island, the ring of beara, day 1 – dublin to wexford (150km), day 2 – wexford to cork (190km), day 3 – cork to kenmare via the ring of beara (200km), day 4 – kenmare to killarney via the ring of kerry (140km), day 5 – killarney, day 6 – killarney to tralee via dingle (160km), day 7 – tralee to lahinch via loop head (160km), day 8 – lahinch to galway via doolin (100km), day 9 – galway to achill island via kylemore abbey (200km), day 10 – achill island to donegal via ballina (220km), day 11 – donegal to londonderry via slieve league and malin head (250km), day 12 – londonderry to belfast via the giant’s causeway (190km), day 13 – belfast, day 14 – belfast to howth (or dublin) via newgrange (180km), want to save this for later pin it, 8 highlights of our ireland road trip.

Our Ireland road trip was an incredible experience, and we really fell in love with the country after our 2 weeks driving around.

We even took a quick trip into Northern Ireland (which is actually a part of the United Kingdom) , and we’re glad we did, as it added some other great stops into our itinerary.

From the famous Giant’s Causeway to the Kerry Cliffs, exploring the history of Ireland’s Ancient East to walking through the Dark Hedges, these are the highlights of our Ireland Road Trip.

Want to know where to go on a road trip in Ireland? Read on…

Dark Hedges Game Of Thrones Northern Ireland Road Trip Campervan

Arguably the best driving loop in the entire country, the Ring of Kerry starts off near Killarney in the southwest of the country and takes in the beautiful coastal scenery of the Iveragh Peninsula.

If you leave from Killarney the Ring of Kerry is about 214km long, not including all the detours, but every single kilometre of that is an absolute joy.

Check out these epic day tours and activities you can do in Killarney !

Head in a clockwise direction from Killarney, straight to Kenmare and then onwards to Sneem. This is to avoid the tour buses, which are forced to drive in an anti-clockwise direction.

Every time you see a photo opportunity make sure you grab it! The landscape is out of this world, and ranges from sprawling farmland to lush forest, with jagged mountain peaks and a dramatic coastline topping it off.

The highlight is the Kerry Cliffs near Portmagee, with towering rocks dropping spectacularly into the sea, and you can even see the famous Skellig Islands in the distance on a clear day.

If you have the time, and the weather is nice, make sure you take a trip to the Skelligs, home to puffins and landscapes that can be seen in the latest Star Wars movie.

The Ring of Kerry roads are extremely narrow, so make sure you drive with care.

While the rest of the country boasts a world class coastline and jaw-dropping landscapes, for those with a love of culture and history then Ireland’s Ancient East is a destination where one day can easily turn into seven.

You can begin your journey in this fascinating area with a night (or more) at Waterford, delving into the Viking history that has been around for over 1000 years. Don’t miss out on the King of the Vikings virtual reality exhibition!

Head to Wexford and take a tour of the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience. This authentic, interactive exhibition of what it was like to travel in an immigrant ship (complete with the actual Dunbrody ship!) back in the 1700s is absolutely remarkable, and while we are usually dubious of recreations, this was world class!

Enniscorthy is a gorgeous heritage village that was also home to centuries of sometimes tragic history.

The castle is well worth visiting, but don’t miss out on the views from Vinegar Hill, which was actually the location of a fierce battle between British and Irish soldiers in 1798.

Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world, and if you’re looking for an iconic photo you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place than here.

By far the best attraction in Ireland’s Ancient East is the Irish National Heritage Park .

This sprawling venue has been built to showcase more than 9000 years of Irish history. Kids and adults alike will be completely entranced by walking around the traditional dwellings that have been recreated on the grounds.

Passionate actors share stories of what it was like to live in the times when humans first settled in the Emerald Isle, and the hardships endured over the years.

To complete the experience don’t miss out on a traditional Viking dinner in the restaurant. Expect ribs cooked underground on coals, hearty soups and fresh bread, all washed down with craft beer!

You’ll be required to dress up in old-fashion clothes as well, but don’t worry about the quality of food – it’s absolutely impeccable, and much healthier and tastier than would have been found back in the day.

The entire west coast of Ireland has become known as the Wild Atlantic Way , and the slick marketing campaign by the tourism board isn’t without just cause – It’s absolutely phenomenal, and should be the main objective of any Ireland road trip.

One of the more incredible, yet often skipped, areas of the country is Donegal County up in the far north of the Republic of Ireland.

The town of Donegal itself is enjoyable, with some great pubs, cafes and restaurants to keep you entertained, but it’s only when you hit the coast that you start to see the county’s true potential.

Slieve League is the main attraction, with its marvellous hiking trails that offer stellar views over the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs that almost rival the ones found in Kerry.

The drive out to Meencarrick is superb, and it is one of the nicest coastal routes in the country. Don’t miss driving out to the headland for some hiking next to the cliffs.

The entire length of ocean roads in Donegal is great, but make a special detour to Malin Head, the northernmost point in the Republic of Ireland (even further north than Northern Ireland).

It will be super windy, but the views are great and the bucolic roads to get there are alone worth the trip.

In the list of big attractions in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are right near the top. These soaring, vertical rock faces tumble into the sea, and stretch for kilometres like an impenetrable barrier against the Atlantic.

They are also supremely crowded with tourists.

Instead head a bit further south to the Loop Head Peninsula, where you can find similar landscapes and scenery with no entrance fee charged, and almost nobody else to get in the way.

You won’t find fences here either. If you want to walk right up to the edge of the cliffs, you can (just be careful).

If you have time, do both. But if you just want to choose one, skip the Cliffs of Moher and instead hit up Loop Head Peninsula.

Although the Giant’s Causeway is actually in Northern Ireland, it is still one of the best places on the Emerald Isle and should not be missed during your road trip itinerary.

Thousands of basalt, hexagonal columns rise out of the sea creating one of the most magnificent geological environments in the United Kingdom.

Legend has it that a giant built the Causeway as a path to connect Ireland with Scotland so he could take part in a fight, and if you use your imagination you can almost picture the columns forming a bridge between the two nations.

Walking around the Giant’s Causeway can easily take a few hours, with plenty of great photo opportunities and even some hiking trails around to occupy your time.

The audio tour that can be purchased from the wonderful visitors centre tells the legend, geology and history of the Giant’s Causeway, and is worth the price.

If you’re trying to keep your costs down though you can actually visit the Giant’s Causeway for free. Park in the closest town and hitch or take a bus to the site, then walk around the visitors centre.

When we were driving around Ireland we met one or two people that had mentioned a place called Achill Island, but it never came up as a ‘must do’ in our conversations.

Still, when we realised it would only be a short detour to check it out, we decided we had nothing to lose by making the visit.

It was one of the best decisions we made.

Achill Island is an absolute delight, and boasts ridiculously beautiful beaches, wonderful headlands, quaint fishing villages and fun adventure activities to enjoy.

After crossing over on the bridge we drove to the end of the road, and couldn’t believe the kind of views that surrounded us.

Sheep wandered on the steep farmland with an impossible ocean vista rolling out in every direction. Hills climbed all around us, offering great hiking for those feeling active.

We ended up watching sunset from a water reservoir that looked out over the whole town of Keel, and finding a place to camp next to an inland lake close by.

With more time you could rent some surfboards or kites and hit the ocean, or head up into the mountains for some trekking.

When we return to Ireland we’ll definitely be giving Achill Island a bigger portion of our schedule.

The Ring of Kerry is the go-to for road trips in Ireland, but the nearby Ring of Beara is just as beautiful, without the people.

Just like its neighbour, the Ring of Beara is a coastal loop that takes in the absolute best vistas of the Beara Peninsula.

You’ll find sheep grazing on pastures that butt up against the ocean. The roads twist and wind like a snake weaving through a field, and requires a lot of concentration to navigate.

Unfortunately the weather was quite bad on the day we did the Ring of Beara, but even then whenever we did get a glimpse of the landscape we were absolutely blown away.

Stonehenge might be the most famous Neolithic site in the United Kingdom and Ireland, but it definitely isn’t the oldest.

Only a few hours north of Dublin is the spectacular Newgrange archaeological site; a huge, circular stone structure that was built over 5200 years ago as a passage tomb and temple.

Approaching Newgrange is not what you would expect. It is surrounded by farmland, and you can see cows and sheep walking around just on the other side of the fence. But the site itself is wonderful.

The main tomb takes up over an acre of land, and stands 15m tall with an 85m diameter. It’s part of a larger complex as well, surrounded by other tombs named Knowth and Dowth.

One of the most remarkable things about Newgrange is that the entrance passage is aligned to let in a beam of light during sunrise during the winter solstice.

Guides can show you this phenomenon at any time of year though using flashlights.

You must head to the Visitors Centre to purchase your tickets first, which is actually a bit far away from the Newgrange site.

They offer free bus transport with your ticket from the Visitors Centre to Newgrange, but we recommend taking your own car to the site.

We didn’t know you could do this and spent almost 2 hours total waiting – not because of crowds, but because that was just the way the bus schedule worked. Save yourself the headache and drive your own car to the site.

Ireland Road Trip Itinerary

We ended up renting our campervan to try and find the best Ireland road trips for two weeks and managed to see a lot of the country.

However it did end up being a bit rushed, and you could easily extend this to a month if you wanted to do all the amazing side trips and hiking excursions around.

This is the exact itinerary that we followed, although where possible we’ve given alternatives that might be worth spending the night in.

Our trip was plagued with storms and a hurricane (yes, a hurricane), so we had to skip a few things.

We don’t mention many places to stay, because most of the time we slept in our campervan, and you can find your own spots along the way, or stay in any one of the dozens of epic B&Bs in the country .

We’ll definitely be adding to our list once we do our next Ireland road trip.

Once you’ve picked up your campervan in Dublin (and of course visited the Guinness Storehouse, which is a must see) head out of the city aiming for the town of Wexford in Ireland’s Ancient East.

The drive itself won’t be overly beautiful, but chances are you’ve picked up the rental in the afternoon and the goal is to just get out of the city.

In Wexford and the surrounding area there are plenty of things to do that could take up a few days of your itinerary. Some of the best things to do around Wexford are:

Visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in Wexford.
Do the King of the Vikings Experience in Waterford.
Go to Hook Lighthouse.
Spend a few hours at Dunmore Adventure Centre , which has a tonne of activities to enjoy, like kayaking, sailing, climbing, windsurfing, and our absolute favourite, the Wibit Waterpark. Ever seen the show Wipeout? Well Dunmore East has one of these giant inflatable parks set up out in the harbour! One of the funnest things we have ever done.
Hang out at Ireland’s National Heritage Park.
Go cycling along the Waterford Greenway.
Hang out in Enniscorthy and climb Vinegar Hill.

You can take your time driving to Cork and visit some of the great attractions in the area, or just enjoy the beautiful country scenery.

Get out and enjoy the beautiful coastal walks around Ardmore, and have lunch at the phenomenal Cliff House Hotel.

The roads are quite good and Cork itself is a fun city. Plenty of great pubs and restaurants to enjoy, and some great attractions nearby:

Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Also don’t forget to spend some time walking around the stunning grounds.
Eat at Cliff House Hotel…Trust us on this one.
See the colourful houses in Cobh.

Leave early on this day because the plan is to tackle the beautiful Ring of Beara driving loop on the way to Killarney.

From Cork take the backroads to Ballylickey, then head onto the Beara Peninsula. You’ll be thankful you left early because this loop will take you all day with all the photo stops.

Once you finish the loop spend the night in Kenmare, which is a beautiful little village.

Some of the main attractions along the way are:

Drive the spectacular Ring of Beara.
Walking around Kenmare.

After a delicious breakfast in Kenmare head west onto the Ring of Kerry, and make sure those camera batteries are charged!

This loop is the most famous, and arguably the most beautiful, drive in all of Ireland, and if you get a sunny day it might end up being one of the best road trips of your life!

If you’re into hiking, or want to do some of the day excursions around the Ring of Kerry you might need to break up your trip into two or three days.

Visit the Skelligs – Two rocky islands off the coast of Ireland home to an old monastery, puffins, and was used as a film scene in the latest Star Wars movie.
Hike around the Kerry Cliffs.
Hang out at Derrynane Beach.

Be careful of the roads along the Ring of Kerry – they are twisting, narrow and often busy with tour buses!

After a few days of driving you deserve a well-earned rest. Except you’re now in Killarney, and there are so many things to do in Killarney that you could easily fill a week with activities!

We spent 4 days in Killarney before we started our road trip, and loved it so much we came back! You’ll be spoilt for choice here, whether you’re into history, gardens, adventure activities or simply drinking beer.

Rent a bicycle and explore Killarney National Park.
Go on a river cruise .
Visit Ross Castle and the Abbey.
Check out Muckross House and the gardens.
Get into nature at Torc Waterfall.
Head out to the Gap of Dunloe and admire the world-class scenery.
Drink delicious beer at Killarney Brewing Company.
Climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.

If you want to splash out and enjoy a night outside of your campervan, then head to the best luxury hotel in Killarney, Muckross Park Hotel .

Once you’ve managed to pry yourself away from Killarney (it might take a while), you have another epic drive to check out on your Ireland road trip.

Drive out to Dingle, a wonderful town that would make a nice base for a day or two, and move out to the end of the Dingle Peninsula.

This captivating area is home to the Slea Head Drive, another magnificent loop that features rolling hills jutting up against steep ocean cliffs.

As you’re now on the Wild Atlantic Way you can expect to see more than your fair share of coastal scenes, but this one around Slea Head is pretty special.

It’s not just cool scenery – there’s also a bunch of history, with stone beehive huts peppered along the coast and the impeccable Gallarus Oratory adding to the awesomeness of Slea Head Loop.

Spend the night in Tralee after doing some of the best attractions around Dingle:

Head out on the Slea Head Drive.
Visit the Gallarus Oratory, and all the beehive huts along the way.
Drink some Dingle Gin.
Do a boat trip to see Fungie the Dolphin.

Today isn’t a long day driving, and you really have two options on how you want to head to Lahinch – you could take the ferry, creating an excellent short cut, or drive out to the city of Limerick.

We personally decided to skip Limerick, even though we had heard good things, as we much prefer to be in the countryside. Plus there’s a massive highlight to see along the way!

While it’s only a short drive today your timing will be dependent on the ferry schedule that gets you across the small harbour from Tarbert to Killimer. Make sure you get there early in case you have to wait.

Once you get on the other side drive out to Loop Head Peninsula, home to some of the most wonderful cliffs in the entire country, and they’re completely free!

If you have time, or really love cliffs, you could also do the Cliffs of Moher, although these are very touristy. Spend the night in Lahinch, a wonderful beach town with a colourful main street.

Take the ferry from Tarbert to Killimer.
Drive out to Loop Head Peninsula and see the cliffs.
Visit the Cliffs of Moher.
Rent a surfboard and hit the waves in Lahinch.

On this day we unfortunately had to wipe all the attractions from our schedule as a hurricane hit the country, and we ended up bunkering down in the small town of Ennis to wait out the storm.

However if we had our time again, we would drive from Lahinch to Doolin, which is meant to be an amazing little beach village that gets a lot of rave reviews from our friends.

Then keep following the coast, eventually finishing up in Galway.

This stretch also could be turned into a two-day journey, with all the things to do.

Take a boat out to the Aran Islands, a World Heritage Site where the locals speak Irish as well as English and ancient, ruined churches are just waiting to be explored.
Grab a pint in one of Doolin’s colourful pubs.
Follow the sea and enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way views.
Go out to Spanish Point.
Party the night away in Galway.

If you’ve ended up partying a little too hard in Galway you might need to break this journey up into two days, as you’ll be leaving late. But if you’re feeling fresh get a move on early!

The first stop is going to be Kylemore Abbey, a sensational old castle with some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland.

Keep following the road around and make a beeline for Achill Island, where if you’re not careful you may get stuck for a day or two.

Wander around Kylemore Abbey and the gardens.
Reach the end of the road on Achill Island and be blown away with the views.
Take a swim at the beach in Keel.
If you have more time enjoy all the hiking and surfing opportunities around Achill Island.

The beautiful drive takes in the countryside around Ballycroy, which is surprisingly delightful and has lots of great hiking opportunities.

The area around Ballina has some cool, old friaries, and once you get to Sligo you’ll find tonnes of outdoor adventures to enjoy.

If you have time before settling in Donegal do the drive out to Slieve League, otherwise you can do it in the morning.

Finishing up in Donegal hit up one of the excellent restaurants and down it all with a pint of Guinness.

Go for a hike in the Ballycroy National Park.
Visit the 600-year-old friaries near Ballina.
Head up one of the mountains or lakes in Sligo.

It’s another long drive today, which could also be broken up if you had the time, because the Donegal area has a lot of epic scenery and activities to enjoy.

The first thing you should do is enjoy the coastal drive out towards Slieve League, taking the side roads that turn down into the tiny fishing villages along the way.

Slieve League is hugely impressive, and with more time you could do the hike to the cliffs, or if you’re trying to fit it all in a day you can simply drive to the top and check out the views.

Get back in the car and head straight up to Malin Head, the northernmost point in Ireland. Afterwards head back south towards Londonderry.

We personally headed to Quigley’s Point and stayed at the Foyleside Caravan Park as we needed power to charge our laptops, and we enjoyed the spot.

Don’t miss out on Slieve League – epic cliffs and gorgeous ocean views.
The road to Meencarrick has some beautiful, old village and surf beaches to check out.
Fall in love with the scenery around Glenveagh National Park.
Stand at the northernmost point of the Republic of Ireland in Malin Head.

You’ll be spending the next few days in Northern Ireland, which means you’ll get to visit one of the United Kingdom’s most popular tourist attractions, the Giant’s Causeway.

Stick as close to the coast as possible on the drive to the Giant’s Causeway, stopping along the way to take some pictures.

Spend a few hours wandering around the famous basalt hexagonal columns, then get back in the car and make the drive into the countryside.

Swing by The Dark Hedges in Ballymoney – an avenue of enormous, twisting beech trees that is one of the most photographed places in the whole country.

It was already a popular spot, but when the HBO series Game Of Thrones filmed a scene there it was propelled into another level of busyness. Still, it’s worth seeing, even if you don’t know anything about the series.

Afterwards head into Belfast for the night, or pick a caravan park outside of town.

Enjoy the coastal road in Northern Ireland.
Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge near Ballintoy.
Walk (don’t drive) down the Dark Hedges.
Check out the Giant’s Causeway. Remember you don’t have to pay to enter if you don’t want to visit the information centre or use the carpark.

The Northern Ireland capital is filled with intense history, fascinating murals, a world-class museum and more than its fair share of awesome pubs.

Belfast is a city that oozes with grungy atmosphere, and whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny that it has an overwhelming character that should be experienced.

We were really looking forward to visiting Belfast, and it did not disappoint. To really appreciate the city though you should be willing to embrace the tragedies of the last few decades, and admire how it has bounced back.

Spend a few hours in the marvellous Titanic Belfast, known for being one of the world’s leading tourist attractions. Get your ticket here .
Join a free walking tour of Belfast to learn about the city’s political history.
Check out the Crumlin Road Gaol.

For the last full day jump on the highway and head south of Belfast. You can easily be in Dublin in 2 hours, but it’s worth stopping off at the Neolithic site of Newgrange.

As mentioned above, Newgrange is one of the real highlights of any Ireland road trip, and learning all about the massive passage tomb is splendid, especially when you consider it’s older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids!

If you need to be in Dublin tonight then you can be in the city quite easily, but personally we recommend heading to the fishing village of Howth , only 30 minutes from the city.

Howth is genuinely wonderful, and the perfect place to finish up your Irish road trip. You can park your van by the dock and head out to get fish and chips, or if you want a perfect place to stay head into the only hotel in town (yes, the only hotel in town), King Sitric .

Visit the ancient Neolithic site of Newgrange.
Go for a hike around Howth, or enjoy the best seafood in the country at King Sitric Restaurant.

Sunset Howth Ireland Road Trip Campervan

Tips For a Road Trip of Ireland

Driving a campervan around Ireland is definitely the best way to see the country.

Having your own wheels is one thing, but having your own home is the icing on the cake!

Still there are some things you need to keep in mind before you start this fun adventure. For another good reference, check out this article on renting a motorhome in Europe.

Here are some tips for renting a campervan in Ireland.

Bigger isn’t always better: The roads in Ireland can be notoriously narrow, and having a giant RV isn’t ideal in the Republic of Ireland. We went with the Aero model from Bunk Campers and it was a good balance of size and comfort, without being too big for the roads.
Try to free camp where possible: This is the whole bonus of having a campervan – You get to save on accommodation! In the Republic of Ireland we never had a problem finding a carpark or patch of grass to pull up for the night. We stayed next to a lake in Achill Island, behind a bus station in Ennis, on top of Vinegar Hill and plenty of other spots. It’s not always glamorous, but at least it’s free!
Sometimes you’ll have to stay in a caravan park: In Northern Ireland wild camping is illegal, so you have to stay in a caravan park. They’re not too expensive (sometimes 20 Euros or less), but they come with the added bonus of amenities like laundry, proper bathrooms, electricity hook ups and wifi.
Buy a prepaid SIM card from 3: Having data on the road is important, and we picked up a prepaid SIM from the telephone company 3. For 20 Euro we got unlimited 4G data and unlimited texts and calls for a month. We could also hotspot our laptops off of our phone with it. Get one from any 3 store.
Don’t underestimate driving distances: You might look at one leg and think, “Oh it’s only 150km, we’ll be there in 2 hours,” but that’s not always the case. Road conditions can slow you down, as will the hundreds of photo stops along the way. Don’t be too ambitious when planning your schedule.
Head south and drive clockwise: The weather in Ireland moves from the Atlantic Ocean and moves across the country heading northeast. A tip we got from the manager at Bunk Campers is to head south to Kerry County and drive clockwise. That way if you get nice weather you can basically follow it north.

[box] Our Ireland road trip adventure was made possible thanks to our partnership with Bunk Campers and support from Failte Ireland . All thoughts, opinions and pints of Guinness drunk at Irish pubs are, as always, our own.[/box]

Campervan View Ireland Road Trip Campervan

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Travel Information

13 amazing ireland road trips you’ll love.

Ireland is a country that holds great appeal for travelers from abroad, due to its immense natural beauty and captivating history. With castles and views for days, Ireland remains at the top of many travel bucket lists. You won’t be disappointed by the vast number of things to do in this country.

It’s also great news for travelers that it’s so easy to get around in Ireland. You can easily rent a car and drive around the whole island, from Northern Ireland all the way down to Cork, with very little traffic and open roads (that are sometimes quite narrow and twisty, but we won’t focus on that!)

» Let us help you plan your Ireland vacation with The Perfect 7-Day Ireland Itinerary.

In this post, you will find 13 of the best Ireland road trips. These routes cover nearly the entire country and can be done independently or strung together to make one giant road trip that will ensure you see the whole of Ireland. While you are traveling, watch out for these traditional Irish foods and try a few.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Table of Contents

How to Get Around in Ireland

There are two great ways you can get around on these road trips. You can rent a car and stay at hotels or Airbnbs along the way. Or you can rent a camper van and have a self-contained place to stay. Both have their pros and cons.

Renting a camper van is a unique and awesome way to experience the country, but it can also cost more than a hotel and you’ll need to be prepared to cook your own food and find a shower and facilities, when needed. Also keep in mind that many of the roads are quite narrow.

» Check out these 9 Fairy Tale Castles to Stay at in Ireland.

Popular Road Trip Routes in Ireland

The wild atlantic way.

Number of days: 10-14 days Start point: Kinsale End point: Inishowen Distance: 2,500 km (1,550 miles) Driving time: 6 hours

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most famous and most epic road trips in all of Ireland. Starting in the colorful town of Kinsale in County Cork and ending in the equally charming town of Inishowen in Donegal, the Wild Atlantic Way is a road trip that takes you through Ireland’s spectacular west coast.

It stretches 2,500 km in length which makes it the longest defined coastal route in the world.

You can visit the Wild Atlantic Way in around 10 days at a quicker pace, but if you want to really enjoy it and take advantage of all of the route, then 2 weeks is a better time period. The amazing thing about this drive is the epic views on every turn.

From dramatic cliffs, typical Irish green rolling fields, epic mountains and endless charming Irish towns, the Wild Atlantic Way road trip truly offers everything you want.

There are so many amazing places to stop and see along the way, but a few highlights would include, the Cliffs of Moher , the Ring of Kerry & the town of Killarney , the Dingle Peninsula , Mizen Head which is Ireland’s most South Westerly Point, and Achill Island among many other amazing sights!

There are lots of great places to stay in Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way, but on this road trip, it’s definitely worth renting a campervan and wild camping at some amazing places in Ireland. Wake up to stunning beach sunrises, epic cliff views, charming lakes and other unique wild camping spots in Ireland!

The Burren Loop

Number of days: 2-3 days Start point: Kilfenora End point: Kilfenora Distance: 90km (55 miles) Driving time: 1 hours 45 minutes

The Burren Loop is a very scenic drive through County Clare in Western Ireland. This figure-8 looped drive stretches over 150 kilometers. The Burren means “a rocky place” and the landscape of prehistoric grey limestone is very dramatic.

The western side of the loop takes you along some spectacular stretches of coastline, while the other takes you through Burren National Park to the east. The route we’ve given above simplifies the drive into one loop of 90km that touches on the main highlights and will take at least one full day (two is preferable).

As this is a loop route, you can start or finish wherever you like. However, we recommend starting and finishing in Kilfenora . This quaint village is home to The Burren Centre , with information about the local area. There’s an interesting exhibition, as well as a café, large shop and restrooms.

Despite its small size, Kilfenora boasts a former cathedral, with some ornate medieval crosses. Vaughan’s Pub is a good place to go for a pub lunch. There are many scenic photo stops along the way, such as the Cliffs of Moher. The town of Doolin is the next picturesque spot near the coast, with brightly colored cottages and pubs playing traditional Irish folk music.

Ballyvaughn Village (photo by Susan of Luxury Columnist)

Continue heading north along the coast to Black Head , which has magnificent views of Galway Bay. Carry on to the traditional fishing village of Ballyvaughan, where you can stay the night at Drumcreehy Country House .

Next you’ll head into Carran, a small village in the Burren uplands, from where you can spend some time hiking and enjoying the Burren National Park .

Ring of Kerry

Number of days: 2 days Start point: Killarney End point: Killarney Distance: 200km (124 miles) Driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most iconic road trips in Ireland. This 200km looped drive passes the beautiful sights of the Iveragh Peninsula in Co. Kerry and is packed with stunning scenery and incredible coastline. The Skellig Islands are one of the most famous sights on the Ring of Kerry.

The Skelligs, a group of rocky islands that jut out of the Atlantic just off the coast of Co. Kerry, are best known for their appearance in scenes in the most recent Star War movies. The Skellig Islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Some of the most popular sights on the drive include Rossbeigh Strand , the Gap of Dunloe , Valentia Island and the vast Killarney National Park which is home to the incredible Ladies View scenic viewpoint. The best place to stay is the charming town of Killarney where most parts of the ring can be reached in under an hour.

In Killarney, we recommend staying at The Lake Hotel for its peaceful setting. It is recommended to drive the loop anticlockwise starting in Killarney as the views are even more spectacular in this direction. Killarney is also a great base to explore the nearby Dingle peninsula with its iconic Dunquin Pier .

While the Ring of Kerry loop can be driven in a single day, visitors would ideally allow 3-4 nights to truly everything the area has to offer and not rush the trip.

Ring of Beara

Number of days: 2 Start point: Kenmare End point: Kenmare Distance: 198 km (123 miles) Driving time: 3 hours

The Ring of Beara, which highlights the best of the Beara Peninsula, is often overlooked in favor of the Ring of Kerry or Slea Head Drive, which means it is a great Irish road trip to go on if you want to avoid the crowds.

You can complete the 123-mile drive in one day and spend a few additional days in the area, or you can drive it slower, go on some hikes, and stay overnight at a few stops along the way. Either way, set aside 3-4 days for your trip to see the best sites.

Start and end your trip in the charming town of Kenmare . This town is the only stop that’s on both the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry, so it’s a natural place to stay if you want to complete both drives during your time in Ireland.

Spend at least a full day exploring what there is to do in Kenmare , including seeing the seals in the bay. On the ring itself, you’ll find charming villages, parks for hiking, gardens to enjoy, and beaches perfect for picnicking.

Some popular stops along the loop include Gleninchaquin Park , where there are walking trails to explore. Past that, there are two beautiful lakes with great views: Glanmore Lake and Barley Lake . Hungry Hill is perfect for more strenuous hikes to the summit, where there’s a lovely view.

At Adrigole Harbor , you’ll find Orthons island, a mussel farm, and plenty of wildlife, such as the seal colony on the North end of the harbor. In Kenmare, stay at either Brook Lane Hotel or Sheen Falls Lodge for affordable luxury with amazing views and peaceful surroundings.

Ireland’s Ancient East

Number of days: 4 Start point: Dublin End point: Cork Distance: 392 km (243 miles) Driving time: 5 hours, 30 minutes

Ireland’s Ancient East was created to embrace and share highlights and destinations of interest on the eastern side of Ireland. These areas have an incredible array of things to see and do, plus local produce, meats, cheeses, and spirits that they are overjoyed to share with visitors.

As your road trip takes you away from Dublin, you’ll travel into County Kildare, which is home to the 640-acre Donadea National Forest. Kildare also has a large outlet shopping center, Kildare Village , that shoppers definitely shouldn’t miss. You can’t find a more dramatic and wonderful place to stay in Kildare than the Killashee Hotel , set amidst the beautiful countryside.

From here you can take a side trip over to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. You’ll want to visit the Monastic Site as well as to the Upper and Lower Lakes. There are plenty of walks and trails in the area to keep you busy, including The Wicklow Way .

Kilkenny is a large medieval city, but still feel like a charming hometown. We suggest spending 2 days in Kilkenny, as there are a lot of great things to do. You’ll want to explore the town center, see the ancient architecture, and experience Kilkenny’s vibrant culinary scene.

The medieval mile is a discovery trail of Kilkenny’s history, from Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral. A great way to see many of the sights in Kilkenny is with a Medieval Mile Pass . Located right in the center of the city, just a block from the castle, the 4-star Pembroke Hotel has everything you need for a short break in Kilkenny.

Next, head toward the medieval and Celtic ruins of the Rock of Cashel . The 12-century Cahir Castle can be found here.

Finally, end up in Cork , Ireland’s second largest city. Just outside of Cork is the popular Blarney Castle , where tourists come from all over to kiss the Blarney Stone, which is a slab of limestone set into the castle battlement. It’s said if you kiss the stone, you’ll be bestowed with the gift of gab. Not sure if that’s a good thing or not.

Hidden Heartlands Road Trip

Number of days: 2 days Start point: Athlone End point: Tullamore Distance: 103km (64 miles) Driving time: 1 hours 40 minutes

The midlands in Ireland are a true hidden gem and are often overlooked as a superb holiday destination. With great outdoor amenities and charming towns, it is easy to fall for the beauty of this area known as Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

One of the shorter road trips in the region explores Athlone and Offaly and captures the essence of the area in two days. This compact road trip (ca. 100 km in total) allows you to spend more time sightseeing and less time traveling between destinations.

The road trip starts in Athlone town with a tour of the 13th century Athlone Castle . This can be followed by a trip to the nearby Luan Gallery, where both Irish and international artists display their works in the tastefully designed building overlooking the River Shannon.

A visit to St. Paul’s Church to see the Harry Clarke stained glass windows should definitely be included in the itinerary. From there, head to Garrycastle on the outskirts of Athlone for a cycle along the Old Rail Trail. For a short interlude, stop by the Dún Na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park .

Travel back to Athlone for a tour of the Dead Centre Brewing and perhaps sample some of their famous pizza.

The second day starts an Birr Castle , less than an hour away from Athlone. Here you can explore the castle, the science centre and the expansive gardens, as well as the impressive telescope dating from the 1840s. Lough Boora Discovery Park is next on the road trip destination list.

This restored peatland functions as an eco-tourism site with lots of recreational activities for all ages, including a sculpture park and a fairy trail. Tullamore is the last stop, where you can stroll around the city and enjoy dinner next to the canal.

Leaving From Dublin

Dublin to county tipperary (castle tour of southern ireland).

Number of days: 3 days Start point: Dublin End point: Cashel Distance: 563km (350 miles) Driving time: 8 hours

One of the best road trips to take in Ireland is one in which you do a castle tour of the southern half of the country. Starting from Dublin, you will head to your base of County Tipperary to spend three days visiting some of the best castles in Ireland. We recommend staying in or near the town of Cashel.

On your first day, drive 1 hour south to visit the iconic Blarney Castle, for two reasons. Firstly, no visit there would be complete without kissing the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the gift of the gab.

Afterwards, explore the beautiful gardens before driving 1 hour to visit Lismore Castle and Gardens. Although the castle is not open to the public as it is still occupied by the family, the gardens are beautiful and must be explored.

For your second day, head west towards County Clare and Limerick. One hour west of Cashel lies Bunratty Castleand Folk Park in County Clare. This medieval castle is stunning and the grounds hold a Folk Park in which visitors can step back in time to experience 19th century life in an Irish village.

Afterwards, a drive of just 15 minutes will bring you to Limerick City where you can visit another medieval castle, that of St John’s . And if you are visiting in summer, Adare Castle is located just 20 minutes from Limerick.

Spend your third day visiting the Rock of Cashel in the town itself. This historical abbey was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and is a hugely popular Irish tourist attraction.

From Cashel, head 20 minutes south to Cahir where you can visit both Cahir Castle and the nearby Swiss Cottage , a 19 th century ornamental cottage. This will complete your castle tour of Southern Ireland.

Dublin to Dingle

Number of days: 2 Start point: Dublin End point: Dingle Distance: 418km (260 miles) Driving time: 6 hours

A road trip from Dublin to Dingle provides numerous options for exploration from start to finish. Dublin has plenty to see and do in its own right before heading off on the road like visiting the Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Temple Bar, Kilmainham Gaol, and the many other attractions.

After enjoying a few days in Dublin, head to Kilkenny which will take 1.5 to 2 hours driving. Kilkenny is a small town with a rich history and if perfect for a two-night stay at a bed and breakfast like the Pinecrest BnB. You can get to know the town on foot, visiting the Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice’s Cathedral and climbing the round tower.

In the evening, enjoy a meal at Kyter’s Inn, a lively pub that has been around since 1324. After leaving Kilkenny you will continue your drive to Dingle, but how long you take to get there is up to you. After 45 minutes of driving, you will make it to the Rock of Cashel . The ruins of a church on a hill were originally constructed in 1127.

Don’t miss Hore Abbey across the street, before heading on to Killarney where you can visit the Killarney National Park to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Located in the park is the Muckross House Gardens , a lakeside home with lavish gardens and the Muckross Abbey. Your final stop is Dingle.

Make sure you enjoy some ice cream at Murphy’s, take advantage of the plethora of fresh seafood options, and in the evening, be entertained at one of the local pubs, mainly Murphy’s or Paul Geaney’s.

The Slea Head Drive is a scenic route that starts and ends in Dingle with beehive huts, beaches, cafes, pottery shops, and other stops where you can pull over along the way to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and the Kerry peninsula. For some adventure, consider going sea kayaking or horseback riding on the hills behind the town.

Dublin to Galway

Number of days: 1-2 Start point: Dublin End point: Galway Distance: 300km (186 miles) Driving time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Though the two cities are located only about three hours from one another, if you stick to the confines of the M4 and M6 motorways, driving from Dublin to Galway is one of the best road trips you can take in Ireland if you know when to get off the main road and take advantage of all of the glorious places to stop.

Far too many visitors to the Emerald Isle head south from Dublin and only explore the coastal region of the country and leave the incredible beauty, bucolic countryside and historic villages of central Ireland forgotten. This is such a mistake, however, as there are so many great things to see and places to visit between these two Irish cities.

On this road trip, first stop in the charming Kildare village , where you can do some designer outlet shopping. If you’re interested in Irish whisky, make a stop at the Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre , where you can take a tour and taste some of their whisky.

Further along the road, take in the ruins of the 6th-century Clonmacnoise monastic site. There are ruins of a 6th-century cathedral, several 10-13th-century churches and more to see. Just a few miles north, you can explore the central city of Athlone and then continue further north to the lovely village of Roscommon .

If you’re interested in exploring more of rural County Galway before heading to lively Galway City, you can even extend your road trip to include a trip through the incredible Connemara peninsula.

Depending on your interests and time, ideally you would want to spend one to three days to see everything on this road trip and to really do this area of the country justice. However, you can also fairly easily complete the trip in one day.

Galway to Killarney

Number of days: 1-2 Start point: Galway End point: Killarney Distance: 272km (170 miles) Driving time: 4 hours 15 minutes

The journey from Galway to Killarney is dotted with some of the most interesting sights in Ireland. While the drive time is 4 – 4.5 hours, you’ll be stopping along the way so it will probably be a long day, but sure to be one of your favorites on your Ireland itinerary .

Starting in Galway, make your way to Killarney by meandering along the coast. Just outside of Galway, you’ll find Dunguaire Castle . You will probably recognize it as it is one of the most photographed Irish castles. Take a tour of the castle or, if you have time, attend a medieval banquet with a traditional Irish dinner and entertainment in the evening.

You’ll drive through The Burren, known for having an otherworldly, grey rock landscape. It’s a lot more interesting than it sounds to take a walk in the stark terrain that overlooks some beautiful beaches, especially if you catch it on a sunny day.

Have lunch in the quaint, colorful town of Doolin after passing through The Burren. Doolin is also a great place to stay overnight if you want to travel at a more leisurely pace. Next up is the Cliffs of Moher . Time your visit to be at the cliffs early or late to miss the midday crowds.

One of the best ways to enjoy the view is from one of the walking paths – Hag’s Head, the Doolin Cliff Walk, or the full Coastal Trail. You can also get a completely different perspective of the 700-foot cliffs on a boat cruise.

From here, there are two ways to get to Killarney: the highway through Limerick or the Tarbert ferry. If you want to stay along the coast, take the ferry. If you’d like to stop in Limerick, take the highway. End your day arriving in the lively town of Killarney . There will definitely be a pub to enjoy as you recount your favorite day in Ireland.

Northern Ireland Road Trips

Causeway coastal route.

Number of days: 1-2 Start point: Belfast End point: Londonderry Distance: 220km (137 miles) Driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes

One of my favorite drives in Ireland is the Causeway Coastal Route, which starts in Belfast and travels up the coast of Northern Ireland all the way to Derry-Londonderry. Technically, it’s not a very long route, and at 246 kilometres you could cover it in a day, however, the beauty of this drive is in taking it slow and enjoying the attractions along the way.

Some of the highlights include doing the cliff walk along The Gobbins , braving the swinging Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge , and marveling at the geological wonder that is Giant’s Causeway .

Whisky lovers will want to stop at Old Bushmills Distillery , the oldest working distillery on the island, before visiting cliff-perched Dunluce Castle and strolling by the iconic Mussenden Temple , and plenty more.

The nice thing about the Causeway Coastal Route is that it’s easy to adapt the drive to your schedule and your interests. If you are pressed for time, you can pick 3 clustered attractions and plan to drive a portion of the route in 1 day, however, if time allows it, you can easily turn this into a 1-week road trip planning stays in coastal towns and villages along the way.

This drive is worth adding to your itinerary because it hits many places in Northern Ireland you won’t want to miss, plus it also connects to two other drives – the Wild Atlantic Way in Derry-Londonderry and the Mourne Coastal Route at Belfast – so you can continue your Irish road trip.

The Mourne Coastal Route

Number of days: 2 Start point: Belfast End point: Newcastle Distance: 132km (81 miles) Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes

The name of the Mourne Coastal Route can be a bit misleading given only a small part of this road trip is in Mourne Mountains and there is otherwise so much more to the wider route.

The Mourne Mountains would be more the finish line to a rather scenic route leading from Belfast through some of the most fascinating landscapes Northern Ireland has to offer.

This road trip is mostly within the County Down region. It’s a bit like Northern Ireland’s equivalent to the Wild Atlantic Way – only much smaller. But there is a lot to fit in and it is often split into 3 sections.

The first section is North Down and the Ards Peninsula, where attractions include Bangor and the Coastal Path , Mount Stewart, and the scenery of Strangford Lough. A great place to stay is the Old Inn which connects to Crawfordsburn Country Park.

The next section is Saint Patrick’s territory, including his burial town of Downpatrick, where the main attractions include Castle Ward (Winterfell), along with many beaches along the coast towards Newcastle and the Mournes. A great place to stay here would have to be the Glamping Pods at Castle Ward.

Finally, it is the Mourne region which is just scenic all over with various mountain trails and lots of forest parks to explore including Castlewellan and Tollymore Forest Park . In this area, you can stay in Newcastle at the Donard Hotel . Newcastle also marks the start of a trek to the top of Slieve Donard and the highest peak in Northern Ireland.

Game of Thrones Road Trip

Number of days: 2+ Start point: Belfast End point: Belfast Distance: 288km (179 miles) Driving time: 4 hours 22 minutes

Taking a Game Of Thrones road trip is one of the most unique and interesting road trips ideas in the country. This road trip spans much of Northern Ireland, and can easily be completed in 3-5 days, but if you have longer, by all means explore the area for as long as you can.

You will begin and end in Belfast and will make a loop, beginning with the southeast of the country to County Down and ending in the North along the Antrim Coast .

There are a myriad of filming locations all throughout Northern Ireland, especially on the coastal areas. You can explore abandoned castles, see the Game Of Thrones Doors (Google it!), and visit one of the most iconic filming locations: the Dark Hedges, which served as The King’s Road.

In County Down, don’t miss a chance to see Castle Ward (Ned Stark’s home in Winterfell), Inch Abbey (Robb Stark’s camp at Riverrun), and Quintin Bay (the setting for Stokeworth).

There are many more filming locations to see along the way, which you can read about in the link above. If you are looking for somewhere awesome to stay, check out the haunted Ballygally Castle Hotel , which is also home to a Game Of Thrones Door.

We hope this article encourages you to start planning your Ireland road trip. The 13 road trips featured here are some of the best in Ireland and they can keep you on the road for weeks, even months, if you have the time.

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

2 thoughts on “ 13 Amazing Ireland Road Trips You’ll Love ”

Is there not any good road trips from Dublin to Belfast?

Sorry, but this post offers confusing and contradictory information. You show a map for the Wild Atlantic Way that doesn’t correspond with the route at all. Suggesting a 6+ hour inland, disinteresting drive on motorways from Kinsale to Donegal, when it’s a coastal route, more or less. You do allude to the route taking much longer, but why not show a proper map. Also, a better route on the map for the Belfast to Derry would be along the Antrim Coast, taking in the Nine Glens.

Ireland Road Trip: Dublin and Natural Wonders

Recom. Days

Freelance travel writer and road trip enthusiast based in York, UK. When Hannah isn’t climbing mountains or hopping overseas on an adventure, you can find her at home with her crazy puppy Red.

7-Day Campervan Itinerary For Ireland

by wildandfree | Jun 28, 2019 | Ireland

Ireland is a country that needs to be explored by a campervan for many reasons. There are so many amazing campsites scattered around Ireland making it an idyllic place to camp. We got to live out our dream of “owning” a Sprinter Van thanks to @blacksheepvan and @retroventures !

We had one week to adventure around in their FIAT Ducato Adria Campervan Explorer . It was the perfect size for two people and even had a shower, toilet, and kitchen! It is crazy what they can pack into a 6-meter campervan. It has everything you could ever need!

We mapped out our 7-day itinerary around Ireland which covered over 700 miles. This route took us past all the highlights that western and southern Ireland had to offer.

Day 4- It was a day of driving around in the campervan exploring Valentia Island , Portmagee , and the Kerry Cliffs .

Valentia Island is Ireland’s most westerly point located on the Wild Atlantic Way . There is a lot of beautiful nature to discover on the island. Not only is the nature diverse, but the island has a rich history as it was the birthplace of global communication.

This island is where the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable was laid between Ireland and Canada. This changed the way we communicated and is the reason for advancements in the telecommunication realm.

We crossed the bridge from Portmagee onto the island and drove up to the first viewpoint. It offered breathtaking views of the coastline and the Skellig Islands. This was the start of the Bray Head Loop which is a 2-hour circuit loop offering a breathtaking cliffside coastal hike. If you have time, I highly recommend taking a hike here if the weather is permitting.

The next stop was the slate quarry which dates back to 1816. This part of the drive was when the roads started to get narrower. Being in a transit van versus an RV really made the difference in being able to access some places. We found the transit to be compact for these small roads making it a lot easier to get around.

From the slate quarry, you can see the massive caves where they still mine slate today. There is also epic views of the coastline and lighthouse. We decided to venture down to the lighthouse next. This road was the smallest yet, but slow and steady wins the race. We are glad we decided to go down there as we found a beautiful spot to pull over on the ocean’s edge. We cooked breakfast (yum cheese toasties), played on the rocks, and checked out the lighthouse.

The island is pretty small and can be driven around in 2 hours or so with some stops along the way. We got back to the bridge to cross back onto the mainland and had built up an appetite.

We found street parking for the campervan in Portmagee and decided to walk down the colorful village. We found a pub and split a fish n chips and Guinness. No trip to Ireland is complete without having a shot of whiskey and a Guinness… Just saying!

Now, it was time to go hike off the food and beer. We headed about 15 minutes away to the Kerry Cliffs. There is a huge parking lot so no worries if you are in a campervan. It cost €4 per person to enter the cliffs and is totally worth it in our opinion. You hike 10 minutes uphill to the cliff’s edge and are rewarded with remarkable views. You can easily spend 1 hour here hiking around to the different viewpoints.

We were getting tired at this point as we’d seen and done a lot today! We headed back to the campsite and planned on cooking dinner to the sunset views. We just loved this camp site’s view. We lucked out another day of good weather and got to watch the sun duck below the green grassy meadows and bay.

Day 5- We kept heading along the Ring of Kerry road today to our next campsite, Wave Crest Caravan and Camping Park . It was only a one-hour drive from our previous site. We decided to check into our site that morning to save a spot for later and grab the gate key. We scored another amazing camp spot with more epic sea views!

Our plans for the day was to head through Killarney National Park to the town of Killarney. This took drive was scenic, to say the least, with grassy and rocky mountains in every direction. Some must-see places in Killarney National Park are Torc Waterfall, Ladies View, Ross Castle, Kissane Sheep Farm, and Muckross House.

We spent about an hour at Torc Waterfall and an hour at Kissane Sheep Farm . The sheep farm was a cool experience to see how the farmers shear the sheep and how the cattle dogs do their daily work. The dogs could be controlled by a low whistle from the farmer telling it which direction to go next. This was worth the €7 to see. We even got to pet some adorable sheep!

We got to Killarney just in time for dinner. We found a gastropub called Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder. They had the biggest selection of whiskey I’d ever laid eyes on. The server said there were over 1500 different types… We opted for the fillet steak and it was the perfect tenderness. It is exactly what was needed after a long day of exploring.

We had a bit of a drive ahead of us to get back to the campsite. We were hoping to make it back before dark. Luckily, made it back to our site with about 10 minutes to spare before nightfall. We had a successful day and were excited to wake up to the ocean views in the morning.

Day 6- We planned to finish off the Ring of Kerry road today and headed to our next campsite, Eagle Point Camping. We left midmorning in order to make it to the town of Kenmare for lunch. This colorful town is located at the head of Kenmare Bay. There are tons of boutique galleries, craft shops, and good-quality restaurants. It is a great town to take a stroll in and grab a bite to eat.

We kept heading south to the town of Reendesert. This peninsula town is where our next campsite was. It again offered amazing bay views! We arrived and set up our chairs and tables outside on our little grass patio overlooking the water.

We then whipped out our disposable BBQ, which we have found quite convenient in the past, to cook up some pork chops and veggies. A sunny day, ocean views, plus a BBQ is the best way to spend any day. We enjoyed the sunset from the campervan and called it a night as we were getting up to drive to Blarney Caravan and Camping Park the following day.

Day 7- We knew a visit to Ireland wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Jameson Distillery . We booked our tickets online the day before so that we could hop on the first tour of the day at 11 am. We had a 1.5-hour drive from our campsite to the distillery. This drive took us through Ireland’s green countryside just east of Cork to a town called Midleton.

The distillery tour took a little over an hour and ended with samplings of different whiskeys. Included in the tours ticket was also a free spirit at the end in the Jameson’s Bar. This is where we found our favorite Irish drink. Jameson with ginger ale and lime. Try it and thank me later. We were really impressed with the tour and found it was worth the money. There is also campervan parking in the parking lot next door to the distillery. There were signs up saying you could camp there up to 48 hours for free.

After the distillery tour, we wandered around the area, grabbed a coffee, and headed for campsite number 5. This sadly was the last campsite of our trip. It was close to Cork and Blarney Castle which we planned to explore.

The evening was spent walking around the very small town of Blarney. We went to the local pub, which was old and beautifully designed and grabbed one last Beef and Guinness stew before we left. It by far was our favorite Irish meal.

We had an early night as we planned on waking up at the crack of dawn to make the most out of our final day in Ireland.

Day 8- We didn’t want to have to take the campervan back today. We were definitely in love with it and the size, plus the compactness of it. We feel if we were to ever buy one, this one would be the one! Our flight wasn’t until 7 pm so we had all day to make it back to @retroventures shop. We drove into Cork mid-morning and was able to find street parking a couple of blocks outside of the main area. We had a wander around and found a Texas BBQ place called White Rabbit Bar & BBQ. Since we hadn’t had any good BBQ in over 5 months, we thought it was worth a shot as it sounded delicious.

It was average but had me dreaming about being back in Texas. Nothing compares to Texas BBQ, but it held us over until we could return to Texas.

We were debating at lunch about going to Blarney Castle, but the price and the weather deterred us. Instead, we visited Blackrock Castle Observatory which was free to view from the outside and a neat castle on the river. After this, we started our one-hour drive back to @retroventures shop which is located near Limerick. We saved the last two hours before returning the campervan for packing and cleaning. In all honesty, it only took about 30 minutes to do this as we kept our luggage to a minimum and tried to keep the camper as clean as possible. It was easy to do as it is a small space. We had to say goodbye to our home on wheels to catch our flight back to London.

We found Ireland to be a beautiful country with very friendly locals, great food, and amazing unspoiled nature. We want to give a huge thanks to @BlacksheepVans and @RetroVentures for making our adventure possible. We highly recommend getting around in a campervan in Ireland as there are so many amazing campsites and places to visit.

Camping and Campsites in Ireland

94 campsites.

Glen of Aherlow

Ring of Kerry

Lauragh Village County Kerry

Bennettsbridge

Ballaghaderreen

Sixacre, Tagoat, Co. Wexford

Ring of Kerry Coast

Tips for Campers

Camping in winter

Between snow and ice.

Staying directly by the water

Ireland is not called "the green island " for nothing: The country is a dream destination for campers who love pure nature! Lush greenery as far as the eye can see, rugged cliffs, secluded beaches and beautiful routes along the coast will make your RV trip unforgettable. For example, how about a road trip along the west coast on the Wild Atlantic Way ? The impressive landscapes in the country's interior and the numerous sights on the east coast will also inspire younger and older camping enthusiasts. Thanks to cities like Dublin , Cork or Galway, the island is also a worthwhile destination for campers who need a little urban flair now and then. The campsites of Ireland especially impress with their beautiful location and thanks to camping.info you will always find the right place for your dream vacation in Ireland. We present you the most beautiful destinations for camping in Ireland.

The Most Beautiful Destinations for Camping in Ireland

Camping at waterford.

You love everything that glitters and shines? Head to Waterford, where the Waterford Crystal crystal factory awaits you. For generations, dreamlike glass and crystal goods have been produced here in the traditional way. The factory can and should be visited and if you are still missing the perfect souvenirs you will surely find them here. Find the best campsites near Waterford now.

Camping in Dublin

Now it's time to say: Let's go to the capital! In Dublin you can expect colorful, diverse life, art, culture and also some student life. Trinity College is not only a renowned historical university, but also one of the most famous sights in Dublin. Who says, camping vacations can't educate you, is wrong. Here on camping.info you can find the best campsites in Dublin .

Camping in Kilkenny

You love medieval atmosphere and strong beer? We have an insider tip! The city of Kilkenny is waiting for you in the southeast of Ireland with the impressive Kilkenny Castle and the dark Kilkenny beer , which means enjoyment for all senses. It is also especially nice to stroll through the winding streets and alleys of the city and be inspired by the arts and crafts. You can find the best Campsites in Kilkenny here on camping.info.

Campsites in Ireland

If you are looking for a campsite in Ireland you will not despair or be on the road for a long time, because there are campsites all over the island. Many of these campsites in Ireland belong to "The Irish Caravan and Camping Council " . Often the campsites are the perfect starting point for day trips, depending on the location into nature or to historical sights like the Viking towns Kilkenny or Waterford. You would rather experience the coast ? Then you're on the right track in Ireland on the "Wild Atlantic Way", where numerous campsites with dreamy Atlantic views also await you. If you are traveling with children or dog , many campsites are also well designed for them. Here at camping.info you can use the filter function to find the ideal campsite for your dream vacation in Ireland.

What Campers Should Know about Camping in Ireland

Keep to the left.

Depending on where you come from, driving on the left side of the road might be a bit of an adjustment for you, but you’ll get it in no time! Just remember to overtake on the right, drive in the left lane and go clockwise in roundabouts, and be sure to yield to vehicles entering in on your right. Note that there isn’t a general rule of thumb for who gets right of way, either; the right of way is indicated at each intersection.

Get an Adapter

Irish electricity runs at 220 V, but they use British plugs. Make sure you have the right adapter for your electronic devices.

Twists and Turns: Winding Roads

The roads along the coast are typically windy and sometimes narrow. That’s why the average speed limit is around 65 km/h : Keep that in mind when planning your route.

One Destination, Two Languages

Most of the street signs and traffic signs in Ireland are written in two languages: English and Irish (sometimes also called “Gaelic”). Don’t let the two languages confuse you, and always double-check the name of your destination because in some parts of western Ireland, you’ll only find signs in Irish.

Don’t Park on Yellow

When you see a yellow line on the side of the road, know that it means no parking .

Popular Camping Regions in Ireland

3things campers in ireland should know, is wild camping allowed in ireland.

Officially, wild camping is not allowed in Ireland. However, there is always an exception if you ask the respective landowner for an overnight permit . Asking costs nothing and with wild camping in Ireland you are often lucky. Of course, always make sure to treat nature respectfully and not to leave any trash behind. Searching and asking for a suitable place for wild camping is too complicated for you? Here on the website you can easily find small, rustic campsites close to nature.

Find and book a free campsite in Ireland now

How do you get to Ireland with a motorhome?

The plan is to go camping in Ireland, but how do you bring the beloved motorhome to the island? When traveling to one of the campsites in Ireland, there are two options. All those who are sea-proof and not intimidated by a small (or larger) wave, can use the ferry connection from France directly to Ireland. Are you already uncomfortable with just the thought of rocking on deck? No problem, for you the land bridge is the right option: first it goes across the English Channel and then across the Irish Sea.

Fancy a vacation on the green island, close to mainland Europe? Then book a free campsite in Ireland now

Should I make a reservation when Camping in Ireland?

If you want to be sure to get a pitch at your campsite of choice during the main season from July to August , you should book in advance. Outside the main season, it usually works without a reservation. As in other countries, many campsites take a winter break : So check the opening hours if necessary.

Want to spend your summer camping vacation in Ireland? Find and book a campsite in Ireland now

Frequently asked questions

Which is the best campsite in ireland.

International Outdoor Activity Centre , 5
Lough Ramor Caravan & Camping Park , 5
Glen of Aherlow Car. & Camp. Park , 5

Which campsite in Ireland is recommended?

Belleek Park Caravan & Camping , 5

How expensive is camping in Ireland?

Which campsites are available in ireland.

Select your country preferences

Camper Van & RV Rental in Ireland

Book now to get the best deal!

Rent an RV in Ireland

When it comes to exploring the Emerald Isles, an RV rental in Ireland is the only way. With its magical landscapes, incredibly hospitable locals and unique Gaelic history, this charming country is a must-visit destination for any avid traveler. Rent a camper van in Ireland and explore the cobblestoned streets of Dublin where our main station is located or discover its rural villages and fairytale castles at your leisure.

Camper Van Rental Dublin

Explore Ireland RV Rentals

roadsurfer road house campervan with pop up roof from the side view

Road House Class B RV | Sprinter

140 hp diesel engine
Large kitchen area
Indoor shower/wet bath (hot water)
Manual pop-up roof
Rear parking sensors with camera, cruise control, etc.

roadsurfer cozy cottage campervan from the side view

Cozy Cottage Class C RV

177 hp diesel engine
Spacious living-kitchen area
Large wet bath (hot water)
Without pop-up roof
Rear view camera, cruise control, spacious rear compartment, etc.

Your roadsurfer Benefits

Brand new, fully equipped camper vans & RVs

Unlimited mileage & free 2nd driver

Rebook or cancel with the Flex option up to 48 hours before departure

Camping equipment & kitchen utensils included

Roadside assistance

Your Ireland Road Trip

Embarking on a road trip with your RV rental in Ireland? You’ll be captivated by its stunning landscapes – from the towering Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way to the mysterious Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim. The Guinness Storehouse or Book of Kells library in Dublin are must-see, while a drive to the historic city of Cork promises a rich cultural experience. Finish with a visit to the iconic Blarney Castle – don’t forget to kiss the fabled stone for the gift of eloquence!

Driving in Ireland

Camping in Ireland

Travel Requirements
Events & Festivals in Ireland
Places to Visit in Ireland
When to Visit Ireland

Driving rules in Ireland

Venturing out on the picturesque roads of Ireland is a riveting experience. However, for anyone booking a camper van rental in Ireland from North America, driving could present some unique challenges. Here’s a short guide and a few key points to remember:

Driving on the left: Unlike in the US, traffic in Ireland flows on the left hand side of the road. It may take a bit of time to adjust to this change, especially at roundabouts and junctions.

Roundabouts: Speaking of roundabouts, they’re a common feature on Irish roads. Remember to approach them in a clockwise direction and give way to traffic coming from your right.
Gas stations: Gas stations (called “petrol stations” in Ireland) are smaller than gas-pump-and-convenience-stores in North America.
Country roads: Ireland’s rural roads can be narrow and winding, often flanked by stone walls or hedgerows. Drive cautiously and use passing points where available. If you’re uncomfortable driving a large motorhome in Ireland, you might find it easier to book one of our smaller camper van options.
Speed limits: Speed limits are indicated in kilometers per hour, not miles. Ensure to stay within the limit to avoid fines.
Alcohol limit: Remember, when you rent a camper van in Ireland, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is lower than many US states, so it’s best to avoid alcohol if you plan to drive<

There are numerous public camper van sites equipped with modern amenities, nestled amidst the country’s stunning landscapes. These sites offer a great opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers and locals alike.

For those who crave solitude and serenity, camping on private lands is an ideal choice. Many farms and estates provide this opportunity, allowing campers to enjoy the tranquility of the Irish countryside. There’s also the option of overnight parking (unless signage says otherwise), which entitles you to stay for one night in certain public places and move again in the morning.

Wild camping, on the other hand, is illegal but generally accepted. So if you’re thinking about booking an RV rental in Ireland and staying in the wilderness, bear in mind that you might be asked to move on or be issued a ticket.

Travel requirements for traveling to Ireland

A valid passport is mandatory for US citizens if you want to travel to and rent a camper van in Ireland. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure. While a visa is not required for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days (three months), you may need one for longer visits or other purposes. You’ll also need a valid US driver’s license to both pick up and drive your motorhome rental in Ireland.

Popular events & festivals in Ireland

St. Patrick’s Festival (March): Held annually in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, this festive event sees the country awash in a sea of green.
Bloomsday (June): This unique event celebrates the life and works of James Joyce, specifically his novel ‘Ulysses’.
Galway International Arts Festival (July): One of the biggest cultural events in Ireland, the festival features a mix of theater, dance, music and visual arts, attracting artists from all over the world to perform and display their works in Galway City.
Rose of Tralee International Festival (August): Held in the town of Tralee, this event features a contest where women of Irish descent from around the globe compete for the title of the ‘Rose of Tralee’.

Beautiful places to visit in Ireland

Dublin: The capital city of Ireland, Dublin offers a mix of history, culture and modern amenities. Must-visit attractions include the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and St. Stephen’s Green.
Ring of Kerry: This picturesque 179-kilometer-long circular tourist route in County Kerry, Southwestern Ireland, is known for its captivating landscapes and rich archaeological sites.
Killarney: Renowned for its national park, lakes and stately homes, Killarney offers a glimpse into Ireland’s natural beauty and historical heritage.
Galway: Galway, known as Ireland’s Cultural Heart, is famous for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, events and Gaelic celebrations.
Cork: Besides being the second-largest city in Ireland, Cork is a hub of cultural and historical sites. Don’t miss the chance to ring the Shandon Bells in the 300-year-old tower of St. Anne’s Church.

When to visit Ireland

While summer offers longer days and warmer weather, spring and fall can be the best time to embark on a trip with your motorhome rental in Ireland. The crowds are fewer, the landscapes are greener and campground prices are lower. Winter in Ireland can be chilly but also magical with Christmas markets, festive decorations and cozy pubs. So whether you prefer warm or cold weather, there’s always something special to look forward to when booking a camper van rental in Ireland.

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I Road Tripped Through Southern Ireland for 7 Days, and These Are the 13 Items I Couldn’t Have Done It Without

They're all from Amazon.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As an Italian travel writer with Irish citizenship, I recently planned a week-long road trip through southern Ireland to explore my maternal grandfather’s country and connect with my heritage. The road trip included driving through six counties, with nights spent in small fishing villages on the coast, cliffside hikes accompanied by wandering sheep, and mountain-and-lake-framed sheepdog demonstrations. With the weather in constant flux (Ireland could give Boston a run for its money when it comes to capricious weather), plenty of outdoor activities planned, and long hours spent in the car, the trip required the right gear, which I quickly realized can make all of the difference — especially when driving on the opposite side of the road.

I’ve created a foolproof packing list of my favorite travel essentials from Amazon that made my week-long road trip through southern Ireland a breeze. From rain boots and compression packing cubes to portable tire inflators and water-resistant hiking pants , these 13 products made my trip go off without a hitch, so much so that I’m already planning a second Irish road trip.

Chelsea Rain Boots

Rain boots generally aren’t known to be the most stylish footwear, but these ultra-affordable Chelsea-style ones from Asgard manage to strike the right balance between functional and fashionable. These were my primary footwear while in Ireland, as they were durable enough to deal with the rain, wind, and mud (which easily came off with a wet wipe), but also nice enough to be worn around towns and cities. However, the best part is how comfortable they are — after walking 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day (every day) for a week, my feet were miraculously blister-free. It’s no wonder that these boots have more than 17,000 five-star rating at Amazon.

Lightweight Puffer Jacket

My road trip took place in March, which is when Ireland is known to be rainy with mild temperatures — hence why I decided to pack a lightweight, water-resistant puffer. I wanted some degree of insulation, but not to the point of overheating and feeling bogged down. I wore my favorite lightweight puffer jacket from Zara that comes with two large exterior pockets, which are perfect for holding smaller items such as lip balm and my phone. If you're in need of an equally lightweight and high-performing puffer, this best-selling Amazon Essentials one has over 15,000 five-star ratings and should do just the trick. Available in multiple colors with sizes ranging from XS to 6XL, it can pack neatly into a small, handy travel case for easy packing.

Asia Palomba

Compression Packing Cubes

I’ve never been a believer in compression packing cubes until I came across this Gonex set with more than 5,900 five-star ratings at Amazon. Since I only brought a carry-on suitcase and a personal item for my trip, I needed to make sure that I could pack a week’s worth of bulky clothing between the two — and these compression packing cubes did just the trick. In them, I was able to pack two pairs of pants, one pair of leggings, four long-sleeve shirts, a pair of thermal long johns, two T-shirts, a pair of sleeping shorts, and four sweaters.

Available in a bundle of four different sizes, ranging from S to XL, they not only easily compressed my thick clothing items, but also left me with plenty of room to pack a pair of hiking boots, a rain poncho, and my toiletry items. Now that I’ve officially been converted into team compression packing cubes , I won't be traveling anywhere without them.

Portable Tire Inflator

My week-long road trip naturally hinged on having a functioning rental car. As I knew the majority of the roads that I would be driving on would be narrow and at times unpaved, I wanted to make sure that I had a compact, portable tire inflator that could quickly and easily inflate my rental car’s tires. It especially came in handy when driving up the Priest’s Leap, a steep, narrow, and winding mountain pass freckled with cows and sheep. Half-way up the rural pass, all four of my rental car’s tire pressure got low, but this small, mighty device thankfully inflated them within 20 minutes. The tire inflator is compact enough to fit into a personal item, and comes with different valves that can inflate anything from balls to air mattresses, so it’s an especially versatile gadget to have on hand for any road trip.

Ankle-height Hiking Boots

Much of my trip included cliffside hikes and traipsing along mud-soaked fields, which as one can assume, was a fairly messy affair. These Keen hiking boots, which I’ve had for two years, protected me against the rain and mud, even when they were submerged in an ankle-deep puddle (only the tops of my socks, which weren't protected by the boots, were stained). They can be worn in any season thanks to their breathable, waterproof exteriors and light mesh linings. The grip from their high-traction rubber soles, which is great for hiking in damper conditions, has always kept me firmly on the ground, even in the slipperiest of situations. Plus, they come with removable, dual-density EVA footbeds with arch support, so they’re incredibly comfortable and supportive.

Waterproof Hiking Pants

I’ve come to learn that a good pair of waterproof hiking pants can make or break any hiking experience. I’m particularly fond of hiking pants with plenty of pockets, which is why my favorite pair, that I’ve worn everywhere from New Hampshire to Iceland, have four of them. In Ireland, I wore them while hiking alongside cliffs and across fields to not only protect me against the elements, but also dirt, mud, and cow and sheep feces (sheeps are quite literally everywhere in Ireland).

While my favorite pair are no longer sold at Amazon, I’ve been eyeing these affordable lightweight ones from Baleaf for quite some time. The Amazon top-sellers come with four zippered pockets, quick-dry fabric, and adjustable cord locks around the ankle cuffs. Available in a variety of colors, their most attractive feature may just be their tall and petite versions — the latter of which is ideal for me as I always struggle to find pants that fit right.

I first purchased these wool socks last year for a trip to Iceland, and they’ve been keeping my feet warm ever since. Comfortable, well-insulated, and not overly thick, they come in handy when I'm home in Boston; I wear them on a daily basis during the winter to protect against the city’s notoriously frigid wind chills. They’re designed with reinforced yarn in the heels and toes for extra durability and warmth, plus arch compression reinforcement to support any kind of movement regardless of your footwear.

During my Ireland trip, they saved the day when they went up against the wind and rain, as both my rain and hiking boots weren’t insulated. Woven with spandex fibers, they’re slightly flexible and can be stretched to fit any foot size. For reference, I wear a size 5 shoe and purchased the extra small/small size, which fits me perfectly.

Rugged Backpack

The Fjallraven Kanken backpack has been my go-to travel backpack for the last eight years. And although it’s been around the world with me and has taken quite a beating since I first purchased it in 2016, the backpack is as sturdy and durable as ever. It may lack some of the flashier organizational features that more contemporary backpacks boast, but its selling features are its compact size, which belies a spacious main compartment, and rugged canvas exterior that can handle everything from spills and rain to mud and wind. It can easily fit up to a 15-inch laptop and a 32-ounce water jug, which makes it a great personal travel item or hiking backpack, which is what I used it for during my trip.

Thermal Long Johns

Although the weather in Ireland was fairly mild, there were a few days when the blankets of wind buffeting the coast were downright frigid. When I visited the Cliffs of Moher, for example, the damp wind was throwing me around like a rag doll and cutting through my layers like a knife. Thankfully, I had on a pair of these Thermajane thermal long johns, which I first purchased last year for Iceland, that blocked out the worst of the chill. Lined with soft fleece, they’re ultra-comfortable, warm, and stretchy, so they don’t feel suffocating even when buried beneath other layers. They’re available in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns and have been dubbed Amazon’s best-selling women’s thermal underwear set . But, if that doesn’t convince you, then read through a few of its near-8,000 five-star reviews.

Rain Poncho

Rain in Ireland is a constant, if not somewhat irksome, companion. Over the week-long trip, it wasn't uncommon to experience a drizzle with interspersed sunshine, a torrential downpour, and hail within the same day. For this reason, I purchased a rain poncho so that I could quickly whip it out when the skies opened up. As someone just under 5-foot-1 inches, most of the ponchos I purchased prior were way too big and long for me, which is why I gravitated toward this kids-sized Amazon one ( the brand also has adult sizes ).

With a functional hood and a front zippered pocket, I was pleasantly surprised at how well it fit and how durable it was after being battered with rain and wind. I bought the 2XL size, which is meant for ages nine to 13 and can fit anyone up to 5 feet 3 inches — a win for fellow shorties like me. Plus, the poncho can easily fold up into a small carrying sack, so it’s ideal for traveling light.

Small Camera Bag

As I was constantly on the move, I wanted an inconspicuous camera bag that would protect my device while being small enough to wear on my person. It’s roughly the same size as a small pocketbook, which meant that I could wear it while sightseeing without it getting in my way. It comes with an adjustable strap and two mesh side pockets to hold additional gear or accessories. This compact water-resistant carrying case withstood some pretty harsh weather, but didn’t suffer any external wear and tear aside from a few grass stains and flecks of mud. While not all cameras may fit within the bag depending on their make and model, my Fujifilm XT30 fit perfectly and left just enough room for extra batteries and chargers.

Fleece Sweater

I’ve always been partial to a cozy sweater, and this Amazon quarter-zip fleece pullover is no exception. Lightweight yet warm, this ultra-comfortable and affordable sweater goes well with jeans or hiking pants, so it’s a versatile item to add to your travel closet. It comes in seven colors, including red, gray, and green, with sizes ranging from S to 2XL, and its slightly baggy fit is both cozy and flattering. It’s an item that I plan on bringing with me on future trips, especially when hiking and camping is involved as it’s good for layering purposes.

USB Car Converter

This light and compact gadget was a boon during the hours spent in the car as I could charge multiple devices at once in between stops. The USB car converter comes with two USB charging ports and two, 110-volt AC outlets that are capable of charging larger devices such as laptops and tablets. I was able to charge my phone, Amazon Kindle, portable tire inflator, and multiple camera batteries at once while driving, so it’s ideal for road trips, especially if you'll be traveling in a group. Small enough to fit into the palm of my hand, it can easily be packed away in a personal item.

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Tentative plan:

Thursday - pick up car in Dublin around 6-7pm and drive to Doolin (I am a night owl, I don't mind driving late)

Friday - Cliffs of Moher plus drive to Dingle via connor pass - stay in Dingle

Saturday - Slea head drive, drive to/tour Killarney National Park /stay in Killarney

Sunday - Muckross House/Gardens, Rock of Cashel , stay in Kilkenny

Monday - Kilkenny Castle , Glendalough - stay in Dublin?

Tuesday - depart Tuesday late morning from Dublin (could conceivably also drive in this morning from somewhere nearby if I don't stay in Dublin)

My specific questions are:

How is pacing?

Is anything missing that I should swap something out for? Ring of Kerry for instance I debated about

Does where I plan on staying make sense? Or, for instance, should I stay somewhere other that Doolin that first night, etc.?

MANY thanks in advance!

19 replies to this topic

Oops! IC and I were posting at the same time.

I'm considering doing it in reverse to avoid a late arrival for a B&B host - and I've taken a couple things off. I've been tracking my dates and locations and still see TONS of reservations available so it seems there are plenty of places to stay. Welcome any thoughts on the below, including additional trims:

Friday - Kilkenny castle , drive to Killarney

Saturday - Killarney national park, drive to Dingle (or stay in Killarney and drive in morning?)

Sunday - Slea head drive, then to Doolin (or maybe stay somewhere along the way)

Monday - Cliffs of Moher, drive to Dublin late

Tuesday - depart Tuesday late morning from Dublin

I would personally split the time between Killarney and Dingle , but that is entirely because of my preferences and what I like. But even with your revised itinerary, you will spend very, very little time actually seeing the things that you have listed as wanting to see, because you are going to need to jump into the car and drive to your next one night stay.

Also, I’m not sure where you were seeing ready availability just a month away. Especially in the smaller towns. If you were just doing searches on booking.com, be aware that when I did searches last August for this April/May, I would see a lot of B&B‘s listed as having availability, but when I actually tried to book was informed that they had no rooms available. Many people have found that accommodations have been fully booked months in advance, so the availability of accommodations may be what dictates your route.

It’s exceedingly difficult to tell someone what they should see or do with little information — but it’s easy to point out what can and cannot be done.

For example — your Day 2:

You plan to visit the Cliffs of Moher . That’s an absolute minimum of an hour. Then you want to drive along the coast, so the best option is along the N67 to Killimer which will likely take an hour and a half (without stops) and taking the ferry across the Shannon ito Tarbert.

The ferry takes about 30 minutes — IF you arrive just before its departure . Otherwise, there could be a 30 minute wait for the next one.

Then, you plan to do the Slea Head Drive. It’s roughly 35 kilometers, Dingle to Dingle — and Google Maps claims a “Drive Time” of 1 hour and 4 minutes . Realistically, you MIGHT COULD drive it in an hour and a half — but if you want to experience any part of it, it’s probably more like 3 and a half hours.

I drove it last May and made 7 stops — which is FAR from “Seeing It All” — and spent about 6 and a half hours.

All in , that’s somewhere between 8 - 10 hours — at a Minimum.

That’s one of your least hectic days.

Campari, I’ll add just a wee bit more. A respected poster on TA often makes a suggestion along these lines. Of all the things / places you really want to see, what would disappoint you most if you were NOT to experience that? There is YOUR #1 priority. If you could star there, your itinerary could fall into place. I am watching this thread, and do hope that your plans can work to give you a very enjoyable visit.

Pirate 🏴‍☠️

These have all been very helpful - a lot more context that is useful in my planning, rather than just telling me I'm ridiculous. So a truly sincere thank you to you all! It's helpful to see, for instance, Cliffs of Moher not on the top of a lot of lists, which as an outsider is something I'm much more familiar with. Also, in general, I love stunning natural beauty if that helps filter what is/isn't worth a visit; I don't love crowds but will put up with them if it's really worth it, but welcome off the beaten path beauty more. And it feels I should definitely visit a castle or two. I'm sure I'll get some good town experiences with overnights here and there, but going around cities is my least priority.

In the vein of transparency (and to perhaps advise others behind me) I'll share more as it comes together. I have tentatively made a few bookings now and I do really see a lot of availability there, so so far that doesn't seem to be a concern I'm encountering!

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What is it about camping that seems to bring so much whimsy and romance to a holiday? Maybe it’s the freedom to follow your own plan; the ease of unfurling your sleeping bag wherever you lay your hat; or even the simple pleasure of cooking your own meals over a campfire. Perhaps it’s just the affordability of a tent over a hotel room: after all, Ireland’s landscapes are the main attraction for most of us—and they’re free for everyone to enjoy.

We’ve rounded up some of the best spots around the island to take a trip as a camper or caravan driver. And the best part? Since you set the schedule, you can visit them all!

Camping and caravanning around the island of Ireland

L-R: The Botanical B&B, County Cork; Purecamping sauna, County Clare; The Hideaway, County Cork; Clogher Valley Country Caravan Park, County Tyrone

Camping, glamping or caravanning?

Serviced camper van and caravan sites are widespread across Ireland, so make sure to park up in a designated camping spot—not on farmland, a beach or at a roadside. Ballyness Caravan Park in County Antrim is the ideal spot to set up camp for a family friendly trip along the Causeway Coast, while The Hideaway in Cork and Clifden Eco Beach Camping and Caravanning Park offer excellent facilities in beautiful locations. Best of all, most sites have bathing facilities, so you don’t have to sacrifice your hot shower in the morning!

Top tip: The Irish Caravan and Camping Council is a great port of call if you have any specific queries on serviced camper van and caravan sites on the island.

If you want to take your Ireland adventure on the road, why not hire a campervan? Rental companies offer everything from budget campers to large motorhomes and you can get behind the wheel with your standard car driving licence. Try Bunk Campers , Craic 'n' Campers or West Coast Campervans to get you started.

Rock Farm, Slane, County Meath

In recent years, glamping has soared in popularity, too. It ticks all the boxes, appealing both to those who are used to roughing it and want to try a bit of luxury camping for a change, as well as those who have never before seen the inside of a tent. The location of the Aran Islands glamping grounds is unbeatable; Rossharbour’s lakeside cabins are a dream; while the incredible Luxury Glamping Truck at Larchfield Estate is serenity and swank all in one.

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What to do in the great outdoors

It might sound obvious, but picnicking can be one of the greatest joys of any camping trip. There’s nothing like waking up on a dew-strewn morning, firing up the stove and frying some sausages, rashers and black pudding! Ireland’s fries are famous, so make sure to shop local at one of our markets, such as Cork City's English Market , for the authentic taste – and, as always, remember to quench any fires and take all your rubbish away with you.

Another huge plus of this style of travel is that you can literally do whatever you want. Explore the Ring of Kerry. Check. Swim in a secluded freshwater pool? Easy, try Pooleen in County Cork. Find a walking trail or birdwatch on a quiet nature reserve or national park? Done. Cycle along a lush greenway ? Take your pick ! And best of all, there’s no long commute home: just pitch your tent or park your caravan and doze off in your dream location…

Relaxing at Finn Lough, County Fermanagh

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Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park is nestled between the slopes of Knockalla Mountain and the golden sands of Ballymastocker Bay. It is a Family park with a four star rating over looking a beautiful beach.

Ideally positioned for walking holidays, Powers the Pot Caravan and Camping Park is found at the side of the Comeragh Mountains yet with all the amenities of Clonmel Town within reach. It is near the border between counties Tipperary and Waterford.

On the shores of Upper Lough Erne, this spot is made for water-lovers. Bring a towel!

Aran Islands Camping & Glamping offers guests an exclusive experience in Inis Mor, one of the beautiful Aran Islands off the coast of County Galway.

Belleek Park Caravan and Camping provides four star facilities for visitors to Ballina, County Mayo. A well established, award winning, family run park. In an excellent location for touring the West of Ireland.

A very friendly, family-run campsite, Adare Camping & Caravan is a wonderful base for touring County Limerick and beyond, as well as for a short stopover on a longer journey. The park provides a relaxing atmosphere and a whole range of facilities.

Blackwater Eco Pods offer accommodation, river activities and walking trails in the River Blackwater Valley based in Villierstown, County Waterford.

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9 STUNNING Camping Sites Ireland (With AMAZING VIEWS)
3. Eagle Point Camping (one of the best camping sites in Ireland for families) Eagle Point Camping and Caravan Park is situated on a large 20-acre slice of the peninsula overlooking Bantry Bay on County Cork's Atlantic Coast. It's the perfect spot for family holidays with great facilities and activities to do nearby.
Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites
We personally spent 2 weeks on an epic Ireland camping trip. We gathered all sorts of tips to share with you (and had an incredible time!). ... Whether you're embarking on a bucket list Ireland road trip or you're a local planning a weekend camping excursion, this guide will equip you with helpful tips and things you should know about ...
The 10 best camping sites in Ireland (for all types of campers)
Chléire Haven, Co. Cork - for an island camping trip. 5. Wave Crest Camping, Co. Kerry - one of the best camping sites in Ireland. 4. Tepee Valley Glamping, Co. Armagh - an ideal glamping spot all year round. 3. Portsalon Luxury Camping - for one of the best luxury camping experiences. 2.
Motorhoming and Campervanning in Ireland- The Ultimate Guide
Some of the best places to visit in Ireland with a campervan or motorhome include: Cliffs of Moher - unbelievably dramatic. The Wild Atlantic Way- 1700 miles of dramatic coastline and traditional Irish culture. Giants Causeway (Northern Ireland) Dark Hedges road- famous as a Game of Thrones filming location.
Try these scenic campervan journeys in Ireland
The Fermanagh Lakelands are a relaxed area to explore by campervan any time of the year, with scenic drives and viewpoints around the waterways of Lower and Upper Lough Erne, as well as natural wonders, forest parks and stately homes. Visit the Marble Arch Caves for an underground boat trip through limestone caves formed 330 million years ago ...
Camping and caravanning in Ireland
Camping, glamping or caravanning? Serviced camper van and caravan sites are widespread across Ireland, so make sure to park up in a designated camping spot—not on farmland, a beach or at a roadside. Ballyness Caravan Park in County Antrim is the ideal spot to set up camp for a family friendly trip along the Causeway Coast, while The Hideaway ...
Camping in Ireland
It's time to set up camp! For an excellent overview of the officially approved camping and caravanning parks on the island of Ireland, as well as information on camper van hires, equipment, special offers, and maps, visit Camping Ireland. A great family-friendly option is the Lough Key Caravan & Camping Park in County Roscommon, where you can ...
Ireland Road Trip
Read on to discover our top three must-see sights in Ireland: 1. The Ring of Kerry. Source: Alex Ranaldi. Perhaps the most scenic of Ireland's tourist trails, the Ring of Kerry, spans 120 miles of southwestern Ireland's most impressive landscapes and coastline. For many people around the world, this area of Ireland epitomises their image of ...
Our Ultimate 2 Week IRELAND ROAD TRIP Itinerary
This epic Ireland road trip itinerary took us around all of the north and south in just over 2 weeks! Covering more than 3,300km! Warning: This is FULL ON! DESTINATIONS. ... This was one of my favourite camping spots from the entire trip. Quick day 11 itinerary: Tried to sneak some glimpses of Ballynahinch Castle; Ventured on round to the ...
The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Ireland with Discover Ireland
Experience the best of both worlds in the Sunny South East with a seaside holiday and camping trip in one at The Trading Post Camper Park. Discover this scenic caravan park between two of Wexford's best beaches, Morriscastle and Curracloe. Spend a day swimming in the sea and wash the sand away with a hot shower back at the campsite.
The Ultimate Guide To Campervanning In Ireland
From the coast to the mountains, some of the best road trips Ireland has to offer include: • The Copper Coast - Tramore to Dungarvan. • The Wild Atlantic Way - Inishowen Peninsula to Kinsale. • The Ring of Kerry - Killarney. • Mayo coastal road trip - Ballina to Killary.
Camping Ireland
Only Tourist Board Approved Parks. All of the Camping Ireland member Caravan & Camping Parks have undergone an independent and rigorous assessment, meaning you can select accommodation that won't disappoint. Parks are inspected and given a rating to reflect overall standards. Stars are your guide to quality and indicate the different levels ...
The ULTIMATE Ireland Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)
The Ring of Beara. Newgrange. Ireland Road Trip Itinerary. Day 1 - Dublin to Wexford (150km) Day 2 - Wexford to Cork (190km) Day 3 - Cork to Kenmare via the Ring of Beara (200km) Day 4 - Kenmare to Killarney via the Ring of Kerry (140km) Day 5 - Killarney. Day 6 - Killarney to Tralee via Dingle (160km)
13 Amazing Ireland Road Trips You'll Love
End point: Killarney. Distance: 200km (124 miles) Driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes. The Ring of Kerry is one of the most iconic road trips in Ireland. This 200km looped drive passes the beautiful sights of the Iveragh Peninsula in Co. Kerry and is packed with stunning scenery and incredible coastline.
A Comprehensive Guide to Camping in Ireland
14. Follow Proper Etiquette for Camping in Ireland. Many campsites have designated quiet hours during which excessive noise or music should be avoided to respect other campers' peace and privacy. Respect other campers' privacy by keeping a reasonable distance between your tent or caravan and theirs. 15.
Ireland Road Trip
Next on this Ireland road trip is the Ring of Kerry. This 179-km-long (~111 miles) circular forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way and can be driven in 3.5 hours without stopping. Of course, you'll be stopping since there's plenty of things to stop for, including a National Park and three remote islands!
7-Day Campervan Itinerary For Ireland
Day 4- It was a day of driving around in the campervan exploring Valentia Island, Portmagee, and the Kerry Cliffs.Valentia Island is Ireland's most westerly point located on the Wild Atlantic Way.There is a lot of beautiful nature to discover on the island. Not only is the nature diverse, but the island has a rich history as it was the birthplace of global communication.
Camping Holiday in Ireland
Day 1 - Killarney. Visit the impressive 15th century Ross Castle. Go hiking in Killarney National Park - over 10,000 acres of nature, lakes and ancient oak forests await you. Take a boat to Innisfallen Island, where you can visit the ancient 7th century monastery. Campsite: Killarney Flesk Caravan & Camping Park.
Camper van holidays in Ireland
To hire a camper van on the island of Ireland, you must hold a valid driver's licence or an international driving permit. It's a good idea to obtain travel insurance before your trip as well. Rental prices vary by season and vehicle availability, so make sure you shop around to get the best deal! Expect to find them from about €245/£215 per ...
Camping in Ireland › All campsites
Here at camping.info you can use the filter function to find the ideal campsite for your dream vacation in Ireland. What Campers Should Know about Camping in Ireland Keep to the Left. Depending on where you come from, driving on the left side of the road might be a bit of an adjustment for you, but you'll get it in no time! Just remember to ...
Camper Van & RV Rentals in Ireland
Embarking on a road trip with your RV rental in Ireland? You'll be captivated by its stunning landscapes - from the towering Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way to the mysterious Giant's Causeway in County Antrim. ... For those who crave solitude and serenity, camping on private lands is an ideal choice. Many farms and estates ...
13 Irish Road Trip Travel Essentials at Amazon
Amazon. Buy on Amazon $90 $80. The Fjallraven Kanken backpack has been my go-to travel backpack for the last eight years. And although it's been around the world with me and has taken quite a ...
5 day road trip plan?
Tentative plan: Thursday - pick up car in Dublin around 6-7pm and drive to Doolin (I am a night owl, I don't mind driving late) Friday - Cliffs of Moher plus drive to Dingle via connor pass - stay in Dingle. Saturday - Slea head drive, drive to/tour Killarney National Park /stay in Killarney. Sunday - Muckross House/Gardens, Rock of Cashel ...
Camping and caravanning in Ireland
Camping, glamping or caravanning? Serviced camper van and caravan sites are widespread across Ireland, so make sure to park up in a designated camping spot—not on farmland, a beach or at a roadside. Ballyness Caravan Park in County Antrim is the ideal spot to set up camp for a family friendly trip along the Causeway Coast, while The Hideaway ...
Travel trends: Late bookings, group trips, camping
Holidaymakers are holding off on booking their summer trip for 2024, new data shows. ... group trips, camping Updated / Friday, 12 Apr 2024 21:48. ... Ireland's National Public Service Media. RTÉ ...

The Best Camping Sites Ireland Has To Offer: 9 Campsites With STUNNING VIEWS

The best camping sites Ireland has to offer

1. Chleire Haven

2. Clifden Eco Beach

3. Eagle Point Camping (one of the best camping sites in Ireland for families)

4. Portsalon Luxury Camping

5. Rosguill Holiday Park (one of the most scenic campsites Ireland has to offer)

6. Mannix Point Camping

7. Pure Camping

8. Wave Crest Camping

9. Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park

The best campsites in Ireland: where have we missed?

Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

Camping in Ireland guide

Wild camping in Ireland

Best campsites in Ireland

Best campervan rentals in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland

When to travel to Ireland

Fun things to do in Ireland

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Motorhoming and Campervanning in Ireland- The Ultimate Guide

Campervanning in Ireland – why you should go!

New to motorhoming?

Motorhoming in Ireland- When to go

Highlights of an Ireland campervanning holiday

Getting to Ireland from Britain with a motorhome or camper

Crossing from Northern Ireland to Southern Ireland

Getting to Ireland by Ferry from rest of the UK

Getting to Ireland from France

Travelling around Ireland

Hiring a motorhome to tour Ireland

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

Campervan rules in Ireland- what gear you need to carry

CONCERNED ABOUT SECURITY?

What documents do you need to road trip in Ireland?

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Ireland?

Touring Ireland in a campervan- Other useful things you might need

Motorhome Stopovers and Overnight camper parking in Ireland

Motorhome Campsites in Ireland

Aires in Ireland

Approved overnight motorhome parking

Safe Nights Ireland

Pub Overnight Stops in Ireland

Wild camping in Ireland for motorhomes and campers

Motorhome wild camping guides for the UK & Europe