Top 5 Northern Ireland Car Tours: See the Emerald Isle Differently
Thinking about visiting Northern Ireland? Very well, there are loads of ways to have an awesome time, but having a car? So, that opens up a lot of possibilities. Because let’s be frank, you want to see things at your own speed, very, that public transport just can’t offer. This guide looks closely at five different driving tours across Northern Ireland. The idea is to provide options, with insights and tips, for planning that perfect road trip.
1. The Causeway Coastal Route: A Stunning Drive
Okay, so picture this. The Causeway Coastal Route is usually on everyone’s list and rightly so. So it starts near Belfast and follows the coast up past the Glens of Antrim, very to sights like the Giant’s Causeway. As a matter of fact, that’s the one with all those strange rock formations, you see it in the pictures. Then there’s Dunluce Castle, it’s almost a proper ruin teetering on the edge of a cliff and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, just for starters!
I mean, it is pretty obvious, to make the most of it, you should spend at least a couple of days on this drive. Plus, there are cute villages to explore, and plenty of spots where you can stretch your legs and take in all the views. Arguably, the coastal roads are pretty well-maintained, and the signposts are fairly easy to follow. Although, just a heads-up, it can get very crowded during peak season, just something to bear in mind. Maybe, actually think about doing it during the shoulder seasons for a quieter, perhaps even more pleasurable drive, or so I think!
2. The Mourne Mountains Scenic Loop: Through the Heart of the Mountains
If coastlines aren’t really for you, you might like what the Mourne Mountains area offers instead. So this drive takes you through the mountains, a little, past silent valleys, like your very own movie location. The views are absolutely amazing, and honestly, just awesome for getting away from any hectic day to day grind! I guess a key place to stop off at is Silent Valley Reservoir. Which in some respects is an ideal place to wander around a bit. Very, you’ll also find forest parks there, too and the Tollymore Forest Park is well worth a visit.
That said, just keep in mind, the roads in the Mournes can sometimes be quite narrow and winding, arguably not the most convenient for inexperienced drivers or larger vehicles. But arguably, if you take it easy and pay closer attention, the breathtaking views are absolutely worth it, though, aren’t they? Why not have a picnic? Plus, very be sure to check the forecast because conditions can get misty up in the mountains. After all, as a matter of fact visibility can dramatically affect the quality of the experience! So, make sure that whatever you decide, it suits what your after!
3. Lough Neagh Discovery Tour: Lakeside Beauty and History
Lough Neagh often seems to get skipped by many tourists. Although it’s the biggest lake in both Northern Ireland and Great Britain. The interesting thing is, there’s a driving route all the way around it that visits the numerous smaller communities, basically. From what I’ve heard the spots that people usually say are well worth visiting would usually include places like Antrim Castle Gardens, plus, in a way, the charming village of Shane’s Castle.
I understand that it tends to be a pretty easy-going, leisurely type of experience, so very, in some respects it’s pretty good if you are keen to go at a less strenuous speed, usually. Then, depending on what your likes are, just a little, you can spend some time bird watching near the lough. Alternatively, you may want to learn about the area’s history at one of the visitor centres. To be honest I suspect you might even come across a local festival or market if you look for it and spend some time, and that may well just be something really memorable, who knows?!
4. The Fermanagh Lakelands Route: Island Roads and Scenic Vistas
Very different yet quite spectacular are the Fermanagh Lakelands! Like, if you enjoy lakes, it’s almost that you should visit the area. I’ve read it has island roads and places where you can actually take boat trips if the notion grabs you! What I keep reading, very that you’d think worth a visit would normally involve going to places such as Enniskillen Castle or, arguably, the Marble Arch Caves.
Again, that sort of destination allows people to visit at pretty much at any point during the year, tends to be pretty straightforward to go around in most regular automobiles, though I guess the thing would be is always to make sure you bear in mind that the area does get busy, particularly during the holiday times! Just a heads up for something to think about! You may even consider booking boat trips ahead. Actually it’s probably wise, for instance if you are planning to see the lakes during peak times!
5. Sperrins Scenic Driving Route: Rural Heartlands and Ancient Sites
So you might be curious to learn about the Sperrins Scenic Driving Route? Okay, this might not be quite so well known, admittedly, when we are talking about spots in Northern Ireland, although very be assured, this specific place offers lots and lots to see! Therefore, in some respects the location has an isolated feeling, perhaps? Still, at the same time offers glimpses into an untouched portion of the country. Is that great?
Oh yes, it almost goes without saying, the thing is there might well be roads there which might feel more ‘off the beaten path’. That said, you will potentially discover historic places and natural sights. Places such as the Beaghmore Stone Circles are arguably good, too and they, very appear to give the tourists something they could tell all their companions relating to their travels and exciting destinations!