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The Journal
a day ago
- The Journal
Want to practice your cúpla focal? Road-trip around the most beautiful part of the Gaeltacht
Journal Media Studio / YouTube The Journal is partnering with Allianz Insurance for our Best Drives series that showcases some of the most picturesque drives across the country. For our next instalment, we're packing up the car and heading west to one of Ireland's most breathtaking routes on the Dingle Peninsula. From narrow cliffside roads to sweeping Atlantic views and ancient cultural landmarks, Dingle offers one of the most unforgettable drives in the country. Although you could spend a week driving around this beautiful part of the world, we picked one of our favourite drives. This route through one of the most popular areas in the Gaeltacht is more than just a scenic Sunday drive, it's a journey into the heart of Irish heritage. Our journey begins at the dramatic Conor Pass look-out point. We recommend taking all the safety precautions necessary if you do decide to drive it while making sure you are well prepared. However we began our route from the lookout point parking lot into Dingle town which is a safe and well-paved road where you can take in the sheer scale of the landscape. Advertisement From there, wind down into Dingle town. It's one of our favourite towns; colourful, lively, and packed with character. You can watch out for well-known boutiques and local shops before pulling in for coffee at the much-loved Out of the Blue café. Bellies full and ready to go, the coastline calls. The Slea Head Drive loop is the main event: a coastal road that hugs the cliffs and opens up to one jaw-dropping vista after another. Along the way, historical landmarks like the Gallarus Oratory and the Riasc Monastic Settlement offer a chance to step back in time and soak in the serenity of this part of the country. Further along, the road winds through Ballyferriter, where a stop at Tig Áine Café & Gallery delivers great food and panoramic views. Close by, the Blasket Centre, a cultural and historical gem provides stories of resilience, literary greats and island identities. From the centre's stunning viewing platform, take in almost 360-degree views of the wild Atlantic ocean. Talk about a photo opportunity – it doesn't get much better than this. In summer, please note that this is a one-way system for visitors based on the clockwise direction through Ventry / Ceann Trá village. Turn off your sat nav and google maps, and only follow the local road signs. This is to avoid the bottleneck of coaches and tours that often come to visit. Make sure to touch base with a local on arrival, they will be sure to offer all the help and guidance you need! Protect your next drive with Allianz Car Insurance and get 15% off online. Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms, conditions and a minimum premium of €284 applies.
The Journal
15-05-2025
- The Journal
Check out Ireland's secret cove drive, perfect for your next adventure
Journal Media Studio / YouTube With the brighter, milder mornings on their way, nothing feeds your soul more than getting up early to make the most of the day. For our latest Allianz Best Drives, we're taking you along a stretch of the east coast that's rich in fresh air, scenic landscapes, and secret coves you'll want to return to again and again. Just an hour from Dublin, our journey begins at the Glen Beach Cliff Walk, just outside Wicklow Town. This cliff walk offers a spectacular coastal path with sweeping views of the Irish Sea and the distant outline of the Old Wicklow Lighthouse, standing proudly on the horizon. Our drive continues south along the beautiful R750, a winding road framed by wooded canopies and quiet farmland. We pass the long, open stretch at Blainroe Golf Course before the road dips gently towards the sea once more. Next up is Magheramore Beach, a hidden gem with golden sands and clear waters. It's a little known spot that feels untouched, perfect for a quiet peaceful morning retreat. Here we meet Hugh Arthur, owner of the Brittas Bay Surf and SUP School, who shares what makes the area so special: 'We've got seals on the beach and come June or July we normally get seal pups. There's also a lot of birdlife here as well. You're lucky to have the coast on one side and 20 minutes inland you've got the Wicklow Mountains. Brittas Bay beach is 5 km – there's a lovely walk there and some nice cafés.' The Bay Café, would be our cafe of choice – a locally owned spot nearby. It's the perfect place for a well-earned coffee or a big hearty breakfast, with a view that makes it hard to leave. Advertisement A short drive down the coast brings us to Brittas Bay. Though not quite a secret anymore, it still holds the magic of a real escape. Its rolling dunes and wide beach invite long walks and brave swims. Further south again, we reach Buckroney Dunes, a wild and open space where Shetland ponies roam freely and children can explore without limits. With its protected landscape and open skies, this is a destination that feels like another world. Simply park up safely on the country road and head through a small gate just to find it. We end our journey at Ennereilly Beach, a charming and accessible spot that's perfect for winding down. Here, you can pull right up onto the sand, wrap yourself in a blanket, and let the sound of the waves mark the end of a perfect drive. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, the peace here is something truly special. Hopefully you get better weather than us while you're seeking out the beauty of Ireland's wild coastline. Whether you're following a familiar road or discovering a new one, Ireland has a rugged charm that's best experienced at your own pace. And wherever you go, remember – safety on the roads comes above all else. Protect your next drive with Allianz Car Insurance and get 15% off online. Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms, conditions and a minimum premium of €284 applies.
