Ireland is a magical place for a road trip, with stunning scenery all along each route. With CARHIRE.ie, this winter is the perfect time to rediscover Ireland in a new light – with an exclusive 15% discount!
To truly unlock Ireland’s treasures, you need the freedom and flexibility that only a car can offer. Public transport can get you across cities and to some popular tourist sites, but those lesser-known gems, remote villages, and tucked-away pubs? They’re off the beaten path—and so much better experienced on your terms, away from crowds and unrestrained by time.
Why CARHIRE.ie Is Your Best Winter Travel Companion
Here’s why:
- Explore Anywhere, Anytime: Public transport can’t take you to hidden gems like Glencar Waterfall in Leitrim or the Burren’s lunar-like landscapes. With a car, the journey is yours to design.
- 23+ Locations Nationwide: Whether you’re starting in Dublin, Cork, or Shannon, CARHIRE.ie has a convenient pick-up point nearby.
- Wide Fleet Selection: Need a compact car for city stops or an SUV to handle the bumpy coastal roads? CARHIRE.ie has you covered.
- Flexibility: Plans change, especially in winter when weather can be unpredictable. With free changes up to 4 hours before pick-up and free cancellations up to 48 hours in advance, you can book with confidence.
- Great Value: Winter adventures don’t have to break the bank. CARHIRE.ie offers competitive rates without compromising on quality.
CARHIRE.ie is perfectly designed to help you make the most of it and we’ve got some ideas to get you started, let’s hit the road!
3 Days of stunning drives & cosy stops
Imagine cosy winter romantic scenes, stretching from Connemara to West Cork in the south. This coastal roads showcase Ireland’s wild, untamed beauty—but only if you have the freedom to stop where and when the mood strikes. Let’s not forget the mandatory snack breaks and the warm blast of the AC…
Day 1: Connemara
Hit the road early and drive south, heading into the heart of Connemara.
Morning: Sky Road, Clifden
The Sky Road offers panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline, particularly stunning on a clear winter morning. With your own car, you can pause at the many overlooks for photos.
- Snack Break: Off the Square, Clifden, known for its delicious soups, fresh-baked breads, and indulgent hot chocolates, it’s the perfect spot to recharge before continuing your drive.
Afternoon: Kylemore Abbey
Next, visit Kylemore Abbey, an impressive neo-Gothic castle located right beside a lake. You might get lucky and catch a flurry of snow over the abbey which makes for a pretty spectacular sight, too.
Evening: Galway City
Drive to Galway for the night. The city’s pubs, like Tigh Neachtain, offer traditional music sessions and cosy atmospheres perfect for a winter evening.
Day 2: Ennis and Adare
For the second day of your road trip, head south into the heart of County Clare and County Limerick to explore Ennis and Adare.
Morning: Exploring Ennis
Start your day in the lively town of Ennis, a hub of traditional Irish music and history, by taking a stroll through the narrow medieval streets lined with colourful shopfronts. Here are some additional must-do’s:
- Visit the Ennis Friary, a 13th-century Franciscan monastery filled with intricate carvings and stories.
- Pop into Glór Arts Centre, where you’ll often find wintertime exhibitions, crafts, or live performances.
- Lunch Stop: Warm up with a hearty meal at The Market Bar, known for its cosy atmosphere and fresh local dishes like creamy seafood chowder or a classic Irish stew.
Afternoon: Adare
From Ennis, take a drive to the postcard-perfect village of Adare.
- Admire the iconic thatched cottages that line the main street, now home to craft shops and tearooms.
- Visit Adare Manor, a stunning neo-Gothic estate that glows with charm during the winter months. Even if you don’t stay overnight, the grounds and architecture are worth exploring.
- Step inside the Trinitarian Abbey, one of the oldest Trinitarian monasteries in Ireland, for a peaceful moment of reflection.
- While both towns are gems, they’re tucked away from major transport hubs. Having a car allows you to explore these historic sites at your leisure, making the most of the day’s discoveries.
Evening: Relax in Adare
End the day with dinner at Aunty Lena’s Bar, a local favorite offering hearty pub food in a cozy, rustic setting. Their shepherd’s pie is the ultimate winter comfort food.
For accommodations, consider staying at Dunraven Arms Hotel, a charming and luxurious spot to unwind with some warming fires and exceptional service.
Day 3: Kerry and West Cork
Your final day takes you into the heart of Ireland’s most iconic scenery.
Morning: Dingle Peninsula
Drive to the Dingle Peninsula, where every twist and turn reveals amazing views. Take your time exploring the charming town of Dingle and consider a winter boat tour to spot local wildlife.
- Must-Stop: Slea Head Drive is a must for its breathtaking vistas!
Afternoon: Killarney National Park
Head east to Killarney National Park, where the forest gets frosty and the lakes glassy! Walk around Muckross House or simply enjoy the atmosphere – it’s bound to be quiet.
Evening: Bantry Bay, West Cork
End your adventure in Bantry Bay, a picture-perfect seaside spot. Treat yourself to a fireside meal at The Fish Kitchen, known for its locally caught seafood, before settling into a B&B for the night.
Experience Winter Your Way
There’s no better way to enjoy Ireland in winter than by car. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about having the freedom to stop, explore, and enjoy every moment of the journey. With CARHIRE.ie as your partner, you’ll have everything you need for an memorable winter road trip.
See all of this and more on your terms with CARHIRE.ie, Ireland’s best car hire provider. With their great value, nationwide presence, and wide selection of vehicles, CARHIRE.ie ensures you’re ready for whatever winter escapes you dream up. Not to mention, we’ve got an exclusive 15% discount ready for you—perfect for winter and early spring getaways next year.
Discount Code
Book your car through this link by 31st December to enjoy 15% off for travel between January and March in 2025. It’s the perfect way to make your winter road trip even more affordable!
So, pack your warmest jumper, fire up the engine, and set out to discover Ireland in a new light!
