2 roads in Ireland listed in Lonely Planet's Top 50 Epic Drives of the World

Craving an epic Irish road trip? You're in luck! Two routes, the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, serve up unforgettable scenery.

First up, the Wild Atlantic Way. Clocking in at a massive 1,600 miles (2,600 km), it's the *longest* defined coastal drive *in the world*! This route hugs Ireland's entire west coast, from the Inishowen Peninsula down to Kinsale. Expect dramatic landscapes sculpted by centuries of Atlantic waves – think rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, charming villages, and maybe even a castle or two.

For something a bit shorter, check out the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. This 200-mile (321 km) beauty stretches from Belfast to Derry, offering similar Atlantic-carved views: think dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches! Plus, keep an eye out for whiskey distilleries and castles straight out of Game of Thrones. You could technically do it in a day, but trust me, spread it over two to soak it all in.

A few tips for both routes: Road conditions are generally good, but Irish weather is famously unpredictable – sunshine one minute, thunderstorms the next! Drive at a reasonable speed, especially since you'll be sharing the road with pedestrians, farm animals, and wildlife. Be extra cautious if you're not used to driving on the left, too.