The best way to take in the sights and attractions of Ireland is by car. If you are a free spirit you may want to jump behind the wheel and go wherever the road takes you. However, if you are looking for suggestions, then a scenic drive taking in Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary is not to be missed.
You can quite comfortably take in the beauty of the region in three days. Starting out from Cork take a quick detour north to Blarney to see Blarney Castle. This impressive stronghold has survived through the centuries and is home to the famous Blarney Stone.
Now head south, bypassing Cork City, to the scenic coastal town of Kinsale. From here you can follow the scenic coastal drive to Clonakilty and on to Skibereen, Ballydehob, Schull and finally Mizen head, Ireland’s most southern point. There is a wealth of accommodation in this area for you to rest up for the night.
From here, head for Bantry and the beautiful village of Glengarriff. Continue over the mountains to Kenmare and set out on the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, taking in Waterville, Caherciveen and Killorglin before you reach Killarney. Relax for the evening in this pleasant town and prepare for day three.
The Ring of Kerry has much to offer in terms of attractions. Not only does it have some of Europe’s finest beaches, but also offers the Gap of Dunloe, Bog Villiage, Derrynane House, the Skellig Experience Valentia Island, Molls Gap, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and Ross Castle.
Your final day will take you on to Tralee and east to Limerick. From there head inland through Tipperary to Cashel before heading south for Cork.
If you need to rent a car before you set out from Cork check out Car Hire Ireland which has offices at Cork Airport and Cork city center. It has a good range of vehicles at reasonable prices.
In truth, you could spend a week exploring this beautiful region. Our tour missed on such delights as the Beara Peninsula, the Lakes of Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula. So if you can, take a little extra time to take in all the wonders of the south-west of Ireland.