Northern Ireland is a paradise for driving enthusiasts, offering a mix of rugged coastlines, rolling mountains, and winding country roads that make every journey visually spectacular and thrilling. Whether you're seeking the best scenic drives in Northern Ireland, planning a road trip, or looking for the most exhilarating routes to test your driving skills, this guide highlights the top 5 driving roads in Northern Ireland that combine breathtaking scenery with exciting drives. Buckle up and explore these must-drive routes that showcase the beauty of the Emerald Isle!
1. Causeway Coastal Route: Belfast to Derry~Londonderry
Why It’s Great: The Causeway Coastal Route is Northern Ireland’s crown jewel, stretching 130 miles from Belfast to Derry~Londonderry along the dramatic Antrim Coast. This iconic road trip is packed with world-famous landmarks like the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle, making it one of the best scenic drives in Northern Ireland. The road hugs the coastline, offering sweeping views of golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and the North Atlantic, with charming seaside towns like Ballycastle and Portrush for pit stops.
Driving Experience: The route combines smooth, well-maintained roads with gentle curves and occasional narrow stretches, perfect for leisurely drives or spirited runs. The coastal scenery, including the Glens of Antrim, provides a stunning backdrop, while stops like Glenariff Forest Park add adventure. Ideal for both tourists and locals, this route is a must for anyone searching for Northern Ireland road trip ideas.
SEO Keywords: Causeway Coastal Route, Antrim Coast drive, Northern Ireland scenic drives, Giant’s Causeway road trip, best coastal roads Northern Ireland.
2. Mourne Coastal Route: Newry to Belfast
Why It’s Great: Starting in Newry and winding along the shores of Carlingford Lough to Belfast, the Mourne Coastal Route is a 70-mile journey through some of Northern Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes. The route offers stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, including Slieve Donard, and the Irish Sea, making it one of the top scenic drives in Northern Ireland. Highlights include the mystical Tollymore Forest Park and the serene Silent Valley Reservoir, perfect for photo stops.
Driving Experience: This route features a mix of flowing coastal roads and twisty mountain passes, offering a dynamic driving experience. The roads around Hilltown and Spelga Dam are particularly exhilarating, with tight hairpins and sweeping vistas reminiscent of the Yorkshire Moors. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking scenic road trips in Northern Ireland with a blend of coastal and mountain driving.
SEO Keywords: Mourne Coastal Route, Northern Ireland mountain drives, Silent Valley drive, best road trips Northern Ireland, Mourne Mountains scenic route.
3. Sperrins Scenic Driving Routes: Derry to Tyrone
Why It’s Great: The Sperrins Scenic Driving Routes, spanning 50 to 90 miles across Counties Derry and Tyrone, offer a raw, unspoiled escape into Northern Ireland’s largest mountain range. Known for its rolling hills and quiet roads, this route is a hidden gem for those searching for off-the-beaten-path drives in Northern Ireland. Key stops include the Glenelly Valley and Sawel Mountain, with panoramic views that rival more famous routes.
Driving Experience: The roads here, like the Glenelly road between Draperstown and Plumbridge, are narrow, twisty, and often deserted, making them ideal for drivers who enjoy a challenging yet scenic drive. The occasional roaming sheep adds a quirky charm, but the real draw is the solitude and natural beauty, perfect for a Northern Ireland countryside road trip.
SEO Keywords: Sperrins scenic drive, Northern Ireland countryside roads, Glenelly Valley drive, best driving roads Northern Ireland, off-the-beaten-path Ireland drives.
4. Torr Head Scenic Drive: Ballycastle to Cushendun
Why It’s Great: For a shorter but thrilling drive, the Torr Head Scenic Drive along the Antrim Coast is a 14-mile stretch that packs a punch. This narrow, winding road offers jaw-dropping views of the North Channel, with Scotland visible on clear days. It’s one of the most scenic coastal drives in Northern Ireland, featuring rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and a sense of adventure that feels like driving at the edge of the world.
Driving Experience: The single-track roads and tight bends make this a challenging drive, ideal for confident drivers seeking an adrenaline rush. The route’s remoteness and dramatic scenery make it a favorite for Northern Ireland driving holidays, especially for those who love coastal routes with a touch of wilderness.
SEO Keywords: Torr Head scenic drive, Antrim Coast road trip, Northern Ireland coastal drives, best short drives Northern Ireland, scenic routes Antrim.
5. Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive: Newry to Slieve Gullion
Why It’s Great: The Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive is a one-way, forested route through the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. This short but spectacular drive is perfect for those seeking a hidden gem road trip in Northern Ireland, with stops at Slieve Gullion Forest Park and its panoramic lookout points.
Driving Experience: The winding, single-lane road through the forest is both serene and engaging, featuring gentle curves and a steady climb to the mountain’s summit. The drive is less demanding than others, making it ideal for relaxed Northern Ireland scenic drives while still offering breathtaking vistas. It’s a great choice for families or those looking for a quick escape from Newry.
SEO Keywords: Slieve Gullion scenic drive, Ring of Gullion road trip, Northern Ireland forest drives, best short road trips Northern Ireland, Newry scenic routes.
Tips for Driving in Northern Ireland
Drive on the Left: Like the rest of the UK and Ireland, driving is on the left-hand side. Take it slow if you’re new to this, especially on narrow roads.
Watch for Sheep: Rural roads, especially in the Sperrins, may have livestock crossing, so stay alert.
Plan Your Stops: Many of these routes have iconic stops like castles, beaches, or cafes, so bring a map or GPS for detours.
Check the Weather: Coastal and mountain roads can be affected by rain or fog, so plan for clear days to maximize views.
Fuel Up: Some routes, like Torr Head, are remote, so ensure your tank is full before setting out.
Why Northern Ireland Is a Driver’s Dream
Northern Ireland’s compact size makes it perfect for road trips, with diverse landscapes from coastal cliffs to misty mountains all within a few hours’ drive. These best driving roads in Northern Ireland offer something for everyone—whether you’re after a leisurely scenic cruise or a thrilling drive through winding passes. From the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route to the lesser-known Slieve Gullion drive, these routes showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Northern Ireland.
Ready to hit the road? Plan your Northern Ireland road trip today and discover why these routes are among the best scenic drives in Europe. Share your favorite drives or tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other guides for more Ireland road trip ideas!
SEO Keywords: Best driving roads Northern Ireland, scenic drives Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland road trip ideas, top coastal routes Ireland, best mountain drives Northern Ireland, Ireland scenic road trips.
