The Long Way Round, Ireland
Ireland
Ireland's jagged, spectacular edges, this two-week circuit explores the island's coastline from Dublin through Belfast and the Causeway Coast, west to the dramatic cliffs and mountains of Connacht, south through the Aran Islands and Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, Kerry's Ring, and Cork to the final destination of Ardmore, one of the southeast coast's loveliest seaside villages.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Dublin
Trinity College's Book of Kells, the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and a Temple Bar pub culture where the craic is a genuine institution.
- Belfast
A city transformed since the Troubles. The Titanic Belfast museum, Cathedral Quarter murals, and Victorian Crown Liquor Saloon are its headline draws.
- Giant's Causeway
40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed 60 million years ago, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cliff path to Dunseverick Castle is one of Ireland's finest walks.
- Donegal
Gateway to Ireland's wildest county: Sliabh Liag's 601 m sea cliffs, Glenveagh National Park, and Atlantic beaches that feel genuinely off the map.
- Galway
Ireland's cultural capital, a medieval Latin Quarter of pubs with live traditional music nightly and the gateway west to Connemara's bog and mountain landscape.
- Cliffs of Moher
Sheer 214 m limestone cliffs stretching 8 km above the Atlantic, Ireland's most visited natural site. Walk to O'Brien's Tower for the best vantage point.
- Ring of Kerry
A 179 km circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula past Ireland's highest peaks and with views to Skellig Michael, a 6th-century monastic rock stack 12 km offshore.
- Cork
Ireland's self-styled food capital. The English Market has traded since 1788; St Fin Barre's Cathedral and a fierce local pride define the Rebel County.
- Ardmore
A 5th-century monastic village with Ireland's finest intact round tower (29 m, c.1150). St Declan's settlement here predates St Patrick's arrival in Ireland.
Where to Eat
- Mourne Seafood BarSeafood
Fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed setting in Belfast.
- The Winding StairIrish
Traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist overlooking the River Liffey in Dublin.
- Kai RestaurantContemporary
Seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a cozy atmosphere in Galway.
- Fishy FishySeafood
Renowned seafood restaurant in the heart of Kinsale, near Cork.
- The Lemon TreeModern European
Family-run restaurant offering modern European cuisine in Donegal.
Things to Do
- Titanic BelfastMuseum
Interactive museum detailing the history of the Titanic in Belfast.
- Connemara National ParkNational Park
Stunning landscapes with hiking trails and wildlife in Galway.
- Blarney Castle & GardensHistoric Site
Historic castle near Cork, home to the famous Blarney Stone.
- Dingle PeninsulaScenic Viewpoint
Breathtaking coastal views and charming villages in County Kerry.
- Slieve League CliffsScenic Viewpoint
Some of Europe's highest sea cliffs offering panoramic views in Donegal.