Ireland: A Road Trip Through the Wild South
Ireland has a way of slowing you down—in the best possible way. Curvy roads, rolling hills, grazing sheep, and landscapes that feel straight out of a fairytale. Our journey through southern Ireland was filled with unforgettable scenery, unexpected stops, and moments we still talk about.
From Dublin to Galway (with the perfect pause)
After landing in Dublin, we headed west toward Galway—exhausted but excited. We made the best decision to stop halfway in Athlone for a massage and lunch at Hatters Lane Bistro @Gertie Brownes. Total reset.
As we continued on, we stumbled upon a quiet country road where cows grazed under a glowing sunset—one of those unplanned moments that ends up being unforgettable. That night in Galway, we kept it simple with Indian comfort food at Oran Tandoori before calling it an early night.
The Cliffs & the Coast
The next morning brought perfect weather for the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Blue skies, green hills, wind in our hair—absolutely breathtaking and worth every mile.
Driving south toward Dingle, we pulled over at a rocky hillside that didn’t even have a name on our map. A short hike led us to a hidden little lake—proof that Ireland rewards curiosity. Dingle itself was charming and lively: local shops, a well-earned Guinness, and deep-fried brie with apricot jam (still dreaming about it).
Cliffs of Moher
Cork & Cashel: History Meets Hospitality
We spent a night near Cork at Vienna Woods Hotel and Villas, a peaceful escape just outside the city. Cork has a great food scene, colorful streets, and an easygoing vibe—perfect if you want culture without the crowds.
One of the most striking stops of the trip was the Rock of Cashel. Sitting high on a hill, this medieval complex dates back over 1,000 years and was once the seat of Irish kings. The views alone are worth the stop—but the history makes it unforgettable. We wrapped the day with a fantastic meal at Crotty’s Lane.
Cork
Wicklow Magic & a Dublin Farewell
For our final days, we returned to Dublin but escaped the city for a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains. Misty forests, moss-covered trees, a peaceful lake, and even an old cemetery—it felt like walking through a fairy tale. Quiet, haunting, and incredibly beautiful.
Our last night was spent exactly as it should be: Guinness in hand, classic Irish food, and soaking in the music and energy of Dublin.
Wicklow Mountains
Final Thoughts
Southern Ireland is wild, welcoming, and wonderfully unpredictable. The roads are narrow and curvy—equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking—but the views of hills, valleys, and sheep-filled pastures make every turn worth it. If we had more time, we would’ve slowed down even more… and that’s the beauty of Ireland—it always gives you a reason to come back.