Road Trip Time: Why Not Visit One Of These Hidden Gems This Bank Holiday Weekend?

Bank Holidays weekends are very special occasions. Three gloriously long days stretch out before us just waiting to be filled with whatever adventures we please. 

If you’re still at a loose end this weekend, why not pencil in a road trip to one of these awesome road trip destinations?

1. Leitir Meallain, Connemara, Co. na Gaillimhe

If you’re looking to truly escape from the world this weekend, a road trip to Leitir Mealláin in the bowels of Connemara is a stellar option. Part of Ceantar na nOileán (a group of four Gaeltacht islands), you’ll need to drive 36 miles west of Galway city to reach this hidden gem. It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge, and the views on the way are almost as stunning as the place itself. Pack a picnic – once you get there you’ll have a choice of gorgeous unspoilt beaches and total tranquility. Bliss.

2. Newgrange, Donore, Co. Meath

This is top of our road trip wishlist. If you’ve never visited Newgrange, this is the weekend to do it. Dating all the way back to 3200 BC (that’s a whole six centuries before the pyramids came about), the World Heritage Site is home to Ireland’s best known tomb passages, and one of the oldest structures in the world.

3. Hook Lighthouse and Peninsula, Co. Wexford

Famous for its break-taking views, stunning natural landscape, pure sands and calm seas, Hook Peninsula is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the Irish coastline at its best. You’ll find Hook Lighthouse perched at the tip of the peninsula – built way back in the 13th century, it’s one of the world’s oldest working lighthouses. Take a step back in time and soak up the incredible vista from the lighthouse balcony. Now that’s we call a trip that’s worth taking.

4. Skerries, Co. Dublin

Recently voted as one of the most beautiful towns in Europe, this pretty seaside spot is just a half hour drive north of the capital. Home to the only west-facing harbour on the east coast (yeah, you heard us!), Skerries is packed full of top quality eateries and hidden beaches, coves and islands. If you’re looking to escape the big smoke for a couple of hours this weekend, this is the place to go.

5. The Loop Head Peninsula, Co. Clare

Perched between the Atlantic on one side and the Shannon Estuary on the other, this tiny peninsula  is connected to the rest of Co. Clare by just one mile of land. Set in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head is home to panoramic cliffs views, world class seafood and a whole lot more. Stop in at one of the gorgeous villages (you’ve got Kilkee, Kilbaha and Carrigaholt to choose from) for a bit to eat before trying your hand at some water sports. Hands down one of our favourite road trip destinations to date.

This article is brought to you by the RSA. Driving whilst tired is extremely dangerous; if you are feeling tired pull over, drink coffee and nap for 15 minutes.