touring ireland by car brochure1 (2)

8/6/2019 Touring Ireland by Car Brochure1 (2)

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discover ireland .com

BRITAIN Tourism IrelandNations House103 Wigmore StreetLONDON W1U 1QS

Tel: 0800 039 7000Fax: +44 0 207 493 [email protected]

www.discoverireland.com

Glasgow Tourism Ireland James Millar House98 West George Street7th FloorGlasgow G2 1PJ

Tel: 0800 0397000Fax: +44 0 141 572 [email protected]


AUSTRIA Tourism Ireland

Rotenturmstr. 16 18, 5. Stock A-1010 Wien Tel: +43 1 501 596 000Fax: +43 1 911 [email protected]


BELGIUM Tourism IrelandAvenue Louise 327 Louizalaan1050 Brussels

Tel: +32 2 275 0171Fax: +32 2 642 [email protected]


DENMARK Tourism IrelandNordic HeadquartersNyhavn 16,3DK 1051 Copenhagen K

Tel: 80 60 15 18Fax: + 45 33 32 [email protected]


NORWAY Tel: 800 35 018Fax: + 45 33 32 [email protected]


FINLAND Tel: 0800 41 969Fax: + 45 33 32 [email protected]


FRANCE Tourism Irlandais33 rue de Miromesnil75008 Paris

Tel: 01 70 20 00 20Fax: 01 47 42 01 [email protected]


GERMANY Irland InformationGutleutstrasse 32D-60329 Frankfurt am Main



ITALY Turismo Irlandese Tel: 02 48296060Fax: 02 [email protected]


THE NETHERLANDSIerland ToerismeSpuistraat 1041012 VA Amsterdam

Tel: +31 20 5040689Fax: +31 20 [email protected]


SPAIN Turismo de IrlandaPaseo de la Castellana 46,3 Planta28046 Madrid

Tel: +34 81 74 56 420Fax: +34 91 577 [email protected]


SWEDEN Tel: 02 0015 9101Fax: + 45 33 32 [email protected]


SWITZERLAND Tourism IrelandHindergartenstrasse 36CH 8447 Dachsen

Tel: 044 210 41 53Fax: +41 52 659 [email protected]


USA Tourism Ireland345 Park AvenueNew York NY 10154


www.discoverireland.comCANADA

Tourism Ireland2 Bloor St. WestSuite 3403

Toronto M4W 3E2 Tel: 800 223 6470Fax: +1 416 925 [email protected]


SOUTH AFRICA Tourism Irelandc/o Development PromotionsEverite House, 7th Floor20 De Korte StreetBraamfontein 2001Gauteng

Tel: +27 11 339 48 65Fax: +27 11 339 24 [email protected]


NEW ZEALAND Tourism Ireland7th FloorCitibank Centre23 Custom Street EastPO Box 279Auckland 1



AUSTRALIA Tourism Ireland5th Level36 Carrington StreetSydney NSW 2000



JAPAN Tourism IrelandWoody 21, 23 Aizumi-cho,Shinjuku-ku

Tokyo 160-0005 Tel: +81 3 5367 6515Fax: +81 3 5363 1118


Each time you come back youll takea little more magic home with you Each time you come back youll takea little more magic home with you

T G 0 6 E N G 0 1 T I L

Touring IrelandBy Ca

The special pleamotoring holiday

The special pleamotoring holiday


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In this guide . . . How to make the most of youtouring holiday of Ireland

Pages 2 - 3 Welcome to Driving in IrelandRules of the Road to safely navigate safely

Pages 4 - 17 Touring IdeasSuggestions for wonderful scenic tours, ranginfrom one to ten days.

Pages 18 - 19 Getting to IrelandHow to get to the island of Ireland

Pages 20 - 24 Car Rental DirectoriesA listing of companies providing cars for hire

Page 25 All Island Route Map

Tourism Ireland is the marketing body for the island of Ireland, covering the Republic of Ireland and Northern Irelanbeen taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Tourism Ireland and its agents cannot, however, acresponsibility for errors or omissions but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended

Absorb the magic of Ireland at your own pace; drivingalong dramatic coastlines, past serene lakes, over wildmountain terrain and green, rolling hills, enjoying theinfectious friendliness and humour of the people youmeet along the way. Explore country mansions andgardens, romantic castles, charming villages andatmospheric pubs with traditional music as well as a hostof world-class attractions. Discover the way life ismeant to be!

Welcome to I

Leave the crowds behind as you journey through some of the worlds most beautiful scenery.

This Page: Co. Antrim

Front Cover: Gortahork, Co. Donegal

www.ireland.ie

www.carrentalcouncil.ie


www.discovernorthernireland.com


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When you are planning your daysitinerary, make sure you leaveadequate time to reach yourdestination. Outside of motorwaysand dual carriageways, you shouldestimate on covering an average 30miles/50 kilometres an hour on otherroads.

In the Republic of Ireland signpostsand place names are in both Irish(Gaelic) and English, while distanceson signposts and speed limits are inkilometres. In Northern Ireland

signposts and speed limits are all inEnglish, while a few may also be inUlster Scots and Irish Gaelic too,

while distances on signposts andspeed limits are in miles.

Ireland now has an extensivenetwork of modern motorways anddual carriageways, even through ruralareas, so surfaces are generally ingood condition. Unleaded petrol,diesel and gasoline are availableeverywhere. Virtually all petrolstations accept major credit cards.

If you plan to take your car or motorhome to Ireland, inform yourinsurance company if you will bedriving in both Northern Ireland andthe Republic.

Most car rental companies imposeage restrictions, so you are advised tocheck availability if you are under-25or over-70. If you would like to rentan automatic car, book well inadvance as most companies stock largely manual transmission cars. If

you are travelling across the Borderor would like to pick the car up at a

different location to where you wantto return it, you should confirm thesearrangements when you book. Youshould inform the car rental company if you intend to drive in bothNorthern Ireland and the Republicof Ireland.

Rules of the Road

...traffic-free roads, easy driving style...

Welcome to Driving in Ireland

Inishmaan, Aran

Information Signs

Steep HillUpward

Speed Limit

SharpDeviation

Turn Left

T JunctionAhead

Series of Bends

Roa d Works Quays ideAhead

Picnic SiteAhead

Parking

No Stopping No Parking

No Right TurnNo Right Turn

No Entry

NationalSpeed Limit

Motorway

MaximumHeadroom

Keep Left

Junction Ahead

HGV WeightRestriction

Give Way

Crossroads

Children Ahead

Traffic SignalAhead

Ahead Only

ALWAYS DRIVE ON THE LEFT

Steer to the CentrelineIt is difficult to judge your distance from the left-hand side, souse the road centre line.

At Roundabouts go ClockwiseAnd give way to traffic on the roundabout. Stay in the right-hand lane until turning off.

Visitors to Ireland must bring a validnational driving licence with them,issued in the country of theirpermanent residence.

Driving in Ireland is on the left andseatbelts must be worn at all timesin the front and back of the vehicle.Motorcyclists and their passengersmust wear helmets. The lawsregarding drinking and driving are

very strict and the best advice issimply, dont drink and drive.

In the Republic, the speed limit is50kph in built-up areas, 80kph onrural regional and local roads,100kph on rural national roads(including most dual carriageways)and 120kph on motorways.

In Northern Ireland, the speed limit is30mph in built-up areas, 60mph onthe open road and 70mph onmotorways, unless shown otherwise.

Always turn left into a roundabout. Thereafter, drive clockwise and give way to traffic on the roundabout.Stay in the right-hand lane untilturning left.

At a junction where no road haspriority you must yield to trafficcoming from your right.

At a pedestrian traffic light, theflashing amber light means you must

yield to pedestrians but may proceed with caution if the crossing is clear.

Road Signs

The mountain road veers down past wild rock formations rising fromthe sea, then inland, as a magical light sweeps the intense green of the fields and the blue of a shimmering lake, picking out a row of

whitewashed cottages beneath the endless azure sky. Incredibly,theres no other car in sight. Where else in Europe would you findroads so free of traffic through such spectacular scenery?Unwind on a driving holiday, Irish-style.

The road less travelled The road less travelled


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Tour of Ireland10 Days

Dublin Dublin1610 Kms / 1000 mls

Day 1Dublin Tramore190 kms / 118 mls

Travel south out of Dublin, past theferry-port of Dun Laoghaire, towardthe Wicklow Mountains and thepretty hillside village of Enniskerry.Visit the grandeur of the PowerscourtEstate with its gardens, deer herdand the highest waterfall in Ireland.

Travel on to the early Christiansettlement of Glendalough set at thehead of a lake in a scenic glensurrounded by the imposing WicklowMountains. Explore the extensiveruins of the 6th century Irishmonastery of St Kevin and wonder atthe life of the monks in such abeautiful but isolated location.Continue your journey south throughAvoca, and the sea and holiday resortof Arklow, towards Enniscorthy. Eithertravel the twisting lanes to New Ross

with its Dutch-style houses or headfurther south to Wexford and acrossthe Barrow River by theBallyhack/Passage East car ferry,north of Rosslare. Ahead lies thehistoric city of Waterford (a namenow synonymous with crystal) andthe sandy beaches of Tramore.

Day 2Tramore Cork 128 kms / 80 mls

This morning spend a little quality time in Waterford with its splendid

wide bridge and mile-long quay fronting the medieval centre, for this

was a Viking stronghold, and later aNorman town second only to Dublinin importance. Heading east from

Tramore, turn-offs around Dungarvangive access to more lovely beaches,notably at Stradbally and the An Rinnpeninsula where Irish is spoken. Onnow to Youghal, ancient walledseaport town, location in 1954 for

the harbour scenes in Moby Dick. AnElizabethan mansion inside the walls

was home to Sir Walter Raleigh, thetowns mayor 1585-97. Cork city beckons, but first turn to Cobh, pretty town on a hill above the harbour,doomed Titanics last port of call inApril 1912.

Day 3Cork Killarney 151 kms / 94 mls

Travel the short distance outside Cork to Blarney Castle with its famousstone, said to impart the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Travelthrough Macroom onto the beautifulholiday resort of Glengarriff from

where you can take a boat and visitGarinish Island. Drive north toKenmare. From Kenmare either gointo Killarney circling themountainous Macgillycuddys Reeksand Carrauntoohil, the highest pointin Ireland, spending the rest of theday in Killarney. Or drive around theIveragh Peninsula, better known asthe Ring of Kerry travelling throughSneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen and

Killorglin, towards Killarney.

Day 4Killarney Galway 275 kms / 171 mls

Drive north to the historic city of Limerick with King Johns Castle, thefamous Treaty Stone and St MarysCathedral. Attractions close toLimerick include Bunratty Castle andKnappogue Castle.

Continue through Ennis with its oldabbey and the seaside resort of Lahinch. Travel along the coast pastthe breathtaking 200m deep Cliffs of Moher, enjoy Irelands premiere spatown of Lisdoonvarna, before drivingthrough the bare limestone hills of the Burren Country to Galway, wheretradition holds that Columbus prayedbefore sailing to America.

Day 5Galway Westport138 kms / 96 mls

Continue north out of Galwathrough Connemara towardscapital of Connemara. Travelthe pretty village of Leenaunat Westport on Clew Bay witislands and scenic views of tAtlantic.

Day 6 Westport Donegal194 kms / 121 mls

Head north through Castlebaand Inishcrone, to Sligo and century Franciscan Friary. DDrumcliff, burial place of W.

Travel further up the Atlanticthrough Ballyshannon to Do

visiting the imposing Francisin Rossnowlagh and Donegaen route.

Day 7Donegal Londonderry 200 kms / 125 mls

Drive north through the villaDunkineely, Ardara and Glenfamed for their cottage indus

the production of Donegal twContinue along the coast toDunfanaghy nestling on a coof Sheephaven Bay.

Head south to Donegals chieLetterkenny. From here you extend your drive by taking athe scenic Inishowen Peninsu

Strangford

Newry

Touring Ideas These suggested self-drive tours are intended to help you get the most from your motoring holiday inIreland. Distances given are approximate and are exclusive of detours. Tours give an indication of startand finish points for each day but you can decide to overnight at any of the towns you pass throughand be certain of finding comfortable accommodation, good food and a warm welcome visitwww .discoverireland .com .

For further information on what to see & do, why not call into one of the Tourist Information Officeslocated throughout the country (just look out for the < symbol).

10 Day Tour of Ireland

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Achill Island, Co. Mayo


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AfternoonNorth of Dublin

Time to leave the city centre anddrive north out to Clontarf (R105) to

The Bram Stoker Experience. You cantake the heart pounding journey through Castle Dracula and watchthe terrifying enactments creating theunique and spine chilling story of Count Dracula and his victims.Clontarf is approximately 3.8 milesfrom the city centre and should take

you just under 30 minutes to getthere.

After Clontarf drive to MalahideCastle approximately 8.3 miles fromClontarf. (R105/ R107) MalahideCastle, set on 250 acres of parklandin the pretty seaside town of Malahide, was both a fortress and aprivate home for nearly 800 yearsand is an interesting mix of architectural styles.

Day ThreeSouth of Dublin

Morning

On the third day its time to discover what the South of Dublin has tooffer.

Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre is10.3miles from the City Centre.(Leave by Donnybrook road N11 andthen take N31). At the Dalkey Castle& Heritage Centre you can exploreGoat Castle with its murder hole,bartizan, garderobe, machicolationsand battlements. View models of Medieval Dalkey, the Atmosphericand Funicular railways, and themuch-loved trams, or take one of thenew archaeological tours to Dalkey Island. Dalkey village is very pretty and worth walking around.

AfternoonDrive to Sandycove just under 2miles away from Dalkey on the way back into the city centre, a pleasantlittle harbour where the James JoyceMuseum can be found in theMartello Tower, featuring

memorabilia, letters, first and rareeditions and many items associated

with Joycean Dublin.

Just up the road (under 1/2 a mile)is the bustling town of DunLaoghaire, an old Victorian harbourtown. People come from all overDublin to walk Dun Laoghaire's twopiers, the East Pier is 1,290 m long,and the West Pier is 1,548m, eachpier ending in a lighthouse. Here youcan also enjoy the excitement of ahigh-powered trip around Dublin Bay on Marine Rescue Boats.

EveningIts now time to leave the car andtake a stroll down Dame Street andtake the alley that runs down by theCentral Bank and you will find

yourself in Temple Bar representing aconcentration of predominantly contemporary arts and culturalpractices. Meeting House Square is aspectacular open-air performancespace located off Eustace Street. It issurrounded by a cluster of innovativecultural centres which are well wortha visit. During the summer months,Meeting House Square is home to

Temple Bars free outdoor festival which celebrates all forms of contemporary culture, and includeslive performances, film screeningsand family events.

EAST COAST/MIDLREGION

Laois HeritageTrail

1 Day TourBorris-in-Ossary Camross138 kms / 86 mls

Starting in Borris-in-Ossary othe Heritage Trail takes you fthe Workhouse Museum inDonaghmore. This step back

will transport you to the yearbetween 1853 and 1886 to rethe stories of the families whand died in the workhouse beduring and after the Great Fa

Join the N7 again at Borris-inand follow the Heritage TrailAghaboe Abbey. Founded byCanice in the 6th century, thishas a turbulent history. Take tstop at the Abbey and read thplaque there detailing its hist

Continue following the Heritasigns to the planned estate vilDurrow. This Town developethe patronage of the ViscountAshbrook and is home to a suinteresting buildings around

village green.

From Durrow there is a possidetour to the tiny village of AAccess to this village is via th(Kilkenny Road) taking the l

which signposts the village. T village mainly consists of a c

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Travel through Buncrana, Malin Head,the most northerly point onmainland Ireland, to Moville.Continue on to Londonderry and

walk around its ancient encircling walls, still intact and perfect, before visiting the award-winning TowerMuseum.

Day 8Londonderry Belfast176 kms / 109 mls

Travel eastwards through Limavady to Downhill and its small

Mussenden Temple. Drive throughColeraine, Portstewart and Portrushto the dramatic ruin of DunluceCastle and the Giants Causeway,home to the legendary giant FinnMcCool and take a short detour toBushmills Distillery. Continue alongthe north Antrim coast to theCarrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Travelthrough the Glens of Antrim, throughBallycastle, Cushendall andCarnlough towards Belfast, thecapital city of Northern Ireland.

Day 9Belfast Newry 151kms / 94 mls.

Enjoy a relaxing morning exploringBelfast and the Ulster Folk &

Transport Museum, drive fromBangor along the Ards breezy coastroad. At Ballywalter turn inland toGreyabbey for a sheltered drive toPortaferry. Cross Strangford Lough by car ferry towards Downpatrick to visit

St Patricks Grave on Cathedral Hill.Drive to Newcastle, where theMournes sweep down to the sea, onpast the lively fishing port of Kilkeeland through Rostrevor andWarrenpoint towards Newry.

Day 10Newry Dublin108 kms / 67 mls

From Newry travel south towardsDublin, through Dundalk to thehistoric town of Drogheda. Visit theprehistoric tombs at Newgrange,Knowth and Dowth.

Complete your tour of the BoyneValley at Slane, where St Patrick litthe first paschal fire on the hill in AD434 as a challenge to KingLaoghaire's fire on the nearby Hill of

Tara, before returning to Dublin.

Dublin Three Day TourDublin is a very vibrant city and thethree day tour below hassomething for everyone.

Day OneCity Centre and SurroundingArea

Morning To start the tour first go 1 1 / 2 miles west from OConnell Bridge to theCollins Barracks, the impressive newhome of the National Museum,

where youll be able to find outeverything you ever wanted to knowabout Irish history.

After which you might want to go fora mid morning stroll to the PhoenixPark. Its one of the largest city parksin the world and is home to thePresident of Ireland, the PhoenixPark visitor centre and Dublin Zoo.

AfternoonDrive back across the river to thefamous Guinness Storehouse about1/2 a mile from the Phoenix Park.

There is a fantastic interactiveexhibition inside and youll be ableto sip the perfect pint from the best

vantage point in the city - the Gravity Bar. With lunch and a tour of theStorehouse you could spendapproximately two and a half hourshere. Parking is available for visitors.

Alternatively you can drive across theriver to Smithfield less than 1 / 2 amile from the Storehouse, which isone of Dublins most up and comingareas. Take the tour through the old

Jameson Distillery and round it off with a complimentary glass of Irish whiskey. The Chimney in Smithfieldis also worth a visit with its beautiful

views all over Dublin.

Day TwoMorningAfter a whirlwind of culture on the

west side of the city on the first day its time to soak up the literary andartistic tradition on the north side.Less than 1 / 2 a mile from OConnellBridge lie the Hugh Lane Gallery atCharlemount House (one of thefinest Georgian buildings in Dublin)and the Dublin Writers Museum onParnell Square.

Heading back south side why not takea walk around the famous grounds of

Trinity college? The College groundsare extensive and magnificent with

fine 18th and 19th century buildingsdotted among picturesque cobbledsquares and ancient playing fields.

The Trinity Library is also worth a visitfor, among its many treasures, itcontains the extraordinary eighthcentury Celtic-Christian manuscript,

The Book of Kells.

Borris-in-Ossory

Donaghmore

Mountmellick

Camross

Cushendun, County Antrim

Telescope, Birr Castle, County Offaly


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Drive Signposts, meanders alongquiet rural and coastal roads, linkingrural and coastal villages andheritage attractions. There is also aselection of suggested excursionsfrom the drive to note, the villagesof Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford andStradbally, Co. Waterford and thesignposted drives of The Ring of Hook and the Barrow Drive.

The route can be travelled east or west and to fully appreciate therelaxing atmosphere and wonderful

variety of historical sites, charming villages and magnificent scenery, werecommend that you slow to an Irishpace and take your time. The route

will give you a wonderful insight intothe natural beauty and historicaltreasures of Irelands South East.

SOUTH WEST REGION

West Cork Coastal/ Mizen Head Tour

2 Day TourCork - Mizen Head152 kms / 95 mls

This tour starts from Cork City inSouth West Ireland and follows thesouthern coastline to where WestCork reaches out into the Atlantic. Atleast two overnight stops arerecommended so you can fully appreciate the variety to be foundalong this scenic route.

From Cork City take the road to Cork Airport (N27), and continue to thecharming fishing harbour of Kinsale(R600). Famous for its 17th century battle between English, Irish andSpanish armies, the old fortificationsof Charles Fort and James Fort guardthe narrow entrance to Kinsale fromthe sea and are full of interest.Desmond Castle dates back to the16th century and is also known asthe French Prison. Originally it wasused as a custom house for wines,

wool and tobacco. It now houses a wine museum as part of theinterpretation of its history.

Leave Kinsale (R600) and drive onto Timoleague, with its ruinedFranciscan Abbey; and the beautifulCourtmacsherry Harbour, typical of the colourful fishing villages thatbead the southern coast. It ispossible to do the Seven HeadsWalk here, which is a developed

walk beginning in the Timoleague,Courtmacsherry, Butlerstown area of West Cork. It has a variety of scenery and terrain. A shorter walk links thelovely villages of Timoleague andCourtmacsherry.

Then drive on to the important townof Clonakilty, a vital agriculturalcentre and boasting many temptingbeaches such as Owenahincha andInchydoney. The West Cork ModelRailway Village is well worth a visitbeside picturesque Clonakilty Bay.

The Model Village depicts, inminiature, life and industry in WestCork as they were 50 years ago.

From here on the road meets many charming villages, includingRosscarbery, Glandore, Unionhall andCastletownshend, set in picturesque

surroundings. The Cathedral inRosscarbery, dedicated to St. Fachtna,is well worth visiting. CoppingersCourt, located on the Rosscarbery-Glandore coastal route (R597) wasbuilt in the 17th century by WalterCoppinger. The pointed gables andoctagonal shafts still survive.Drombeg Stone Circle also on thisroad is a circle of 17 standing stones,

which on excavation showed thatthere had been an urn burial in thecentre. It has been dated to between153BC and 127AD.

The next big town is Skibbereen,again with many local strands as

well as the beautiful salt-water lakeof Lough Hyne. It is worth visitingthe Skibbereen Heritage Centre inthe beautifully restored OldGasworks Building on the banks of the River Ilen. St. Patricks Cathedraloverlooking the town is built in theGrecian style and dates from 1826.Abbeystrewery Abbey is located 1.5km west of Skibbereen (N71W) onthe northern side of the River Ilen.

This is the remains of a 14th century Cistercian abbey.

St. Barrahanes Church of IrelandChurch, Castletownshend hasbeautiful stained glass work. Located

just over 1km north-west of Castletownshend (R596) is aninteresting restored ringfort calledKnockdrum Fort. The fishing villageof Baltimore (R595) provides thegateway to Island trips includingCape Clear Island, Sherkin Islandand Heir Island.

Then drive to Ballydehob (N71) withits graceful twelve arch railway bridge. The bridge is no longer used,but provides panoramic views of Roaringwater Bay from the walkway.Continuing through Ballydehob, you

will reach Skull. Bobbing sails anddrying nets have all the tang of thesea. Attached to the localCommunity College is SkullPlanetarium, the only one in thesouth of Ireland and is open to

visitors on a regular basis.

From here the mood changes, as you will reach the peninsula wherethe Atlantic rages. Goleen andBarleycove (R592) are charmingspots and the sheltered Crookhavenis well worth a stop.

At Mizen Head, (the extreme southwest point of Ireland) you can standon cliffs and see the ceaselesspounding of the Atlantic. Take timeto visit the Mizen Head SignalStation Visitor Centre providing afascinating insight into theLighthouse service, and the sea loreof this part of West Cork.

A final high point to this tour can behad by a circular return to Skullskirting Mount Gabriel, and taking inthe serene majesty of DunmanusBay. (R591)

The Ring of Kerry

1 or 2 Day TourKillarney Killarney 136 miles / 217 km

The Ring of Kerry is one of Irelandsmost popular scenic drives. Althoughit can be completed in a day, it is farmore enjoyable to discover its

hidden treasures, which are off thebeaten path, at ones leisure. Most

visitors use Killarney as their startingpoint, however, it is possible to useany of the towns and villages alongthe route as a starting point, as it isa circular route.

From Killarney drive to Killorglin(N72). Killorglin is known worldwidefor its annual horse and cattle fair,Puck Fair. The fairs pagan originsdate back to the Celtic Festival of Lughnasa, which included three daysof feasting and ritual sacrifices tocelebrate the beginning of harvest.

From Killorglin continue southwest(N70) and visit the Kerry Bog VillageMuseum beside the Red Fox Inn.

The museum recreates the faminecottages and other buildings foundin 19th century rural Ireland.

Continue southwest (N70) to thepicturesque village of Glenbeigh.

There is a superb Blue Flag beach which is located just beyond the village at Rossbeigh. The sandy beach which stretches for over 6 km,offers spectacular views across thebay to the Dingle Peninsula.

From Glenbeigh drive towardsCahersiveen. The cliff section of theroad between Glenbeigh andCahersiveen offers spectacular viewsof the Blasket Islands and the DinglePeninsula. Kells is a popular reststop half way between Glenbeighand Cahersiveen.

Continue to Cahersiveen. On theapproach to the town is the ruin of Carhan House, where Daniel OConnell The Liberator was born in1775. He became one of Irelandsmost famous politicians and wasresponsible for achieving CatholicEmancipation in 1829. Cahersiveenis an ideal base for exploring theancient and early Christian heritageof the area. The Barracks HeritageCentre is well worth a visit.

Continue along the N70 to the village of Waterville. The village waterfront is lined with palm trees,fuchsia, hotels and cafes and has anair of the continent about it.

From Waterville continue southeasttowards the village of Caherdaniel.An alignment of four stones can be

seen on the skyline on the lefside of the road. This is the rburial place of Scene, wife othe eight leaders of the Miles

who were the last legendary invaders of Ireland. The nextinterest is at the Coomakista We highly recommend a stopto take in the views over theKenmare River, Scariff and DIslands.

Visit Derrynane House, the hDaniel OConnell, which is jbefore the village of Caherda

The house is now a nationalmonument, and is largely fur

with items relating to his lifecontains a collection of his pbelongings. The house is parextensive Derrynane Nationaparadise for botanists andornithologists, which includenature trail, some exceptionabeautiful scenery and one ofIrelands most outstanding b

Continue onwards to the villCaherdaniel. A little beyond

village are the sandy beachesWestcove and Castlecove. ViStaigue Fort, which is one oflargest and finest examples ocircular stone fort in Ireland.

From the Staigue Fort, drive picturesque village of Sneemrivers Ardsheelaun and Sneeand flow into the bay here foan attractive cascade at the b

MizenHead

Dunmanway

Skibbereen

Skibbereen

Cahersiveen

Cork City

Rossbeigh Strand, County Kerry


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the village. Visit the ModernSculpture, which features the work of international sculptors.

Continue east along the N70 to theHeritage Town of Kenmare. Walk along Henry Street, with itsinteresting shop fronts andarchways. Visit the Heritage Centre,

which outlines the history of thetown and its famous visitors.Kenmare is the departure point forboat trips around the Islands andinner Kenmare river.

From Kenmare, travel north (N71) toKillarney. Killarney is Irelands oldestand most popular tourist destinationand has an extensive range of visitorattractions and sporting amenities.

IRELAND WEST

Coast & Country Tour

Duration: 2 days

The west of Ireland is steeped inhistory and heritage and hasstunning landscapes with amixture of coastal beauty, ramblinghills, mountains and lakes.

Day 1Galway Westport196 kms /122 mls

Start your tour from Galway city (R336 West) to Connemara and you

will drive through the beautifultowns and villages of Spiddal,Inverin, Costello, Screeb, Gortmore,Carna, Toombeola, Ballynahinch andClifden (N59) the capital of Connemara. Alternatively travelnorth-west of Galway (N59) to thepretty village of Oughterard with

views of Lough Corrib along the way continuing through the ruggedcountryside of Connemara to Clifden.

From Clifden drive north (N59) toLetterfrack, Kylemore Abbey and onto Leenaun, in Co. Mayo at the headof the Killary harbour and Fjord. (Theonly one in Ireland) From Leenuan,

you can drive north (R335) throughthe mountains and Delphi Valley andalong Doolough lake to Louisburgh.Follow the road east, along the southshore of Clew bay to Westportstopping at Croagh Patrick, Irelandsholy mountain a place of Christian

pilgrimage. Westport is a wonderfully presented town with a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, and

visitor facilities making it a mustsee destination on your west of Ireland tour.

Day 2 Westport Galway 280 kms / 175 mls

The following day you can exploreAchill Island, taking the road (N59)to Newport, Mulranny and followthe Atlantic drive around theCurraun peninsula. Explore AchillIsland by taking the road to Keel andup to Dooagh. Visit the Slievemore

deserted village and take a stroll onone of the many sandy beaches for

which Achill is renowned.

Leaving Achill return towardsMulranny and drive north (N59) toBangor Erris with a visit to the

Ballycroy National park along the way. If time permits it is worthdriving west into the Erris peninsulain the Mayo Gaeltacht (Irishspeaking region). This area isrenowned for its scenic beauty.Agriculture and fishing are the mainindustries and its a great place tobuy wild smoked salmon, enjoy

walks on long sandy beaches andeven go sea angling in one of thelocal angling boats. A really specialtreat is a boat trip to the InishkeaIslands off the coast which are a

wildlife reserve.

Driving east then take the coastalroad (R314) towards Ballycastle andenjoy the wild coastal views to Sligoand Donegal. A must do, is a visit tothe Cide Fields in Co. Mayo, a 5000

year old farm settlement brought tolife in the award winning visitorcentre operated by the NationalHeritage agency. To finish off thecircle drive back towards Galway (R315) with views of Lough Connand through the towns of Castlebar,Claremorris and Tuam.

NORTH WEST REGION

The Inishowen100 route

1 day tourBridge End -Londonderry / Letterkenny 165 kms / 100mls

The Inishowen 100 gets its namefrom the approximate distance inmiles of the signposted drive, whichofficially starts in Bridge End, Co.Donegal on the InishowenPeninsula. (It is possible to take theLough Swilly Car Ferry service fromRathmullan on the Fanad Peninsulato Buncrana and start the tour fromthere or take the N13, followed by the R238 from Letterkenny toInishowen). Buncrana has a 5kmlong sandy beach with the ruins of Buncrana Castle dating from the16th century, and ODoherty Castle

which are both worth a visit.

From Buncrana drive north (R238)to Mamore Gap, which offersbreathtaking views of the northerly coastline, and a descent of 800 feet.Continue on the Inishowen drivethrough the village of Dunaff. FortDunree Military Musesum is perchedmajestically on a rocky outcropoverlooking Lough Swilly. Thisheritage museum is well worth a

visit. In the Old Fort Hospital there isa wildlife exhibition detailing thelarge variety of flora and faunaassociated with this beautiful area.

Continue through Clonmany andBallyliffin, where you will find finebeaches, sea angling and golf.Doagh Island Visitor Centre andFamine Walk is located just outsideBallyliffin. This unique outdoormuseum tells the story of life in thisarea in the 1970's going back to thefamine in the 1840's. There areSingers, Musicians and Dancersduring June, July and August.

Then drive onto Carndonagh wherethere are some ancient monuments.It is worth visiting (R238) Malin,

where a 10 arch stone bridgecrosses Trawbreaga bay. Then followthe Inishowen 100 sign and thesigns for Malin Head, Irelands mostnortherly point, with a wild searavaged coast and stunningseascapes.

Continue around Malin Head, pastthe meteorological station. WeeHouse of Malin is signposted left,and is a short detour to a hermitsrock cell cut into a cliff, beside acottage ruin.

Then drive towards Culdaff, a resort village. Follow the Inishowen 100sign from Culdaff, along a narrowroad with marvellous views.Continue to Greencastle where theInishowen Maritime Museum andPlanetarium is located.

Continue onto Moville (R241). As you continue driving south (R328) via Redcastle and Muff, Derry City can be seen in the distance. Followthe Burnfoot and Bridg End signs(R238) back to the point of departure near Buncrana or driveonwards to Londonderry orLetterkenny.

SHANNON REGION

Lough Derg Drive

1 day tourKillaloe - Ballina117 kms / 73 mls

Lough Derg, located in the Shannon

region, is surrounded by mountainsand has a shoreline of marvellouscomplexity, with bays large andsmall, and a scattering of islands.

The surface is sometimes mirrorcalm, giving perfect reflections of clouds and mountains and

sometimes wild enough to thmost intrepid wind-surfers. Troads which encircle the lakeendless viewing points. (RouR463, R352, R493, R494)

The twin towns of Ballina anKillaloe lie in a valley at thesoutherly tip of the lake betwthe Arra Mountains and SlievBernagh. Their rock is so touit forms a natural dam in the of the Shannon and that is whlake lies upstream of them. Abeautiful cathedral is locatedand is worth a visit. There is stone inscribed in the ancienOgham script. The old lock-khouse by the bridge has beenas a heritage centre and boat up the lake operate from near

The lake drive goes northwar(R463), up the Shannon, passgreat earthen mound known Brian Borus fort. You will cthe first great bay and can relthe neat picnic place beside a

jetty. This is the part of the lamost loved by people engage

water sports and on a fine dabay is full of canoes and winsurfers. The road then rises tothe lake and go through the h

village of Ogonelloe, beforedescending towards Scarriff BLess than a kilometre down tfrom Ogonelloe is one of theloveliest viewing points on th

whole lake drive.

Mulranny

Bridge End

Malin Head

Ballyliffin Dunaff Head

Ballina

Malin Beg, County Donegal


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The next village is Tuamgraney, witha small castle and church. Peoplehave worshipped there for morethan a thousand years. In the 1990sthe local community repaired andrefurbished part of the church toadd an exhibition and heritagecentre. A right turn just after thechurch leads down to a littleharbour, on the edge of the Scarriff River, where lake barges used todischarge their cargoes in the olddays. Scarriff, less than 3kms from

Tuamgraney, is a busy centre. It is worth a stop to visit the exceptionalstores offering an amazing variety of food.

The road runs close to the lake toMountshannon, one of the busiest

yachting centres on Lough Derg. The village is a charming one withchurch and market house built fromthe honey-coloured local sandstone.

A signpost to Williamstown, atWhitegate, the next village, takes aroute down to the lakeside andanother of the old harbours. Thenthe road (R352) leaves the

waterside and stays away from it allthe way to Portumna, the town

which stands by the head of thelake. Portumna Castle, a palatial17th century house overlooking thelake, was accidentally burned in

1826 but has been restored andopened to visitors. Close by isPortumna Forest Park, which is very beautiful with kilometres of shadedfootpaths.

Cross the river by the long, lowbridge and proceed to the delightful

village of Terryglass. Then take theroad (R493) from Terryglass throughBallinderry to Coolbaun, where youcan turn right at the crossroads for alakeside diversion, joining the main

road again at Ballycolliton and aright turn for Puckaun. This routeends by the lakeshore at Dromineer,

which is one of the mostdistinguished centres for fishing andboating.

From Dromineer follow thesignposts (R493) to Nenagh, amarket town. Castle ruins arelocated here dating back to 1217.Across the road from the castle, thegate building and governors houseof the demolished county gaolhouse a Heritage centre. There is anexcellent exhibition devoted to thesurrounding countryside, includingLough Derg.

The road going west from Nenagh(R494) goes through Newtown

where you can turn off to see theold watermill and Portroe to get thebest viewing points on the entirelake drive. If you turn left in Portroethere is a steep and narrow roadthat leads to the Graves of theLeinstermen, high on the slopes of

Tountinna Mountain. Who theLeinstermen were and how, when or

why they died, nobody knows forsure. But they were provided withan incomparable resting place. Alower, gentler road leads straight onfrom Portroe to another lookoutplace. The journey ends by descending to the riverside oncemore to the village of Ballina withthe town of Killaloe at the other endof the 13-arched stone bridgelocated there.

The BurrenExperience

1 day tourKilfenora - Ennis87 kms / 54 mls

The north-western corner of County Clare, bordered by the AtlanticOcean and the quieter waters of Galway Bay, is a rock garden of noordinary proportions. The Burrenextends over more than a hundredsquare miles and most of it is bare,pale grey limestone. If there werenothing but rock, a tour mightbecome tedious, if spectacular for a

while. But the rock is enlivened by big or small patches of greenpasture or little pieces of hazel

woodland. On the pasture, and inthe many crevices in the pavementof rocks, there are countless wildflowers so that the region is a massof colour. Besides all this, it ismountainous, has a wonderfulseashore and is liberally scattered

with the monuments created by itshuman inhabitants in the course of six thousand years. The Burren isunique and worth a visit any time of

year.

This route makes a circuit of theBurren, starting at the town of

Kilfenora, which is 47kms fromShannon. (Route N18 fromShannon, and then N85 forEnnistymon to join the R476). Here

you can visit the Burren Centre which has an excellent permanentexhibition explaining the wonders of

the region. Kilfenora is a very interesting place having enjoyedfame as a great religious centre.Much of the old cathedral remains,together with a fine sculptured highcross.

Then drive to Lisdoonvarna (R476), which doesnt quite fit in with the wilderness, but does have lots of good shops and restaurants and

various kinds of entertainment. Thereason for its existence is that thereare mineral springs nearby and youcan indulge in all sorts of healthtreatments at the spa. Lisdoonvarnais also famous for the matchmakingfestival which takes place thereevery September!

Signposts for Fanore (R477) andBlack Head show the way to thecoast, passing Ballynalacken Castle,perched on a cliff top. The coastroad is very welcoming to visitors.Stop anywhere along the way, getout of the car and walk for akilometre or as much as you likeover the pavement-like stoneamongst the wild flowers.

Go through the village of Craggahand take a walk down to the shoreat Fanore. Here the rocks of theBurren meet the sea, which carvesthem into wonderful shapes. A little

way north of Fanore you meet theonly visible river in the Burren (all

the others flow into undergroundcaverns). The road beside it takes

you to the ruined church of Fermoyle. That is where the GreenRoad begins, one of the most

wonderful footpaths in Ireland, wandering for kilometres over thehills, amongst the wild flowers, allthe way back to Ballynalacken.

You can also keep to the coast roadaround Black Head, with its littlelighthouse below the level of the

road, and so into Galway Bay and a view of the distant hills of Connemara. A few kms along theroad towards Galway isBallyvaughan, (R480) a pretty harbour village. A signpost thereshows the way to Aillwee Cave. Oneof many deep caverns in thelimestone, you can get an excellentguided tour here and it is well wortha visit.

From Aillwee take the road north. Itpasses close to many of the StoneAge tombs and ceremonial places

which are liberally scatteredthroughout the Burren. Poulnabronedolmen is one of the finest and itfeatures on more postcards thanalmost any other Irish monument. Afew kilometres to the south of Poulnabrone the ruins of LemanehCastle stand by the roadside. Acombination of a 15th century fortified tower and a Tudor mansion.A right turn there would bring youback to Kilfenora, 5kms to the west,completing the circuit. But the leftturn sets you on the way to Ennis(R476) and some more of thehighlights of the region.

Three kilometres down the mainroad, a signpost for Cathair Chomaintakes you into the depths of theBurren, passing a wedge, anotherkind of stone-age tomb. In contrastto the open-ended dolmen, the

wedge tomb is a sort of box, madeof slabs of limestone.Still travelling along the R476, toKilnaboy look for a sheela-na-gig, aprovocatively sculpted female figure,

above the door of the ancienchurch beside the road. Thenproceed towards Corofin, pathe beautiful Lough Inchiquiright. A church building on tof Corofin now houses the CHeritage Centre, with a musea genealogical research serviFinish up the tour in the loveof Ennis, the county town of

NORTHERN IRELA

Londonderry andthe SperrinsRegion

Two Day Tour203 kms / 126 mls

Day OneLondonderry Portrush

This two day tour starts in DIrelands 17th Century historicity that is situated in the NoWest of Northern Ireland. Th

visibly striking feature of thethe historic walls that form a

walkway around the old inne Take a walk around the walls visit some of the many otherattractions in the city such asGuildhall, Derry City Hall, th

workhouse Museum and SaiColumbs Cathedral.

Kilfenora

Kilnaboy

Plumbridge

The Burren, County Clare

Lough Derg, County Tipperary


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16

Drive then to visit the Mussenden Temple, Downhill (A2) and thetowns of Portstewart and Portrush.Portstewart has a magnificent strand

with a waymarked nature trail.

Day 2Sperrins Region

On the second day, drive to thebeautiful Sperrin Mountains andalong the Glenelly Valley (B47) inthe counties of Londonderry and

Tyrone. A large number of archaeological and heritage sites canbe found. Visit the Sperrins HeritageCentre in the heart of the valley.

Then drive onto the Ulster AmericanFolk Park in Castletown, Co. Tyrone.(A5 3 miles north of Omagh) This isan outdoor museum telling the story of emigration to North Americaduring the 18th and 19th Century.

Also worth a visit is the Wellbrook Beetling Mill in Cookstown (A505from Castletown). You can see howlinen is made here and have a go

yourself at beetling which is the finalprocess in linen manufacture whenthe cloth is hammered to producesheen.

To complete the driving tour, visitCoyles Cottage, a 250 year oldfishermans cottage near the westernshores of Lough Neagh, (Irelandslargest Lough) and then to thefamous Ardboe Stone Cross locatedon the shores of Lough Neagh.

Causeway CoastalRoute

3 day tourBelfast Londonderry 195 kms / 121 mls

Start the Tour at NewtownabbeysLough shore taking in the beauty of Belfast Lough. Follo wing the route

you enter Carrickfergus and your firststop at the Castle, built in the 12thCentury, is Irelands oldest and bestpreserved Norman Castle. Continuealong the route towards Larne, theGateway of the Glens. Here youhave the option to take the loop

around Islandmagee taking in thepicturesque Portmuck harbour andGobbins Cliffs. Back on themainland head northwards and letthe magnificent glens unfold wherefairies and folklore are part of everyday life. Up on arriving atGlenarm there is an option to travelthrough this magnificent glen downto Slemish Mountain where St.Patrick spent his childhood.Returning to the Causeway CoastalRoute via picturesque Glencloy headtowards Glenarriff, the queen of theglens with its gushing waterfalls andscenic path skirting the sheer sidesof the plunging gorge. Continuingon the coastal route, travel to your

overnight stop in Cushendall.

Start the day with an optional scenicdrive taking in Glenann and Glendunor take in the breathtaking Torr Headand Murlough Bay via thepicturesque village of Cushendun.

Returning to the Causeway CoastalRoute, head towards the seasidetown of Ballycastle (where ferriesleave for Rathlin Island) with theoption of taking in the final twoglens, Glenshesk and Glentaisie.Heading west take in the stunningscenery of the Causeway Coastbefore arriving at Carrick-a-Rederope bridge spanning a 24m chasm.Head inland to the village of Bushmills, home to the worldsoldest licensed whiskey distillery.

Overnight in Bushmills.

Head out of Bushmills to theUNESCO world heritage site of theGiants Causeway. One of Irelandstop attractions, this is a must for any

visitor. Heading west, take in theruin of Dunluce Castle clinging tothe cliffs edge before continuing onthrough Portrush and Portstewart

with the option of taking in thebeautiful Bann Valley. Returning onthe Causeway Coastal Route, headtowards Limavady past Castlerock

with the option of taking the route via Binevenagh Mountain. Oncepast Limavady, there is an option of travelling through the magnificentRoe Valley before heading on toLondonderry.

County Down Tour

Belfast Belfast1-2 day Tour157 kms / 98 mls

County Down has beautiful beaches,nature reserves and forest parks andis a must see area in NorthernIreland. To start this one or two day tour (depending on how much time

you would like to spend in eachrecommended site) depart fromBelfast and travel east (A21) throughthe market town of Newtownards.

This town is situated at the top of Strangford Lough. Then drive (A20)to Mount Stewart House andGardens located on the shores of

Strangford Lough. These gardens areconsidered to be the finest inEurope.

Then continue to Portaferry, a pretty seaside village at the foot of theLough. Take the Car ferry across tothe fishing village of Strangford.

St. Patricks first church is locatedhere. Ardglass, (A2) one of NorthernIrelands major fishing ports hasseven castles, and the marina is well

worth a visit.

Then drive to the market town of Downpatrick. Here visit the St.Patrick Centre, which is dedicated tothe life and times of Saint Patrick,Irelands patron saint. Then visitDown Cathedral and St. PatricksGrave on the hill of Down.

Continue to the town of Newcastle(A2, a seaside Resort) at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Thesemountains literally sweep down tothe Irish Sea and are well worth a

visit to walk, cycle or simply to seetheir beauty. There are many scenic

routes through the mountainsone of the best views of the MMountains drive to Tyrella B(Along A2) which has a Blueand Seaside Award.

There are beautiful forest parDown, for example Tollymoris a busy caravan park (B180Newcastle) and Castlewellanof the world famous ArboretPeace Maze (A25 from DowBoth are worth a visit.

As a final stop, drive to Hillt(B180) and follow the signs Silent Valley, where NorthernIrelands largest inland reservlocated.

Travel along the A1 to arriveBelfast.

Lisburn

Bushmills

RathlinIsland

CastlewellanArdglass

Hilltown

Strangford

Newry

Lisburn

Mussenden Temple, Co. Londonderry

Mount Stewart, Co. Down


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Flying to Ireland

Sailing to Ireland

Airline OperatorsUK to Ireland Aer Arann: www.aerarann.c Aer Lingus: www.aerlingus.c Air France: www.airfrance.c Air Southwest: www.airsouthwe Air Wales: www.airwales.coa2b airways: www.a2bairwayBMI: www.flybmi.combmibaby: www.bmibaby.cBritish Airways: www.ba.comeasyJet: www.easyJet.comEuromanx: www.euromanx.flybe: www.flybe.comJet2.com: www.jet2.comLuxair: www.luxair.luRyanair: www.ryanair.com

USA & Canada to Ireland Aer Lingus: www.aerlingus.c American Airlines: www.aa.com Air Canada: www.aircanada.c Air Transat: www.airtransat.cBritish Airways: www.britishairwContinental Airlines: www.continentaDelta Airlines: www.delta.com

Sunquest: www.sunquest.cUS Airways: www.usairways.Zoom Airlines: www.flyzoom.co

Ferry Operators

Stena Line: www.stenaline.comIrish Ferries: www.irishferries.comP&O Irish Sea:www.poirishsea.comIrish Sea Express:

www.irishseaexpresIsle of Man Steam Packet Compan

www.steam-packet.Norse Merchant Ferries:

www.norsemerchantSwansea Cork Ferries:

www.swanseacorkfe

Belfast City

Dublin

BelfastInt'l

GlasgowEdinburgh

NewcastleDurham

Leeds BradfordBlackpool

DoncasterManchester

Liverpool

East MidlandsBirmingham

Stansted

Gatwick Heathrow

LutonLondon City

Cardiff

Bristol

Norwich

Plymouth

ExeterNewquay

BournemouthSouthampton

Guernsey Jersey

Isle of Man

Aberdeen

Inverness

Prestwick

WaterfordCork

Kerry

ShannonAran

Islands

Galway

Knock Sligo

DonegalCity of Derry

TroonCairnryanStranraer

Isle of Man

Liverpool

Fleetwood

Holyhead

Dublin

BelfastLarne

Dun Laoghaire

RosslareCork

Fishguard

PembrokeSwansea

By AirIrelands main airports at Dublin, Belfast,Cork and Shannon cater for more than30 airlines flying in and out of thecountry, serving more than 70destinations. There are also a number of regional airports Aran Islands, BelfastCity, City of Derry, Donegal, Galway,Kerry, Knock, Sligo and Waterford. Theseairports are also well serviced with flightconnections. To find the mostconvenient route for you, simply logonto www.discoverireland.com or visitthe appropriate airline operator website.

By SeaWith six destinations Belfast, Cork,Dublin Port, Dun Laoghaire, Larne andRosslare getting to Ireland by sea hasnever been easier. With plenty of shops,restaurants, TV lounges and cinemastheres plenty to keep you entertainedwhile special play areas and a constantlychanging line-up of live entertainmentduring the summer months will keepthe children amused. To help you planyour trip, find the best port and route foryou, simply log ontowww.discoverireland.com or theappropriate ferry operator site.

AccommodationWhatever your budget or taste, Irelandhas accommodation to suit you.Whether you wish to stay in a hotel,castle, country house, manor house,farmhouse, bed and breakfast or a self-catering property, you'll be spoilt forchoice and guaranteed a warmwelcome. If you would like moreinformation on accommodation inIreland, visit our websitewww.discoverireland.com . Attractiveinclusive packages are also availablefrom a wide range of tour operators.

Getting to IrelandFor detailed information on how to get to the island of Ireland, visit

www.discoverireland.com.

A r m a g h

A t h l o n e

B e l f a s t

C o l e r a

i n e

C o r k

L o n d o n

d e r r y

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l

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l l e n

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W a t e r f

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96

37

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242

70

79

84

33

52

146

160

234

64

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98178

176

90

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264

73

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22

201

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128

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31

94

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93

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153237

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54

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156129

80

209

78

116

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97

61

139

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71

204

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131247

218

84

238

235

138

98

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117

184

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94243

176

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122

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141

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51170

57

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198

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9862

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310

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61

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15

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1 91 3 9

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83

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113

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53

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102

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29

158

286

283

145

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89

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117

180

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84

130

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436

35

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59

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330

346

206

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486

50

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149

148

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80

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246

382

380

192

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360

428

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105

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328

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397

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24

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48

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232

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174

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82

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227

252

219

209

183

127

144

133

93

116

232

244

121

158

32

201

133

117

164

184

Distance in kilometres | Distance in miles

Motoring Associations in Ireland

Automobile Association

(NI) Tel: +44 (0)870 600 0371or visit www .theAA .com

(ROI) Tel: +353 (0)1 617 9950or visit www .theAA . ie

RAC Motoring Service(NI) Tel: +44 (0)870 572 2722

or visit www . rac .co .uk

(ROI) Tel: +353 (0)1 412 5500or visit www . rac . ie


12/14

20

Company Offices Details

Fleet Size:Min/Max ACDW Exc 320

Fleet Size:Min/Max ACDW Exc 800- 150



Fleet Size:Min/Max A


Belgard Self DriveBelgard Motor CentreBelgard Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24Tel: +353 (0)1 404 9999, Fax: +353 (0)1 462 2323Contacts: Nuala Murray, Dermot DeeganReservations:+353 (0)1 404 9999Email: [email protected] Franchise:Euromobil

Budget Rent a Car Athlone Road, Roscommon,Tel: +353 (0)90 6627711, Fax: +353 (0)90 6627744Contact: Aidan LenehanEmail: [email protected]:+353 (0)90 6627711Overseas Offices:US Toll FreeTel: 800 9772201UK Freefone Tel: 0800 973 159London Stansted:Tel: (01279) 681396, Fax: (01279) 680429

Budget Car and Van Rentals(South East Ireland)115 The Quay, WaterfordTel: +353 (0)51 843747, Fax: +353 (0)51 843727Email: [email protected]:Norma Jacob / Richard PowerReservations:+353 (0) 5184 3747

Casey Auto RentalsBreaffy Road, Castlebar, Co MayoTel: 0353 94 904 8620, Fax +353 94 902 3823Email: [email protected]

Contact:Doug Cairns

County Car RentalsRochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin,Co DublinTel: +353 (0)1 235 2030, Fax: +353 (0)1 285 7016Email: [email protected] Offices:US and Canada Tel: 800 248 4350 Australia Tel: 1 800 226479Email: [email protected]

Dollar Thrifty Car RentalOld Airport Road, Cloghran, Co. DublinTel: +353 (0)1 844 1944, Fax: +353 (0)1 844 1915FreeFone Ireland: 1800 515 800Email: [email protected]:International +353 (0)1 844 1944Overseas Offices:FreeFone USA/Canada: 1800 229 0984

FreeFone UK: 0800 783 0405

Belgard Motor Centre

Dublin (Airport & City)Shannon AirportCork (Airport & City)Belfast (International & City Airport)Belfast CityKerry AirportKnock AirportGalway (Airport & City)Killarney

Rosslare Ferryport Waterford (Airport & City)CarlowClonmelDungarvanEnniscorthyKilkenny Wexford

Knock AirportCastlebar

Dun LaoghaireDun Laoghaire PortDublin AirportDublin CityDublin Port

Dublin (Airport & City)Cork (Airport & City)Shannon AirportCloghran, Co. Dublin

Fleet Size: 120Min/Max Age: 25-70CDW Excess Liability: 500

Fleet Size: 2500Min/Max Age: 24-74CDW Excess Liability: 600- 1000

Fleet Size: 300Min/Max Age: 25-70CDW Excess Liability: 500+



Access Car RentalsUnit 2B Airport Business ParkCloghran Co. DublinTel: +353 (0)1 8444848, Fax: +353 (0)1 8444847

Email: [email protected] Reservations:Tel:+353 (0)1 8729311

Alamo / National Car RentalCentre Point, Centre Park Road, CorkTel: +353 (0)21 432 0755, Fax: +353 (0)21 432 0754Email: [email protected] Franchise: Alamo & NationalInternational Reservations:USA Tel: 001 612 830 2121UK Freephone: 0800 212 073

Argus Car and Van RentalsHead Office: Argus House,59 Terenure Road East, Dublin 6Central Reservations:Tel: +353 (0)1 490 4444, Fax: +353 (0)1 490 6328Email: [email protected]: Emma OGrady

Overseas Offices:UK: (44) 207 099 3787US: (1) 213 2102 427Europe: (+353 1) 499 9600International Franchise: Advantage Rent A Car

Atlas Car RentalsHead Office: Harris Park, Old Airport Road,Cloghran, Co. DublinTel: +353 (0)1 862 0306, Fax: +353 (0)1 862 1143Email: [email protected] Reservations:Tel +353 (0) 1 844 4859, Fax: +353 (0)1 844 4084Overseas Offices:UK EuroDrive Car Rental; Tel: (01924) 382 382Email: [email protected] Freefax: 1877 398 3808Tel: 011 353 1 844 4859 Australia Atlas Rent a Car MelbourneTel: (03) 9663 6233, Fax: ( 03) 9639 4099International Franchise: Eurodrive

Avis Rent a CarHead Office: Emmet Place, CorkTel: +353 (0) 21 428 1200, Fax: +353 (0)21 4281122Reservations (Irl): 1890 40 50 60Email: [email protected] Res:UK Tel: 00 44 0870 60 60 100North America Tel: 0800 452 14 94 Avis Europe plc Tel: 00 44 1344 426 644

Unit 2B Airport Business ParkCloghran, Co. Dublin

Dublin (Airport, Downtown)Shannon AirportCork (Airport & Downtown)Knock AirportKerry AirportGalway Airport

Dublin AirportDublin tourism Office, Suffolk Street,Dublin 2 Woodlawn Business Park, Santry, Dublin 9

Dublin AirportPre-booked, Arrivals HallTel: +353 (0)1 844 4859,Fax: +353 (0)1 844 4084Email: [email protected] Web: www.atlascarhire.com

Harris Park, Old Airport Road,Cloghran, Co. Dublin

Cork (Airport & City)Donegal AirportDublin (Airport & City)CorkFarranforeGalwayKerryKnock AirportMullingarShannon AirportSligo Airport

Car Rental Directory In the Republic of Ireland the companies listed operate to a Code of Standardsdrawn up by the Car Rental Council of Ireland. Where members also operate inNorthern Ireland their offices are listed below, but for details of age restrictionsor sterling CDW limits see the section Car Rental in Northern Ireland.Please note that reservations cannot be made through the Car RentalCouncil of Ireland.


www.accesscarrentals.com

www.carrentalcouncil.ie

www.carhire.ie

www.arguscarhire.com

www.atlascarhire.com

www.avis.ie

www.belgardselfdrive.ie

www.budget.ie

www.budgetsoutheast.com

www.caseycar.com

www.countycar.com

www.thrifty.ie

CountyCar.comIreland Car Rental


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Fleet Size:30 MotorhMin/Max ACDW Exc 750


Hertz Rent a CarP.O. Box 23, Ferrybank, Co. WexfordTel: +353 (0)53 915 2500, Fax: +353 (0)53 915 2510Reservations:Tel: +353 (0)53 915 2511E-mail: [email protected] Franchise:Hertz Rent A CarHertz Worldwide:Reservations: +353 (0)1 6767 476

Irish Car RentalsEnnis Road, LimerickTel: +353 (0)61 206088, Fax: +353 (0)61 326766Email: [email protected] Franchises:SIXT Rent a CarOverseas Offices:USA: Tel: 1 877 3473227 (toll free)UK: Tel: 00800 47474227 (toll free)

Kamp-easi Motorhomes.comHarris Park, Old Airport Road, Cloghran, Co. DublinTel: 353 1 8165915, Fax: 353 1 8165917Email: [email protected]

Newbridge Car and Van HireNewhall, Naas, Co KildareTel: +353 (0)45 882844Fax: +353 (0)45 882826Email: [email protected]

Dublin AirportDublin CityShannon AirportCork AirportBelfast (International & City Airport)City of Derry AirportKerry AirportKnock AirportRosslare Port Wexford

Dublin AirportHarris Park, CloghranShannon AirportCork AirportKerry AirportLimerick

Harris Park, Cloghran(near Dublin Airport)

Naas, Co Kildare

The car rental fleet is regularly updated and the vast majority of carsoffered for hire are less than sixmonths old. A comprehensive rangeof car makes, models and sizes isavailable including Minibuses, Estates,People Carriers and Space Wagons.Professional valeting, preparation andservicing ensures cars are presentedto the highest standards designed toimprove your driving experience.

To rent a car in Ireland you will needa valid current driving licence and acredit card. Passports are usually required for ID purposes. Agerestrictions apply and if you areunder 25yrs of age or over 70 yrs,

you will need to check availability.Reserve your car as early as possible

to ensure you get the car you want ata reasonable price. You will berequired to sign a rental agreement,so spend some time in advance toselect the various insurance and

waiver options appropriate to yourneeds and understand the costsinvolved. Value added tax will becharged and you should take note of any airport, location, fuel or othercharges that you may be requiredto pay.

Third party insurance is compulsory and will be included in the rentalrate. This however only covers you forother peoples injury and damage totheir vehicle. Rental companies willnormally also provide:

Collision Damage Waiver which limits your financiafor damage to the rented vRentals are normally subjeliability excess (purchasingadditional cover can offsetexcess). Visitors, who wishclaim CDW coverage usincard facility (e.g US MasteGold or Platinum), are advprovide documentary evidconfirming the cover for thto Ireland.

Theft Loss cover, which lifinancial liability for loss othe rented vehicle.

Personal Accident Insuran which covers the driver forpersonal injuries.

Information on Renting a Car in IrelandFor the best deal, book directly with an approved car rental company


Fleet Size: 2000Min /Max Age: 21-75CDW Excess Liability: 1000- 1500

Fleet Size: 80Min/Max Age: 25-70CDW Excess Liability: 300

Fleet Size: 1500Min Age: 21CDW Excess Liability: 750- 1500


Fleet Size: 3500Min/Max Age: 24-69(Depends on Car Group)CDW Excess Liability: 800- 1500


Fleet Size: 150Min/Max Age: 22-7426-69 for minvans, peoplecarriers and executive carsCDW Excess Liability: 750- 1500

Dooley Car RentalsKnocklong, Co LimerickTel: +353 (0)62 53103, Fax: +353 (0)62 53392Email: [email protected]:Mary Long, Pat DooleyCentral Reservations:+353 (0)62 53103Overseas Offices:US Tel: 1 800 331 9301UK Tel: 0800 282 189

Donal Ryan Car & Van Hire LtdTemplederry, Nenagh, Co. TipperaryTel: +353 (0)504 52222, Fax: +353 (0)504 52204Email: [email protected]

Enterprise Rent-A-CarUnit 2 Lyncon Court, IDA Industrial EstateSnugborough Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15Tel: +353 (0)1 823 1100, Fax: +353 (0)1 823 1199Lo Call: 1890 227999Overseas Offices:UK: 087 06077757Germany: 0049619676110US: 1800 261 7331Canada: 1800 3258007

Euromobil Rent a CarMorgan St., WaterfordTel: +353 (0)51 301222 or +353 (0)51 309 339Fax: +353 (0)51 878200Email: [email protected]

Europcar, Murrays Rent a Car2 Haddington Road, Baggot Street Bridge, Dublin 4Tel: +353 (0)1 614 2800, Fax: +353 (0)1 614 2801Email: [email protected] Franchises:Europcar

Great Island Car RentalsRushbrooke, Cobh, Co CorkTel: +353 (0)21 4811609, Fax: +353 (0)21 4813181Email: [email protected]: Gary Mills

Hamill Rent a CarDublin Road, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath

Tel: +353 (0)44 44500/+353 (0)1 8446030Fax: +353 (0)44 41374Email: [email protected]

Dublin CityDublin AirportShannon AirportCork AirportKnocklong, Co. Limerick

ThurlesRoscreaNenagh

Dublin AirportDublin City: Naas Road,Russell Street, Finglas, SwordsCastleknock, Dun Laoghaire, Bray Athlone, Newbridge, Kilkenny, Drogheda, Waterford, Kinsale, Limerick, Galway,Cavan, SligoBelfast, Derry, Portadown, Lisburn

Morgan Street, Waterford

Dublin (Airport & City)Shannon AirportCork AirportGalwayStrokestown Park, RoscommonKnock AirportKerry AirportRosslare FerryportKillarneyBelfast (International & City Airport)Belfast City (Great Victoria Street)City of Derry Airport

47 MacCurtain Street, CorkTel: (021) 450 3536

Dublin Road, Mullingar

www.enterprise.com

www.tommurphycarsales.com

www.europcar.ie

www.greatislandcarrentals.com

www.hamills.com

www.hertz.ie

www.rayobriengroup.com

www.kamp-easimotorhomes.com

www.irishcarrentals.com www.donalryanrentacar.com

www.dooleycarrentals.com


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Fleet size: 700Min Age: 21no upper limitCDW Excess liability:500 excess additionalinsurance can bepurchased to reduce excessliability to 75

Fleet size:1000Min/Max age:23yrs/no maxCDW Excess liability:600 max/100 min

Fleet size: 600Min/Max age: 23/70CDW Excess liability: 500

Fleet size: 2000Min/Max age: 21/75, withrestrictionsCDW Excess liability:600-800

Fleet size: 460Min/Max age: 23/70CDW Excess liability:450-780

Fleet size: 500Min/Max age: 25/75CDW Excess liability: Average 500Prestige (BMW etc) 1000

Fleet size: 100Min/Max age: 25/70CDW Excess: from 300

Alamo National Car Rental175 Airport Road, Aldergrove, Crumlin BT29 4DYTel: +44 (0)28 9442 2285Fax: +44 (0)28 9445 4589

Avis rentacar69-71 Great Victoria Street, Belfast BT2 7AFTel: +44 (0)28 9024 0404Fax: +44 (0)28 9024 9054Email: [email protected]

Budget Car Rental96-102 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BETel: +44 (0)28 9023 0700, Fax: +44 (0)28 9023 0550Email: [email protected]

Dooley Car Rentals175 Airport Road, Aldergrove, Crumlin,Co. Antrim BT29 4DNTel: +44 (0)28 9445 2522, Fax: +44 (0)28 9442 2567Email: [email protected]

Europcar Arrivals Hall, Belfast International Airport, CrumlinCo. Antrim BT29 4ABTel: +44 (0)28 9442 3444, Fax: +44 (0)28 9442 3164

Hertz Rent A CarBelfast International AirportTel: +44 (0)28 9442 2533, Fax: +44 (0)28 9445 3657Email: [email protected] City AirportTel: +44 (0)28 9073 2451, Fax: +44 (0)28 9045 4607Email: [email protected] of Derry AirportTel: +44 (0)28 7181 1994, Fax +44 (0)28 7181 2592

Thrifty Car Rental181 Airport Road, Aldergrove International Airport,County Antrim BT29 4DW.Tel: +44 (0)28 9442 2777, Fax: +44 (0)28 9442 2145Email: [email protected]

Belfast (International & City Airport)Belfast CityColeraine

Belfast CityBelfast (International & City Airport)City of Derry AirportColeraineLarne Ferry TerminalLisburn

Belfast (International & City Airport)Belfast City

Belfast International Airport

Belfast (International & City Airport)University Street, BelfastCity of Derry Airport

Belfast (International & City Airport)City of Derry Airport

Belfast International Airport

Car Rental in Northern IrelandAll the companies listed offer cars at various locations throughout Northern Ireland.


www.nationalcar.co.uk www.alamo.co.uk

www.avis.co.uk

www.budget-ireland.co.uk

www.dooleycarrentals.com

www.europcar.com

www.hertz.co.uk

www.thrifty.co.uk

This map is designed and sponsored by Ordnance Survey Ireland.Permit Number MP 006304 - Ordnance Survey Ireland/Government of Ireland. www.osi.ie

More detailed maps oare available. Please Tourism Ireland or thSurvey of Ireland.

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