Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Buckle up, fellow Yanks! Ready for an epic road trip? Driving in Ireland from Dublin to West Cork is a wild ride. You’ll cruise modern motorways and tackle narrow backroads. Let’s dive into the adventure, share some lessons, and get you ready for the journey.
Ireland’s Motorways: Your Fast Track to West Cork
Ireland’s motorways make driving in Ireland from Dublin to West Cork a breeze—at least at first. For instance, the M50, Dublin’s busiest road, boasts 12 lanes near Blanchardstown. It ferries over 150,000 vehicles daily, connecting Dublin’s north to south. Meanwhile, the M7, with six lanes between Naas and Newbridge, links Dublin to Limerick. It’s your gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.
More Motorway Magic
The M8, stretching 149 km to Cork, offers three lanes near its M7 junction. It winds through Tipperary’s fields, leading to Cork’s culinary scene. Additionally, the M1 to Belfast widens near Drogheda, showing off Irish Sea views. These motorways are perfect for a smooth start to your Dublin to West Cork drive.
The Backroads: Where the Real Adventure Begins
Ireland’s backroads are a different story. They’re narrow, hedge-lined, and full of surprises. For example, you might meet a herd of sheep or a massive tractor around a bend. Consequently, driving in Ireland from Dublin to West Cork on these roads tests your nerve. It’s raw, unpredictable, and pure Ireland.
A Wing Mirror Mishap in Kerry
I learned this the hard way in 2002. On a family trip to County Kerry, I rented a minibus. The agent warned, “Wing mirrors aren’t under your cover.” I ignored her, not knowing “wing mirrors” meant side mirrors—and they weren’t insured. On a narrow road, a rock claimed one. I paid dearly for that lesson. So, always ask what’s not insured!
Why “Wing Mirrors”? A Fun History Lesson
Ever wondered why they say “wing mirrors” in Ireland? Back in the 1910s, early cars had mirrors on their fenders—called “wings” in British English. Over time, mirrors moved to doors, but the name stuck. In contrast, we Yanks say “side mirrors.” For more Irish quirks, check Understanding Irish Culture.
A Vintage Example
The AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has a 1917 Pierce-Arrow with wing mirrors on its fenders. It’s a cool glimpse into car history. Visit their site at AACA Museum to learn more about vintage vehicles.
A Scenic Drive: Killarney to Kenmare
Let’s try a short Dublin to West Cork drive route. The 33 km trip from Killarney to Kenmare on the N71 takes 30-40 minutes. You’ll pass Killarney National Park’s woodlands and lakes. For instance, stop at Torc Waterfall for a quick photo. Then, climb to Ladies View for stunning lake and mountain views.
Moll’s Gap and Kenmare
At Moll’s Gap, enjoy sweeping valley views and grab a coffee at Avoca. As you descend, Kenmare Bay appears. Kenmare’s colorful buildings and cozy pubs, like Crowley’s Bar, welcome you. However, watch for tour buses on the narrow N71—I lost a wing mirror to a jutting rock there in 2002!
West Cork Adventures: Dublin to Béal na Bláth
In 2024, I drove from Dublin to West Cork to trace Michael Collins’ life. I visited his birthplace, Áit Bhreithe Mhíchíl Uí Choileáin, near Clonakilty. It’s a historic site with a stone cottage, now a National Monument. Then, I headed to Béal na Bláth, where Collins was ambushed in 1922.
A Rocky Detour
On the R585, a boulder wrecked my tire and rim. A German couple had hit it earlier but left it in the road. A local mechanic in Dunmanway fixed it for €102.15. Despite the mishap, West Cork’s beauty—hills, sheep, and stone bridges—made the Ireland road trip Dublin West Cork unforgettable. For more destinations, see Favorite Destinations in Ireland.
History Driving in West Cork: Kilmichael Ambush Site
I got lost and stumbled upon the Kilmichael Ambush Site. On November 28, 1920, Tom Barry’s IRA column killed 16 British Auxiliaries here. It’s maintained by the Kilmichael Historical Society. For more history, visit Kilmichael Historical Society. Clearly, driving in Ireland from Dublin to West Cork is full of surprises!
Discover more from Dublin Yanks: American Travel Tips for Visiting Ireland
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