Staycation Driving Holiday Ideas

Back in the day, it was far more commonplace for a family to load up the car with their luggage and the dog, before setting off for a holiday resort on the coast. At some point, due to the abundance of low-cost airline tickets, the average holiday transformed from a week (or two) long staycation getaway in one's own country to a fortnights splurge in a far-flung and exotic locale. 

Post lockdown, you might be fancying a more ‘local’ driving trip within the British Isles or mainland Europe, that enables you to still observe a level of social distancing. 

Here’s a road trip suggestion that will give you the feeling of travelling much further than you really have, all without costing the earth.

Wild Atlantic Way

If you’ve never visited Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, a whole island of lush green fields and friendly people awaits. The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,500 mile-long route that winds its way along the breathtaking coastline of Ireland. The North provides some of the most beautiful, remote locations, with quaint villages, and landmarks like the Giant’s Causeway and many National Trust locations. As you move down the West coast, the scenery changes, but the Irish people remain friendly and welcoming. Donegal is a must-see, as are many of the cities near the shore like Galway - where a traditional Irish city meets modern eateries and attractions. 

The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren are another must-see but don’t overlook the less-frequented sections of the route around Limerick and Shannon. You’ll want to stop by the rugged Dingle Peninsula to sample the locally distilled gin and enjoy the more popular Ring of Kerry below it. Killarney is worth the detour from the route, with some awesome mountain roads and panoramas. A well-kept secret of Ireland is Baltimore in County Cork, which is a stunning bayside village with wonderful seafood spots and a pub-come-pizzeria. Travelling along the South coast brings you towards Cork and the enlightening Titanic Museum at Cobh.

Having lived in Ireland for a couple of years, I can honestly say that the Guinness is without question much better there and that one of my favourite things to do would be to travel to any small hamlet, go into the pub and just talk to people. Though technically illegal, a lock-in is good ‘craic’ and there’s nothing that beats an Irish folk band, made up of locals all clearly enjoying making music.

Several ferry companies operate routes from Wales or Scotland to Ireland. Pembrokeshire to Rosslare makes travelling the Wild Atlantic Way clockwise, from South to North a breeze, while the Anglesey to Dublin route is ideal for those looking to explore the sights and sounds of the capital city before commencing an unforgettable road trip. 

The weather in Ireland is a constant talking point and though it does statistically rain more, there’s something enjoyable and atmospheric about the changeable weather which will swing from soft mizzle to glorious sunshine in a matter of minutes. Catch Ireland on a good spell and it is really one of the most enjoyable places on earth.

Looking for a new vehicle for the trip?

Nothing would make this journey more comfortable than travelling in a luxury 4x4, like a Range Rover Sport, Lamborghini Urus or Bentley Bentayga that come outfitted with all the mod-cons, exceeding even the most expensive first-class flights.

Header image credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/herd-of-sheep-on-green-grass-field-during-daytime-W5FdAcHp7l8