Unmissable Winter Drives to Enjoy in Northern Ireland

Although it can often be too cold to go out on a long winter walk and appreciate the scenery, there are some impressive winter drives to be enjoyed that will take you to some of Northern Ireland’s most remarkable landscapes and make you remember why you loved driving so much in the first place.

Causeway Coast and Glens

Discover one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic coastline routes. The North Coast Road is impressive all year round, taking you through picturesque landscapes and remarkable scenic locations. On this route you’ll be able to take in some wonderful views along the way; mentionable highlights include Murlough Bay, Dunluce Castle and the dramatic cliffs of the famous Giant’s Causeway.

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion

Said to have inspired C.S. Lewis’ magical world of Narnia, The Mourne mountain range is home to Northern Ireland’s highest mountain peak Slieve Donard and is noted as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The spectacular scenery in the rolling valleys of the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion in County Armagh features breathtaking views making it the perfect destination for a scenic drive this winter. There are plenty of opportunities along the way to get out and go walking to get better views of the scenery.

The Sperrin Mountains

Another area of outstanding beauty, the Sperrin Mountains overlap several counties and can be explored on four separate driving routes with access from the North, South, East and Central belt of Northern Ireland. Listed on National Geographic’s Top 101 scenic drives in the world, its one to top the list, you’ll experience an area steeped in wild beauty and breath-taking scenery.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is known as Northern Ireland’s first marine nature reserve and is the British Isles’ largest inlet, renowned for its marine, plant and wildlife. Discover The Floodgates, situated a short distance from Newtownards on the road to Portaferry and uncover panoramic views across the mudflats to the iconic Scrabo Tower and south view along the spectacular lough.

Stay Safe

Given the high likelihood of icy conditions and fog at this time of year, you’ll want to make sure your car is well equipped for your journey. Winter tyres are a good idea, and be sure to check windscreen washer fluid and oil levels before setting off. With a new or used car from Shelbourne Motors, you can enjoy all these incredible drives to the full this winter and enjoy some of Northern Ireland’s most loved views along the way.