The best driving roads in Ireland for a classic car

The best classic car roads in Ireland are quiet, scenic and not too fast. Most of these are narrow in places, so take it easy, pull in to let locals by, and save them for a dry day.

1. The Military Road and the Sally Gap, Wicklow

The R115 over the mountains from Glencree to Laragh, crossing the Sally Gap. Bog, lakes, and almost no buildings, all under an hour from Dublin. Go early on a weekday in summer. It's gritted in winter, so wash the car after.

2. The Wicklow Gap and Glendalough

The R756 from Hollywood over to Glendalough is a proper mountain pass with sweeping bends. Combine it with the Military Road for a loop that takes most of a day.

3. The Healy Pass, Cork and Kerry

The R574 across the Beara peninsula zigzags up and over the Caha mountains with views of two bays. Steep and tight in places, which makes it a better road for an MGB than an E-Type.

4. The Sky Road, Clifden

A loop west of Clifden in Connemara, high above the Atlantic. Short enough to drive twice, which most people do.

5. The Conor Pass, Kerry

The R560 from Dingle to the north side of the peninsula is one of the highest roads in Ireland. Large vehicles are restricted, and the narrow section needs patience, so this is a small-car road.

6. The Inishowen 100, Donegal

A signposted loop around the Inishowen peninsula, past Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point. Allow a full day and fill the tank before you start.

7. The Glengesh Pass, Donegal

A dramatic set of hairpins dropping into the valley near Ardara. Short, steep and best taken slowly in an older car with tired brakes.

8. The Copper Coast, Waterford

The R675 between Tramore and Dungarvan follows the cliffs, coves and old mine buildings of the Copper Coast. Gentle, scenic and quiet outside the summer holidays.

9. The Vee, Tipperary

The R668 climbs over the Knockmealdown mountains between Clogheen and Lismore, with a famous view from the hairpin at the top.

10. The Burren coast road, Clare

The R477 from Ballyvaughan around Black Head towards Fanore runs between grey limestone and the sea. Easy driving and unlike anywhere else in the country.

Tips for a good day out

• Go midweek if you can. On the Mile Club calendar weekdays cost fewer points than weekends.
• On the Ring of Kerry, tour coaches run anticlockwise. Start early to stay clear of them.
• Carry water and keep an eye on the temperature gauge on long climbs in summer.
• Fuel stations can be far apart on the peninsulas. Fill up before you head out.
• Check whether roads were gritted, and rinse the underside after any winter drive.

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