Destinations
Ireland campervan guide: ultimate motorhome adventure
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Sláinte and welcome to Ireland! The Emerald Isle embraces you with traditional Irish hospitality, stunning landscapes and of course one or two pints of Guinness. But have you ever thought about a campervan holiday in Ireland?
All you need to do is rent a van on Camplify, jump onto a ferry and begin your adventure. To make the trip easier for you, we’ve collected all the important information on the best time of year to visit Ireland, how to get there, campsites on the ground as well as the best travel destinations in Ireland. Let’s go!
How to get to Ireland in a van
You have several options to choose from if you want to travel to Ireland with a motorhome or campervan. We’ve summed up the numerous ferry connections from England, Wales and Scotland to several destinations in Ireland for you.
The most popular routes from the UK to Ireland include Liverpool (England) to Dublin , Holyhead (Wales) to Dublin , Fishguard (Wales) to Rosslare and Pembroke (Wales) to Rosslare. From Scotland, you first have to cross over to Northern Ireland from Cairnryan to either Larne or Belfast and then cross the border to Ireland with your campervan.
Which ferries run between the UK and Ireland?
Fishguard > Rosslare (14 weekly sailings)
Pembroke > Rosslare (16 weekly sailings)
Scotland > Belfast (6 daily sailings)
Holyhead > Dublin (4 daily sailings)
Scotland > Larne (42 weekly sailings)
Liverpool > Dublin (18 weekly sailings)
Holyhead > Dublin (4 daily sailings)
The durations range from only 2 hours and 30 minutes (Fishguard to Rosslare) to 8 hours (Liverpool to Dublin). At only 2 hours and 15 minutes, the ferry ride from Scotland to Belfast is one of the fastest.
Best time to visit Ireland
The climate in Ireland is shaped by its location in the Atlantic with the Gulf stream right on its doorstep. That said, the island has a mild, temperate climate and although it has a tendency to be rainy at times, you can visit all year round.
Overall, you can split Ireland into two zones. The west is a bit rainier but the ocean is much warmer here. With an average temperature of 17 degrees , July and August are the warmest months. With 8 hours of sunshine, June is the sunniest month and at 24 degrees the ocean is also the warmest during this month.
The east is drier than the west, but the ocean is also much colder during the year. May , July and August will deliver the most hours of sunshine and with average temperatures of 17 degrees , July and August are the warmest months.
Travel tips for a campervan holiday in Ireland
The Emerald Isle is home to a range of breathtaking destinations, and unique scenery that you simply won’t find anywhere else in the world. We’ve narrowed down some of our favourites to ensure you make the most of your epic Irish road trip.
Round and round the Ring of Kerry
In Southwest Ireland on the peninsula of Iveragh lies the 111 mile long Ring of Kerry. The picturesque route leads through amazing national parks, winds along the coast and through quaint villages.
One of the highlights is the Killarney National Park. Here you can find one of the most spectacular landscapes on the island, including dozens of lakes, mountains, waterfalls, thick forests and lots of wildlife. And don’t forget about the beautiful hiking routes!
The Gap of Dunloe is another must-visit on our list of landmarks on the Ring of Kerry. In between Ireland’s tallest mountain range, the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks , you will find a landscape out of this world where the river Loe runs through the millennia old lush green valley.
Campsites along the Ring of Kerry
Killarney Flesk Camping is perfect for exploring the national park. The campsite is open from April 5 to October 2 and electric hook-ups are provided. Additionally, there is a restaurant and a bar, dogs are welcome and you can use the on-site cab service.
Near the Gap of Dunloe , you’ll find Fossa Camping Killarney. The campsite is open from March 16 to October 31 and offers 120 pitches with electric hook-ups. Additionally, this campsite offers a playground for kids.
The Wild Atlantic Way
Another incredible road trip itinerary in Ireland is the Wild Atlantic Way. The 1,600 mile long route along the west coast takes you all the way from West Cork to Donegal. This route unfolds the wonders of nature and stunning countryside in all its staggering diversity as well as lots of culture, traditions, tasty seafood and enchanting villages.
Our first stop is Kinsale. The fishing village is famous for its colourful houses along the historic harbour as well as its delicious seafood. Besides scrumptious food, you can visit the strongholds of Charles Fort , James Fort and Desmond Castle.
Next up on our Wild Atlantic Way tour is Fanad Head. The lighthouse at Fanad point is an ideal spot to watch the sunset or sunrise, and between the cliffs you can find coves with white sand beaches and turquoise water.
Mullaghmore Head will be our next stop, with the village located on the peninsula of the same name where you can find a wonderful beach to enjoy long afternoon walks. The majestic Benbulbin , a flat-topped rock formation, serves as a gorgeous backdrop.
Last but not least, Kylemore Abbey in Connemara has to be on the must-visit list as well. For the past 100 years, the monastery has been home to Benedictine Nuns and the abbey was built in the 18th century right between the lake and mountain. The bright white towers nestled in the middle of verdant green countryside are definitely worth a visit.
Campsites along the Wild Atlantic Way
9 miles from Fanad Head , you can find the Knockalla Camping and Caravan Park. There are hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups as well as a fresh and grey-water connection. Additionally, there is an indoor swimming pool, a playground and free WiFi.
Travers Holiday Park is open all year round and located about 9 miles from Mullaghmore. The pitches are outfitted with electric hook-ups and dogs are welcome.
There you have it! The Emerald Isle is a fantastic place to explore from the front seat of a van, all that’s left to do is find your dream campervan or motorhome on Camplify. See you out there.