Five Scenic Sunday Drives Around Cork Perfect for Escaping the Crowds

Cork's diverse landscape offers some of Ireland's most spectacular driving routes, from rugged coastal roads to peaceful river valleys. Whether you're after Atlantic drama or pastoral tranquillity, these five routes promise memorable Sunday drives without the frustration of bumper-to-bumper traffic.

1. The Sheep's Head Peninsula Loop

Starting from Bantry, this 88-kilometre circuit remains one of Cork's best-kept secrets. Take the N71 before turning onto the R591 at Durrus, following the southern shore through Ahakista and Kilcrohane.

The route offers spectacular views across Bantry Bay and Dunmanus Bay, with the Mizen Peninsula visible across the water. The narrow roads naturally limit traffic, making for a peaceful drive even during peak summer months.

Stop at Heron's Cove Restaurant near Goleen for coffee and their famous carrot cake (open seasonally from late April through early November), or try the quirky Tin Pub in Ahakista, Ireland's only corrugated iron pub, which reopens each summer with its renowned beer garden. The return journey along the northern shore via the Goat's Path offers dramatic mountain views before descending back to Bantry.

2. The Gougane Barra to Glengarriff Mountain Pass

Begin in Macroom and take the R584 west towards Gougane Barra. This route avoids the busy N22 Cork-Killarney road whilst offering some of the county's most dramatic mountain scenery.

The drive through the Shehy Mountains is particularly stunning in autumn when the landscape turns golden. Gougane Barra Hotel serves excellent coffee with views over the lake and St Finbarr's Oratory, making it an ideal first stop. The hotel operates seasonally from late March to early November.

Continue over the Coomhola Pass on the R584 to Glengarriff, where Garnish Island ferry trips await those wanting to stretch their legs. The Blue Pool Ferry area includes refreshment facilities and operates from April through September. Return via the tunnel road (N71) through Ballylickey for variety, though Sunday traffic here is typically light.

3. The Blackwater Valley Drive

Start in Fermoy and follow the N72 west along the Blackwater River towards Mallow. This often-overlooked route showcases Cork's inland beauty, with the river meandering through wooded valleys and past historic estates.

The road is wide and well-maintained, making for relaxed driving. Stop at Castletownroche to explore the village's medieval heritage, then continue to Mallow where several town centre cafés offer specialty coffee and Sunday treats.

For the return journey, take the quieter R628 through Glanworth and its impressive castle ruins. The village pubs serve coffee and traditional Sunday lunch if your timing allows. This route rarely sees heavy traffic, even on sunny Sundays.

4. The Seven Heads Peninsula Circuit

Beginning in Clonakilty, head south through Inchydoney before following the coastal road east through Ardfield and Rathbarry. This lesser-known peninsula offers stunning ocean views without the crowds of busier coastal routes.

The narrow roads between Castlefreke Woods and Rosscarbery provide glimpses of hidden coves and sandy beaches. Stop at the Kingfisher Bar & Bistro at the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery for coffee with panoramic bay views. The hotel restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Continue through Glandore and Union Hall, two of West Cork's prettiest villages. Hayes' Bar & Kitchen in Glandore serves excellent coffee and is perfectly positioned for watching boats in the harbour. Open year-round, it's a reliable Sunday stop. Return to Clonakilty via the R597, completing a 50-kilometre loop that showcases coastal Cork at its finest.

5. The East Cork Coastal Meander

Start in Midleton and head south through Whitegate and Aghada, avoiding the busy N25. This route offers Fota Island views and glimpses of Cork Harbour's maritime activity without city traffic.

Continue to Ballycotton via the R629, where the cliff walk car park provides spectacular views of the lighthouse and Ballycotton Island. The village has several cafés perfect for a coffee break with sea views.

Head inland through Shanagarry, home to Ballymaloe House and Gardens. Their café offers farm-to-fork treats and excellent coffee in a beautiful setting. Return via Cloyne and its famous round tower, completing a circuit that combines coastal views with East Cork's rich agricultural landscape.

Planning Your Perfect Sunday Drive

Timing matters when avoiding traffic bottlenecks. Leave early, before 10am, or after 2pm when the Sunday lunch crowd has settled. Avoid the N40 and Jack Lynch Tunnel during Cork GAA home matches, and remember that coastal routes near beaches can become congested during good weather between noon and 4pm.

Pack a flask of tea as backup; some rural cafés close early on Sundays or may be unexpectedly busy during local events. Note that several West Cork establishments operate seasonally, typically from April through October. Check Met Éireann before setting off, as mountain passes can become treacherous in poor weather.

These routes prove you don't need to battle traffic on the main roads to discover Cork's scenic beauty. Each offers its own character, from wild Atlantic coastlines to peaceful river valleys, all within two hours of Cork city.

So this Sunday, skip the usual spots, avoid the crowds, and discover why Cork's back roads offer some of Ireland's most rewarding drives. Sure, the journey really is better than the destination when you pick the right route.