We are driving from Killarney to Sneem. We will begin on the beautiful N71, but at Molls Gap junction should we continue on the N71 to Kenmare and take the N70 along Kenmare Bay to Sneem, or should we take the R568 from Molls Gap to Sneem? Which is more scenic?
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
The R568 will be the more scenic of the two. The tradeoff, however, is that it's one of the narrow, barely two lane, twisty-turny rural roads that Ireland is famous for. If you're ready for that then you should be good to go.
Can preview the route using the street view feature on google maps if you want to see what you might be in for.
Posted by
Missoula, Montana
512 posts
Michelin map #712 will answer your questions regarding scenic roads, park locations, bodies of water, historic sites, cliffs, mountain passes, waterfalls, etc., all of which and more add up to what's very scenic vs. what is less so.
Posted by
bedford, indiana
459 posts
For me I liked the R568 route better. After you have made it to Molls Gap from Killarney on N71 the most challenging part of the roadway, IMO, will be behind you. That drive from Molls Gap to Sneem is pretty cool and has different vibe than the road along the bay.
Posted by
76 posts
I would also give the nod to R568....however, if you're not on a tight schedule, I would also suggest turning off R568 at the Ballaghbeama Gap, taking it up to the Ballaghisheen Pass, turn around, head back down and continue on R568 into Sneem. The Ballaghbeama Gap is incredibly scenic, and well worth seeing if you have the time. Parts of it are similar to the Gap of Dunloe.