The Journal is partnering with Allianz Insurance for our Best Drives series that showcases some of the most picturesque drives across the country. For our next instalment, we’re packing up the car and taking a breather from the capital as we explore some historic sites just one hour from Dublin. 

If you’re a native of Dublin’s fair city or simply visiting and looking for a change of scenery, we’ve got you covered. Just one hour from the capital is a host of culture-packed sights to visit, with the heritage town of Trim in County Meath being our final destination. One of the beauties of the Emerald Isle is that you’re never too far from history and culture, and the Boyne Valley, the birthplace of Ireland’s Ancient East, will always deliver with its lush green landscapes and magnificent waterways.

Follow the below route if you want to be blown away by what this beautiful island has to offer: 

• Where: Co Dublin to Trim, Co Meath
• The route: Starting from North County Dublin, we’re following a route that brings you just one hour from Dublin, but is packed with a punch when it comes to offerings. We’re traveling to County Meath with our first stop off being Avoca in Dunboyne, boasting 35,000 square feet of retail space with fashion, gifts, homeware and more. There is also an extensive food market filled with artisanal food and ingredients, an Avoca Garden Rooms bursting with beautiful plants, trees and garden accessories, as well as their farm to fork concept café, Fork Café.    We’re heading on to visit the Hill of Tara for our next stop, described as the jewel in the crown of the Boyne Valley landscape, with over 5000 years of legendary history, it’s a sight to behold. From its rolling slopes, you can see all the way to the other great sites of the Boyne Valley, including Loughcrew Cairns, the Hill of Slane and Trim Castle. Speaking of castles, we’re continuing on this route and visiting Trim Castle as our final destination. 
• Photo opportunities: We definitely recommend getting out of the car and snapping a selfie on the banks of the River Boyne when you reach Trim. Flowing through the picturesque heritage town, the Blueway Trim is a beautiful stretch of the River Boyne which flows from Trim to Bective Mill. 
• Something different: The Boyne Valley activities centre located on Jonathan Swift Street is the go-to place to visit if you want to extend your stay in Co Meath. From paddling along the Boyne Blueway to upcoming festivals and unmissable food and drink destinations. There’s something for everyone! 

Insure your next road trip with Allianz and get 15% off car insurance online. *

*Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Standard acceptance criteria, terms & conditions apply. A minimum premium of €284 applies.