Glenshane Pass

Dreams of traveling through Ireland almost always include driving through scenic mountain roads and countryside scenes, and Glenshane Pass delivers just that. The mountain pass cuts dramatically through the Sperrin Mountains of County Londonderry in Northern Ireland. It wraps through greenery and under towering trees, over hillsides and through open fields. Often covered in a blanket of fog, weather conditions can change rapidly — adding to the mysterious and adventurous feel of driving over the pass.

The road was named for highwayman Shane Crossagh Ó Maoláin, a notorious highwayman of the 17th century. Due to its unique natural characteristics, it has been designated as a Special Area of Conservation by the country, as well as an Area of Special Scientific Interest. As for manmade establishments, the Ponderosa pub is also of note — it’s the highest in Ireland at nearly 1000 ft above sea level.