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Seasons
In Ireland the weather is a major cause of change on the roads, but it is not the same everywhere. There is a difference between the coast, the countryside and the mountains — and sometimes between two of those places that lie close to one another.
A coastal road in County Kerry. Maoileann (CC BY-SA 4.0).
The weather can change within a couple of hours. The morning forecast alone is not enough.
It is colder and windier on high roads than it is in the countryside.
The wind is stronger on the coast, and fog can come in suddenly.
It cannot be said that any season is “better” than another. Each of them is different, and how much you see depends on the place and on the weather.
The days are lengthening and there is more light. The weather is still uncertain, and a cold wind can arrive without warning. On high roads, fog can lie heavily in the morning.
This is the busiest season. The days are long, which helps with evening travel. There are more people on the coastal routes and at viewpoints.
The light is diminishing and the weather is becoming wetter. The first part of autumn is often still fairly settled, but November is worse.
The days are short, and frost or snow can disrupt high roads. Many facilities are closed or working shorter hours.
Certain kinds of road are more vulnerable than others. A complete list cannot be given, but the kinds can be recognised.
There is no single answer. There is more light and more people in summer; there are fewer people in winter, but the weather is worse.
No. There are significant differences between the west coast, the east side and the mountains.
It cannot be relied on for particular days. It is better to look at the most recent forecast in advance.
Some mountain roads may be closed temporarily. Check official advice.
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