Off the Beaten Path in Ireland: Rally and Supercar Days on the Irish Border
Ask most people for ideas for a day out in Ireland and you'll hear the same short list again and again. Cliffs, castles, unique gifts for men Ireland distilleries and pubs are brilliant, but if you want something genuinely different, it's worth heading slightly off the beaten path.
That's the point where Rally School Ireland enters the picture. Set in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, right on the border with Northern Ireland, they've been giving people unforgettable days behind the wheel for more than 25 years. You take the wheel yourself, with expert instructors on hand.
What Does a Rally Driving Day Involve?
A rally driving experience is an activity day where you take control of the car. Forget the sidelines, you feel the grip, the slides and the speed first-hand.
Here, experiences are open to drivers from age 13 and up, and you don't need to have passed a driving test. That makes it open to nearly everyone, from complete beginners to experienced petrolheads.
Driving Experiences at Rally School Ireland
Rally School Ireland offers options for every level, from first-timers to confirmed rally fans. Here's a quick overview:
| Package | Price per person | Length | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rally Driving Experience | €295pp | 2–3 hours | 3 cars, 18 laps, 3 stages |
| Rally + Drift Driving Experience | €295pp | 2–3 hours | 3 cars, 18 laps, 3 stages |
| Subaru Rally Experience Adventure | €395pp | 2–4 hours | 4 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages |
| Mustang Driving Experience Adventure | €395pp | 2–4 hours | 4 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages, including a Mustang |
| MK2 Magic Rally Driving Experience | €455 | 2–4 hours | 2 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages, branded jacket |
| Ultimate Rally + Drift Experience | €545pp | 3–5 hours | 6 cars, 36 laps, 6 stages |
| Ultimate Supercar + Rally + Drift Experience | €545pp | 3–5 hours | 6 cars, 36 laps, 6 stages |
| Stage Rally Course | €475pp | 6 hours | A day-long course aimed at future stage rally drivers |
Check with the school for current prices and availability. Unsure where to start? Phone the team on +353 47 89098 or email [email protected].
A Day Trip From Dublin or Belfast That's Worth the Drive
To be upfront: Scotstown isn't a big tourist hotspot. That's exactly the point. It's roughly two hours from both Dublin and Belfast, so it works as a full day out from either city.
- Without big-city crowds, you get a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
- Pair your visit with a wander around Monaghan and the surrounding area, where there are local hotels and things to see within easy reach.
- Visitors travel from across Ireland and from abroad, and plenty return for a second go.
Gift Experience Days in Ireland: Give Someone a Day Behind the Wheel
Still searching for unique gifts for men? Socks, aftershave and gadgets are forgotten quickly. A rally driving gift experience gives him a story to tell for years.
It works brilliantly for birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day and Christmas. Women who love motorsport love it too: anyone who enjoys cars, driving or a bit of adrenaline will get a kick out of it.
It's easy to buy a voucher for a particular package, or keep it flexible with an open-value voucher. Both ways, it's a gift that becomes an experience.
Stag Party Ideas in Ireland: Rally Driving for the Lads
Every best man wants a day with some banter and bragging rights. Rally driving ticks every box: competition, adrenaline and stories for the speeches and then straight to the pub for the post-match analysis. You can book stag and hen parties with group packages.
Planning a Hen Party? Try Something Adventurous
Hen parties don't have to be the usual spa-and-prosecco routine. If the hens are up for an adventure, taking the wheel at a rally school gets the laughs flowing and creates stories for the group chat.
Team Building Days in Ireland With Real Energy
Many team building events leave people checking their phones. Rally driving cuts through that: it's energetic, inclusive and something colleagues genuinely enjoy. The school welcomes work colleagues and social groups of any size, including groups larger than 4.
Your Questions About Rally Driving in Monaghan, Answered
Where is Rally School Ireland located?
It is based in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638, right on the border with Northern Ireland. The drive from either Dublin or Belfast takes around two hours.
Do I need any driving qualifications or experience?
No qualifications are required, and the minimum age is 13. You don't need any motorsport background, and instructors are on hand to guide you.
What are the prices?
Prices start from €295pp for a half-day rally experience, rising to €545 per person for the ultimate full-day experiences. Prices can change, so confirm before booking.
Is a rally driving experience a good gift?
Absolutely. You can buy a voucher for a specific experience or an open value voucher, and it works for almost any occasion.
Do you cater for group bookings?
Yes. The school has dedicated stag, hen and corporate group options. Reach out to discuss your requirements, and they'll sort the rest.
Is it a good day trip from Dublin or Belfast?
Definitely. At about two hours from both cities, it works as a full day out, and it carries a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice 2024 award.
Ready to Take the Wheel?
If you're after something genuinely off the beaten path, a day in Scotstown delivers. Pick your experience and book your date, or get in touch if you'd like help choosing.
Rally School IrelandScotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638
Phone: +353 47 89098
Email: [email protected]