Irish driving route named 'most scenic in Europe' for its 'rust and bronze-hued landscape'

Co Galway's Inagh Valley road has been crowned the most scenic drive in Europe by travel experts

The R344 road, part of the Wild Atlantic Way in Connemara, outshone rivals from Scotland, Italy, England, Romania, Germany, and France, with its stunning beauty and natural splendour leaving a lasting impression on the travel gurus from Galway Beo .

The sixteen-mile route runs alongside Lough Inagh, showcasing the breathtaking Connemara region, which is also recommended as an ideal spot for a picnic or photo stop.

• Hidden gem Irish town in underrated county is a must for tourists to visit

• Irish gem hidden in 'gorgeous lesser-known woodland trail' is a must-visit

Praise was heaped on the Co Galway area by the team at StressFreeCarRental.com, who were enchanted by the "heather-covered mountains and valleys, and majestic lakes."

They remarked that the driving route encapsulates Ireland "in all of its Autumnal glory."

The travel enthusiasts extolled the rugged terrain and noted how the interplay of lakes and mountains enhances the picturesque landscape that attracts numerous visitors to Connemara each year. They commented on the "changing seasons [that] famously reflect on the lakes and mountains creating a rust and bronze-hued landscape."

• Irish county dubbed 'happiest' place in Ireland is full of amazing national parks and stunning coastal views

• Stunning Irish lake in underrated county that tourists don't visit enough

Pine Island, a renowned Irish landmark in Derryclare Lough near Clifden, the heart of Connemara, received a special nod. The island was lauded as a "picture-perfect island of pine trees."

Inagh Valley was ranked higher than other "stunning," routes like Col de la Machine in France, and the Chiantigiana route that links Florence to Siena in Italy.