Things to Do Near the Irish Border Why a Rally Driving Experience Beats the Tourist Trail
Unique Things to Do in Ireland: Take the Wheel at a Rally School in Monaghan
Ask most visitors what to do in Ireland and you'll hear the same short list again and again. Cliffs, castles, distilleries and pubs are brilliant, but if you want something genuinely different, you need to leave the tourist trail behind.
This is exactly where Rally School Ireland comes in. Based in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, just a short distance from Northern Ireland, they've been giving people unforgettable days behind the wheel for more than 25 years. You are the driver, not a passenger, on a real rally-style course.
How Does a Rally Driving Experience Work?
Rally driving is a driver-led adventure where you do the driving. Rather than spectating, you get the sound, the speed motorsport experiences Ireland and the sideways action for yourself.
At Rally School Ireland, experiences are open to drivers from age 13 and up, and there's no need to hold any driving qualification. It's a rare activity the whole family can enjoy.
Rally and Supercar Driving Experiences: Packages and Prices
Rally School Ireland offers experiences from a half-day taster to a full day of rally, drift and supercar driving. Here's what's on offer:
| Experience | Price | Time | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | Full-day course for aspiring rally drivers |
Prices shown are a guide and can change. Unsure where to start? Phone the team on +353 47 89098 or email [email protected].
Why Drive Out to Monaghan? A Day Trip From Dublin or Belfast
We'll be honest: it's off the usual route. That's a big part of the appeal. It's roughly two hours from both Dublin and Belfast, which makes it easy to reach from both sides of the border.
- Away from the crowds, the day feels more personal and less rushed.
- Pair your visit with a wander around Monaghan and the surrounding area, with plenty of local hotels and attractions to choose from.
- The school attracts visitors from far beyond Monaghan, and many come back again.
Unique Gifts for Men in Ireland: A Rally Driving Gift Experience
Still searching for a gift for the man who has everything? Most presents are forgotten within a week. An adrenaline gift creates a memory, not clutter.
It's an ideal present for Christmas, Father's Day, birthdays and milestone occasions. And it isn't only for men: anybody with a taste for speed will get a kick out of it.
The school lets you buy a voucher for a specific driving day, or let the recipient pick with an open gift voucher. Either way, it's a gift that becomes an experience.
Planning a Stag? Put the Groom Behind the Wheel
Every group wants an activity with a competitive edge. Few stag do activities deliver more: speed, noise and plenty of laughs before you hit the pub. You can book stag and hen group days with group packages.
Hen Do Activities in Ireland That Aren't Another Spa Day
A hen party doesn't have to mean cocktails and afternoon tea. For a group that loves a challenge, a supercar and rally day brings everyone together and gives the bride-to-be a day to remember.
Team Building Days in Ireland With Real Energy
Many team building events leave people checking their phones. A motorsport day breaks the mould: it's energetic, inclusive and something colleagues genuinely enjoy. It works for work colleagues and social groups looking for a reward, an incentive or an end-of-year treat.
Your Questions About Rally Driving in Monaghan, Answered
Where can I find the rally school?
You'll find it in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638, just across from Northern Ireland. The drive from either Dublin or Belfast takes around two hours.
Can complete beginners try rally driving?
You don't need to have passed a driving test, and drivers aged 13 and over can take part. You don't need any motorsport background, with instructors guiding you through the day.
How much does a rally driving experience cost?
Experiences start at €295 per person for a 2–3 hour rally driving experience, with the ultimate rally and supercar days at €545 per person. Prices can change, so confirm before booking.
Is this a good present for birthdays or anniversaries?
Definitely. Both specific experience vouchers and open value vouchers are available, and it works for almost any occasion.
Is it suitable for stag dos, hen parties and team building?
Yes. Group bookings are available for groups of more than 4. Reach out to discuss your requirements, and they'll help plan the day.
Can I visit as a day trip from Dublin or Belfast?
For most visitors, yes. 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 want a unique experience in Ireland, a rally driving experience in Monaghan is hard to beat. Pick your experience and book your date, or get in touch if you're unsure.
Rally School IrelandScotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638
Phone: +353 47 89098
Email: [email protected]