The Most Unusual Day Out in Ireland: Drive a Rally Car in Co. Monaghan
Ask most visitors what to do in Ireland and you'll get the same short list again and again. Those attractions are great, but if you want something genuinely different, it pays to look a little further off the map.
That's the point where this rally driving school in Scotstown fits in. Set 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 drive the cars yourself, supported by experienced staff.
What Does a Rally Driving Day Involve?
A rally driving experience is a driver-led adventure where you get behind the wheel. Forget the sidelines, you feel the grip, the slides and the speed first-hand.
At the school in Scotstown, drivers aged 13 and over are welcome, and you don't need to have passed a driving test. It's a rare activity the whole family can enjoy.
Choose Your Driving Experience
There are options for every level, from first-timers to confirmed rally fans. Here's a quick overview:
| Driving Day | Price | Length | The Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Prices are per person unless stated and may change. Not sure which to pick? Call the team on +353 47 89098 or drop a line to [email protected].
Things to Do Near the Ireland–Northern Ireland Border
Let's be straightforward: it's off the usual route. That's part of the charm. The drive from Dublin or Belfast is about two hours, so it works as a full day out from either city.
- The quieter location means more time at the wheel and less time queuing.
- Pair your visit with a wander around Monaghan and the surrounding area, with accommodation and sights close to Scotstown.
- People come from all over the world, and plenty return for a second go.
Unique Gifts for Men in Ireland: A Rally Driving Gift Experience
Still searching for a gift he'll actually remember? The usual presents rarely stick in the memory. A rally driving gift experience gives him a story to tell for years.
It works brilliantly for Christmas, Father's Day, birthdays and milestone occasions. And it isn't only for men: anybody with a taste for speed will have a blast.
You can buy a voucher for a specific experience, or keep it flexible with an open-value voucher. Both ways, it's a present that's a day out, not something to unwrap and forget.
Planning a Stag? Put the Groom Behind the Wheel
Every best man wants an activity with a competitive edge. Rally driving ticks every box: competition, adrenaline and stories for the speeches before you hit the pub. The school regularly hosts stag and hen group days for groups of all sizes.
Planning a Hen Party? Try Something Adventurous
Not every hen do has to be cocktails and afternoon tea. If your group wants something more memorable, a supercar and rally day breaks the ice and creates stories for the group chat.
Looking for Team Building Ideas in Ireland? Try Rally Driving
A lot of team days out leave people checking their phones. Rally driving cuts through that: everyone takes part, everyone laughs and nobody sits at the back. It works for work colleagues and social groups celebrating success, a milestone or a leaving do.
Your Questions About Rally Driving in Monaghan, Answered
Where is the rally driving experience based?
You'll find it in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638, just across from Northern Ireland. It's roughly two hours from both cities.
Can complete beginners try rally driving?
No anniversary/birthday gift experience Ireland driving test is needed, 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 is a rally driving day?
Experiences start at €295 per person for a 2–3 hour rally driving experience, rising to €545 per person for the ultimate full-day experiences. Confirm the latest prices before you book.
Is a rally driving experience a good gift?
Definitely. Both specific experience vouchers and open value vouchers are available, and it works for almost any occasion.
Can I book for a stag, hen or corporate group?
Yes. The school has dedicated stag, hen and corporate group options. Reach out to discuss your requirements, and they'll help plan the day.
Is it worth the drive from Dublin or Belfast?
Yes. At about two hours from both cities, it works as a full day out, with a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice 2024 badge to its name.
Book Your Rally Driving Experience
Whether you want a gift that stands out or a day nobody will forget, a rally driving experience in Monaghan is hard to beat. Choose a package and reserve your spot, or give the team a call if you're unsure.
Rally School IrelandScotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638
Phone: +353 47 89098
Email: [email protected]