Scenic Drives & Mountain Views — A Trip Through The Vee
If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, winding mountain roads, and a real “wow” moment right here in Tipperary, The Vee Pass should be at the top of your list. Just under an hour’s drive from Bodega Cafe, this stunning route through the Knockmealdown Mountains offers one of the most scenic drives in Ireland.
Whether you're visiting from out of town or just looking to spend a quiet afternoon exploring your own doorstep, The Vee makes for the perfect escape.
What is The Vee?
The Vee is a sharp bend on the road that runs between Clogheen and Lismore, cutting through the Knockmealdowns. The name comes from the dramatic V-shape turn carved into the mountainside, offering panoramic views over the Golden Vale, Bay Lough, and beyond into County Waterford.
It’s especially popular during rhododendron season in late spring/early summer, when the mountains burst into colour — but it’s beautiful any time of year.
A Drive Worth Taking
The drive itself is part of the adventure — narrow roads, rolling hills, and the kind of landscape that makes you want to pull over every few minutes for a photo. If you’re into walking or hiking, there are plenty of spots to park and explore by foot, especially around Bay Lough, a dark, mysterious lake that’s steeped in local legend.
Bring your camera, a jacket (it can get breezy up there), and take your time — this is slow travel at its best.
Plan Your Route
Start: Clonmel or Cahir
Drive through: Clogheen → The Vee → Lismore
Stop off at: Bay Lough, Lady’s View, Lismore Heritage Town
Time needed: Half-day or make it a full day with lunch, walks & stops
Pro tip: Grab food first
Before you hit the mountains, pop into Bodega Cafe for a proper breakfast or takeaway coffee. Whether you’re fuelling up for a hike or packing lunch for a picnic stop, we’ve got you covered. We’re open daily from 9am to 5pm — perfect timing for an early start on the road.
From crisp autumn air to wildflowers in June, The Vee is a reminder of just how beautiful Tipperary can be. Take a spin, soak it all in — and tell us what you think when you're back in for your next coffee.
