The Wild Atlantic Way is a scenic coastal route that stretches for over 1500 miles along the west coast of Ireland, from County Donegal in the north to County Cork in the south.
The Wild Atlantic Way offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, charming towns and villages, and an opportunity to experience the unique culture and history of the region. It is also a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and fishing.
The route of the Wild Atlantic Way can be broken down into several sections, each with its own unique attractions. Some of the major destinations along the way include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula.
Planning Your Trip
When planning your trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s important to consider the time of year that you’ll be visiting. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking to get out of your trip. For example, summer is a great time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of outdoor activities and mild weather. However, if you’re looking for a quieter, more peaceful trip, you might consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall.
Accommodation and transportation are two key factors to consider when planning your trip. There are a wide variety of accommodation options available along the Wild Atlantic Way, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. In terms of transportation, you can choose to drive your own car, rent a car or contact our team for a driver guided tour in one of our luxury vehicles.
The Route
The Wild Atlantic Way can be broken down into several sections, each with its own unique attractions. The route begins in County Donegal and continues south through County Sligo, County Mayo, County Galway, County Clare, County Limerick, County Kerry, and County Cork. Some suggested itineraries include:
- Start in County Donegal and make your way south through County Sligo, County Mayo, and County Galway, taking in the rugged beauty of the Slieve League cliffs, the mystical island of Achill, and the vibrant city of Galway.
- Continue south from County Galway through County Clare, taking in the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the historic town of Ennis.
- Move on to County Limerick, home to the medieval city of Limerick and the stunning Adare village.
- Head south to County Kerry, where you can explore the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage.
- Finally, end your journey in County Cork, with a visit to the charming town of Kinsale and the coastal town of Skibbereen.
Along the way, some major landmarks and attractions include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula, the Slieve League cliffs, the mystical island of Achill, the vibrant city of Galway, the historic town of Ennis, the medieval city of Limerick, the stunning Adare village, the charming town of Kinsale and the coastal town of Skibbereen.
The Wild Atlantic Way offers many opportunities for detours and side trips, including visiting the Aran Islands, exploring the Burren, and visiting the historic city of Galway. Other suggestions include taking a boat tour to see the seals and dolphins, visiting the W.B Yeats Museum and taking a drive through the wild and beautiful landscapes of the Connemara National Park.
Places to Stay
There are a wide variety of accommodation options available on the route, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. This provides a range of choices for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for a luxurious experience or a more budget-friendly option.
Some recommendations for hotels include the Ashford Castle in County Mayo, the Park Hotel Kenmare in County Kerry, and the Hayfield Manor in County Cork. For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast, such as the Atlantic House in County Clare, the Dromhall Hotel in County Kerry, or the Garnish House in County Cork. Campers can find campgrounds located at scenic locations such as the Doo Lough Valley in County Mayo, and Inch Beach in County Kerry.
Outdoor Activities
Traveling the Wild Atlantic Way with your driver guide enables you to stop to enjoy some of the most beautiful and diverse hiking and biking trails in Ireland. Some of the best hiking trails include the Diamond Hill Trail in County Mayo, the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal, and the Sheep’s Head Way in County Cork. For biking enthusiasts, the Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Beara Breifne Way in County Cork are must-do trails.
The driving route is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sea kayaking. Popular surf spots include Strandhill in County Sligo, Lahinch in County Clare, and Inch.
Contact Our Wild Atlantic Way Specialists
From the rugged cliffs and stunning landscapes of the Cliffs of Moher to the charming villages and lively cities along the way, there is truly something for everyone on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an action-packed adventure, or a cultural experience, contact the tour planning specialists at Prestige for your complimentary custom itinerary.
