Discover Ireland with the Wild Atlantic Way!
By Daniel O'Neill
Explore Ireland’s wild side by checking out the country’s rugged west coast. The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,600 kilometre-long route from the Inishowen Peninsula in Co. Donegal and takes you through Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry before coming to an end in Kinsale.
The route was officially created in 2014, but many of the roads on it have been used for centuries to connect small villages and towns to each other along the west coast. The idea was proposed in 2008 by Fáilte Ireland in hopes of promoting the west to tourists. Since its launch it’s become one of the best ways to explore the west and has become a favourite for both international tourists and Irish people hoping to explore places they have never seen before.
The route is divided into 14 stages to make it easy to travel. The route includes Inishowen Peninsula, Fanad Head, Slieve League Coast, Donegal Bay, Erris, Achill Island and Clew Bay, Killary Harbour, Connemara, The Burren, the Shannon Estuary, Dingle Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry, Beara and Sheep’s Head and West Cork.
The route is perfect for those looking to explore Ireland’s national beauty and get a closer look at the beaches, villages and culture the island has to offer. It also gives you the chance to experience Gaeltacht regions such as Connemara, meaning you get the chance to learn some Irish and get to experience what it’s like to be in an Irish speaking region.
The route also gives you the chance to explore several Irish islands like Cape Clear Island, Inisheer and Inishmore. A popular activity for visitors is to bring their bikes and cycle around the islands for the day, exploring the natural beauty and breathing in the ocean air. Many of the islands also offer bike rental for the day, so even if you don’t own a bike yourself you still get the chance to experience cycling across the island.
The Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare are definitely a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way. As the most popular tourist attraction in the west of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are some of the most beautiful natural attractions this country has to offer. Visitors can hike along the cliffside ledge on the cliff walk and see the stunning cliffs that rise 214 metres out of the Atlantic. The cliffs are especially popular among photographers who love to capture their natural beauty in a photo or create video diaries exploring the cliffside.
Another highlight is The Burren in Co. Clare, a gorgeous and highly unusual display of limestone that measures around 530 square kilometres. Located only 15km away from the Cliffs of Moher, it’s a no brainer as to why people often plan daytrips to visit both. Whether you are looking for an interesting location for photos or want to admire the beauty of the landscape, the Burren is a must see for all the family.
The Dingle Peninsula is another favourite among tourists. This stunning display of sandy beaches and dune formations comes to life especially during the summer when the weather is warm. The western end of the peninsula is also a Gaeltacht region, meaning you get another chance to brush up on the Irish skills and integrate into the culture. Whether you want to take a long walk along the beaches or dive into the Gaeltacht region, the Dingle Peninsula has something for everyone.
The Wild Atlantic Way boasts a huge range of activities and things to do. It’s the perfect way for you and your family to explore the what the west of Ireland has to offer, jump into the culture of the Gaeltacht regions and celebrate the natural beauty of the country.
Various tours and activities can be booked in advance, but you can also explore solo and make amazing discoveries along the coast.
This summer travel across the Wild Atlantic Way and make memories you’ll never forget!
Visit thewildatlanticway.com for more details.