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A Perfect 2-Week Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip Itinerary

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wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Planning a Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary is one of the true joys of mapping out a trip to the Emerald Isle. This sprawling coastal route on the west coast of Ireland is one of the world’s most scenic road trips. Ranging from the town of Kinsale in County Cork to Malin Head in County Donegal, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way encompasses some of the most iconic and striking sites to see in all of the country.

If you’re interested in driving the Wild Atlantic Way and don’t know where to start, then this article is meant to help you. When you look into it, there is so much to see and do on the Wild Atlantic Way that it can seem overwhelming to know where and when to start.

So whether you’re looking to drive a portion of this coastal route or are keen to tackle the whole thing, use this Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary to help you map out your perfect trip to the west of Ireland.

Table of Contents

How Long Does the Wild Atlantic Way Take?

Before you can get into the nitty-gritty of planning your itinerary, it’s essential to work out how long it takes to drive the Wild Atlantic Way.

It can be easy to think that Ireland is a small country and the driving route only takes up the west coast of the island, so one shouldn’t need a lot of time to do it justice.

This simply isn’t the case.

In reality, the Wild Atlantic Way route is 2,500 kilometres and most of it is on narrow country roads where you can’t drive too quickly.

There are viewpoints and stop-offs around every corner and there’s also the fact that you don’t simply want to speed between each of these stops, you want to spend time in lots of different places.

Wild Atlantic Way Viewpoint @ Tullan Strand

With all this in mind, plan to spend at least 2 weeks if you want to drive the entire Wild Atlantic Way.

While you could certainly spend more time driving along the route (and we honestly recommend it), 2 weeks is just about the minimum that will allow you to travel from Kinsale in West Cork to the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal (or vice versa) while not feeling too rushed.

If you only have time for one week on the route, then you’re going to need to make a decision on whether you want to concentrate on the northern end or the southern end. While you could drive the Wild Atlantic Way in 7 days, you are going to be rushed and you won’t have time to enjoy any of the incredible places.

For those who only have a week in which to plan your trip, opt to either follow the first 7 days of this itinerary or the last. If you concentrate on the route from Kinsale to Galway, note that this is going to be the busiest, especially in the warmer, high-season months.

Alternatively, the route from Connemara to County Donegal is going to be a lot less crowded and a bit more off the beaten path. Both are absolutely gorgeous and have lots to offer visitors.

Glenveagh National Park

Getting To & Around the Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is located along the west coast of Ireland beginning (or ending, depending on the direction you choose to drive – more on that later) in the town of Kinsale in County Cork. If you’re travelling to Ireland specifically for a Wild Atlantic Way trip, however, you do have a few options.

The highest-traffic and most popular option will be to arrive by air into Dublin . While this itinerary doesn’t include any time in Dublin (it’s not on the driving route) it is only about a 3-hour drive from the Irish capital to the town of Kinsale.

If you’re driving the Wild Atlantic Way from north to south, it’s similarly about 3 hours to drive from Dublin to the town of Muff in County Donegal, the official starting (or ending) point of the driving route.

Once at your desired starting point, the best way to get around the Wild Atlantic Way is, understandably, by car. This is a driving route, after all! You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies for hire cars.

Driving the Sky Road in Connemara

Note that the majority of the route is along smaller, country roads which can be quite narrow. There is nothing too daunting about driving these roads as local drivers tend to be quite respectful, but do remember to that passing can be tricky at times if there’s oncoming traffic.

Because this is a coastal route, it’s also worth keeping in mind the direction you’d like to drive the route. Ireland drives on the left side of the road so if you want the ease of pulling over at lookout points and the best coastal views over the Atlantic Ocean as the driver, then driving from south to north is going to be your best bet.

Once on the driving route, you will notice blue WAW (Wild Atlantic Way) signs way-marking the route, so it’s not hard to stray from it. In fact, the route is so well-signposted that you may not even need to rely on GPS!

Because of its scenic nature, there are also plenty of Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points – little pull-off areas marked with the WAW logo and perfect for photo stops! Putting the discovery points into your GPS is a great way not to miss some of the most beautiful places on the route as you explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you don’t want to drive in Ireland, then the other main option is to take a guided tour. There are several options available such as this guided tour that explores many of the main attractions in the southern part of the country.

Beautiful Irish Countryside

2-Week Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

This Wild Atlantic Way road trip goes from south to north, which I believe is the ideal direction in which to drive this coastal route. However, if it’s easier for you to from north to south, you can reverse the order of this route without inhibiting your trip or experiences.

Day 1 – Kinsale to Killarney

Colourful Kinsale located in County Cork is the official starting (or ending) point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Begin your day here, which is only about 30 minutes from Cork City . Take the morning to explore the cute little town and wander its charming streets before hitting the road to begin taking in the sites on this driving route.

Our final destination is Killarney, however, it’s worth noting that when driving the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s best not to take the most direct route. Instead, take your time to enjoy the smaller, coastal roads and make your way to some of the smaller towns and lookouts en route to Killarney.

Direct your GPS toward the town of Baltimore and take the time to explore a bit around here – this is also a great place to go whale watching if that’s something that interests you. Mosy along the coastal road to the town of Kenmare before reaching Killarney for the night.

Town of Kinsale

Where to Stay in Killarney

Old Weir Lodge – Located in Killarney, this guesthouse makes for a great base for exploring the town and the area surrounding. They have an array of comfortable rooms on offer, a great location close to the town centre and there is also a fantastic breakfast available daily. Click here to check availability

The Killarney Park – Luxury travellers will love this beautiful hotel in the centre of Killarney. They have a myriad of plush rooms on offer and plenty of wonderful amenities to ensure that you’re well taken care of after a long day of exploration. Click here to check availability

The Black Sheep Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love that there is a backpacker’s hostel in the centre of Killarney. Offering dorms and privates, they have clean self-catering facilities along with good common areas. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Killarney hotels!

Day 2 – Killarney

On day two, take the time to explore the town of Killarney and take in some of the natural beauty of Killarney National Park. Killarney makes for an excellent base in this area of Ireland as it’s central to a number of different highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Especially if you want to beat some of the crowds on tomorrow’s Ring of Kerry drive, it can be a good idea to spend this day enjoying the splendours of Killarney National Park. There are lots of things to do and see there, including visiting the Torc Waterfall, seeing Ross Castle and taking in the ruins of Muckross Abbey.

The town of Killarney itself is charming and worth wandering through and enjoying the atmosphere.

Torc Waterfall

Day 3 – Ring of Kerry

On the third day of this Wild Atlantic Way, it’s time to take on one of Ireland’s most iconic scenic drives – the Ring of Kerry. Beginning and ending in the town of Killarney (how convenient that you’ve been based there for 2 nights already!), this route can get incredibly busy, especially in high season, so it’s worth getting as early a start as possible.

Because you’ve already knocked off some stops on the Ring of Kerry drive yesterday (in Killarney National Park), you can head straight to the Ladies View. Other incredible sites on the Derrynane Beach, the village of Sneem and the offshoot Skellig Ring – which you will definitely have time for since you’re getting an early start!

The Ring of Kerry drive will take up your whole day, so spend your evening unwinding in a pub in Killarney.

Derrynane Beach on Ring of Kerry

Day 4 – Slea Head Drive

Day four brings you to another scenic drive within this scenic driving route – this one is the Dingle Penisula Drive, more accurately called the Slea Head Drive . Located north of Killarney, this is a scenic circular driving route that encompasses the beautiful Dingle Peninsula.

This beautiful drive includes gorgeous, sandy beaches, charming little towns and fascinating historic sites. You will be astounded by the dramatic vistas and the narrow roads only add to the charm.

Like with the Ring of Kerry, this is a popular driving route so it’s good to get an early start in order to beat the crowds and large tour buses.

Slea Head

Day 5 – Doolin & the Cliffs of Moher

After enjoying some of the highlights of County Kerry, it’s time to make your way north through County Clare en route to Galway City. However, there are some iconic places to stop off at along the way. Again, it’s good to get an early start on this day!

The highlight of this day is the incredible Cliffs of Moher , some of the most iconic sea cliffs in Ireland (though not the highest, you can see those on Achill Island). The Cliffs of Moher are another incredibly popular site, however, the area is huge and if you’re up for a hike, it’s easy to avoid the crowds.

When visiting the Cliffs, make sure to also spend a bit of time in the lovely little town of Doolin and maybe even take a boat tour to see the Cliffs from below. As you wind your way north toward Galway City, enjoy the beautiful, bucolic nature of the Burren National Park, as well.

Burren National Park

Where to Stay in Galway

The Stop B&B  – Located in Galways Claddagh neighbourhood a bit outside the city centre. this cosy bed and breakfast makes for a great stay in the city. They offer a number of great rooms along with a fantastic breakfast each morning. Click here to check availability

Park House Hotel – This luxury hotel in Galway is perfect for more upmarket visitors to this Irish city. Located on Eyre Square, they offer an array of lovely rooms on offer and plenty of great amenities for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel – Those travelling on a budget or solo will love this hostel located near Eyre Square. Highly-rated, they have both dorms and private rooms along with breakfast available in the morning. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Galway hotels!

Day 6 – Galway City

The first five days of this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary have been dedicated to natural sites and small towns, however, day 6 is the only day of this 2-week route that allows you time in a larger city.

Galway City is one of the nicest cities to visit in all of Ireland and its compact nature means that you can easily explore all of the highlights within the confines of a day. To make the most of your time you can consider  booking a walking tour or  a guided food tour.

Wander around the Latin Quarter, listen to the street performers on Quay Street and walk under the Spanish Arch.

You can learn about the history of Galway in the Galway City Museum, if this is something that interests you, or you can absorb the culture by listening to some trad music in of the city’s many pubs.

Boat on River in Galway

Day 7 – Aran Islands

The seventh day of this Wild Atlantic Way road trip sees you leaving the Irish mainland entirely and heading out on a day trip to the inimitable Aran Islands. Located off the coast of County Galway, this archipelago can make you feel as if you’re stepping back in time and it’s a really good experience to have when you’re travelling to the west of Ireland.

To reach the Aran Islands from Galway, your best bet is to take the ferry from the town of Rossaveel to Inishmore – the largest of the islands in the archipelago. Keep in mind that this is a passenger ferry and visitors aren’t allowed to bring cars to the islands.

You can get around on foot, bicycle or, for those who want an extra level of old-world charm, horse and buggy. Alternatively, there are plenty of guided tour options such as this full-day tour or  this guided tour .

Inishmore

Day 8 – Connemara

We’re onto week 2 of this Wild Atlantic Way road trip and this means that we’re making our way further north to the gorgeous Connemara region in County Galway. There are lots of things to do in Connemara and it’s an absolutely gorgeous place to explore for a short time.

Begin your time here at Connemara National Park and enjoy one of the many hiking trails you can find here. Then, make your way to Kylemore Abbey and take in the sites here. Afterwards, you can explore the town of Clifden and then drive the Sky Road, a lovely scenic route.

Of course, don’t miss the tidal Omey Island and the gorgeous Dog’s Bay Beach. Wind up your day with a pint in Clifden or in the small fishing village of Roundstone.

Dog's Bay Beach in Connemara

Where to Stay in Connemara

Errisbeg B&B – This bed and breakfast located in the quiet village of Roundstone is the perfect place to explore Connemara. Offering a great breakfast in the morning, they also have a number of clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and friendly owners. Click here to check availability

Sharamore House B&B – Located in Clifden, this bed and breakfast is another excellent option for those looking to stay in Connemara. They have a few rooms to choose from along with a hearty breakfast on offer each morning.  Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Connemara hotels!

Town of Clifden

Day 9 – Connemara to Achill Island

Day 9 of this itinerary is a bit of a driving day, however, there is a lot to see as we make our way to our final destination – Achill Island. First off, take the time to visit some places in the north of Connemara, such as the beautiful Killary Fjord and the charming village of Leenane.

Then, make your way to the lovely Aasleagh Falls before continuing on to some beautiful beaches to be found in County Mayo – including Silver Strand Beach and Carrowmore Beach. You can also opt to stop at Murrisk Abbey for some historic ruins.

Once you cross the bridge to Achill Island , you will likely have some time to see some sites on the island, as well. Or, you can simply post up on one of the island’s many pubs (or visit the Achill Island Distillery for some island-made whiskey!) and rest up for tomorrow.

Aasleagh Falls

Where to Stay on Achill Island

Teach Cruachan Bed and Breakfast – Situated in Keel village, this bed and breakfast makes for a great base when visiting Achill Island. Offering a range of great rooms, they have a wonderful breakfast available for guests each morning. Click here to check availability

Ferndale Luxury Boutique Bed & Breakfast – Those after a bit more luxe stay on Achill will love this boutique bed and breakfast. Offering a range of beautiful rooms, they have a fantastic breakfast available each morning and plenty of other amenities, as well. Click here to check availability

Cosy Keel Cottage – If you’re after a self-catering option on Achill island, then this little cottage is the perfect option. Fully furnished with everything you may need, it also has a great location for exploring all this lovely island has to offer. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Achill Island hotels!

Road on Achill Island

Day 10 – Achill Island

The tenth day of this route sees you enjoying all of the highlights of Achill Island. As Ireland’s largest island, Achill has a lot to offer visitors and it’s truly a joy to explore.

Those looking for a bit of a hike, spend your morning on the scenic Valley Loop Walk – an easy walking trail that winds along the coast from Golden Strand Beach. Also, make sure to take in the beautiful Dugort Beach nearby.

You also cannot miss the historic Slievemore Abandoned Village and, of course, head up to Keem Beach, one of the most stunning on the island and of the entirety of the Wild Atlantic Way. You can also hike to the Croaghaun Cliffs if you’re up for it – these are the highest sea cliffs in Ireland.

There are countless more things to do on Achill so you certainly won’t be bored on your day here.

Dugort Beach on Achill

Day 11 – County Sligo & Donegal

After enjoying Achill Island, it’s time to head north once more. This day sees you driving through County Sligo with an eventual stop in the southwest of County Donegal . Of course, there are plenty of great places to stop off at along the way!

Start at the beautiful Glencar Waterfall before making your way to the iconic Benbulben (one of Irleand’s most famous mountains). If you’re up for a bit of a walk, the Benbulben Forest Loop is short, easy and perfect for views of the mountain.

And for more incredible scenery, drive the Gleniff Horseshoe Route while en route to Donegal. Make a pit stop at Tullan Strand and the Fairy Bridges in Bundoran before ending your day in Donegal Town.

Fairy Bridges

Where to Stay in Donegal

Ros Dún House – Situated just outside Donegal Town, this bed and breakfast is a great base when explore this area of Ireland. Offering a myriad of different rooms to choose from, they also have a great breakfast and on-site parking. Click here to check availability

Bayview Country House B&B – Located in the quaint town of Ardara, this bed and breakfast is perfect for those looking for a quiet stay in County Donegal. Offering an array of comfortable and cosy rooms, there is also a great breakfast for guests in the morning. Click here to check availability

Mill Park Hotel – This hotel is a great choice for those looking for a more traditional hotel stay while in County Donegal. Located in Donegal Town, they have a number of rooms along with a cafe/bar and an on-site swimming pool and fitness centre. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Donegal hotels!

Donegal Castle

Day 12 – Southwest County Donegal

This day is dedicated to taking in all of the splendours that this area of County Donegal has to offer – the most notable of which are the Slieve League Cliffs. These sea cliffs are nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher and also attract only a fraction of the crowds and are an absolutely unmissable stop.

On this day, also make sure to take in the beautiful Malin Beg Beach, learn about local history at the Glencolmcille Folk Village and head to the incredible Maghera Beach. The latter is also home to interesting sea caves that are only accessible at low tide – very much worth the stop.

Take the time to explore the lovely village of Ardara before driving the gorgeous Glengensh Drive – another scenic route with incredible views.

Slieve League Cliffs

Day 13 – Glenveagh National Park & Fanad Peninsula

Our penultimate day on the Wild Atlantic Way sees you still exploring some splendours of County Donegal.

Begin your day at the lovely Glenveagh National Park where you can stroll along the tranquil Lough Veagh and visit the Glenveagh Castle. There are plenty of hiking routes here for those who want to get a bit more active.

Also, you can drive up to Horn Head for some incredible natural scenery and visit Doe Castle for a small, ruined castle that’s free to enter and wander around. Of course, you cannot miss the Fanad Head Lighthouse on the Fanad Peninsula, which is one of the most iconic places to visit and see in County Donegal.

There are plenty of other gorgeous beaches to visit on this day, as well, including the stunning Ballymastocker Beach – one of the most beautiful in the area.

Ballymastocker Beach

Day 14 – Inishowen 100

The final day of this Wild Atlantic Way road trip includes another scenic loop and also the most northerly point of the island of Ireland.

The Inishowen 100 stands for the driving loop that encircles the Inishowen Peninsula at the very northeast of County Donegal. There is a lot to see on this drive but it’s also likely going to be the least busy of the scenic loops on this itinerary, which is excellent for taking in the wild scenery.

Take your time to visit Lisfannon Beach, Fort Dunree and drive the beautiful Gap of Mamore before heading to the gorgeous Glenevin Waterfall.

There are also more gorgeous beaches to take in on this drive, including Kinnagoe Bay and Five Finger Strand – the latter is also known for its striking sand dunes.

You can also visit the Inishowen Head Lighthouse and finish off your drive on the Wild Atlantic Way in the town of Muff, which is located right before you cross into Northern Ireland.

Inishowen Head Lighthouse

Have More Time?

If you have more time to devote to your west coast Ireland road trip, you could either opt to spend more time in some of the stops along the way and dig deeper there or head into Northern Ireland after driving the Inishowen 100.

It’s easy to reach the city of Derry from County Donegal and you’re also only a stone’s throw away from the Giant’s Causeway and the highlights of the coast here. You could also opt to spend a few days in Belfast if you’re keen to explore more cities.

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips and planning an itinerary here is truly a joy. With beautiful scenery around every corner, a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is one that you won’t soon forget.

Are you driving the Wild Atlantic Way? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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Wanderlust & Life

How to see the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days – a route planner

One of the best road trips to do in Ireland has to be the Wild Atlantic Way. It is an absolutely incredible coastal drive that spans 2,500 km across the west coast of Ireland. There are parts of the Wild Atlantic Way that are hugely popular like the Ring of Kerry, and then there are some really amazing hidden gems that the tourists haven’t yet flocked to, like Sligo.

We wanted to create this concise guide as a part Wild Atlantic Way route planner, and part 5 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. We have listed the must-see places along the route, as well tips for travelling and much more

So here is our Wild Atlantic Way road trip planner.

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Wild Atlantic Way itinerary and background

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If you are starting in the south of Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way officially begins in Kinsale in County Cork. It then snakes its way up the west coast of Ireland finishing in the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. There are so many places to see and explore in between, and if you are planning to do the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days you are unfortunately going to have to cut out quite a few stops. Still you will be able to see a lot of the highlights and some hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

And if you are wondering if Ireland is worth visiting this is a handy post.

Realistically to see everything along the Wild Atlantic Way and make the most of your time you will probably want to spend a good 2 weeks driving along the coast. Of course, that isn’t always feasible, so we have focused on completing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days for this post. There really is a lot to see along the Wild Atlantic Way route, so the longer you have the better. This then allows you to explore and discover some hidden gems along the way.

Doing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days is still pretty doable. You will get to see the highlights, enjoy some incredible bits of nature, and get a real feel for the Irish people and the culture.

The easiest way to come up with your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary is to break it up into sections. The official  Wild Atlantic Way website  breaks the route up into 6 key sections. Including the Haven Coast, Southern Peninsulas, The Cliff Coast, The Bay Coast, The Surf Coast, and finally the Northern Headlands. In this guide we make our way through some of the key locations and highlight the best things to do and see in each section of the Wild Atlantic Way Route.. If you are wanting to do the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days then you may need to skip a few of the places we mentioned, due to time constraints.

We will go through each section in detail so you should be able to make a choice of where you absolutely want to see as part of your Wild Atlantic way road trip and where you can afford to skip.

When planning a trip to Ireland you might be wondering why you should visit the Wild Atlantic Way, when there are so many incredible sights to see. We highly recommend it because it really is one of the nicest drives in Ireland.

You also get to experience Irish hospitality at its finest as well as a chance to immerse yourself in Irish culture. Along the Wild Atlantic Way you can explore parts of Ireland that inspired poets and artists. On top of that, there’s coastal walks, rugged cliffs, and due to its proximity to the ocean some incredible culinary seafood delights.

The Wild Atlantic Way is also one of our recommendations on our Ireland bucket list which you can read here.

So when doing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days, it is important to know where the main airports are. That is assuming that you are flying in from Europe to start your trip. If you are flying in from further afield you do have fewer airport options, but we will go through that below.

Cork Airport

The majority of flights that fly into Cork are European carriers, but even so it is one of the busiest airports in the Republic of Ireland, after Dublin and Shannon. If you are starting your Wild Atlantic way itinerary in the South then Cork airport is perfect and is around a 20 minute drive to Kinsale which is the start of the route. If you are hoping to follow our Wild Atlantic Way route planner, this is a good airport to fly into.

Knock Airport

Knock airport is pretty small, however they have regular flights from the UK and some European destinations. Knock is relatively close to County Sligo which was our last stop during our 5 day Wild Atlantic Way tour. It takes about 45 minutes to get from Sligo town to the airport, although if you get stuck behind a tractor (and yes this has happened to us) it can take quite a bit longer. Again if you are following our Wild Atlantic Way route planner this is another good airport to fly into or fly out of.

Dublin Airport

A lot of International travellers will come in through Dublin Airport. It also has a lot of European flights from destinations that don’t fly into Knock or Cork. To get to the Wild Atlantic Way from Dublin you will need to drive a bit of a distance. But luckily we do have an Ireland road trip guide that will give you suggestions for things to see along the way if you have the time. Dublin to County Sligo is just under a 3 hour drive, whilst Dublin to Kinsale is nearly 4 hours depending on traffic. If you choose to go this route, we highly recommend stopping in Cork. Here is a handy guide to doing a road trip around Cork .

Shannon Airport

If you are flying in from the US in particular, then Shannon Airport is a good option. Shannon Airport is in the middle of our Wild Atlantic Way guide. It is about a 3 hour drive from here to Bantry which is one of our recommended starting points if you are doing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days. And it is about 2.5 hours to get to County Sligo.

If you are wanting to see the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days this guide is for you. From the most popular places to the hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way we provide our recommendations. Here is our Wild Atlantic Way guide. #ireland #roadtrip #wildatlanticway #wanderlustandlife

When coming up with your Wild Atlantic Way route you are probably wondering where to start. Because the Wild Atlantic Way is linear you will want to pick a starting point at either end to avoid doubling up on yourself. Your starting point will probably be based on your closest airport. So if you are flying into Knock for example you should probably start around Sligo or Donegal. To do the Wild Atlantic Way route in detail you will want to rent a car. This allows you to go at your own pace and to pick and choose the sites you want to see.

If you are driving the Wild Atlantic Way you will of course need a car. Cars can be rented from all the airports mentioned on the list above. Here are some tips for renting a car and driving around Ireland.

☘ The majority of cars in Ireland are manual (or stick as it is referred to in the US), so if you want an automatic you should book this in advance.

☘Get full insurance, because you never know, anything could happen.

☘ If you are driving in both Northern Ireland and the Republic then keep in mind that Northern Ireland uses miles and the Republic uses kilometres.

☘ Know what kind of petrol your car takes. It is usually either Diesel or Unleaded. Put the wrong one in and you will have major issues.

☘ If you are planning on returning your car at a different location to where you picked it up, then there will be a fee for doing so. It is not so bad if you are renting a car for a long period of time, but more noticeable if you only have the car for a few days.

☘When choosing a car in Ireland, bigger isn’t always better. Some of the roads can be incredibly narrow and having a smaller car is a lot better for this.

☘ If you get stuck behind a tractor, only overtake if it is safe to do so. It is pretty standard to have to drive slowly when there is a tractor in front of you. The reason I mention this as a point is because I had never been stuck behind a tractor in my life before driving in Ireland so it was a novelty and a nuisance all at once.

☘ If you are following Google Maps it will often give you what it perceives as the quickest route. This might include back roads and narrow lanes. Sometimes it is better to ignore the map and get onto a main road instead if it is nearby. That being said the back roads are some of the most beautiful parts of Ireland and if you are comfortable driving on these, then go for it.

Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days – what to see

Here is our guide to seeing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days and some of the key stops that you have to make along the way. We have divided it into 6 sections to make the trip a bit more manageable.

The start, or end depending on your Wild Atlantic Way route is the Haven Coast which extends from Bantry to Kinsale. Kinsale is one of the most southerly points along the Wild Atlantic way and the good thing with that is that you can do a boat tour from Kinsale out to the Atlantics edge. Sadly this is the part of the Wild Atlantic Way that we spent the least amount of time in, which is a shame because there are a number of islands you can visit to see unspoilt nature and really get away from the hustle and bustle.

One of the places we did get a chance to visit though was Bantry. Perhaps it was the promise of fresh fish and chips, or the idea of heading to a sleepy little fishing town that cemented our decision to start our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary in Bantry. It used to be a major fishing centre, but these days it’s the beautiful coastal scenery that draws people in.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Bantry is a perfect introduction to the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s a great place to go for a brisk walk, eat fresh seafood, and go sailing or kayaking. There is a great fish and chip shop just by the car park of the harbour, although don’t be a fool like I was and take Instagram photos of your food with the water in the background. Let’s just say I had a lot of seagull friends.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

This part of your Wild Atlantic Way road trip is probably the most touristy, in part because it includes the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park. The route covers parts of County Kerry and Cork. And is certainly very dramatic and picturesque.

Kenmare was the town that began our journey through the Ring of Kerry. The Wild Atlantic way does pass through much of the same route as the Ring of Kerry but if you do the full ring you will divert from the coast and pass by Killarney National Park.

If you did want to do the full drive have a look at our  Ring of Kerry route planner . Kenmare is a picturesque small town and definitely somewhere to add to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. If you do have the chance to explore this quaint place then do avail of it. It is also around here you’ll encounter a lot of winding roads, and you will discover tunnels built in through the mountainside.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Another place we recommend stopping in whilst you are driving the Ring of Kerry, is Caherdaniel. The water is so blue that you almost feel like you are in the Mediterranean as opposed to the coast of Ireland. Mind you the weather will certainly help remind you. We ended up stopping at a pub here for some snacks. It is a great place to stretch your legs and walk around the beach.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Ring of Kerry is truly an insight into the Ireland that the guidebooks gush about. The greenery mixed with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against the shoreline is just incredible. It really does remind you why Ireland is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

If you have the time, we do recommend taking a detour through Killarney National Park. It will involve a lot more driving but there are some really incredible spots in the park that are worth visiting. Highlights include the Torc Waterfall, and Ladies Gap. Killarney is also a good place to stop overnight with lots of hotels, pubs, and restaurants.

If you are staying in Killarney there are some organised tours of the Ring of Kerry you can book to save you the hassle of driving.

This part of your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary will take you from Galway to Ballybunion. The absolute highlight here are the Cliffs of Moher, which I’m sure you gathered in the title ‘Cliff Coast’.

For us, no Wild Atlantic Way itinerary is complete without scheduling a stop at the  Cliffs of Moher . The cliffs are around 203 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and they are just incredible. As you look down at the waves crashing at their base, it really does make you realise just how incredible nature is.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

There are some really awe inspiring walks you can take around here, or if the weather really isn’t on your side like it was for us, you can explore the visitor centre.

Whilst walking around you will also come across O’Brien’s tower. The tower was built in 1835 to serve as an observation point for tourists visiting the cliffs. If you have the time, for a few extra Euros it is worth the entry.

When visiting, we highly recommend packing some decent walking shoes. An umbrella or raincoat wouldn’t go astray either, as the weather can be quite unpredictable. We recommend getting there really early or later in the afternoon once the tourist buses have gone. In the middle of the day it gets so busy so just keep that in mind.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

As you leave the Cliffs of Moher, one of the more hidden gems in County Clare has to be the Burren. If you have time, we recommend taking a drive through here. The landscape is rather unique for Ireland, and is made up of limestone. It is a far cry from the green pastures you would have passed elsewhere on your Wild Atlantic Way road trip.

The Bay Coast portion of your Wild Atlantic Way road trip covers everything from Achill Island to Galway Bay. Starting with Achill Island this magical island only accessible by a road bridge is not to be missed. You have dramatic green rolling hills and beautiful blue waters to admire as you spend time here.

 Other highlights in this portion of your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary include Galway City, and the Aran Islands. We love Galway for a number of reasons. For starters due to its location along the west coast of Ireland the food is absolutely incredible. I don’t think we ate as much seafood anywhere else in Ireland.

One of our favourite places has to be  McDonagh’s , a chipper and seafood restaurant that has been going since 1902. There is a lot to see and do in Galway including several markets you can visit, as well as exploring Galway Cathedral.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The real charm of Galway though, at least in our opinion is at night. The Latin Quarter comes alive with buskers, and boisterous pub goers. If you pop into one of the pubs and there is a ‘trad’ band playing then you are in for an enjoyable evening. Everyone is so welcoming and it will certainly be a memorable experience (although that is of course depending on how much you have to drink).

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Another great thing about Galway is that it is a harbour city, and you are never far from the sea. Galway has some beautiful beaches that you can explore such as the one we discovered in Salthill.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Aran Islands are of course another highlight, and it would be a mistake to plan to see the Wild Atlantic way in 5 days and not visit the Aran Islands. For us they are one of the hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way, particularly the smaller islands like Inis Oirr and Inis Meain. But the easiest island to get to from Galway is the biggest, Inis Mór. You can get a bus out of Galway Centre, to the ferry port in Rossaveal. Here you will board a boat and in around 45 minutes you will arrive in Inis Mór.

The boat ride over can be a little rough, and admittedly it was the point on our trip when we began to understand why it is called the  WILD  Atlantic Way. It actually got so rocky on our trip over that I actually said a silent prayer to let it end soon. Dave on the other hand lost all colour in his face and was probably only moments away from getting sick. Thankfully we made it and we were rewarded with the opportunity to explore Inis Mór. We have been told that it is not always like that and a lot of the time the sail over is pretty smooth. I guess we just picked a bad day.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The must see on the island is Dun Aenghus, a prehistoric fort that lies on the edge of a 100 metre high cliff. In some ways this was even more spectacular than the Cliffs of Moher. The views are spectacular and it is far less touristy then the Cliffs of Moher. It is so raw and beautiful and also scary because there is nothing stopping you from just falling over the edge. So do beware!

If you are looking for a guide with further information on how to  get from Galway to the Aran Islands  as well as things to do when you get there then checkout our post. We ended up going on a bus tour of the Islands which was great for us because we saw all the main attractions and got to hear the stories of the island. A lot of people choose to cycle around though, which we were tempted to do but it was pretty rainy so the bus option was more favourable.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

There are also some day trips you can book from Galway if you want to save yourself the hassle of driving.

The Surf Coast of the Wild Atlantic Way goes from Donegal Town to Erris. This is the part of the Wild Atlantic Way where you will encounter some of the best coastal scenery along the route. A large part of this section covers County Sligo, which is by far one of the best kept secrets in Ireland. And yes we are probably biased because this is the place that Dave grew up, but honestly you do need to see it for yourself.

The best thing about Sligo is that there aren’t that many tourists. So you won’t find the attractions spoilt by mass tourism. It’s also pretty chilled in this part of the country, so driving around is relatively stress free. We have written an article all about exploring  Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way route,  so do check it out for some in depth information

Sligo’s beaches are just incredible and without busloads of tourists, at times it can feel like you have the place all to yourself. There are some fantastic walks you can do as well, including along the beach, or in the woods. We think Sligo has it all, but again, we are biased!

One of the best beaches if you are wanting to surf is Strandhill. There is a local surf school here, and it’s a great place to sit and watch the surfers trying to stand among the waves.  There is a great walk here, that takes you all the way to the old airport, and you get to explore along the sand dunes.

There are some great restaurants here as well so grab yourself a takeaway coffee and dip your toes in the cool water. Alternatively, if you are wanting to eat Shell’s Café is one of our absolute favourites. The food is really good quality, and all homemade.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Another beautiful beach to explore is Rosses Point. If the weather is right this is a great place to go for a swim as Strandhill is a bit too rough for this. In the summer, locals flock here to dip their toes in the water and build sandcastles. There is also a beautiful walk with some incredible views. The beach area itself doesn’t have much in the way of restaurants, but on the drive to Rosses Point there are a number of cafes and restaurants.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

As this is the Surf Coast part of your Wild Atlantic Wayitinerary we couldn’t write this article without mentioning Aughris Head. This is a true hidden gem to add to your Wild Atlantic Way route. Not many people know about it, which makes it perfect if you just want to escape. The views along the cliff walk are stunning, and along the way you will be greeted by fishermen casting their rods into the deep blue water. If you are here in summer then it is absolutely incredible.

There is a nearby bar called the Beach Bar, where they serve hot food, and really good soup with Treacle Bread. It’s so nice popping in after a walk along the windy cliffside.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Mullaghmore is another highlight. It’s a seaside village with some beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. One of the best photo spots is by the cliffs with Classiebawn Castle in the background. It’s a great place to go if you are looking to eat Seafood, and there are quite a few restaurants and bars near the harbour.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

If you deviate from the coastal route near Mullaghmore and head to Gleniff Horseshoe you will not be sorry. Here you will find a six-mile loop of narrow road surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain views we have ever seen. About 4 or 5 cars drove past us the whole time we were there and we honestly felt we had the whole place to ourselves. The below picture doesn’t even begin to do it justice. But honestly it is just so beautiful.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The final part of the Wild Atlantic Way route (or first part depending on which way your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary) starts is the Northern Headlands. This covers Malin Head to Donegal.

Malin Head is the most northerly point of the island of Ireland and it has been said that you can sometimes catch a glimpse of the northern lights from here. Malin head has some pretty dramatic coastlines and it’s also pretty perfect for sunsets. In the summer months you will often see dolphins in the water, which is a great reason to add this to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

Another absolute highlight in this area is the Slieve League Cliffs. They are one of the incredible natural wonders you will come across on your Wild Atlantic Way route. They are also one of the highest cliffs in Europe. Additionally  for something a bit more traditional do check out the Glencolumbkille Folk Village, and the nearby beach.

If you are looking for a good meal and some comfortable accommodation we recommend  Harvey’s Point  in Donegal. It’s a great stop off especially if you are making your way to Knock Airport. The hotel is located on Lough Eske which make it the perfect place to end your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

The best route for this part of your itinerary is to start in Donegal Town and make your way up to Malin Head. If you are ending your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary in Malin Head this is the perfect gateway into Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast .

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

If you are adding an extra day to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary we highly recommend visiting Donegal on Day 6, otherwise you can see the highlights in Sligo County and Donegal County in a day. Although this will mean you are slightly rushed.

We recommend staying the night along the Ring of Kerry for the first night. If you are willing to deviate from the route slightly there are a lot of good places to stay in Killarney and you can experience the incredible national park.

On days 2, 3, and 4, Galway is a great place to base yourself for the evening. There is a huge choice of accommodation here and the nightlife is also pretty cool.

On the final night, stay in Sligo and get a flight out from Knock Airport the next day. Sligo has a range of accommodation options from larger hotels in town to some beachside B and B’s along the Wild Atlantic Way route.

Here is a map for our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary so you can see the distance covered. This is based on the route we took starting in Bantry and ending in Sligo.

If time is really of the essence then these are the non negotiable must sees that you should add to your Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary.

The Cliffs of Moher

Obviously the Cliffs are a major tourist attraction, and despite the fact they attract large crowds there is obviously a reason, they are just that beautiful.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is another major tourist attraction and for good reason. The rugged and picturesque drive really does evoke those picture perfect images of Ireland.

Aran Islands

Not everyone will agree with me here, but I say if you are short on time skip Galway, and make sure you see the Aran Islands. They are completely different to any other part of Ireland you will visit and the scenery is incredible.

Or if you are looking for something a little different we have a guide to 5 days in Ireland with various driving routes.

For your Wild Atlantic Way road trip we recommend making sure you pack the following items.

  • Waterproof coat – even in the summer months the weather in Ireland can be a bit unpredictable so make sure that you can still enjoy the outdoors even if it rains.
  • Hiking boots – You will want to do a lot of walking as part of your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary so make sure that you have the proper footwear. It does get mucky with all the rain so this is vital.
  • Layers – The weather along the Wild Atlantic Way can be quite intense, especially with wind and rain. For that reason make sure that you layer up to keep yourself warm.
  • Swimsuit – If you get lucky with the weather you should be prepared in case you want to take a dip in the ocean.

Before you start planning your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary you might be wondering how much it will cost. It’s difficult to give an accurate indication as this depends on a lot of factors such as the time of year you visit, and how much you plan to see and do. What I will say is make sure you are budgeting for things like:

Car Rentals:  €100 + per day on average (depending on car type, what insurance you want to purchase, and any extras). Car rentals can be expensive in Ireland, and there are often hidden costs such as surcharges for returning the car at a different location from where you rented it. Always check your fine print on any rental contract.

Petrol:  €100 to fill the tank (this will vary depending on the type of car) – also keep in mind that petrol prices right now are pretty high! It is wise to rent a smaller more economical car for your Wild Atlantic Way road trip.

Accommodation:  A minimum of €100 per night for something mid-range (depending on location, time of year, and amenities)

Attractions:  €20 per person per day although this is probably on the high side

Food & Drink:  €60 per person per day for standard pub style meals and a few drinks

Overall we would recommend budgeting about €100-€150 per person per day. Costs can be brought down especially if you opt for cheaper accommodation and meals.

You might be reading this Wild Atlantic Way route planner, and wondering when to visit. Summer is probably the best time to plan your trip. The weather is warm, and it is a great time to drive the coastal roads and enjoy the beaches. That being said August gets quite busy with school holidays so we recommend avoiding this time. Spring is another great time to visit. You won’t want to take a dip in the water as it will be a bit cold, but the days are brighter and sunnier on average. You can visit in winter, but keep in mind that the weather is not ideal. You tend to get a lot of rain, and sometimes ice and snow, which is not ideal for driving. It also gets dark earlier so you have limited hours to explore.

We hope this guide to seeing the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days has been useful. It is one of our favourite drives in Ireland and there is so much beauty to discover. If you have longer, you should definitely complete the route up to Donegal as this will allow you to complete the full Wild Atlantic Way route. We also hope you will enjoy Sligo, one of the hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way. And the fact that so few tourists know about it makes it all the more special.

We hope you have found this Wild Atlantic Way road trip guide useful. Make sure that you pin it for later!

If you are wanting to see the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days this guide is for you. From the most popular places to the hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way we provide our recommendations. Here is our Wild Atlantic Way route planner. #ireland #roadtrip #wildatlanticway #wanderlustandlife

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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20 Comments

I have done parts of the Wild Atlantic Way (the Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher) but I would love to do the whole thing. It’s great to learn about some of these hidden gems. The west coast of Ireland is just gorgeous.

It really is. I wish we had a bit more time to do the final stretch. I guess we will have to go back!

Great post! I only had a brief glimpse of the Wild Atlantic Way on a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher when the weather was terrible and we could barely see the Cliffs! I definitely need to go back.

Yeah weather is so unpredictable in Ireland. I guess that is all part of the experience though!

I only visited Ireland briefly and have been wanting to go back to do a road trip, and this sounds like the road trip I need to do! Those views are incredible! 🙂

It really is spectacular so I hope you get to go back and do it!

that looks awesome. I’ve only been to Dublin, but there’s so much more to Ireland. Would love to see it one day.

We have done quite a bit of Ireland and even then we still feel there is so much to see. Hope you get to go back someday. x

Great guide Lizzie! I actually haven’t been to Ireland yet and this really sparks my curiosity. Love little coastal towns and fishing villages and these views are stunning!!! Always looking for off the beaten track destinations to avoid the crowds. and there’s lots of travel inspiration here 🙂

Thank you. This is definitely the Ireland that the guide books write about. x

What a spectacular, and wild area! I’ll keep your post for future reference, I’d love to go and experience this road trip.

We highly recommend it. It’s such a beautiful part of Ireland. x

I’ll be heading to Ireland this summer (finally!) so this post is extremely helpful. Though, I’m not sure how long I’ll have there yet, but this road trip looks incredible!

I hope you get some good weather. Summer is a great time to visit. Enjoy. x

I absolutely love Ireland, and I haven’t been there nearly enough considering that I live so close! But this has given me another reason to go back; what beautiful scenery! Your photos are awesome!

Thank you so much! x

I feel quite lucky to have covered part of the WAW. My hubby and I did a motorbike honeymoon and started on Achill Island and finished doing the Ring of Kerry after the Cliffs. I can’t wait to retrace our steps with our son.

That is so amazing, and such a cool idea! It will be so special seeing it again with your son. x

I can’t believe I haven’t been to Ireland yet! It looks so beautiful! I hope to get there this year, your photos look amazing!

It really is a beautiful place. Hope you get to visit and that you get some good weather!

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Travel Around Ireland

Best of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 Days: Ireland’s Epic Coastal Adventure

Eager to witness Ireland’s untamed beauty and thinking about how to see the best of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days ?

It might seem daunting to condense such a legendary journey into a short span, but that’s where my local insights come in handy! I’ve put together a comprehensive 5-day itinerary focused on the stunning southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.

This guide is perfect for any enthusiastic traveller who might be feeling a little overwhelmed about where to begin or what to include in such an epic road trip.

Even though the full trail might require more than five days, rest assured, this compact journey is packed full of Ireland’s iconic landscapes and breath-taking coastal vistas.

Let’s set off on this exhilarating adventure through the Emerald Isle together.

Tips for planning your Wild Atlantic Road Trip

Day 5 – galway to westport (via connemara).

*This post contains affiliate links, which may include Amazon affiliate links. To read more about affiliate links, please visit my Disclosure Policy page.

How to see the best of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 Days

Below you will find a Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary covering the south section of this coastal route. You can see a lot of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days but not all of it. You could extend and make this a 10-day Ireland Itinerary but if you only have 5 days, this itinerary will help you see the best of the Wild Atlantic Way. I also give you some helpful hints and tips for planning a Wild Atlantic Way road trip.

What is the Wild Atlantic Way?

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is a coastal touring route along the west coast. Created in 2014 by Failte Ireland, it has encouraged visitors to explore all corners of the coast.

If you are wondering “how long is the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland?” it is 2500km from start to finish. And where does the Wild Atlantic Way start and end? This amazing coastal driving route extends from the Old Head of Kinsale in the south and Malin Head in the north, following the west coast along the Atlantic.

The Wild Atlantic Way Map showing points of interest.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Why visit the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way route follows the Atlantic coast of Ireland and passes through beautiful and varied places along the way including beautiful beaches and bays. It passes barren moorland and lush grassy fields, rivers, lakes, mountains and sheer rock sea cliffs. Along the way, you can meander down country roads, stop in quaint villages for a cuppa or hit the dizzying sights of bustling cities along the way.

The Wild Atlantic Way has something to offer every visitor, young and old. Between the natural beauty, friendly people, food, culture and heritage, you will find so much to see and do that even if you had a month to spend on the Wild Atlantic Way, you still wouldn’t cover it all.

A picture of Kylemore Abbey, nestled on the lush green banks of Lake Kylemore.

How to get to the Wild Atlantic Way

As already mentioned, the Wild Atlantic Way is located on the west coast of Ireland. The best way to enjoy it is to embark on a self-drive Wild Atlantic Way road trip, although there are companies who do Wild Atlantic Way tours.

To get to the Wild Atlantic Way, you are going to need to arrive in Ireland either by plane or by ferry. The ferry would be ideal if you are bringing your own car to use. We recommend using either Irish Ferries , Stena Line or P&O , depending on where you are coming from. Arrivals from Scotland are into Belfast, while arrivals from Wales are into both Rosslare and Dublin. Arrivals from France are into either Rosslare or Cork.

There are four main airports in Ireland (both Republic and Northern), and these are Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Shannon. If you are interested in this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, then Dublin or Cork would be the ideal airport to arrive at. For exploring the northern half of the Wild Atlantic Way, Dublin, Belfast or Shannon would be best. You could fly into Shannon and head to Westport and do this south Wild Atlantic Way itinerary in reverse.

  • Dublin to the Old Head of Kinsale – 304km, 3hr 30mins
  • Cork to the Old Head of Kinsale – 36km, 45mins
  • Dublin to Westport (for doing this itinerary in reverse) – 257km, 3hr 10mins
  • Shannon to Westport (itinerary in reverse) – 164km, 2hrs

There are other regional airports that you could fly into but for ease of returning to your arrival airport, I recommend sticking with the main ones. This will also negate the need to pay one-way fees on your car hire. We recommend checking flights with Skyscanner .

Best time to visit the Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way can be visited at any time during the year but to try and make the most of your visit and try and get the best weather, a visit during the summer is recommended. That is not to say you won’t see rain or bad weather in summer. Ireland can get everything all in one day no matter what the time of year.

Summer is also when you can make the most of long days with plentiful daylight hours for driving and sightseeing along the way.

To give you an idea of weather and daylight hours and the best times of year to visit Ireland, read this post .

Some popular tourist destinations may become busy during summer, so if you want to avoid crowds, then going during spring and autumn may be better. Winter can also be a great time to drive the Wild Atlantic Way as roads and attractions will be quiet. However, days are quite short meaning you will need to cover your distances and stops within 8 hours, or thereabouts.

How to travel the Wild Atlantic Way

Unfortunately, public transport in Ireland, especially in rural areas, is sparse and limited. This means that driving the Wild Atlantic Way is a must. Many of the smaller roads and villages along the way may not be serviced by public transport and getting between the cities along the way can be challenging too, and potentially quite expensive.

Hiring a car and driving yourself is the easiest and most flexible option. There are Wild Atlantic Way signs along the route to help guide you, just make sure to stay left and take your time, particularly on narrow winding roads. We recommend checking hire car prices with rentalcars.com .

During summer, cycling the Wild Atlantic Way is another option but should only be undertaken if you are an experienced cyclist on narrow roads with little or no overtaking space. And walking the Wild Atlantic Way can be enjoyable along certain parts of the coast, so make time to stop and visit the coast on foot. You could even watch the sun go down.

Where to stay along the Wild Atlantic Way

There is an abundance of places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way including campsites, B&B’s, hostels and more. There are also numerous hotels on the Wild Atlantic Way from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious 5-star hotels. No matter your budget or preference, you will find lots of accommodation to choose from.

A picture of mist and stormy weather over an island off the rugged coastline of the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland

Wild Atlantic Way discovery points – In total there are 188 discovery points along this amazing route. Of those, 15 have been designated signature discovery points as they represent some of the best known and most popular sites along the Wild Atlantic Way. They are

  • Old Head of Kinsale, Cork
  • Mizen Head, Cork
  • Dursey Island, Cork
  • Skelligs View, Kerry
  • Blaskets View, Kerry
  • Loop Head, Clare
  • Cliffs of Moher, Clare
  • Derrigimlagh, Galway
  • Killary Harbour (south), Galway
  • Keem Strand, Mayo
  • Downpatrick Head, Mayo
  • Mullaghmore Head, Sligo
  • Slieve League, Donegal
  • Fanad Head, Donegal
  • Malin Head, Donegal

Wild Atlantic Way passport – Each discovery point along the route has a unique stamp that can be collected in the WAW Passport. This is a unique way of recording your journey along the world’s longest coastal touring route. The passport is a great way to get kids interested in the different points along the way, but that’s not to say this isn’t for adults as well.

If you’d like to start collecting your passport stamps along the Wild Atlantic Way, then grab this passport from An Post before you go. It costs just €10 plus postage and packaging, or you can buy it in any post office along the route.

Each stamp is available from the post offices along the way so remember to stop and get your passport stamped before you move on! If you miss a few you can pop into larger tourist offices in the bigger towns and cities and catch up. Just be aware that post offices close from Saturday afternoons and the tourist offices are generally closed on Sundays. You can check the opening times of post offices in the areas you will be visiting on the An Post website .

Wild Atlantic Way distances – Do not underestimate the distances between places along the Wild Atlantic Way. Although Ireland is a relatively small country, because this route follows smaller coastal roads and weaves and winds its way along with them, distances can be deceptively longer than you initially think. For this reason, I am including distances and an estimate of the time it will take to drive from point A to point B without stops to give you an idea of how long each day will be. This will help you plan your stops and day better.

Hiking the Wild Atlantic Way – There are lots of mountains, hills and ridges along the Wild Atlantic Way and if you enjoy hiking, then you will find plenty of opportunities to do it. Just add sufficient time to your itinerary for it though, especially if you are planning on following this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

Be aware that some hiking mountains are for more experienced hikers and make sure you go prepared for all types of weather. And ensure you have the correct footwear too.

5-Day Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary (South)

This itinerary will allow you to see some of the best Wild Atlantic Way highlights from Cork to Galway and more. This 5-day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary focuses on the southern half of the route and has days that are pretty full-on with driving.

Distances between points and estimated driving times are included to help give you an idea of the day ahead so you can plan what time to leave and stops along the way. Each day is also accompanied by a map of the Wild Atlantic Way section for that day.

Day 1 – Cork to Kenmare

Starting at the Old Head of Kinsale, you will be following the coast in County Cork to Kenmare, in County Kerry. This route is approximately 305km long and will take an estimated 6.5 hours at an average speed of less than 50kph.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

While you initially start bypassing grassy green fields, the terrain gets progressively rugged and wild. This is the beauty of West Cork. Sheltered harbours and coves give way to open cliffs, offshore islands and towns and villages that are pretty and picturesque.

From Kinsale you will follow the Wild Atlantic Way along the coast, winding through villages such as Clonakilty (famous for its cheese, white and black pudding, and some of the best sausages produced in Ireland), Skibbereen (which hosts an Arts Festival in July and whose heritage centre houses exhibitions on the Famine and ecology of a nearby lough), Bantry (a bustling town with formal gardens that span seven terraces) and on to Kenmare in County Kerry.

Along the way, you can decide to stop to take in incredible views or to visit certain places along the Wild Atlantic Way. Just make sure you factor time into your day for this. Things to see and do along this stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way include:

  • Timoleague with its 13 th century Franciscan Abbey.
  • Drombeg Stone Circle, west of Rosscarbery.
  • The 17th-century castle at Castletownshend.
  • Baltimore with its Beacon and ferry journeys in summer to the island lying off the mainland.
  • Mizen Head, the southwestern tip of Ireland, has a visitor’s centre and footbridge leading to the lighthouse which you can enter for a small fee.
  • The Sheep’s Head Peninsula, a quiet place ideal for hikers and houses a lighthouse at the end of the peninsula.
  • The Beara Peninsula, with its wild rugged, exposed rocks, open coastline, and craggy mountainsides. Visit the Garnish Island Gardens and the Glengarriff Nature Reserve.

Places to stay in Kenmare – For budget-friendly accommodation, check out The Lodge B&B or the Kenmare Fáilte Hostel. For hotels, we recommend the Brook Lane Hotel or the luxurious Park Hotel .

Click the blue links for latest prices and availability for The Lodge B&B , the Brook Lane Hotel or the Park Hotel .

A rugged coastal scene with jagged rocks and white waves on the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland

Day 2 – Kenmare to Killarney

Today is all about enjoying the Ring of Kerry in what is known as the Kingdom of Ireland. This section of the Wild Atlantic Way is approximately 172km long, will take 3.5 hours (without stops) at an average speed of just under 50kph. However, as there are lots to see and do along this route, we recommend you allow the whole day, and even then, you won’t fit it all in.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

You will be departing Kenmare, an attractive small town and travelling west and then north around the Iveragh Peninsula. Since tour buses tend to follow an anti-clockwise route on the Ring of Kerry, travelling clockwise will help you avoid getting stuck behind them.

Villages you will pass through include Sneem (with two popular walking routes starting here), Ballinskelligs (with its Blue Flag beach and the 16 th century McCarthy Mór Tower), Portmagee (a cute fishing village from where you can get boats to the Skellig Islands), and Killorglin (famous for its Puck Fair in August).

The views along this part of the Atlantic Coast are incredible and some parts along the route have pull-in places so you can get those all-important pictures. As well as driving this section of the Wild Atlantic Way, we highly recommend you continue on from Killarney to visit the Killarney National Park and places such as Ross Castle, Muckross House and Gardens, the Torc Waterfall and then drive inland to enjoy the landscape from Lady’s View and to visit the beautiful Gap of Dunloe. Given that you have a full day for this section you can allow time to visit these places. Alternatively, you could choose one of the following things to do along the Ring of Kerry.

  • Visit O’Carroll’s Cove with its sandy beach.
  • Visit the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, Derrynane House, near Caherdaniel.
  • Stop in Saint Finian’s Bay to view the Skellig Islands and stock up on chocolate from Skellig’s Chocolate factory. Skelligschocolate.com
  • Take the ferry from Portmagee to the Skellig Islands to visit the monastery on Skellig Michael.
  • Drive across to Valentia Island and visit the Heritage Centre to learn about the transatlantic cable that went from there to Newfoundland.
  • Spend time in the Killarney National Park as mentioned already.

Places to stay in Killarney – For a budget-friendly, comfortable stay we recommend the Killarney Oaks Hotel. Click here for prices and availability. For mid-range budgets, why not stay at the Killarney Towers Hotel. Check the latest prices and availability here. Or for a luxurious stay on the edge of the biggest lake in the Killarney National Park, we recommend The Europe. See this hotel and the latest prices and availability here .

A picture of the stunning Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park, one of the best places to visit in Ireland

Day 3 – Killarney to Bunratty (via Dingle)

Today you will be heading north along the Wild Atlantic Way from Killarney to Bunratty in County Clare via the Dingle Peninsula. This section of the route is approximately 302km long, will take 5.25 hours without stops at an average speed of less than 60kph.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the few Irish-speaking regions of Ireland and arguably one of the most beautiful. With beautiful beaches , rolling grassy green fields, mountains, a rugged coastline and more, it is easy to see why visitors fall in love with the Dingle Peninsula.

Leaving Killarney, you will head for Dingle town, a busy seaside town (enjoy fish and chips and an ice-cream by the sea), before moving through the Slea Head Drive and then onto Tralee. Continuing north past the seaside town of Ballybunion and onto Bunratty in County Clare.

This section of the Wild Atlantic Way is mainly about scenery and landscape but there are still a few things to do along the way to break up the driving.

  • Visit Dunquin, the most westerly village in mainland Europe and enjoy views across to the Blasket Islands, a popular destination for day-trippers from Dingle in the summertime.
  • Visit the early Christian church of Gallarus Oratory, which dates back over 1000 years, near An Mhuiríoch.
  • Visit Brandon Bay which is home to Ireland’s longest beach.
  • See the 6th-century monastic site of Rattoo near Ballyduff which has a round tower, church, abbey and cemetery.
  • Stop at the historic Carrig Island and see the ruined 15th-century castle of Carrigafoyle.

Places to stay in Bunratty – For budget-friendly accommodation not far from Bunratty Castle, stay at the Shannon Springs Hotel. Click here for the latest prices and availability. Or stay opposite the Bunratty Castle in the Bunratty Castle Hotel. Find the latest prices and availability here . Make sure to ask about tickets to the Medieval Banquet for the night of your stay, as it is a must!

A picture of Dingle Harbour in County Kerry with boats moored along the quayside

Day 4 – Bunratty to Galway

Today you will continue travelling north upon departing Bunratty and after this section of the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway will be your destination for your overnight stay. This section of the road trip is 255km long and will take approximately 4.75 hours at an average speed of under 50kph.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

County Clare is known for its coastal scenery, none more popular than the Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way’s most famous signature discovery point. But this isn’t the only beautiful coastal area to visit along today’s route.

Leaving Bunratty, head west to Loop Head, a quiet but impressive section of the Wild Atlantic Way, where you will pass through Kilrush (you can visit the Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Foundation visitor centre), Lahinch (popular with surfers), on past the Cliffs of Moher, through Doolin (a great base for exploring the Burren National Park and the Aran Islands) and Kinvarra (home to the Dunguaire Castle) before ending in Galway.

This section of the Wild Atlantic Way is mainly about seeing the Cliffs of Moher, so allow a few hours in your day for these. But they are not the only things to do in Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way.

  • See the only remaining sea arch of the Bridges of Ross, near the small townland of the same name. There were three until not so long ago.
  • Head to Loop Head to see Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Rock, a famous sea stack, before visiting the Loop Head Lighthouse.
  • The small village of Doonbeg is home to a ruined castle.
  • See the largest stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere in Doolin’s Cave.
  • Spend time in the Burren National Park , famous for its Karst landscape.
  • Visit the 13th-century Corcomroe Monastery near Ballyvaughan or the Poulnabrone Dolmen, an ancient portal tomb that attracts a few hundred thousand visitors every year.

Places to stay in Galway – One of the best budget-friendly hotels to stay in Galway is Jury’s Inn Hotel. Click here for the latest prices and availability. The Hardiman is also a great hotel located on Eyre Square. Check out this hotel, prices and availability here. Or for a luxury stay, why not book into the G Hotel, a 20-minute walk to Eyre Square. See this hotel and get the latest prices and availability here .

A picture of the sun setting in the distance, lighting up the Cliffs of Moher along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.

Your final destination on this 5-day Wild Atlantic Way road trip will be Westport. Travelling through Connemara, this final section of the south Wild Atlantic Way itinerary will be approximately 252km, will take just over 5 hours without stops at an average speed of less than 50kph.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Galway is one of the top tourist destinations in Ireland and especially Connemara, the wild and rugged landscape that the vast majority of the coastline of the county lies within.

After departing Galway City, you will be driving west through Spiddal (a Gaeltacht town), Clifden (the unofficial capital of Connemara), and then on into County Mayo where Westport is your final destination.

This section of the Wild Atlantic Way weaves through Connemara so today is all about landscape and scenery. But there are still some great things to do in Galway along this section of the road trip that is worth factoring into your day.

  • The Blue Flag beach of Salthill is lovely for swimming or walking. Visit either the night you arrive in Galway or the morning before you set off.
  • Climb the 300-meter Errisbeg near Roundstone Village to enjoy the views all around.
  • Detour into the Connemara National Park near Letterfrack or visit the stunning Kylemore Abbey.
  • Just north of Doo Lough you can visit a Famine Memorial and admire the views down the valley.
  • Croagh Patrick, considered the holiest mountain in Ireland, is located just off this section of the Wild Atlantic Way once you enter county Mayo. People regularly make pilgrimages here to climb the 764 meters to the summit. It may be better to do this on another day if staying a few nights in Westport as there won’t be enough time on this day to climb the mountain.

Places to stay in Westport – If you are looking for a great budget-friendly place to stay, then we recommend the Wyatt Hotel. Click here for prices and availability. But, if you are looking for a bit more luxury to end your Wild Atlantic Way trip, then check into the Westport Plaza Hotel. Find the latest prices and availability here .

A picture of a road following a route along the edge of a lake in the Connemara National Park in Ireland, with lush green forests and hills around it.

Final thoughts on the best of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days

There is a no better road trip to undertake than one that follows part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Ireland is a beautiful country with so many different landscapes and this amazing driving route is one of the best ways to see the changing scenery.

This itinerary for discovering some of the best parts of the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days will allow you to immerse yourself in the country, discover history around every corner and allow you to enjoy the culture along the way. While you won’t see it all, you will certainly come away with memories to fill your heart and no doubt, Ireland will have taken hold of a part of your heart forever after this trip.

For more information about the Wild Atlantic Way, we recommend this book .

Read more about visiting Ireland and journeying along the Wild Atlantic Way:

  • Causeway Coast and Wild Atlantic Way 7-Day Itinerary
  • A Complete Guide to the Wild Atlantic Way
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland
  • Best Places to Visit in Ireland
  • Best Coastal Towns in Ireland
  • Best Beaches to Visit in Ireland
  • How to Get Around Ireland
  • What to Pack for Ireland
  • Best Foods to Try in Ireland
  • What Souvenirs to Buy in Ireland

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

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by Cath Jordan

5 thoughts on “best of the wild atlantic way in 5 days: ireland’s epic coastal adventure”.

hi. ive found your maps really good to follow but have you a map of the final leg to donegal . i do know its not on the 5 day trip but i do intend to make it a 6 day trip, many thanks heres hoping, martin.

This post of mine has maps for the upper half of the Wild Atlantic Way in the first 2-3 maps. I’ll pop this link across to your email as well so you have it for reference:

https://travelaroundireland.com/causeway-coast-and-wild-atlantic-way-7-day-itinerary/

many thanks for your reply, i have followed your instructions and found what i needed. cant wait for next may.

Fantastic itinerary and article, Thanks Cath. We were on a 5 day motorcycle trip and followed this guide. Was very useful as a route , and local attractions guide. It was easy to miss (as we did )the wild Atlantic way around Limerick and Galway and have to go through the towns in traffic, which was not enjoyable. Not sure if the wild Atlantic way is actually continuous around these cities.

Ari, thank you for your kind words and for letting me know you found it helpful. My husband and I did part of the Wild Atlantic Way on our first honeymoon in 2010 before it was even the WAW. We’re hoping to go back next year with our son, albeit in a car. For Limerick, it actually does not pass through the city but sort of stops at Foynes Island Viewpoint on the road from Kerry towards Limerick City, skips across the estuary and restarts at Killimer. So to get around the estuary, you have to go through the city unfortunately to pick up the WAW again. With Galway, you cannot bypass the city as it does technically pass through the city to get to Salthill Promenade where it properly becomes the Wild Atlantic Way again.

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wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

How to Road Trip Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way (Map + Itinerary)

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Wild Atlantic Way

I always thought it was best to travel somewhere new, rather than returning to the same place over and over.

And yet, somehow, I’ve been to Ireland twice in the last two years, looking for more of the wild landscapes, warm hospitality and foot tapping music that characterize this small European country.

One of the best parts of Ireland?

The Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal touring route that runs down Ireland’s entire western seaboard, where the Atlantic waves crash against jagged rock. 

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At nearly 1,600 miles long, from County Donegal in the north to West Cork in the South, it’s not a road trip to be done in one visit – so we’ve done small sections in pieces, on various trips!

Whether you want adventure, culture, great food or incredible architecture, there’s a piece of the Wild Atlantic Way for you. Today I wanted to share a bit more background on what it’s like to road trip down the Wild Atlantic Way.

I’ll cover the different sections of the route, the best towns to stop in and uniquely Irish activities to try along the way.

Keep reading or pin this article for later ⇟ 

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What counties are in the Wild Atlantic Way?

9 counties are included in the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route, 7 of them are in the Republic of Ireland and 2 are in Northern Ireland .

We’ll be focusing on the Republic of Ireland’s portion, as it’s the majority of the route. From North to South, these are Counties Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Kerry and Cork.

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Wild Atlantic Way Map

But, the Wild Atlantic Way is more often discussed as six regions, based on the scenery of each section:

  • Northern Headlands (County Donegal)
  • the Surf Coast (Counties Donegal and Sligo)
  • the Bay Coast (Counties Galway and Mayo)
  • the Cliff Coast (Counties Galway, Clare and Kerry)
  • Southern Peninsulas (Counties Kerry and Cork)
  • the Haven Coast (County Cork)

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Can you walk the Wild Atlantic Way?

Mhm…not really. It’s primarily a driving route.

(There are some sections you could cycle though! Notably, the Westport Greenway in the north, County Mayo.)

Irish roads are narrow winding paths, hedged in on both sides by small stone fences. In many places there’s barely enough room for 2 cars to pass, much less a foot path to comfortably walk for long periods of time.

If there’s one thing I can recommend doing in Ireland, it’s to rent a car . Driving in Ireland gives you the freedom to explore the entire country, see the popular sights at your own pace and go off the beaten path. There’s not very much public transportation in Ireland in general, and even less so on the Wild Atlantic Way route.

You can browse car rental rates here to get an idea of costs for your trip.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours

If you don’t want to drive, you can join a tour ! We’ve driven a portion on our own as well as done group tours with Kerry Coaches and Vagabond Tours. We’ve also booked day trips using GetYourGuide and Viator . 

There are a decent amount of options for those who don’t want to rent a car – in particular for day tours from Galway and Dublin. Some of the most popular guided tours are below:

  • Connemara National Park & Kylemore Abbey Tour
  • Burren Discovery in 7 Days
  • Wild Atlantic Way Boat Day Trip
  • From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher Day Trip

Whatever option you chose, you’ll have a great time! But if you want the most freedom, I would recommend driving. You can check out my Ireland road trip guides below for more info about self-driving in Ireland. 

How to Master Driving on the Left (as an America)

Everything You Should Know about Renting a Car in Ireland

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

When I shared our trip on Instagram ( @shershegoes ), I got a couple of the same questions over and over, so I thought they’d be helpful to also answer here. Here’s everything to know about Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

How long does it take to do the Wild Atlantic Way?

At over 1,500 miles (2,750 kilometers) in length, the Wild Atlantic Way is the longest defined coastal touring road in the world. Ireland may be a small country, but it would take at least 4 to 5 days to properly see just a piece of the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you have 1.5 to 2 weeks, you really have a chance to soak in the magnificent views! Three weeks is probably recommended if you wanted to explore the length of the Wild Atlantic Way, from top to bottom.

Most people only drive a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way. Below is some guidance on how to pick a section. Or, you can read our Ireland Itineraries post to get more advice on planning a trip to Ireland.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Where does the Wild Atlantic Way start and finish?

The drive stretches the entire western coast of Ireland, beginning in Malin Head in County Donegal and ending in Mizen Head in County Cork.

The nice thing about driving the Wild Atlantic Way is that it’s very well sign posted and maintained. A couple of years ago, Fáilte Ireland, the Republic of Ireland’s tourism authority, decided to officially market the route.

They installed maps, itineraries and info boards all along the driving route so it’s very easy to follow even if you’re self driving.

Look for a swiggly blue signpost to know you’re on the right road! Notable stopping points and attractions (castles, viewpoints, etc) are marked by a brown pole with the w symbol (like in the picture above). 

Getting In & Where to Start

If you’re already in Europe, you might like to fly into one of Ireland’s 4 regional airports, which will get you started closer to the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route:

Shannon Airport : Ireland’s second busiest airport just outside the city of Limerick. Perfect for exploring the Cliffs of Moher and the counties Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry.

Cork Airport : Just south of Cork city, this is the perfect airport to fly into if you want to start the Wild Atlantic Way at its southernmost point.

West Airport Knock : Located in the heart of west Ireland, between Galway and Sligo. Best if you plan to explore the North section as Donegal and Malin Head are (relatively) close.

Kerry Airport: This is a small hub, but places you directly in County Kerry – I think one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland.

You can also set a flight alert for different route options here so that you can jump on discount fares.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Dublin International Airport

But if you’re not already in the EU, most likely you’ll be flying in to Dublin – this is what we did! 

If you have the time, I’d recommend spending a day or two to explore Ireland’s capital before heading west to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Start your rental car date after you’re done exploring Dublin, then head to the airport to pick up your rental car. If you’re short on time, you can skip Dublin and pick up the rental car when your flight lands.

Note : It’s not worth the stress to drive in Dublin and you can easily get around the historical sights on foot, via cab or the hop-on, hop-off bus .

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Dublin to the Wild Atlantic Way

From Dublin, the most direct method to reach the Wild Atlantic Way is to drive west.

Most people will head straight across on the main highway to County Galway . The town of Galway is also the perfect stop to stretch your legs and have some lunch!

From Dublin to Galway it will take about 3-3.5 hours of driving , without stops. Make sure to have cash on hand for tolls! If you’re hesitant to drive on the left, you can read more about what it’s like renting a car in Ireland here and my driving tips for Ireland here .

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

If you leave in the morning, you’ll reach Galway just in time for lunch. We loved lunch at Ard Bia at Nimmos, a tiny (Michelin starred) restaurant on the water, under an old bridge. It’s serves a delicious breakfast and lunch that’s healthy but full of flavor.

Must try dishes?

The turmeric ginger shot, the elder flower cordial and their best selling fish cakes. I really liked the beet salad too!

After Galway, it’s time to finally start on your Wild Atlantic Way road trip!

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Best Stops on the Wild Atlantic Way

Because the coastal route is so long, we’re guessing you’ll choose just a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way for your trip. I thought the easiest way to break down the Wild Atlantic Way drive would be by region.

There’s activities for everyone along the route – we’ve done everything from visiting historic castles to exploring megalithic structures and stone tombs.

There’s breathtaking coastal routes for those who want a scenic drive and lots of small islands off the coast perfect for day trips and stretching your legs.

If you want something more active, the Wild Atlantic Way is close to 3 of Ireland’s national parks (Connemara, Ballycroy and Killarney ) which have incredible hiking, scenic nature walks and lots of gorgeous terrain – mountains, lakes, bog, etc.

Finally, if you’re hoping to see something traditionally Irish, there are tiny fishing hamlets, sheep herding farms and Gaeltacht regions where Irish is the predominant language. Many of the valleys and hills are still dotted with the ruins of famine huts and potato plots dating back to the Great Famine.

Keep reading for a breakdown of what to expect on each section of the route, from North to South

wild-atlantic-way-route-northern-headlands

The Northern Headlands

From malin head to donegal town.

In the remote northern tip of the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll find County Donegal.

This rugged, remote region is a bit of a wild child. It’s located more north than Northern Ireland yet technically belongs to the ‘south’, the Republic of Ireland!

Donegal is a largely Catholic province (whereas Northern Ireland is mostly Protestant). Its rugged interior, labyrinth coastline and thick bog enabled it to resist the British more successfully than other regions, allowing Donegal to remain truly wild and isolated.

Over a third of the population here speaks Irish in their day to day – something you won’t find in most other areas of Ireland (the British outlawed Irish culture and language as part of their efforts to subjugate the island). 

If you’re looking for the ‘wild’ in the Wild Atlantic Way, start in Donegal. Its steep cliffs, sublime scenery and beautiful beaches give testament to the county motto: “Up here, it’s different”

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Here are some great driving stops along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal:

  • Visit Fanad Head Lighthouse
  • Soak in the view at Malin Head
  • Stand on Sliabh Liag (Slieve League), Europe’s highest sea cliffs
  • Explore Doe Castle by the sea

Where to Stay: Donegal Town

The capital of the county is the perfect place to base yourself. With great shopping (Donegal tweed is famous), a local castle (Donegal Castle) and lots of great restaurants, there’s a lot to keep you busy.

For something unique, book a night at Solis Lough Eske , a stunning Irish castle hotel which was named the best in the country.

Find great hotel deals for Donegal Town here .

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The Surf Coast

Donegal town to erris.

Love to surf?

Visit the wave crashed coastline from Donegal to Erris to find freezing cold water and world class surf conditions. Or give snorkeling and kayaking a go!

Not too inclined to freeze our bones, we opted to explore the local castles, feast on delicious seafood (the crab claws here are the biggest we’ve ever seen) and check out some of the local historical sights.

If you want to soak in the view, visit Downpatrick Head, where a sea stack splits from the island into the ocean.

Local legend says that St. Patrick founded a church here. When a pagan chieftain refused to convert to Christianity, St. Patrick struck the ground and split a chunk of land into the sea, with the chieftain still on it!

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Here are some of the best stops along the Wild Atlantic Way’s Surf Coast:

  • Go surfing at Streedagh Beach
  • Explore Donegal Castle and picturesque Lough Eske
  • Go salmon fishing in Ballina
  • Feast on local seafood in Sligo or Bellmullet
  • Ceide fields and Downpatrick Head

Where to Stay: Ballina

Right on the mouth of the River Moy, in County Mago, Ballina has fantastic restaurants, lots of local heritage and a famous annual Salmon Festival.

The town is just a 40 minute drive from West International Airport and in particular, we love Mount Falcon Estate hotel , a luxury Irish country house!

Find great hotel deals for Ballina here .

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The Bay Coast

Erris to galway bay.

We lingered for days along the Bay Coast – there’s so much to see and do here! If you love getting active, this region is known for its savage, wild beauty and great outdoors.

Visit Connemara, home to the cute Connemara pony, Victorian Kylemore Abbey and expansive Connemara National Park. There’s also Ballycroy National Park, with 15,000 hectares perfect for nature walks and stargazing.

The Great Western Greenway is a route from Westport to Achill that transformed an old railway into one of the most scenic cycling roots in the world. Even better, you can combine it with the Gourmet Greenway and stop at artisan food producers along the way! Clew Bay in particular is well known for its incredible seafood.

Prefer a scenic drive?

There’s the Atlantic Drive on Achill Island, connected to Ireland by a bridge, and the breathtaking Sky Road in Clifden. The former has a ruined tower that once belonged to legendary pirate queen Grace O’Malley, while the latter has a panoramic view of the Connemara peninsula.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Here are some fun things to do in the Bay Coast section of the Wild Atlantic Way

  • Explore Achill Island and Keem Bay, home to beautiful basking sharks
  • Explore the Lost Valley in Mayo
  • Walk the bog trail in Ballycroy National Park
  • Learn the art of sheep herding and try cutting peat
  • Get active in Delphi Mountain: ziplining, kayaking, archery
  • Visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian gardens
  • Hike through Connemara National Park
  • Drive the Sky Road in Clifden

Where to Stay

There’s lots to do in this section of the Wild Atlantic Way so we’ve stayed in a number of different towns and hotels. We recommend:

Westport , a colorful small town home to Westport Manor. Have dinner at Cian’s (everything's delicious!)

Clifden , a remote area near Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park, where we stayed at the cozy Rosleague Manor

Ballynahinch Castle , if unique and luxurious castle hotels are your thing!

Delphi Mountain if you are on a budget or traveling as a family, this historic mountain lodge offers tons of fun activities (we tried archery and ziplining) on over 1,000 acres of land. There are both family suites and hostel accommodation options.

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The Cliff Coast

Galway to ballybunion.

The Cliff Coast is home to Ireland’s most well known and unique landscapes.

This route mixes sea cliffs like the Cliffs of Moher with the otherworldly karst landscapes of the Burren. Towns here are famous for their traditional pubs, live music and beautiful views. There’s enough sights here to keep you busy for a week!

A great time of year to visit is in September, when Galway hosts its International Oyster and Seafood festival.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Here are some fun things to do in the Cliff Coast section of the Wild Atlantic Way

  • Spend a day in colorful Galway
  • Walk along the majestic Cliffs of Moher
  • Explore the karst landscape of The Burren and visit Poulnabrone dolmen

Galway is a colorful and charming harbor city on the west coast. The town square has plenty of pubs, great shopping and often live Irish music is performed in the streets!

Gregans Castle We stayed here and loved everything, from the luxurious yet comfy furniture to the fine dining restaurant. The location is also conveniently between The Burren, a remote karst region and hte Cliffs of Moher. 

Doolin  is a quaint village and the gateway town to the Aran Islands, which are just offshore. 

Limerick is compact, yet also Ireland's third most populated city. There's a medieval town center, historic castles and cathedrals and a buzzing new food scene to explore.

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The Southern Peninsulas

South kerry to west cork.

Now we’ve reached the beautiful South West.

County Kerry call’s itself ‘God’s Kingdom’ for its rolling green hills and serene lakes. There’s beautiful Killarney National Park with its castle, hiking trails and waterfall. Off the coastline is Skellig Michael, an ancient monastery featured in Starwars, while a drive down to Dingle will have you in the pubs enjoying live music all night long.

The Dingle Peninsula is a drive worth going out of the way for. Locals joke the next town over is Boston and on this remote stretch, you’ll find traditional pubs, great ice cream and local gin.

Finally, County Clare is known as the musical section of Ireland, with more musicians per square mile and music festivals than in any other county.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

  • Drive Loop Head Peninsula and climb the lighthouse
  • Explore the Ring of Kerry and visit Killarney
  • Ferry to the ancient stone monastery on Skellig Michael
  • Learn about the history of Ireland’s independence movement in Caherdaniel
  • Enjoy the beach at Glenbeigh
  • Enjoy live music in Dingle’s quaint pubs

Killarney  a colorful small town on the shores of Lough Leane. Killarney is a great base for day trips and the town also has fantastic hotels, spas, shopping and restaurants. You can read our in depth Killarney guide for more travel tips!

Dingle a cute port town known for its pubs, music and harbour resident..Fungie the dolphin. Dingle is great for everyone – couples, families with kids and millennials looking for a night out. You can read our in depth Dingle  guide for more travel tips!

wild-atlantic-way-haven-coast

The Haven Coast

Bantry bay to kinsale.

The southernmost stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way is perhaps the most peaceful section, cooled by the temperate Gulf Stream.

There’s lush formal gardens with subtropical plants, calm waters that attract dolphins and whales and scores of festivals. Spend the days beachcombing, kayaking, fishing or island hopping. Visit ancient sites and coastal forts in West Cork and zig zag through Kinsale.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

  • Drive the Beara Peninsula
  • See the lighthouse at Kinsale’s Old Head Kinsale’s Old Head
  • Cross the iconic (and dizzying) footbridge at Mizen Head
  • Feast on the freshest seafood at Baltimore Harbor
  • Get away to relaxing Cape Clear

Kenmare is a less crowded version of Killarney, with a triangle of shops, galleries and cafes. Stay here to explore the Beara Peninsula

Cork is Ireland's second largest city and nicknamed by locals the ‘real capital' of Ireland. It has a beautiful waterfront, cosmopolitan atmosphere and great restaurants and pubs.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

Now of course there’s no single best itinerary, but I’d say one of the most popular Wild Atlantic Way routes is to spend 5 days on a road trip from Galway to Killarney. 

This route hits some of Ireland’s most popular sights, like Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park and Dingle.

I also had a chance to re-visit Ireland on a more off the beaten path itinerary, so I’ve incorporated those activities to present a couple different options…

Tips for Self Driving in Ireland

One thing to keep in mind is the distance between towns and sights. What we found helpful was to research places that seemed interesting to us, create a list and then plug all the destinations into Google Maps and plot a straightforward driving route. 

Driving Times

Google Maps is generally a great tool for planning trips. However for Ireland, we suggest adding 30-45 minutes to their driving time estimates.

Irish roads are narrow and if you’re unused to driving on the left, chances are you won’t be going full speed. If you plan to stop and take pictures, give yourself a lot more leeway. 

Finally, try not to pack too much in per day and do a quick google search for sunrise and sunset times in Ireland on your dates.

We found that Irish roads didn’t have many street lamps, so we made sure to be at our hotel destination by the time the sun went down to avoid driving in the dark.

What are you looking forward to the most along the Wild Atlantic Way?

Essential Tips for Visiting Ireland

Getting In | Aer Lingus, the national Irish airline, offers non-stop flights from select US cities. Two reasons to recommend Aer Lingus: low nonstop fares from many US cities and their pre-clearance facilities. We found cheap flights to Ireland in October – you can check for flight deals and routes here .

When returning to the U.S., take advantage of the U.S. pre-clearance facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports, where you complete U.S. immigration, customs and agriculture controls before departure so that when you land in the U.S., you can just collect your bags.

Getting Around | If there's one thing I can recommend, it's to rent a car and drive around Ireland. Not only is the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route one of the world's most scenic drives, transportation in Ireland is a bit difficult without your own vehicle. We were nervous about driving on the left but ultimately renting a car was the best decision! Check car rental prices for your dates here .

Where to Stay | I highly recommend staying at an Irish country house during your trip. Irish hospitality is truly something else. For unique luxury accommodation check out out Ireland's Blue Book. Or, take advantage of Airbnb for a local experience!

Protect | Lastly, be sure to visit Ireland with travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Hurricane Ophelia hit the country smack in the middle of our road trip! Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Ireland Vacation Planning Articles

Ireland Travel Tips : Know Before You Go

The Most Beautiful Places in Ireland

How to Plan the Perfect Ireland Itinerary

Where to Stay: 10 Enchanting Irish Castle Hotels  

Packing Checklist:  What to Wear in Ireland

For Foodies: All the Best Food We Ate in Ireland

Ireland Road Trips

The Best Stops on the Wild Atlantic Way (with map!)

7 Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Ireland

How to Master Driving in Ireland (as a tourist!)

Irish Sights, Activities & Tours We Especially Enjoyed:

Co Galway: Visiting Kylemore Abbey , Ireland's Most Beautiful Castle?

Co Kerry: Can't Miss Sights in  Killarney  & Dingle

Co Waterford: Waterford , Ireland's Oldest City, the  House of Waterford Crystal  &  Mount Congreve Gardens

Co Wexford: Don't Skip Wexford - Here's Why!

Co Kilkenny:  Exploring Kilkenny Castle, in photos

Restaurant & Hotels We Loved:

County Clare: Gregans Castle Hotel

County Galway: Rosleague Manor Hotel , Where to Stay in Galway

County Wexford: The Strand Inn

County Waterford: The Cliff House Hotel , The Reg Pub

Northern Ireland

Travel Guide: Belfast

Where to Stay in Belfast as a First Time Visitor

Follow me @Sher She Goes on

Youtube | Tiktok | Instagram

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This is so beautiful! I love the variation in the landscape and that coastline. Definitely pinning this for future reference.

Thank you so much for this comprehensive overview! I have 5 days to explore the Wild Atlantic way and this broke down this drive so beautifully! You’re awesome!

Ah, so glad the post was helpful :) Thanks for letting me know!

None of these counties are in Northern Ireland which is part of the UK and uses £ etc. Donegal is ‘northern’ but is part of the Republic. Northern Ireland is Fermanagh, Antrim, Armagh, Londonderry/Derry, Down and Tyrone! :)

Yep! As I wrote in the post, I focused on the Republic of Ireland portion of the Wild Atlantic Way.

You have incorrectly said that 2 counties along the Wild Atlantic Way lie in Northern Ireland. No part of the Wild Atlantic Way enters Northern Ireland. It is solely based in the Republic of Ireland.

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Helena Bradbury

The ultimate wild atlantic way itinerary.

Known as the longest continuous driving route in the world, travelling the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland is a bucket list road trip for many people.

That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary but without a time constraint, my hope is that you can cherry-pick all the stops from this article that you’d like to include in your itinerary.

I spent two months travelling through Ireland and it still didn’t feel like enough to see it all, but whether you’re visiting Ireland for 7 days or 2 weeks, my hope is that this Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary will help you pick the best Wild Atlantic Way stops that fit in with where you’re travelling, your own trip plan and budget.

Road winding town rocky hills with a sheep crossing in the distance

Road in Ireland

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Wild Atlantic Way route - which direction to drive?

A winding road with houses on each side leading toward a large green hill in the distance leading tward a hill

Wild Atlantic Way road

The Wild Atlantic Way starts in the north of Donegal and runs along the west coast of Ireland, all the way to Kinsale in County Cork on the south coast of Ireland.

However there’s no specific direction you should travel in, you can travel from north to south, or south to north.

I would suggest picking the spots you’d like to see most, then plan your Wild Atlantic Way driving route either travelling north or south, based on those locations you want to visit.

Also consider where are you arriving or departing from - Dublin, Galway or Cork airports? Are you travelling into Northern Ireland to use Belfast airport?

For example, if you are flying in and out of Dublin and choose to cover the southern end of the Wild Atlantic Way so you can visit Cork, the Ring of Kerry , Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher and Galway, then I would suggest starting in Cork and finishing in Galway. The drive from Galway across the country to Dublin is just 2.5 hours.

If you’re planning to do some of the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland before continuing onto the Wild Atlantic Way, then I would suggest driving from Derry-Londonderry into Donegal and following the Wild Atlantic Way from North to South.

Wild Atlantic Way Tour

If you perhaps don’t drive or don’t want to drive in Ireland, I’d highly recommend booking a Wild Atlantic Way tour, most of which leave from one of Ireland’s major cities.

If you’re looking for Wild Atlantic Way day tours, Get Your Guide finds the best tours offered by local companies so you can find one that fits with your itinerary.

This Dublin to Cliffs of Moher and Galway tour is the most popular if you’re short on time and basing yourself in Dublin. Or this tour which is a bit more expensive but also includes Kilmacduagh Abbey as well as the Cliffs of Moher and Galway.

If you’re starting from Galway, this day tour from Galway covers the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands as well as a cliffs cruise. Check out my Aran Islands itinerary to see why I love and recommend visiting the Aran Islands so much!

If you’re starting from Galway, I also really recommend visiting Connemara National Park, you can read my review here or book the tour here .

For a multi-day tour that takes you to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Doolin, Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park and more, check out this two day Wild Atlantic Way tour from Dublin .

Map of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

metal pole with zigzag at the top that denotes a wild atlantic way point of interest

The Wild Atlantic Way markers to show points of interest

Here’s a quick screenshot of our Wild Atlantic Way route map and as you can see I have A LOT of pins along the route. There are plenty of options for a map of Wild Atlantic Way. If you prefer a digital version over buying a physical map, I suggest downloading this Wild Atlantic Way map pdf.

The route itself is very easy to follow - just follow the brown Wild Atlantic Way signs with the white zigzag on them - this signifies that you’re on the Wild Atlantic Way route.

You’ll also become accustomed to seeing these metal signs at each stop, viewpoint or point of interest along the Atlantic highway in Ireland - these signify a Discovery Point and we stopped pretty much everytime we saw one, even if it was just to pull over for a quick snap.

map of wild atlantic way ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way map route

Best time of year to drive the Atlantic Way in Ireland

A curving road with greenery on either and hills in the distance

Irish weather is famously unpredictable, even if you travel in summer you could be hit with a week of rain, or if you travel in autumn or winter you could get lucky with the weather.

That being said, there’s no wrong time to drive the Atlantic Coast route, you’re more likely to get better weather in the summer, however it’s the most popular time to visit Ireland and some of the coastal roads are narrow and can get busy!

If you plan to do as much outdoor activity as possible, maybe you’re camping or doing multi day hikes then summer and late summer would be a great time to visit.

If you don’t mind unpredictable weather, early spring or autumn are great times to visit. We were there from August to October and although the nice weather was great in August, it was noticeably quieter as we travelled around in late September and October!

The Wild Atlantic Way itinerary and best stops in each county

I’ve divided the following itinerary by county so you can jump to each section if you know which counties you’re going to be in.

This itinerary is also written from North to South just because that’s the direction I did it the Wild Atlantic Way in, however you can do any direction you like!

Wild Atlantic Way: Donegal

Donegal was probably my favourite county that exceeded all my expectations. I had no idea what to expect from Donegal but its wild, rugged beauty blew me away and I’m already planning a trip back in the future.

The northernmost point of Ireland, also called the edge of Europe and it’s where you’ll find the start (or the end!) of the Wild Atlantic Way.

The landscape here is rugged and wild but so beautiful, although it was extremely windy when we visited and it’s very exposed so if the weather is bad - be prepared with good outdoor clothing.

There’s a small car park here and modern toilet facilities. You can explore the ruins of the old signal station which once connected America and Europe.

You’ll also see the first of several ‘EIRE’ signs in large, painted white letters on the ground. These are at several points along the coast of Ireland and were important markers in World War II to signal to pilots that they were flying over neutral territory - Eire = Ireland. Each EIRE sign also has an identifying number for navigational purposes.

Bunbeg Wreck

There’s not a whole lot of information known about this wreck other than it was owned by local fisherman Eddie Gillespie and was wrecked in bad weather during the 1970s.

You’ll find the eerie wreck on Maghercloher beach at Gweedore.

Slieve League

Girl in yellow standing on a rock overlooking cliffs and water

Slieve League view point

If you only visit one place in Donegal, make it Slieve League.

Slieve League is home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe and at over 600m tall, they’re nearly 3 times the height of the Cliffs of Moher (214m)

It was the first stop we made in Donegal during our first week in Ireland and it set the bar HIGH. I think visiting Slieve League was part of the reason I felt slightly underwhelmed by the Cliffs of Moher because the sheer size of the cliffs here and the power of the sea are breathtaking.

I recommend parking at the Slieve League car park and walking along the beautiful coastal path to reach the Slieve League viewing platform. This road is completely paved and easily accessible for most people. 

Those who wish to continue onwards to hike the cliff trails can do so from the viewing platform, or you can just choose to enjoy the incredible view of the cliffs from the viewing point and the beautiful walk from the car park and back.

Wild Atlantic Way: Leitrim

Glencar Waterfall

A lady in yellow on a walkway with a waterfall in the background

Only a very small portion of County Leitrim reaches the coast of Ireland, but if you are spending some time in the Sligo, Leitrim or Donegal area, I’d recommend visiting the Glencar Waterfall.

The waterfall is just a 15 minute drive from Sligo town.

There’s a large car park, beautiful, lush, green views and the walk to the waterfall is easy and only takes a few minutes from the car park.

In the summer people swim in the waterfall pool.

Wild Atlantic Way: Sligo

A rockpool with people swimming in the ocean

Bishops Pool

Sligo is another massively underrated county in Ireland that I fell in love with. If you’re thinking of spending some time here on Ireland’s west coast, plan your County Sligo itinerary here.

Mullaghmore Head

A girl walking in a grass field with a castle in the background

Mullaghmore Head is a beautiful small peninsula on the Sligo coast, packed with things to do for an afternoon or even a whole day.

Enjoy the views of Classiebawn Castle and learn about its interesting history

Walk the Mullaghmore Head coastal trail

Wild swim in Bishop’s Pool

Relax at Mullaghmore Beach

Streedagh Beach

Slightly further south from Mullaghmore Head, you’ll find the beautiful white sandy stretch of Streedagh Beach.

Popular with swimmers, sunbathers, dog walkers, families and local events, the beach is often busy but with so much space, it’s not crowded at all.

The car park is large, the water was fairly calm and there were no big waves on the days we visited, even when the weather was cloudy. There’s also a lifeguard on duty during peak times.

drone photo above a long stretch of beach with blue water and grassy sand dunes with mountains in the background

Streedagh Strand Beach

A girl in flannel walking down a gravel pathway with mountains in the background

One of my favourite easy walks in Ireland , Benbulbin (or Benbulben) is just a quick 10 minute drive inland from the coast and an easy addition to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary while you’re in Sligo.

This unique table mountain was formed by glaciers cutting these jagged shapes into the rock during the ice age.

The Benbulben Forest Walk is the walk I recommend, it’s a loop walk along the base of the mountain and back around through the forest, with views of the coast before bringing you back to the car park. It offers beautiful views of the mountain even from the base.

The car park is free but small, so arrive early if you’re travelling in peak season.

You can also climb Benbulben if you wish, although that’s a bit tricker and I suggest going with a local guided group.

Gleniff Horseshoe

A paved road with trees on both sides and a mountain in the background

Another point that’s slightly in land but just a short drive from Benbulben is Gleniff Horseshoe.

You don’t even need to get out of the car here. This short 10km loop is in a valley of the Dartry Mountains, including Benbulbin, Benwiskin, Tieve Baun and more. I recommend doing the drive clockwise and stopping for plenty of photos!

If you do want to stop for a while, you can do a short walk along the river here, or just follow the road to soak in the spectacular scenery.

You can easily find the route marked on Google Maps.

Wild Atlantic Way: Mayo

County Mayo was another county which I knew very little about before planning my Atlantic route in Ireland and it’s one that I wish I’d spent longer in because there’s so many gems!

Downpatrick Head

A girl sitting on the edge of a cliff looking out onto a sea stack sticking out of the ocean

Probably the most well-known Wild Atlantic Way stop in County Mayo, this unique sea stack towers 50 metres out of the water.

The natural feature, known as Dún Briste or the Broken Fort, is striking against the backdrop of the Atlantic and is a unique contrast with the strange mossy globes of grass you’ll stand on as you view the sea stack.

The walk to Downpatrick Head cliffs is a short one from the car park, you can also view the caves and the towering cliffs that were the site of the Red Bull Cliff Jumping competition in 2021.

Car parking is free and there are some basic port-a-loo facilities.

Portacloy Beach and Carrowteige

This is a true hidden gem in Ireland, located in North Mayo, it’s formed by Carrowteige Cove and the dramatic Atlantic cliffs here.

Park at Portacloy Beach and follow the arrows to follow the loop walk counterclockwise.

The coastal views here are spectacular and much less busy than other popular areas in Kerry or Clare.

You’ll also see another EIRE sign, this one is EIRE 63 as you enjoy the cliff walk and views of the beautiful bay below.

Achill Island

A girl sitting looking out onto a blue bay with a beach in the distance surrounded by hills

Achill Island is the largest island of Ireland, covering almost 150km2.

There’s a bridge that connects Achill Island to the mainland so you can easily drive across and explore this beautiful area of Ireland. Here are my top recommendations if you spend a day on Achill Island:

Visit the beautiful Keem Beach

Rent a stand up paddleboard or kayak on Keel Lough

Visit the Slievemore Deserted Village

HIke to the Cliffs of Croaghaun

A bridge with flowers along side of it with colourful buildings in the distance

Westport was such an unexpected treat to visit!

I had no expectations of it, it was just where to choose to stay in Mayo but this vibrant town is so much fun and I really recommend paying a visit even if you’re not staying overnight.

The colourful main streets are super fun to wander and explore the shops, restaurants and bars. Here’s my top tips for spending some time in Westport:

Take a stroll along the Carrowbeg River

Get some great burgers and Irish food at Cian’s on Bridge Street

Walk along Bridge Street and the High Street

See the Clock Tower

Visit Westport House

Silver Strand and Lost Valley

This is an amazing Irish beach hidden gem, with golden sand, epic dunes and amazing views of the ocean and the Connacht mountains.

The water is beautifully clear and the sandy beach is great for families and friends alike. 

It’s located by the Lost Valley where you can do a walking tour, see an abandoned famine village and learn about the Irish famine, see the working farm and hear a true insight into a significant part of Irish history from the husband-and-wife duo living there.

If you’re looking for an authentic Irish experience during your Wild Atlantic Way road trip, this is it!

Wild Atlantic Way: Galway

Of course everyone knows Galway City and it is well-worth visiting, but there’s also a lot more to County Galway.

If you’ve come from Mayo, I recommend just taking the afternoon to drive to Galway via the Westport to Clifden road, the scenery here as you drive through the Connemara National Park is spectacular - a worthy longer way round on your Wild Atlantic Way road trip route!

Connemara National Park

Lake with a white house on the other side of the shore with green hills in the background

One of the most underrated places to visit in Ireland, Connemara National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty made up of lakes, marshy bogland, the Twelve Ben Mountain range and is one of the few areas still speaking the Gaelic language.

I highly recommend visiting Kylemore Abbey and doing one of the walks up Diamond Hill - the walk to the top is short but can be tricky for some. However there are three well-marked alternative routes with well-maintained trails that are family and dog friendly - perfect for a short walk. We did the blue trail which was around 2km.

If you want to find out more about Connemara or do a day tour, check out my tour review here.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Wild Atlantic Way market directing you to the Sky Road turn

A super easy addition to your Galway itinerary that offers spectacular views on an easy loop drive.

You’ll find the Sky Road well-signposted off the N59 road just before reaching Clifden if you’ve driven from Westport via Connemara National Park.

This single track road feels like a true rural escape with epic west coast views as this road loops around the small peninsula, I recommend driving it anticlockwise.

Make sure to stop at the viewpoint towards the end, you’ll see the Wild Atlantic Way signpost.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Ireland, this is a must-stop - especially in the summer!

This unique beach is a stretch of sand, like a sandbar with a bay on either side.

It is a bit of a detour to the south of Clifden but the coastline here is spectacular.

Unfortunately even in the summer we were unlucky and ended up visiting on a cloudy day, but even then the car park was packed and it’s a single track road down to the car park - I don’t recommend attempting to park there unless you plan on arriving at 8am or in the off season.

At midday on a Friday in the summer, it was STRESSFUL trying to reverse all the way back up the single track road to the main road!

If you’re in the area, also check out Roundstone, a town with a cute harbour. Or stay overnight at Gurteen Bay campsite if you want to spend longer in the area.

girl walking down colourful street in galway with bunting and yellow building

Galway Latin Quarter

Of course Galway needs to be on your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary!

This coastal city is probably my favourite big city in Ireland (sorry, Dublin!) and the great news is that you can cover a lot in one day. Here’s what I recommend:

Explore the colourful, cobbled-street Latin Quarter

Do the Long Walk

Visit the City Museum and Spanish Arch (both are free)

Get pizza from Dough Bros

Dunguaire Castle and the Oyster Cottage

 Many open oysters ready to eat

As you continue driving the Wild Atlantic Way south, about 30 minutes from Galway you’ll reach Dunguaire Castle.

I’m honestly not sure if it’s worth going inside because they seem to not follow any sort of opening schedule. We turned up in the middle of the day during the week in early September and it was closed.

However the castle setting on the water’s edge is beautiful and the car park across the road is free. It’s a great opportunity to see an Irish castle for free and get some idyllic photos.

Another Ireland hidden gem for you - about 10 minutes before you reach the castle, you’ll pass Kilcolgan. Here, by the coast, is Moran’s Oyster Cottage.

Boy, oh boy, if you like oysters or any kind of fresh seafood, you need to stop here.

This idyllic, family run business is situated right by the estuary to the ocean, it’s a thatched cottage and they serve freshly caught seafood, although they’re most well-known for their oysters.

They have a gorgeous outdoor seating area for the sunshine but it’s also super cosy inside. 

We stopped to try the oysters and had a half dozen Giga oysters (rock oysters) and also the seafood chowder. Both were spectacular and it’s probably the first time I actually understood the appeal of oysters when they’re fresh and great quality.

Wild Atlantic Way: Clare

Ahh County Clare, home to the famous Wild Atlantic Way Cliffs of Moher and probably the most famous county on the Atlantic highway route.

But there’s so much more than just the Cliffs of Moher to see here. The Aran Islands and Kilkee Cliffs were two of my favourite spots on the whole trip.

This huge, rocky landscape is desolately beautiful and one of the most significant natural landscapes in Ireland.

Covering a 350km area, it’s not something you can cover in a day, but even driving through it is enough to appreciate its beauty.

The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher form a UNESCO Geopark and there are ancient monuments over 6000 years old in the area.

For those interested in flora and fauna, a visit to the Burren is a must!

Flowers with a girl walking along a road and colourful houses in the background

Village of Doolin

Don’t  miss this colourful Irish town just 10 minutes north on the Atlantic Coast from the Cliffs of Moher.

This town is famous for its colourful main street including the pink thatched cottage and the popular Gus O'Connor's Pub.

But Doolin is also the starting point (or ending point!) for the Cliffs of Moher walking trail which runs along the coast between Doolin and Hags Head, the Cliffs of Moher lie between these points and you’ll spend most of the walk in awe of these spectacular sea cliffs.

The Doolin to Hags Head route is 10 miles long and it’s an out and back. If 10 miles each way sounds too much, you can do what we did and walk from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher and back. Or there are regular buses running from the Cliffs of Moher visitors centre to Doolin, you can walk from Doolin to the Cliffs then take the bus back or vice versa.

The walk is beautiful and doable for most fitness levels, there are some short, steeper sections and most of the path is along the cliffs where there is no barrier - please keep back from the cliffs, at 214 metres high, they’re beautiful and very dangerous!

On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands out in the Atlantic and the mountains in neighbouring Kerry in the south on this walking trail.

Cliffs of Moher

 Tall cliffs running along the shore far into the distance

Speaking of the Cliffs of Moher - would any Wild Atlantic Way itinerary be complete without these iconic natural beauties being included?!

If you don’t want to do the Doolin - Hags Head walk to reach the Cliffs, don’t worry, you can head right to the Cliffs of Moher visitors centre and walk straight in to see these iconic cliffs.

Something important to note (and a mistake I made!). Are the Cliffs of Moher free? Yes they technically are, but you pay for parking in the visitors car park across from the entrance and parking is honestly a rip off. I didn’t realise you can actually just walk in and see the Cliffs of Moher for free, but you can.

Instead I got charged £8 per adult (£16) to park! With the parking ticket you do supposedly get access to a cliff pass, the exhibitions in the visitor centre and other perks but no one checked our tickets at any point and we mostly just wanted to see the cliffs.

Long story short, if you want to see the Cliffs of Moher for free, either walk from Hags Head or Doolin, or find alternative parking (there are cheaper local-run parking options down the road from the visitors centre). 

But please don’t just leave your car on the side of the road, cars left in undesignated places cause a huge problem for locals and visitors alike.

Aran Islands

blue water and white sand beach

Kilmurvey Beach, Inishmore Aran Islands

When people ask what my favourite park of Ireland was, the Aran Islands are usually my first answer.

These three islands are technically in Galway and they lie in Galway Bay, however I recommend visiting them as a day trip by ferry from Doolin (which is in County Clare).

I went with Doolin2Aran Ferries but there are two companies to choose from in Doolin, both have similar sailing times.

The ferries run between March-October and are foot passenger only, there’s a large car park at the ferry port in Doolin which is free of charge with your ferry ticket.

The ferries stop at some, or all, of the three Aran Islands depending on which sailing you take. You can’t visit all three islands in a day, that would be too much! But if you have longer in the area I’d really recommend visiting them all.

These are the three Aran Islands:

Inishmore (Inis Mor) - the big island and the one I visited for a day trip and is famous for its ancient forts and beautiful scenery.

Inishmaan (Inis Meain) - the middle island, a much quieter place to visit with peaceful nature, views and ancient forts. Popular for bird watching and walking.

Inisheer (Inis Oirr) - the smallest island and great for families with shipwrecks, a lighthouse and pony and trap tours. This island is also a Father Ted filming location.

Read my full Inishmore day trip itinerary to plan your trip to these beautiful islands.

Kilkee Cliffs

Another very underrated gem but one that I feel is worthy of competing with the Cliffs of Moher too!

Kilkee is a cute, local seaside town in south Clare on the Loop Head Peninsula. From the bay in the centre of the town, you can walk to the coastal path and do the short loop walk or out-and-back walk along the Kilkee Cliffs.

These cliffs are stunning, with plateaus and caves, huge soaring sea cliffs with birds and they come without the Cliffs of Moher crowds!

I stayed in Kilkee for a week and did this walk at least once a day in either the morning or evening (I even braved a swim on one occasion!)

If you want to start from the beginning of the cliff walk, park at the Diamond Rocks Cafe car park.

From here, follow the trail along the cliffs, it’s a well-marked, gravel path with plenty of view points to stop along the way.

drone photo of a walking path following the edge of a grassy cliff with rockface leading to the water

Kilkee Cliffs walking trail

Loop Head Peninsula

Driving south from Kilkee, to the tip of the peninsula and you’re into real Ireland off-the-beaten-path territory.

Do the drive along the Kilkee cliffs coast, to the Loop Head Lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula then back up the other side of the peninsula. Don’t miss:

The Bridges of Ross

Loop Head Lighthouse

EIRE 45 sign

Carrigaholt Castle

The Long Dock Pub and Restaurant at Carrigaholt (I went here for my birthday meal!)

Wild Atlantic Way: Limerick

 When driving the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, the route only briefly passes through Limerick and most people don’t take the time to stop.

However we loved the youthful vibrance of Limerick and the colourful historic town of Adare, so both are going on this Wild Atlantic Way route itinerary so you can make your own decision whether to visit or not!

Limerick is the fourth biggest city by population in Ireland but is often overlooked by visitors in favour of Galway, Dublin or Cork.With museums and galleries to visit, Limerick has a lot to offer in terms of art and culture. Here are some things to do in Limerick city if you’re spending an afternoon there or longer

King John’s Castle

The Hunt Museum

Limercity City Gallery of Art

Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant or Jerry Flannery’s Bar for an Irish pub experience

Explore the Old Quarter

Adare Village

A yellow thatched cottage with a green door

Yellow cottage in Adare

Adare lies south of Limerick and is a great stop on your way to County Kerry.

The village has been designated as a heritage town and is also called the prettiest village in Ireland thanks to its numerous colourful thatched cottages, quaint high street and cultural significance.

Don’t miss the vibrant thatched cottages, boutique shops and local restaurants as well as Adare Manor, Adare Castle ruins, the weekend market and the beautiful park area and bandstand.

Many people choose to stay in Adare as a stopping point between the Wild Atlantic Way attractions in Clare and in Kerry.

If you do plan to stay overnight, check out the beautiful Adare Country House or The Dunraven Hotel.

Wild Atlantic Way: Kerry

I spent three weeks in County Kerry and will say that it’s probably my favourite county just because there is SO MUCH to do there.

TIP: I highly recommend basing yourself in Killarney, it’s a great starting point for exploring all the main sights such as the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula and Killarney National Park.

We stayed in an Airbnb because of the length of time we were there but I recommend staying in Killarney with somewhere that allows parking so you’re ideally located for exploring.

Dingle Peninsula

I personally enjoyed the Dingle Peninsula more than the Ring of Kerry.

Not that there was anything wrong with the Ring of Kerry, I loved it too! But I felt there was a lot more to do on the Dingle Peninsula.

It is definitely possible to do the Dingle Peninsula in a day, here’s what we did during one day following the Atlantic Way on the Dingle Peninsula:

girl in red dress sitting on a cliff above  pier with a view of islands and blue ocean

Dunquin Pier

See Inch Beach

Visit colourful Dingle and do a tour at the Dingle Distillery

Do the Slea Head drive and stop at Coumeenoole Beach at Dunquin Harbour

Visit Gallarus Oratory - the only unrestored example of an Oratory Church in Ireland which is believed to be over 100 years old.

Drive through Conor Pass for some epic views.

Stop at the Tig Bhric and West Kerry Brewery to sample local beers

If you have longer than a day to explore the Dingle Peninsula, I recommend extending your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary further and doing some of the following:

Boat trip to the Blasket Islands - you can book the ferry here

The Famine Cottages

Fairy Ring Fort

Climb Mount Brandon for the hiking enthusiasts

A Dingle Boat tour

Ring of Kerry

The famous Ring of Kerry drive cannot be missed when you’re driving the Wild Atlantic Way. 

It starts and ends in Killarney via the N71 road, making Killarney the perfect base to start from.

Again, we did this loop in one day and I’ll summarise the route we did but you can follow my full Ring of Kerry day trip itinerary here which has all the finer details.

The Gap of Dunloe

Rossbeigh Strand Beach

Drive across to Valentia Island. Visit Knights Town and the Lighthouse on the island in the east or drive around to see the Skellig islands is the distance from the west coast.

Visit the Kerry Cliffs

Do the Skellig Drive scenic driving route

Visit Kenmare or stop off for dinner here on your way back to Killarney

Ladies View viewpoint

Boat trip to the Skellig Islands - find out more here about how to book

Glenbeigh Fairy Forest

Rossbeigh Loop Walk

Kerry Dark Sky Tourism reserve for stargazing

Drive Ballaghbeama Gap

Climb Carrauntoohil - the highest mountain in Ireland only for experienced hikers

Valentia Island

Killarney National Park

Water with a kayak and a castle in the background during sunset

Ross Castle

The joy of staying in Killarney is your proximity to the Killarney National Park. We could have stayed here for weeks longer just to explore all the walking trails, go kayaking on the waters and visit the attractions here.

If you’re based in Killarney, a walk down to Ross Castle, perhaps in the afternoon or after dinner is a beautiful easy walk, or you can drive down the to the car park at the castle and wander around the lough and castle, it’s especially beautiful at sunset and just 3 minutes from the town centre.

We were also blown away by the Muckross Abbey ruins which you can wander around and explore for free. Park in one of the free car parks on the N71 Ring of Kerry road just outside of Killarney to walk to the Abbey.

If you have the time, here is some inspiration for places to visit in Killarney National Park:

Muckross Abbey - really cool ruins!

Torc Waterfall

Torc Mountain trail

Muckross Lake Loop

Water activities on Lough Leane

two large stonebaked pizzas with two pints of beer on a table

Pizzas at Killarney Brewing

Of course don’t forget to spend some time in Killarney itself!

This vibrant town is packed with great restaurants, bars, bakeries and cafes.

Don’t miss the Aran Sweater Market if you’re looking for an authentic Irish sweater as a souvenir.

We absolutely loved Killarney Brewing Company, both the craft beers and the freshly cooked pizzas were amazing, plus their outdoor deck has great views!

Wild Atlantic Way: Cork

The final Irish county along the Wild Atlantic Way road trip route!

Cork has plenty to offer, home to the second biggest city in Ireland, beautiful coastline, stunning nature walks to explore and plenty of hidden gems.

Don’t miss a stop in Cork on your Wild Atlantic Way trip.

Beara Peninsula

The Beara Peninsula feels a bit like Ireland’s best kept secret because this stunning peninsula has just as much beautiful and breathtaking scenery to see as the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula but without the crowds.

The peninsula itself is partially in County Kerry and partially in County Cork but the most significant area of its coastline is in Cork.

Many people don’t take the time to stop or explore this area, but from what we saw of it, we’ll be coming back and encouraging others to do so too!

Best things to do in the Beara Peninsula

Visit the colourful town of Eyeries - possibly the most colourful town in Ireland

Take the Dursey Island Cable Car out to Dursey Island, famous for its birdwatching

Enjoy the beautiful beaches in Allihies

Go kayaking and see seal from the West Cork Sailing Centre

Take a Dursey Boat trip and see the dramatic Bull Rock island

colourful houses and blue sky

Garnish Island

We were recommended Garnish Island by a local we met in Kenmare but sadly we weren’t able to get ferry tickets in time. But I’m recommending it here because it’s a real hidden gem and looks absolutely stunning.

Garnish Island is a small island just off the coast of Cork in Bantry Bay and can be reached by a short ferry ride from Glengarriff village. You’ll need to pay in cash and book in advance if you’re visiting in the peak season (this was our mistake!)

The island is known as the garden island and is famous for its vibrant gardens which have been cultivated by the island owners for 80 years.

The gardens are also home to some unique buildings in the style of Grecian Temples, Italianate towers and Spanish Casita. There’s also a military tower to see, a cafe and Bryce House - the family residence on the island.

Boats run twice an hour between May - September and the ferry price was €10, but check with the ferry companies for the most up to date pricing.

Bantry House

Bantry House is a stunning 18th Century stately home that overlooks Bantry Bay with uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline.

The house itself is available to stay in, with 6 unique B&B rooms.

But you can also visit the Estate for a tour of the house and explore the gardens and walking trails. Tickets are £14 per adult.

Find out more and book here .

A bridge crossing two sides of a cliff

Mizen Head bridge

If you visited Malin Head in Donegal, then you need to visit Mizen Head too - that means you’ll have visited the most northern point and the most southern point of the island of Ireland!

Mizen Head is a real gem to visit, the drive out there is beautiful and the dramatic, rugged cliffs here are just so atmospheric.

It costs €7.50 per adult and €4.50 for children (under 5s are free) and you pay to visit the Visitor’s Centre, the old Signal station and enjoy the epic views from the viewing platform and the dramatic cliff bridge.

Even on a windy, cloudy day the views were stunning and the wild Atlantic was so powerful, it’s a place that really takes your breath away.

We also saw seals on the rocks below the bridge which were so cute!

Check the website before you visit as opening times change throughout the year (for example, they only open on weekends during Nov-May).

The old signal station is really interesting and amazing to think that people live there, perched on the top of the rock, high above the Atlantic!

There are cafe, shop and toilet facilities here.

Drombeg Stone Circle

A great hidden gem that’s free to visit with a little detour off the main N71 road between Leap and Rosscarbery.

The circle is also known as the Druid’s Altar and was originally made up of 17 standing stones, now only 13 remain.

Like many other stone circles, the purpose it served exactly is a mystery, which makes visiting even more fun!

A girl walking down a pathway surrounded by colourful buildings

Don’t miss this vibrant little town on Ireland’s coast.

And when I say vibrant, I mean it in every sense - both colourful and thriving with life. We loved the vibe in this town, so busy but welcoming and colourful with plenty of boutique shops, great restaurants and cafes.

We only visited Kinsale for a day , but if you do visit don’t miss:

The colourful Newman’s Mall street in Kinsale

Kinsale Heritage town walks which are amazing value for money

Charles Fort and the Charles Fort Walk

Old Head of Kinsale

Girl in red on the edge of a cliff looking out onto the steep rocky shore and blue ocean

About 15 minutes drive south from Kinsale, you’ll reach the Old Head of Kinsale.

This is a great easy walk on paved roads with epic views along the way. 

Park at the free Garylucas Beach car park (beach is lovely too!) and follow the road in a loop around the headland of Kinsale (just follow the road).

Sadly you can’t reach the tip of the peninsula because there’s a private golf course there, but you can visit the Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower at the end of the peninsula before your walk back.

The walk took us approximately 1.5 hours.

 Rocky shore with a stone castle in the background

Of course, don’t miss visiting Cork city itself while you’re in Cork.

As Ireland’s second biggest city, it’s well-worth visiting Cork and seeing what this young, vibrant city has to offer.

I used Cork as a base for four days to explore the area, the coast and Kinsale before continuing on to Waterford.

Don’t miss these top things to do in Cork:

Visit the English Market - an 18th century covered market full of local businesses

Cork Public Museum

Old Cork Waterworks Experience

Marina Market for street food vendors in a cool quayside warehouse

Blackrock Castle Observatory and the Lough Mahon Walk 

Rising Sons Brewery

Other things to do in Cork and around the city, less than 30 minutes drive:

Jameson Distillery Midleton

 The stone Jameson building with red door and shutters with flowers in front

I highly recommend doing a tour at the Jameson Midleton distillery because this is where ALL Jameson Whiskey is produced. 

Many people go to the Jameson distillery in Dublin but this is just a tourist attraction and does not produce any of the whiskey we see on shelves around the world. The tour here was incredibly informative, the original distilling site is so beautiful and the tasting experience is very generous.

The distillery is just 30 minutes from Cork and the basic tour costs €23 and includes the tour and tasting. 75 minutes long. Book here.

This colourful town was once called Queenstown and was the last stop for the Titanic before she embarked on her fateful voyage across the Atlantic. You can learn more about it at the Cobh Heritage Centre.

Cobh is a colourful coastal town that’s well worth exploring for the afternoon, don’t miss the famous Deck of Cards street with colourful houses and the cathedral in the background.

Cobh is just 30 minutes from Cork.

Colourful house lining a steep hill with a large church in the background

Deck of Cards street

Blarney Castle & Gardens

Just 15 minutes from Cork is Blarney Castle which is famous for the Blarney Stone - supposedly if you kiss it, it gives you the gift of eloquence and talented speech.

Many people love to visit and see the castle ruins and gardens so I’m including it on this list, however we were a bit horrified that the online tickets were €16 per adult or €18 on the gate so we didn’t actually go.

Summary: the ultimate Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary

I know this has been a HUGE Ireland itinerary, but hopefully it contains plenty of useful information to help you plan your trip and Wild Atlantic way itinerary so you can maximise your time in the Emerald Isle.

I spent a good chunk of time in Ireland so if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out and I’ll try my best to answer them.

Driving the Wild Atlantic Way route really is a once in a lifetime experience that I highly recommend!

Pin this for later to plan your future trip!

Make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Ireland with this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, covering all the best stops from Donegal to Cork to help you plan your perfect Wild Atlantic Way route | ireland driving itinerary | wild atlantic way

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Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary – Ireland’s Most Epic Road Trip

Oisin Feeney

  • By Oisin Feeney
  • December 13, 2018
  • Category: Wild Atlantic Way

Planning a Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary can be very hard. There is so much to choose from it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options. The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most stunning coastal drives in all of Europe and this guide will show you how to get the absolute most out of your trip.

Here’s an interactive map of the route we’ll be taking:

The Southernmost part of the route begins in Kinsale , Dingle and then travels 1,553 miles up along the coast until coming to an end near the northernmost tip of the country.  It would take weeks to see all of the 2,500 attractions, so we’ve picked some of our favourite destinations and locations along the way!

We know how difficult it is to come over to Ireland and you may want to squeeze a lot into a little but make sure to not spend each night in a different hotel. At least once or twice along the way make sure to spend two nights somewhere so you can wake up in the morning and not have to pack up and go on to another hotel, that can get draining and you’ll miss the chance to enjoy the gentle pace of life that Irish people are known for.

Also remember that you may be very tired/jetlagged after the long plane ride so sometimes it’s better to stay the night somewhere closer, such as Dublin , before setting off on a 3 – 4-hour drive to the west coast.

Kinsale Head Golf Course

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

Day 1: dublin to kinsale.

wild atlantic way itinerary map

If you’re not too tired you can make the drive from Dublin to Kinsale in a minimum of 3 and a half hours. The drive is long and a bit boring as it follows the motorway almost all the way, but at least it’s quick!

It will all be worth it once you get to Kinsale because it is one of the most BEAUTIFUL towns in all of Ireland ! It is the perfect introduction to the Wild Atlantic Way. This is Charles Fort , which is a 300-year old fort that is one of the most beautiful star forts in all of Ireland and is located in Kinsale.

View this post on Instagram Charles Fort, Kinsale. #ireland #irish #irishstyle #charlesfort #fort #kinsale #cork #drone #drones #dronefly #droneshot #dronepics #droneview #dronelife #droneoftheday #dji #djiphantom4 #architecture #architecturelovers #landscapelovers #bestphoto #picsoftheday #igersireland #instaireland #travelphotography #bestphoto #irishirish #irishgirl #irishboy #hostynsky Photo by @hostynskycom A post shared by Hostynsky Photography (@hostynskycom) on Dec 9, 2016 at 3:25pm PST

As well as Charles Fort, there is a huge amount of things to do in Kinsale. James Fort is another really interesting fort that is worth checking out. If you are golf fan then you absolutely have to check out Old Head Golf Links , it is a golf course that is jutting out into the ocean and is one of the most prestigious courses in Ireland if not the world! If golf isn’t your thing you can still drive out here and visit the lighthouse. It’s an incredibly beautiful neck of the woods.

When it comes to food and drink, Kinsale town has a lot to offer. If you want to try something completely unique then you should pop into Kinsale Mead Co. There you can get a tour of their distillery and then taste honey wine, which is what the ancient Vikings used to drink. 

Food & Drink

If you want to see what the micro-brewery scene is like in Ireland then Blacks Brewery is definitely one to check out, they offer brewery tours and beer tasting and it is an experience not to be missed!

If you want to get some delicious food then Finn’s Table is a great choice. They do some delicious, hearty Irish seafood and are famous for their surf and turf as well as their lamb dishes.

If you’re looking for a nice pint of Guinness and a warm cosy fire then you should pop into The Spaniard or Daltons , they are two excellent choices for those looking for some traditional Irish music. Click here to see our full list of The Best Pubs in Kinsale. 

 Accommodation in Kinsale

There are loads of great options to choose from but our pick would have to be Trident Hotel . It’s only a short walk from the town centre and sits out on looking out over the waterfront… It’s gorgeous!

Day 2: Kinsale to Killarney

Route from Kinsale to Killarney

You’ve just had your first full day and now life on the road can truly begin.

Here’s where we start chopping up the route a bit, doing the entire Wild Atlantic Way could take weeks and we want you to get the most out of your week or two here.

This drive takes you from Kinsale to Killarney and is where you will start to really see some gorgeous scenery. This route passes through the town of Bantry and Kenmare which are two beautiful seaside towns that will make for lovely driving.

Bantry is famous for its Bantry Bay Mussels so we highly recommend you stop there and taste them!  The drive to Killarney takes about 3 hours, though it can be shortened if you skip Bantry and Kenmare.

Killarney is an excellent town to spend two nights in because it is one of the most scenic places in Ireland and there is a lot to do. The Killarney National Park is right on your doorstep and it is where you can find the Gap of Dunloe . It is absolutely gorgeous, check it out:

The Gap of Dunloe in Killarney

You can walk it, drive it or even pass through it in a horse-and-cart… So take your pick!

As well as that Muckross Abbey a 600-year old abbey that is one of the oldest in the country and it is absolutely stunning. Muckross House is also right beside the abbey and is very beautiful. If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey then you’ll love Muckross house.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Killarney is a great place to try some traditional Irish Food and Boxty is probably our biggest example of that. Boxty is a type of potato pancake that Irish people used to eat all the time. Bricin is a restaurant that serves boxty in Killarney and it is incredibly delicious! As well as that they have a lovely menu and the restaurant has an excellent reputation for serving top-quality food.

Another great option is Cronin’s Restaurant . They offer some delicious hearty meals and their shepherd’s pie is absolutely wonderful!

Accommodation

The Ross Hotel in Killarney is the perfect hotel to spend a couple of nights. The interior is modern and funky and the staff are incredibly friendly. It’s also located in the heart of Killarney town so the walk home from the pub will be easy!

Day 3: Killarney to Valentia Island then onto Tralee

Route from Killarney to Tralee

This may just be one of the most beautiful driving days yet so savour it, just make sure to hit the road early.

Leaving Killarney town, you will drive through Killarney National Park and over Moll’s Gap. Killarney National Park is definitely one of our favourite drives in Ireland.

View this post on Instagram I'll take the low road, you can take the high road and we'll all meet up in the end 🍀☺️ A post shared by The Valley (@sheathevalley) on Mar 23, 2015 at 12:37pm PDT

After exiting Killarney National Park you will reconnect with the Wild Atlantic Way Route and then you’ll drive along some stunning coastline until you reach the town of Caherdaniel. Just before you enter Caherdaniel be sure to check out Staigue Stone Fort, which is one of the best examples of an ancient Irish ring fort that you can find in Ireland. 

View this post on Instagram Staigue Stone Fort, a ruined stone ringfort in County Kerry, Ireland. The fort is thought to have been built during the late Iron Age, probably somewhere between 300 and 400 AD, as a defensive stronghold for a local lord or king. #staiguefort #ireland #ringofkerry #sneemireland #irelandtravel #drone #drones #fromabove #stonefort #birdseyeview #dronefeed #droneshot #dronestagram #droneoftheday #dronephotography #droneofficial @dronestagr.am A post shared by @ familylifeandtravel on Nov 7, 2018 at 6:54pm PST

From Caherdaniel you will then follow the coast around to Valentia Island which is one of the westernmost points in Ireland. It is an island you can drive over to and there is a whole lot to do here. You could check out the Fogher Cliffs , Ireland’s only sub-tropical garden at  Glanleam House or even check out the ancient tetrapod footprints  (we prefer calling them dinosaur footprints even if it isn’t exactly correct). There’s also O’Sheas ‘pub’ which is a fake pub that was built for a Guinness advertisement then abandoned and left to the ages.

Valentia Island

After Valentia, you will then continue along the Wild Atlantic Way to the town of Tralee to spend the night. Tralee is a gorgeous town and will be a sight for sore eyes after the day’s drive. Tralee is a beautiful, historical town that is the perfect place to spend a night or two.

There’s plenty to see and do along the way so there is no doubt you will be ready for a good hearty meal when you arrive in Tralee. One of the most popular restaurants around is CROI restaurant. They serve some delicious, locally produced food and are very well known for beautiful presentation when it comes to their food. Definitely one to check out!

If you’re looking to enjoy some traditional Irish music, then you must stop by Kirby’s Brogue Inn . It’s a gorgeous pub that has live music nearly every night of the week. Be sure to check their schedule before heading along though! Also, traditional Irish music works a bit differently than live music in other countries. Usually, the musicians arrive bit by bit. So around 9.30 pm one musician may arrive and start playing and then gradually more and more people will arrive to play along. If you stop here make sure to try their traditional cottage pie, it’s delicious!

If you don’t mind staying a couple of miles away from Tralee then we would always recommend staying at Ballyseede Castle . It is a gorgeous hotel filled with an old-world charm and the staff there will treat you like absolute royalty.

If you would prefer to be more centrally located in the town and within walking distance of a pub the have a look at The Ashe Hotel . It’s a fantastic hotel with exceptional service and gorgeous rooms and right in the heart of Tralee.

Tralee is the perfect town to spend two nights in because you could spend an entire day exploring the Dingle Peninsula as well which is incredibly beautiful.

Day 4: Tralee to Galway via The Cliffs of Moher

Wild Atlantic Way

This is another long drive so it definitely would be good to take a break from driving in Tralee for a day or two!

There are two ways to drive from Tralee to the Cliffs of Moher . One involves cutting into the country and driving on motorways for a while through Limerick. It’s a lot less pretty!

Hence why we recommend taking the ferry from Tarbert across to Killimer . You can drive your car on the ferry, the journey only takes 20 minutes and it is a lot more beautiful than driving on the motorway. Tickets cost in the region of €16 and the ferry usually leaves every hour. You can find out more information about the ferry here.

Once you get off the ferry the cliffs are only an hour away in the car. Don’t forget to check the weather before you go (or just look out your window). If it’s too cloudy you won’t be able to see anything from the cliffs which is no fun!

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

If you’re looking for a spot of lunch along the way make sure to stop into Doolin which is one of our favourite towns in Ireland and right beside the cliffs.

You will then continue up the coast towards Galway City. Be sure to stop and check out the beautiful Dungaire Castle along the way. It’s a beautiful 16th-century castle and right beside the road so it makes for a quick stop. They also do castle banquets in the summertime which are meant to be AMAZING!

View this post on Instagram #dungairecastle #ireland #imissitalready #takemeback A post shared by jessickahurley (@jessickahurley) on May 13, 2018 at 10:59am PDT

From the Cliffs to Galway City, it is only a 1 hour and 30-minute drive. Galway city is one of the most beautiful, colourful and vibrant cities in Ireland so you should definitely spend the night here and check out the food and nightlife.

We have written extensively about things to do in Galway before but when it comes to food and drink you will be spoilt for choice. If you are a big tea person then you have to pop into The Secret Garden to check out their delightful selection of teas.

Kai is one of our favourite restaurants in Galway and has a fantastically creative menu which changes every day. It’s also a great spot for veggies too.

Our favourite pint of Guinness in Galway can be found in Naughton’s Bar which is a lovely cosy bar and a perfect example of the quintessential Irish pub.

If you’re looking to stay in one of the most luxurious hotels in the country, then Ashford Castle is the way to go. It’s about 20 miles away from Galway city but really is worth the drive.

If you want to stay in and around Galway City then you have plenty of lovely options. The Harbour Hotel has a great reputation and is a lovely option. As well as that the Park House Hotel is right in the middle of the city and extremely popular with guests.

Day 5: Galway to Clifden

Galway to Clifden

This is a relatively short driving day but by far one of the most beautiful drives in the country. This drive takes you out Galway City and west into the region of Connemara. It is a beautiful region that offers some spectacular scenery along the way. Also if you want to check out the fascinating Glengowla Mines you could stop on the way and take a tour.

Connemara National Park

Clifden is the biggest town in Connemara and there is plenty to do once you arrive there. There is a lot of history in the area including some beautiful castles, old houses from the famine era and mountain hiking. Be sure to check out Clifden Castle and drive the lovely Sky Road while you’re here. They are quite the treat.

Clifden is a great town for food and drink, there are lots of options all within a relatively small area. Our favourite chowder in Ireland can be found at E.J Kings. 

Mitchell’s restaurant is the perfect place to check out if you want to try more authentic Irish food (especially the seafood!). They also put a very interesting spin on the traditional dish of bacon and cabbage which is delicious!

Lowry’s bar has an excellent pint of Guinness and there is usually live music there most nights of the week.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

When it comes to accommodation in Clifden, one of our favourite spots is the Abbeyglen Hotel . This is certainly one of the more quirkier hotels on our list and it’s hard to beat. In the evenings you can relax in their lounge and Brian, the owner will have everyone singing songs late into the night. It’s an incredibly unique hotel and only a 10-minute walk from Clifden town.

Ballynahinch Castle is a bit further away but an incredibly luxurious option if you’re looking to explore Connemara in style.

If you want to stay in the town of Clifden then be sure to check out Clifden Station House , it’s another great option.

Day 5: Clifden to Westport

Map of Clifden to Galway

This is a relatively short day’s drive but it is not to be missed! Especially if you follow the slightly longer route through the jaw-dropping Doolough Valley . It’s a valley To get to the valley you take the first left turn after the town of Leenaun and you will find yourself in a magical valley.

If you’re looking for a challenge then this day would be a perfect day to climb Croagh Patrick , one of Ireland’s most famous mountains. Every year, Irish people go on a pilgrimage up the mountain barefoot but we would definitely recommend wearing shoes!

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

It is right beside Westport and the hike up and back will take about 3-4 hours, depending on how fast you go. The view from the top is absolutely spectacular and you can see for miles and miles in every direction.

Westport is a beautiful old Irish town and you will find that there is plenty to keep you occupied once you arrive. If you’re looking for some old-fashioned pubs with an authentic Irish feel then make sure to have a drink in The Porterhouse or Matt Molloy’s.

If you want to try some of the local food then The Black Truffle is extremely popular with the locals. The Tavern Bar and Restaurant is a lovely place to stop into which is located at the base of Croagh Patrick.

The Wyatt Hotel is smack bang in the middle of Westport and the perfect base camp for your time in Mayo. The customer service there is top notch, the rooms are spacious and the food is lovely.

If you’re looking for something a little cosier, then be sure to check out Augusta Lodge , a very friendly B and B owned by Stephanie and David. There will be some delicious food served here so be sure to bring your appetite!

Day 6: Westport to Donegal town

Map showing the route from Westport to Donegal town

We are approaching the end of our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary but don’t worry; there is so much to do up in Donegal you could spend weeks there and only see half of it and there is a whole lot to do along the way while driving there.

Wild Atlantic Way Trip Itinerary

You could even add on an extra day and head over to Achill Island which is only a short distance west of Westport. This drive will see you passing by one of Ireland’s most spectacular tabletop mountains, Benbulben . That whole area is a photographers paradise and you should definitely stop by and check out Glencar Waterfall which is just past Sligo town. It is also very close to the grave of W. B Yeats , one of Ireland’s most famous poets.

The Gleniff Horseshoe is an absolutely beautiful little valley that offers some lovely hiking and beautiful photo ops so be sure to check it out! It’s also where you can find Ireland’s Highest Cave.

diarmuid and grainne cave

After all this excitement you are now in the county of Donegal where there is so much to see and do so let’s hope you have energy left after your time spent along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Everyone knows about the Cliffs of Moher but few realise that you can find some of the biggest sea cliffs in Europe in Donegal. The roads are so small that the tour buses can’t get out to the Slieve League Cliffs … but you can! The area is still in the process of opening up to tourism so if you want to see some stunning cliffs while avoiding the crowds then these are the cliffs for you.

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

As usual, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Donegal town. The Restaurant at Harvey’s Point is definitely the place to try out if you want to finish your trip in style. They have a wonderful array of food and a fantastic tasting menu.

If you want to try something a bit different then be sure to check out Chandpur Indian restaurant , it has a wonderful reputation as being one of the best Indian restaurants in the county and is definitely something different to try while in Ireland.

If you’re looking to get a seafood fix then head on over to The Salmon Inn  which is the perfect spot to enjoy a gorgeous view coupled with some delicious, fresh food… Not to be missed!

Lough Eske Castle would be one of the best hotels in Ireland and could be a grand way to celebrate the end of your trip. It is very popular and fills up fast, so book early!

We already mentioned their restaurant but Harvey’s Point Hotel is also a lovely hotel that looks out over Lough Eske.

If you’re looking for something in the heart of Donegal town, then the aptly named Central Hotel is the place to go.

Day 7: Donegal to Dublin

Wild Atlantic Way itinerary

This is the end of the trip folks, though you definitely could continue up north to check out the beauty of the Causeway Coast. The drive back to Dublin should take over about three hours.

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

To conclude, we hope you have found this itinerary useful but it is important to remember the following bits:

  • Driving every day is no fun, make sure to space out your time and have a few relaxing days.
  • It is YOUR adventure, so don’t be afraid to adjust the trip so that it suits you best. Don’t be afraid to skip a town, or drive a shorter route. There are plenty of places where you can add a day or take one away on your route.
  • There is a lot to see around Ireland and hundreds of castles to visit so your Wild Atlantic Way trip does not have to be the last trip you make over here.

So enjoy your trip and we hope you have the best possible time exploring the rugged beauty that is the Wild Atlantic Way.

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A Perfect Itinerary Of Wild Atlantic Way Ireland’s Most Epic Road Trip

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About The Author

Oisin feeney.

Oisin is a journalist and award-winning photographer. Published in Lonelyplanet.com, buzz.ie, Derry Journal and Irishcentral.com. Currently working as a tour guide in Ireland, Italy, France and Iceland, Oisin is an expert on Ireland.

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Ultimate guide to the Wild Atlantic Way road trip in Ireland

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The west coast of Ireland is a fairly spectacular place. Striking, rugged cliffs, smashed by waves. Swathes of empty, white-sand beaches line the roadside. The shore is dotted with towering sea stacks and smatterings of tiny islands.

But the best thing about the west coast? The meandering path that is the Wild Atlantic Way. It might not hug the coastline as strictly as California's Highway One, but this road takes in over 1,550 miles of scenery that make for the perfect road trip .

(Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland)

It's easy to stick to its path -- the blue and white signs mark the way, dipping between coastal villages and green fields, the sea never too far away. While it's definitely possible to do it all in one trip (allow at least three weeks to do it right), most people break it into shorter sections, spending four nights in Donegal, Sligo and Mayo, or a few days down in Cork and Kerry. However you want to tackle it, this is your ultimate guide to Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.

What to see

Start right at the top at Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point. This rugged spot at the top of the Northern Headlands of Donegal is one of the most dramatic backdrops you could ask for. It's a great setting for a cliff walk and, if you're there in the summer months, you might just spot a few cyclists finishing up Ireland's longest cycle , the Mizen to Malin trek. Be sure to spend some time exploring the Inishowen Peninsula, taking in the pretty little beaches and keeping a close eye on the water -- this is prime whale-watching territory.

Slieve League's 600-metere high sea cliffs. (Photo by Walter Bibikow/Getty Images)

Head down the coast and you'll reach Sliabh Liag (Slieve League), the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The Cliffs of Moher might get all the attention (and the crowds), but if you're lucky, you'll have this spot all to yourself. Be warned, though -- the path is pretty tired in spots, and there's not too much between you and the crashing waves below.

Read more : 6 of the best golf courses in Ireland

Evening light

If you're heading there in the winter months (and it's highly recommended you do), then you might just be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights , which often dance in the Donegal sky. And if you're there in the summer, you're gifted with long, languorous days — it often doesn't get dark until midnight, which is handy for the stroll back to bed after a night spent in the local pub.

Where to eat

On the road between Sliabh Liag and Donegal town, you'll find Killybegs Seafood Shack, serving up super fresh seafood right on the pier. Get some piping hot fish and chips and sit with your feet dangling over the harbor's edge. For something a little fancier, Foyle Hotel dishes up some of the best food in the northwest, courtesy of TV chef Brian McDermott. Don't be fooled by the hotel setting -- this place is more of a restaurant with rooms. If you're in the mood for more seafood, then pop into Fisk at the Harbour Bar in Downings. It's right on the beach, and its meaty crab claws with seaweed butter are legendary.

Where to stay

Fancy something a little different? Lough Mardal has five beautiful yurts, kitted out with antique furniture and cozy wood-burning stoves. Sitting out on the deck with a glass of wine and those gigantic Donegal skies is pretty much heaven on earth. Yurts are from $140 per night.

Just outside Donegal town, Lough Eske Castle is a gorgeous five-star hotel with a great spa and excellent restaurant. Set right on the edge of the lake, there are also fabulous walking trails that you can tackle after a mammoth breakfast. Rates are from $240 per night.

(Photo courtesy of Lough Eske)

Sligo and Mayo

You've probably seen a fair bit of Sligo on screen as the backdrop for much of the BBC series "Normal People." You'll recognize the dreamy, desolate sands of Streedagh Strand from Marianne and Connell's romantic walks along the beach.

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But apart from its newfound reputation among lovestruck millennials, Sligo is also the surf capital of Ireland. You can take on the baby waves in Strandhill or watch the serious surfers on the monster waves in Mullaghmore -- this is the kind of place where people get choppered in to take on the big waves in the winter. If you'd rather stick to solid land, climb one of the local mountains, like Knocknarea in Strandhill or the big kahuna, Benbulben (you'll spot its distinctive ridges from pretty much all over the city).

Read more : From Connemara to the Giant's Causeway: 9 of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland

Down along the coast is the underrated county of Mayo. When you drive the Wild Atlantic Way, the road is punctuated with jagged bronze wayfarers, pointing out a spot that's dramatically beautiful and worth pulling in for. There are more than 150 of these Discovery Points, but a huge chunk of them are along the Mayo coastline. One of the best is Downpatrick Head, a chunk of headland that's peculiarly bouncy -- like walking on grass Tellytubby domes. The sea stack at its edge is particularly gorgeous. The best way to see it? Crawl up the cliff's edge and lie on your belly. It'll make your knees tremble, but it's an unbeatable view.

The seastack at Downpatrick Head. (Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland)

In Sligo, you can't beat Eithne's by the Sea, in Mullaghmore. Overlooking the harbor, you'll find platters of local shellfish and catch of the day. In the chichi beachside village of Rosses Point, The Driftwood is a brilliant spot for a huge plate of lobster doused in smoked garlic butter. It has cute bedrooms upstairs, too.

If you have loyalty program points to spend, the Radisson Blu Rosses Point is a fabulous hotel with a fantastic restaurant and plenty of al fresco seating. The spa is pretty nifty, too. Rates are from $185 per night or 57,000 points.

Down in Mayo, Ashford Castle is one of the finest hotels in the whole country, a dreamily luxurious spot on the lakeshore with a classically Irish sense of luxury – you'll get top-notch service, but with a cheeky wink. Oh, and it has two resident Irish wolfhounds that you can walk each morning, too. Rates are from $408 per night.

(Photo courtesy of Ashford Castle)

Galway and Clare

Down in this neck of the woods, it's all about the beaches. Leaving Mayo and coming into Galway, you first catch a glimmer of the impossibly gorgeous Connemara landscape with its wide expanses of rock-strewn fields rolling down towards the sea. Make sure you take in the pretty coastal villages of Roundstone and Clifden -- they may get busy with tourists in the summer, but they're still worth a pit stop.

(Photo by Tourism Ireland)

If you have a little more time to spare, then it's worth exploring some of the islands dotted off the coast -- the easiest is probably Achill (though this is up in Mayo, it's the only island accessible by bridge). If you have a full day or two, the Aran Islands are almost otherworldly, with their crumbling stonewalls and beaches that belong in the tropics . Inis Oirr is the understated favorite, if only because of its resident dolphin Dusty and the ale named after it (Inis Beer).

Inisheer. (Photo courtesy of

In the village of Roundstone, a visit to O'Dowd's is pretty much mandatory. In the winter, the tiny pub is filled with the scent of smoldering turf on the fire. In the summer, you can take one of the outdoor seats and sit in the sunshine (if it's there). But either way, you simply can't beat a platter of oysters and a pint of Guinness -- it's a match made in heaven. If you're driving to the Connemara National Park, stop into Misunderstood Heron by Killary Fjord. This little food truck serves up the best mussels around, plucked from the very waters a few feet away.

When it comes to glorious Connemara boltholes, you simply can't beat Ballynahinch Castle. An absolutely beautiful spot right on the water, this is the epitome of countryside coziness, with beautiful heritage rooms, captivating views and fireplaces around every corner. The restaurant is one of the finest in the country, too. Rates are from $276 per night.

Of all the counties around Ireland aside from Dublin, Kerry is the one that's probably most flocked to by visitors. And who can blame them? This is a county that has it all -- striking lakes, perfect beaches and mountains that look like something out of a Toblerone advert. Cut in from the coast a little and drive the Ring of Kerry and through the Killarney National Park , stopping whenever you can to take in the view. Check out Gleninchaquin Park, too -- it's where Annie Leibovitz shot "Star Wars" star Adam Driver for Vogue.

A view from the Ring of Kerry. (Photo by Tourism Ireland)

Along the coast, hang around for a glimpse of the Skellig islands (you might recognize them as a Jedi sanctuary from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"). If you have the time and the weather is on your side, then head out to Skellig Michael, a seriously impressive structure with steep, weather-worn stone steps leading to a monastery almost 1,500 years old. If you fancy a real adventure, climb Carrauntoohil -- it's the tallest mountain in Ireland, but there are several routes up to the top, Devil's Ladder probably being the most accessible. It's probably best to go with a guide if you're not an experienced hill climber.

Views from Killarney National Park (Photo by Peter Zelei Images/Getty Images)

Kenmare is a great little foodie stop, with a number of brilliant restaurants and cafés. The cute Boathouse Bistro is a short hop out of the town, perched right on the water with a cool maritime feel. The fish and chips are exceptional (as are the fish tacos and selection of rosé wines). Don't skip a visit to Kenmare Ice Cream either, where classic flavors are whipped up with local cream.

One of Ireland's most beloved hotels, the Park Hotel Kenmare, is just a couple of minutes walk away from the town but has the feel of a palatial country manor. Its spa is one of the finest you could hope for -- numbers are limited so it's never crowded, and the outdoor infinity hot tub is set right in the trees for a truly magical soak among nature. Rates are from $285 per night.

Along the road by the Boathouse Bistro is Dromquinna Manor, with some cool glamping options -- you can stay in an ultra-chic converted Potting Shed or a sleek safari-style tent. Both are kitted out with sumptuous bedding, antique furniture and every little luxury you could ask for. Rates are from $240 per night.

Cork is an absolute beast of a county, so don't try to do it all too quickly. Kick things off in West Cork, home of giant, blue-flag beaches and whale-watching tours. One thing you definitely shouldn't miss? Night kayaking in Lough Hyne, a saltwater lake close to the town of Skibbereen. You'll set out at dusk and before long, you'll be paddling under the night sky. But it's far from dark below the water -- move your oar through the lake and you'll see the dazzle of bioluminescence. It's a magical sight.

Read more : The ultimate guide to visiting Cork, Ireland

Mizen Head Bridge. (Photo by Darren Leeming/Getty Images)

For a poetic end to the Wild Atlantic Way, head to Ireland's most southerly point, Mizen Head. There's a cool suspension bridge and great lighthouse views, plus the waters that surround it are often filled with minke, fin and humpback whales. If you want to head out to the furthest point, take a boat to Fastnet Rock, a dramatic little island that's known as Ireland's Teardrop — it was the last patch of Ireland that emigrants would see as they sailed off to America .

Loch Hyne nature reserve. (Photo byPhilDarby/Getty Images)

The food scene is huge in West Cork, with plenty of Ireland's best producers supplying the rest of the country with the best artisan cheeses and charcuterie. That means there are Farmer's Markets aplenty, so you'll never be short of picnic supplies. Head to Toonsbridge Dairy for its killer halloumi and smoked scarmorza or nab a pizza fresh out of the clay oven, smeared with spicy 'nduja.

Kinsale is a paradise for food lovers, so you're never short of a good bite there. Cork is also home to some of the newest Michelin stars in Ireland -- Mews Restaurant in Baltimore and Chestnut in Ballydehob are two of the best spots in the country, as is new recipient Bastion in Kinsale. In Cork city, Chef Takashi Miyazaki's incredible tiny Japanese spot Ichigo Ichie is one of the hottest tables in Ireland, let alone Cork.

If you want to make the most of the water, stay on Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, where the ocean is basically on your doorstep. It's the best place for sea kayaking, so make sure you book a paddle when you're there. Rates are from $212 per night.

For a cooler B&B vibe, try Roseville in Youghal -- it has two completely self-sufficient rooms in the walled garden, which come with a pantry stuffed to the brim with local bread, cheeses and yogurts. Rates are from $137 per night.

How to get there

The main airports along the coast are Shannon (SNN), Kerry (KIR), Ireland West Knock (NOC) and Cork (ORK). From there we definitely recommend renting a car.

Bottom line

A nice long road trip is a great way to experience the delights of a new country without coming into contact with too many other people. The scenery on the west coast of Ireland is fantastic, varied and exciting, and the island is small enough that you can do it over a leisurely week or two. Bear in mind some of our insider tips of where to stay and eat and you'll have the road trip of a lifetime.

Wild Atlantic Way Route Planner: How to Plan a Perfect Road Trip in Ireland

November 11, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you have been planning that dream trip , and looking for the best Wild Atlantic Way Route planner, you have got to the right place! Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way is undeniably one of the best experiences you can have in Ireland.

Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal routes in the world at an impressive 1600 miles (2600 km) long, so there’s a lot to see. Of course, you might not have time to drive the entire route. This is why it’s been split up into fourteen different sections , to give you a chance to explore this magical part of Ireland, even if you only have a day or two!

The first thing you’ll notice about any Wild Atlantic Way itinerary is its sheer beauty and ruggedness. Boasting pristine beaches, staggering cliffs, and picturesque islands, the scenery here is jaw-dropping. Whatever your interests, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time in this part of the world!

This Wild Atlantic Way route planner will go through key information like the best time to visit, how to explore the route, and the best places to stay. I’ve also included information on some key highlights that you don’t want to miss! If driving the whole route, you’ll be traveling through 9 different Irish counties so there’s a lot to see. Get ready to discover the best of the Wild Atlantic Route with this ultimate planner!

5. Wild Atlantic Way Sign

Wild Atlantic way route itinerary

When is the best time to Travel to Wild Atlantic Way?

Let’s start this Wild Atlantic Way route planner guide with the most important question: When is the best time to visit it? My genuine answer to you is that the best time to visit the Wild Atlantic Way will completely depend on what you want from your trip.

If you’re looking for the best weather, then the summer months of June, July, and August will offer you the highest temperatures and best weather conditions. However, this is also the busiest time to visit the Wild Atlantic Way. Due to this, you can expect relatively busy roads, lots of crowds at popular tourist destinations, and more expensive accommodation prices. Not only are hotels more expensive but they can often get booked up in advance.

For this reason, the best time to visit would be during Spring or Fall. This could be April-May or Sep-Oct , but either way, you’ll have a much quieter experience. Accommodation prices are likely to be much lower, and you’ll have a better experience at iconic attractions like the Cliffs of Moher.

Some people also choose to drive the Wild Atlantic Way during the winter . Just be wary as conditions can be quite blustery. If you’re not too bothered about the weather then it’s a great time to visit as the roads will be much quieter.

Atlantic way Ireland planner

How Long do I need to explore the Wild Atlantic Way?

Now, this is the million-dollar question and the answer is – how long is a piece of string? I know that doesn’t sound very helpful but honestly, you could spend anywhere from 3 days to 4 weeks exploring this incredible part of the world.

If you’re looking to drive the entire coastal route then you’ll need at least 1 week . However, I highly recommend spending two weeks here instead if you can. One week will allow you to get from A to B but it’s likely to feel rushed, and you won’t get to make as many stop-offs.

For those lucky individuals who have even more time, then 2-3 weeks is the optimal time I’d recommend for the Wild Atlantic Way . There’s just so much to see, and you can make as many stop-offs as you want this way. You’ll even be able to head inland and hit up some sights too.

If you’ve got less than 1 week in Ireland, then you’ll really only be able to drive a few sections of the route so choose your favorite! To make your planning super easy, I have put together this ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary, so you can go into details and plan accordingly.

Hopefully, this Wild Atlantic Way route planner will give you a good idea of where to visit.

Wild Atlantic way itinerary

How to Get to Wild Atlantic Way?

It’s important to note that you can start the Wild Atlantic Way at any point. You’ve got complete flexibility when it comes to your route, and remember, you don’t have to drive the whole thing if you don’t want to .

For those who are planning to drive the whole coastal route then there are two main starting points; the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal and Kinsale in County Cork . This is where the route technically ‘starts’ and ‘ends’ and you can drive it either way.

There are five international airports in Ireland; Belfast (which is Northern Ireland), Dublin, Knock, Shannon, and Cork. If you’re starting from the North, then you’re best off flying into Belfast as you’ll be just a 2-hour drive from County Donegal. If you’d prefer to start from Cork in the South then naturally, you’ll fly into Cork or even Shannon which isn’t too far away.

For those in the United Kingdom, you can catch the ferry to Dublin or Belfast. This way, you can bring your own car over and just start your route from there. The same goes for France although it’s a much longer ferry ride!

Atlantic way route planner

Best Way to Travel Around Wild Atlantic Way

Now there are a couple of ways that you can travel along this iconic route. This Wild Atlantic Way route planner is going to outline each way, and discuss which is the best.

1. By Rental Car

Renting a car is by far the best way to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. This is because it offers you complete freedom and flexibility. You won’t be restricted to public transport or tour schedules, and you can create your own itinerary based on where you’d like to visit.

Yo u need an online company to help you quickly and easily find the best rates possible. And Discover Cars is an amazing company. So, to rent a car in Ireland just go to their website, enter your preferred pick-up location, and select your favorite rental car pick-up

Depending on which airport you fly into, you should be able to just pick up a rental car from there. Then, you’re set to go! As I just mentioned if you’re traveling from the United Kingdom you can take your own car via the ferry.

Just keep in mind that you’ll need to get accustomed to the roads in Ireland as many of them are relatively small. You’ll also encounter plenty of sharp bends, tractors, cyclists, and even cattle so just keep that in mind. Another thing to note is the amount of time required to get between places.

No matter the speed limit, always allow for extra travel time on this Wild Atlantic Way route planner. It’s easy to get delayed, and you often won’t be able to go the speed limit anyway due to twists and turns.

Wild atlantic way route planner

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2. By Public transport

It is possible to explore most of the Wild Atlantic Way by public transport. However, it doesn’t allow you nearly as much freedom. First of all, you’ll need to note there are six regions of this route. These are the Northern Headlands, Surf Coast, Bay Coast, Cliff Coast, Southern Peninsulas, and Haven Coast.

The services and timetables tend to differ with each region so that’s something you’ll need to consider. Some of the services only operate in the summer during peak months too so you’ll want to keep that in mind.

There are two main services along the Wild Atlantic Way and these are TFI local link and Bus Éireann. Most of the sections offer both types of service, but the Cliff Coast section is only covered by Bus Éireann. For more information, you can check out this guide from Transport for Ireland .

If you’re unable to drive, then you can get around by using the bus services. However, your time in each place and tourist attraction will be limited to the bus schedules and honestly, it’s a lot of effort to keep track of the times.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

3. By Organized Tours

Ireland is extremely popular with tourists, especially with citizens from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. Although the UK is just a hop over the Irish Sea, North America is a fair trek and you may just want to relax once you get here.

If that’s the case then your best option is to head out on an organized tour. This way, all the transport and accommodation are included and you won’t have to sort these out yourself. Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way by organized tour is convenient , but you will have to share your experience with plenty of others as they’re often large coach tours.

You’ve also got the option of booking through online companies such as Get Your Guide and Viator . The benefits when you book with them are that they work with high-quality tours and offer flexible cancelation policies. They are the tours I use, trust, and recommend to my readers. Here are my top choices for short organized tours:

Cliffs of Moher and Blarney 2-Day Tour from Dublin

This overnight tour will take you to several popular destinations including the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Cork, and the city of Limerick. Accommodation, transport, breakfast, and admission fees are all included in this tour.

Ireland: 2-Day Wild Atlantic Way Tour

With this tour, you’ll get to visit some of the most popular spots in Ireland on this tour including the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. This jam-packed itinerary will allow you to see so much of this iconic route!

From Galway Day Tour: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour

This day tour will allow you to admire the dramatic landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way. It lasts for around 7.5 hours and includes the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin.

4. By Private Tours

If you’d prefer not to go on an organized tour then I’d recommend looking at private tours . Essentially, the difference will be you’ll just have a guide/driver, rather than traveling with a group of other people.

Although they often tend to be much more expensive, many of them offer you a customizable itinerary. This way, you can tell your driver your ‘must-see’ spots and they’ll make sure they’re included. Depending on your time frame and budget, you can either head out on day tours or multi-day tours. Here are a few of the best private tours on offer:

Ring of Kerry Private Tour from Cork

This private full-day tour will take you along the Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry. You’ll truly get to appreciate the beauty of Ireland’s landscapes and will have a knowledgeable guide with you at all times.

Cliffs of Moher, Burren, and Wild Atlantic Way Private Tour from Galway

With this tour, you’ll get to see popular sights including the Cliffs of Moher, Dunguaire Castle, Corkscrew Hill, and the Burren, all while traveling around in a private vehicle.

This tour offers a custom itinerary for up to seven people so you can enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way as a family or small group. Your tour guide will stop off at your requested spots and teach you all about the Irish culture along the way.

Best Places to Stay at Wild Atlantic Way

You’re going to need at least 3-5 days to drive the Wild Atlantic Way route , so you’re going to need a base or two. If you’re just driving a small part of the route, then you can always just base yourself on one destination. Just make sure it’s in a relatively central location so you can make the most of your time here.

For those who are looking to drive the entire route, you’ll want to stay in several towns along the way. It’s the best method for splitting up your trip and this way, you won’t have to drive back and too along the same stretches of road.

This Wild Atlantic Way route planner is going to outline the best towns/areas to stay in. This will allow you to split up your trip. I’ve also included one for several counties so you’ve got plenty of options. So let’s take a look at where to stay and some great accommodation options for each place!

Letterkenny, County Donegal

The largest town in County Donegal, Letterkenny has a lot to offer. It’s known for its incredible architecture, fantastic nightlife, and Irish culture which makes it a great base for your trip. However it’s right at the start/end (depending on which way you drive) of the Wild Atlantic Way, so is only suitable for one day really unless you’re planning to do just one or two sections.

  • Luxury: Rockhill House – One of the grandest places in Co. Donegal, this hotel offers luxurious rooms and a beautiful location.
  • Mid-range: Radisson Blu Hotel – Known for its fantastic facilities including an indoor pool, steam room, sauna, fitness center, and bar.
  • Budget: Mels Accommodation – A great low-cost option, this place offers cozy rooms and is in a brilliant spot for sightseeing.

Westport, County Mayo

The town of Westport overlooks Chew Bay and it’s an incredibly scenic place to stay. Full of beauty and charm, this place is a great option for one or two nights. It’s situated along the Carrowbeg River and you’ll find plenty of things to do here. That includes visiting Westport House, hiring a bike to explore the nearby area, and heading out on a cruise.

  • Luxury: Westport Plaza Hotel, Spa & Leisure – This 4* hotel offers luxurious rooms, excellent facilities, and multiple dining options.
  • Mid-range: Clew Bay Hotel – All of the rooms are elegantly decorated and you’ll have free access to the leisure center next door.
  • Budget: Cú Chulainns Accommodation – This place offers cheap (but cozy) rooms, an on-site bar, and free Wi-Fi.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Clifden, County Galway

Next up we have Clifden which is one of my personal favorites. It’s a charming market town that’s famous for its stunning location, as it’s situated between the Twelve Bens mountain range and the ocean. Aside from the scenery, you’ll find plenty of great food spots and pubs, and there are lots of things to do in Clifden . Don’t miss driving on Sky Road or visiting Clifden Castle

  • Luxury: Abbeyglen Castle Hotel – One of the most luxurious hotels in the area, you’ll be staying in a castle that dates back to 1832.
  • Mid-range: Buttermilk Lodge Guest Accommodation – With a great location, cozy rooms, and free breakfast, it’s a great option.
  • Budget: All the Twos Lodge – This quaint guesthouse offers reasonably-priced rooms, mountain views, and a large guest sitting room.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Doolin, County Clare

As the country’s music capital and the gateway to the iconic Cliffs of Moher , Doolin is a popular spot for an overnight stay or two. Boasting breathtaking ocean views, traditional Irish music, and clifftop walks, this isn’t a place you want to miss. Of course, you can just visit for a couple of hours, but why rush your time here? Especially, as there are plenty of fantastic accommodation options!

  • Luxury: Fiddle + Bow Hotel – Not only will you be in a great location, but breakfast is included and the rooms are extremely cozy.
  • Mid-range: Sheedy’s Doolin – Each room here at Sheedy’s Dooling includes a private bathroom, free WiFi, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Budget: Coastal View House – The rooms here are beautiful and you’ll be in a great location for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Dingle, County Kerry

Dingle is one of the most picturesque towns along the Wild Atlantic Way and that’s saying something! It’s located along the Dingle Peninsula and is famous for its pristine beaches, dramatic scenery, and colorful buildings. This place was once home to the famous ‘Fungi the Dolphin’ who used to play in the harbor and had been welcoming guests since 1984. Unfortunately, he’s not been seen for a year or two now.

  • Luxury: Cill Bhreac House B&B – Boasting stunning views, rooms overlooking the bay, and plenty of outdoor areas, this is a great option.
  • Mid-range: Dingle Benners Hotel – It’s the oldest hotel in Dingle and offers traditional Irish dishes, cozy rooms, and a bar.
  • Budget: Seaview Heights – This guest house is just a short walk from the seafront and offers beautiful rooms with plenty of amenities.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Kinsale, County Cork

Last but certainly not least, we have Kinsale. Like Letterkenny, this will either be the ‘start’ or ‘end’ of your coastal route. For this reason, you’ll only really need to stay for one night. This beautiful town is colorful and picturesque, and you won’t run out of things to do here either. During your time here, you can go on a food tour, take a kayak out to explore, and head up to Charles Fort which is truly impressive.

  • Luxury: Trident Hotel Kinsale – This is one of the most beautiful hotels you’ll find in Kinsale and many of the rooms offer harbor views.
  • Mid-range: The Lemon Leaf Café Bar and Townhouse – Situated right in the heart of town, you’ll be in a great spot for sightseeing.
  • Budget: Danabel B&B – One of the cheapest options in Kinsale and you’ll be just a short walk from the town center.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

What are the Best Points of Interest at Wild Atlantic Way

Whether you’re interested in dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, or charming towns, this iconic coastal route has something for everyone. Depending on the time you have, it’s likely you’re not going to have the time to visit everywhere you want to. This Wild Atlantic Way route planner section highlights the best post of interest.

To make the most of your Wild Atlantic trip I recommend doing some research and pulling together a list of your top places. You can then add them to a map, and go from there. But, with so many places on offer, how do you possibly decide where to visit?

Below I’m going to list the absolute must-sees (in my opinion) of the Wild Atlantic Way. There are plenty of highlights to this iconic route, but there are a few places that you just can’t miss. Luckily this Wild Atlantic Way route planner is going to discuss the places you need to prioritize!

1. Malin Head, County Donegal

Malin Head offers some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes and you’ll literally be standing right on the edge of Ireland (and Europe for that matter). It’s the most Northern point of the mainland and there are plenty of great walks nearby. Aside from the breathtaking scenery, you’ll also want to keep an eye out for birdlife and marine life here.

Malin Head, Ireland

2. Fanad Head, County Donegal

Out on the Fanad Peninsula, you’ll come across Fanad Head Lighthouse . This lighthouse was built after a tragedy took place here in 1811 due to a ship being wrecked off the coast in a storm. Today, the lighthouse is still working and you can actually climb to the top on a tour and admire the views. There are also three accommodation options here.

Wild atlantic way Route planner Ireland

3. Slieve League, County Donegal

Slieve League is where you’ll find the highest cliff faces in Ireland standing at a towering 1,972 feet (601 meters). They’re actually one of the highest cliff faces across the European continent in fact. To start your adventure, you’ll want to head to Slieve League Cliffs Centre . Then you’ll want to walk up to the viewpoints, and admire the breathtaking vistas all around you!

Wild Atlantic way route itinerary

4. Downpatrick Head, County Mayo

Downpatrick Head is home to one of the coolest natural formations you’ll ever see, as it’s a sea stack located off the coast. However, Dún Briste Sea Stack isn’t the only attraction here. There’s a coastal trail which is a must-do if you want to admire the views, and it’s also a great spot for seeing nesting birds. If you’ve got a clear day, you’ll also be able to see the Staggs of Broadhaven islands.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

5. Kildavnet Castle, County Mayo

Ireland is home to over 3,000 castles, but this is one of the most scenic ones along the Wild Atlantic Way. The tower house at Kildavnet Castle has been around since 1429 and it’s been home to various families and individuals over the centuries. Although there’s not too much to see, the castle has a breathtaking backdrop of sea views and mountains.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

6. Aran Islands, County Galway

To make the most of your time in the Aran Islands you’ll want to allow a full day for this experience. There are three islands in total but the most popular by far is the island of Inishmore. You can easily catch a ferry over (where you might get to spot dolphins) but you can’t bring a car. No matter what; the best way to explore is to hire a bicycle and see the sights that way.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

7. Galway City, County Galway

Galway is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland if you’re after traditional music, delicious dishes, and Irish culture. Boasting a wide variety of attractions, pubs, and quirky stores, you won’t run out of things to do in Galway. You want to allow at least a full day here and you can stay overnight if you wish. However, Clifden isn’t too far away and that’s a more scenic place to stay in my opinion.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

8. The Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most visited attractions in Ireland and it’s not hard to see why! Aside from the fact that they were a filming location in Harry Potter, these cliffs are undeniably beautiful. The scenery is rugged and dramatic, and you’ve got a great chance of spotting marine life from the clifftop trail. One of the best ways to explore the area is to hike the Cliffs of Moher . There’s also a visitor center here which you should walk around. Honestly, this incredible destination is a must for your Ireland bucket list !

Wild Atlantic way route planner

9. The Ring of Kerry, County Kerry

Next up is the Ring of Kerry which is a scenic drive that takes you around the Iveragh Peninsula. There’s a lot to see in this area including the Gap of Dunloe, Moll’s Gap, and Torc Waterfall. In total, the route is around 111 miles (179 km), and along the way, you’ll get to see dramatic coastal cliffs, lush rolling hills, and beautiful beaches. There are plenty of great hotels on the Ring of Kerry too so you won’t be short of accommodation options during your visit!

Wild Atlantic way route planner

10. Great Skellig, County Kerry

The Great Skellig (or Skellig Michael) is a rugged island that’s located off the coast of County Kerry. Although the island itself is wild and beautiful, there’s another reason to visit here. The ruins of an old monastery are located on top of Great Skellig making this place one of the only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country (the other is Brú na Bóinne). Great Skellig is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland so don’t leave it off your itinerary!

Wild Atlantic way route planner

11. Mizen Head, County Cork

As you get towards the start/end of your route, you’ll come to Mizen Head . It’s the most southwesterly point in Ireland and offers jaw-dropping views, a visitor center, and a fantastic trail. Although this may not be the best idea for those scared of heights, you’ll want to look down whilst here. If you’re lucky, you might get to spot seals, dolphins, and whales.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

12. Old Head of Kinsale, County Cork

Another great place to visit is the Old Head of Kinsale. Like many of the other places listed above it offer stunning coastal views, but there are plenty of other things to do here as well. You can head to the golf course, walk the Old Head of Kinsale Loop, or admire the Old Head Lighthouse. You can even go on a kayaking tour if you wish!

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Additional Tips for Your Wild Atlantic Way Route Planner

1. wild atlantic way distances.

As the total distance of the Wild Atlantic Way is over 1600 miles (2600 km) long, it’s been split up into 14 different sections to help make decisions that little bit easier. For those who are short of time, you can simply drive along specific stages of the route! You can also check my detailed Wild Atlantic Way itinerary for more details.

Here are the 14 different stages of the Wild Atlantic Way Route:

  • Inishowen Peninsula: Muff to Letterkenny (122 miles/197 km)
  • Fanad Head: Letterkenny to Bunbeg (101 miles/163 km)
  • Slieve League Coast: Bunbeg to Donegal Town (106 miles/170 km)
  • Donegal Bay and Sligo: Donegal Town to Ballina (119/192 km)
  • Erris: Ballina to Belmullet (132 miles/213 km)
  • Achill Island and Clew Bay: Belmullet to Westport (148 miles/238 km)
  • Killary Harbour: Westport to Clifden (103 miles/165 km)
  • Connemara: Clifden to Galway (109 miles/176 km)
  • The Burren and West Clare: Galway to Kilkee (102 miles/164 km)
  • The Shannon Estuary: Kilkee to Tralee (134 miles/216 km)
  • Dingle Peninsula: Tralee to Castlemaine (93 miles/150 km)
  • Ring of Kerry: Castlemaine to Kenmare (109 miles/175 km)
  • Beara and Sheep’s Head: Kenmare to Durrus (130 miles/210 km)
  • West Cork: Durrus to Kinsale (129 miles/207 km)

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

2. Wild Atlantic Way Passport

If you’re looking for a unique way to record your travels whilst here then I’d recommend picking up a Wild Atlantic Way passport! It’s essentially a quirky blue logbook that provides information and has over 20 stamping pages. What’s the purpose of these stamp pages you ask?

Well, for those who’ve been to specific discovery points you can call the local post office and get a unique stamp for each one. It’s a really cool way to document your trip to Ireland and is something that you’ll be able to keep forever.

As far as I’m aware, these passports can be purchased for €10 at selected post offices and Fáilte Ireland Tourist Information Centre, among other locations. Supposedly you can buy them online too, but I couldn’t find a link for this anywhere, unfortunately!

The purpose of this passport was to increase tourism in less-popular routes as you’d have to stop off in town to get your pages stamped.

3. Consider how long you have for your Wild Atlantic Way trip

Another top tip is to keep in mind how long you’ve got for your trip. This isn’t a place you want to rush as there’s so much to see, so it may be best to split up your visit depending on the time you have. As I’ve mentioned previously there are 14 separate sections and you don’t have to drive them all at once if you don’t want to.

Some people do prefer to cram in as much as possible but this all depends on your travel preferences! Here’s an idea of how you can split up your trip (this is based on those with a car):

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

4. Choose which way to do the route

As I’ve mentioned earlier the Wild Atlantic Way has two main ‘start’ and ‘endpoints. However, there’s no specific way you need to drive the route. You can change the direction based on your preference.

Typically, most people drive the Wild Atlantic Way from North to South. This way, you’ll be starting from County Donegal and then ending up in County Cork. Although the most popular option, you can drive the route from South to North and there’s a big reason for this.

First of all, cars drive on the left here rather than the right so you’ll be closer to the ocean if you drive from the South. Driving the route this way means you’ll get much better views of the surrounding landscapes. If you’re already on the left side then it’s easier to pull in at the side of the road as you won’t have to cross traffic.

Wild Atlantic way route planner

Keep an eye on the Wild Atlantic Way signs. There are signposts along the route, so it is relatively easy to follow. They are brown tourist signs and they’ll have a blue section that just looks like a wave. Many of these signs will also have a North and South option. This is especially handy if you’re struggling with your location!

However, some people do report that they struggle with the signs and have missed a few. This can easily happen if you’re concentrating on driving on the other side of the road (if you’re not used to being on the left). For this reason, it’s best to have a map (either physical or digital) with you in case you go off the route by accident.

Generally, if you don’t see a sign for a good couple of kilometers you’ll want to check you’re on the right route. Either pull over or get your traveling companion to check for you. With this, we conclude this ultimate Wild Atlantic Way route planner!

Wild Atlatic way route planner

Wild Atlantic Way Route Planner Conclusion

As you can see there’s a lot to think about when planning a trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. From finding places to visit to looking for accommodation, there’s a lot to consider when traveling this iconic route.

Hopefully, this Wild Atlantic Way route planner has given you a good idea of the top things to do, and the best places to stay, and has offered some tips to ensure you have the best time possible! How much of the route you drive will all depend on the timeframe you have. Because of that, it’s best to work out how long you’ve got and then you can plan from there.

If you’ve got any further questions about this Wild Way Route planner and how to best visit this magical part of Ireland then just leave a comment below. If you’ve done the route yourself, where did you stay and what were your highlights?

If you are planning a trip to Ireland, then here are some other guides for you:

  • 25 Best Things to Do in Killarney
  • Ultimate Guide How to Visit Dublin in a Day
  • A perfect Dublin 2-day itinerary
  • Top-rated Dublin Tours to Take
  • How to hike the Causeway Coast Way
  • Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary
  • The Best Things to Do in Kerry, Ireland
  • How to Drive Ring of Kerry
  • How to Drive the Dingle Peninsula
  • 30 Famous Landmarks in Ireland

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Mizen Head, Ireland with the Atlantic coast cliffs at County Cork.

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip: Our Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary on Ireland's West Coast

Expect imposing landscapes, breathtaking views and plenty of Irish charm on this incredibly scenic road trip from Muff to Kinsale on the Wild Atlantic Way. At 7 days long, this ultimate road trip takes in the entire west coast of Ireland, from the northernmost point to the most southerly point of the country.

This 7-day road trip along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is 1, 790 km long and has a drive time of 32 hours and 20 minutes. On this drive, you will visit Dunfanaghy, Enniscrone, Galway, Limerick, Dingle, Kenmare and Kinsale and admire coastal sights.

Your 7-day road trip on Wild Atlantic Way: the best day-by-day itinerary

What is the best 7-day road trip on the wild atlantic way.

Quaint villages, friendly welcomes, Irish music and plenty of fun await you on this road trip. If you like the outdoors, you will be bombarded by opportunities for walking, hiking, swimming, water sports, land sports and horse riding along the way.

Achill Island, Ireland with sheep on a cliff in focus, Keem beach out of focus, Achill island in county Mayo, Ireland, warm sunny day. Clear blue sky and water of the Atlantic ocean. Irish landscape

For a more sedate experience, there will be plenty of views to admire and beaches to stroll along. This will be an unforgettable trip, jam-packed from start to finish.

If you want to stretch this out, you could easily spend a couple of extra days in Connemara, Achill Island or the Dingle Peninsula.

The average daily drive is 4 hours 30 minutes, and the longest drive will be the one from Enniscrone to Galway on day 3 at 5 hours and 50 minutes. If this road trip sounds like a bit of you, keep reading to find our ultimate 7-day itinerary including daily distances, places to stay and things to do along the way.

Day 1: Driving from Muff to Dunfanaghy

The first day's drive covers nearly 240 km and has a drive time of 4 hours 30 minutes, not accounting for any stops en route. This is a spectacular way to start this epic road trip of a lifetime, and an excellent introduction to the Irish coastline.

County Donegal, Ireland with hypnotizing views at Fanad Head Lighthouse at early evening.

Road trip route from Muff to Dunfanaghy

Your unforgettable coastal road trip starts in Muff, Co. Donegal and heads along the north coast of Ireland. It's a bit of a curvy drive as you follow the coast to Malin Head, through the Fanad Peninsula and on to Dunfanaghy.

Along the way, you'll pass through the capital of Co. Donegal, Letterkenny, which is a good spot to pick up some supplies or grab a bit of lunch. As you drive along the coast, you'll pass by many beaches and viewpoints, which make great rest stops along the way.

Things to explore on the way to Dunfanaghy

Visit Malin Head, the northernmost tip of mainland Ireland, which also served as the backdrop to the Star Wars movies and the perfect place to visit for any sci-fi fan!

As well as stunning views and dramatic landscapes, there are two hiking trails here. Named Hells Hole and Devils Bridge, these trails promise breathtaking views and will bring you up close and personal with the Irish natural landscape.

Once named the second most beautiful beach in the world, Ballymastocker Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the Irish shoreline. You will get to admire long stretches of silky sand and a gorgeous dip in crystal-clear waters if you are visiting during the warmer months.

This beach is a hotspot for surfers, but if you aren't feeling quite adventurous, the white sandy beach, blue ocean, panoramic views and the surrounding rugged landscape make this a must-see on your road trip alone. Consider packing lunch to enjoy as you soak in the views and atmosphere here.

Where to stay in Dunfanaghy: make the most of the coast

Dunfanaghy is known for its charm as a typical Irish village. Overlooked by the Derryveagh Mountains and surrounded by beaches and shorelines, this village offers an activity to meet all tastes.

Visitors can play golf, go hiking, ride horses, enjoy water sports or take a stroll along one of the many surrounding beaches. If you fancy a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, the village has a number of Blue Flag beaches which are ideal for a swim.

Offering views of the sea, hills and countryside at every turn, the Shandon Hotel and Spa makes the most of its surroundings . An on-site restaurant and bar with open fires and live music ensure that you will experience excellent food and the fun of an Irish pub during your stay.

The hotel also has an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and luxury thermal spa, which are great for relaxing after a day's travel and activity. With a great location and free on-site parking, this is a great choice for a road trip.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Dunfanaghy to Enniscrone

3 hours and 50 minutes and 240 km make up the drive on day 2, which is a bit shorter than the first day. This route starts to take you south and out of Co. Donegal, into Co. Sligo. You'll also be passing from the Ulster province to the province of Connacht.

Benbulben Mountain, County of Sligo, Ireland Typical Irish landscape with the Ben Bulben mountain called

Road trip route from Dunfanaghy to Enniscrone

While this drive takes more of an inland route, the views and drive are still as captivating as the coastline. You'll stay on the coast until you get to Glengesh Viewing Point, which is a beautiful drive.

You'll continue inland until you approach Mullaghmore Head. From here, you follow the coast into Sligo Town and on to Enniscrone.

Things to explore on the way to Enniscrone

Prepare for some hairpin bends and narrow Irish roads as you take a short detour up to the Glengesh Viewing Point. The view from the top will be worth the extra kilometres though! The beautiful, peaceful Irish countryside is simply stunning here.

A very popular holiday destination for Irish and tourists alike, Mullaghmore is one of the best-known places in the west of Ireland. Derived from the Irish word that means "the great summit" this picturesque village is dotted with great eateries, luxurious lodging and amazing recreational activity opportunities such as surfing.

If you fancy getting off the mainland and exploring some of Ireland's islands, you can take a ferry from the pier in Mullaghmore to Inishmurray Island. Keep an eye out for Classiebawn Castle and Benbulben Mountain as you drive along.

Where to stay in Enniscrone: soak up the Seaweed

A popular seaside resort, Enniscrone offers a beautiful beach and a spectacular place to watch the sunset.

Why not visit the Kilcullen Seaweed Baths? Open since 1912, this family-run business offers traditional seaweed baths. Known for their high iodine content and therapeutic properties, seaweed baths are becoming increasingly popular for their restorative and rejuvenating properties.

After spending some time pampering yourself in the baths, you will be spoilt for choice of great accommodation options in Enniscrone. The modern Diamond Coast Hotel is a natural choice that overlooks 5 km of sandy beaches and an 18-hole golf course.

Newly built, this lovely hotel offers comfortable rooms finished to a high standard. If you'd like to enjoy water sports, the luxurious hotel is a short walk from the golden beaches. However, if you are not a fan of open waters, you will find a fantastic outdoor pool at your disposal during your stay.

An on-site restaurant and bar offer good food and a nice spot for an enjoyable evening. Location-wise, swimming, surfing hiking and walking are all on your doorstep here.

Day 3: Driving from Enniscrone to Galway

Day 3 will be your longest drive on this road trip. It is likely to be your longest day also as there are some incredible sights that you won't want to miss. Your drive time will be 5 hours and 50 minutes, covering 340 km, but it is likely that you will spend much longer out and about.

Galway Dock, Ireland with a morning view on row of buildings and fishing boats in Galway Dock with sky reflected in the water.

Road trip route from Enniscrone to Galway

Leaving Co. Sligo, you'll head through Co. Mayo and onto Co. Galway. Stick by the coast when leaving Enniscrone, heading west, then south to Achill Island. From here, head back to the mainland and drive to Westport, the capital of Mayo.

The next part of your drive takes you through Connemara National Park and on to Galway. Oh, and keep an eye out for sheep wandering around! They are known to stop traffic as they crowd the roads in Connemara.

Things to explore on the way to Galway

Achill Island is a favourite among Irish holidaymakers and tourists alike. It's easy to see why with its many beaches, Irish pubs and lovely landscape.

You can spend anything from a couple of hours to a couple of days exploring the Island and everything it has to offer. Keem beach is worth a visit if you can squeeze it into your day.

Arguably, one of the most incredible places on the Island of Ireland, Connemara is a must-see. Famous for the pony of the same name, Connemara is packed full of rugged stone landscapes, small villages and winding roads.

It is an Irish-speaking area, so you'll hear a lot of the locals speaking Irish here. Don't worry if you are not familiar with the language, they speak English too. If you are looking for a hike, consider stretching your legs on Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park.

Where to stay in Galway: a great Irish night out

Galway will be one of the biggest and most popular cities on this road trip. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of a small city with its abundance of cafes. restaurants and shops.

Galway is also known for its great nightlife, so you'll be sure to have an evening filled with fun, good food and friendly locals if you plant to head out and venture.

Just 200 metres from Eyres Square, The Galmont Hotel and Spa offers an excellent location to explore Galway city. An award-winning restaurant located on the premises, with spa and leisure facilities at hand, this hotel makes an excellent all-rounder.

With a second on-site restaurant and bar, you have freedom of choice as well as all the amenities you will need to enjoy your stay here. Onsite parking ensures your vehicle will be safe for the night.

Large, comfortable and modern rooms are tastefully decorated to create a luxurious feel and cosy atmosphere to relax in after a long day of driving or a night on the town!

Day 4: Driving from Galway to Limerick

A little shorter your drive on the previous day, day 4 should take you just under 5 hours to complete. Just 270 km separate the cities of Galway and Limerick. If you're looking to shorten this route, you can opt to not make the stop in Kilbaha and drive directly to Limerick instead.

Limerick City, Ireland river view panorama at sunset.

Road trip route from Galway to Limerick

Leave Galway and travel around the bay, entering Co. Clare and the province of Munster. Your first waypoint will be The Cliffs of Moher, probably one of the most well-known attractions on the island.

Shortly after you'll pass Lahinch beach as you follow the coastline south to Kilbaha. Stay by the coast as you pass by Ennis and arrive in Limerick City.

Things to explore on the way to Limerick

A road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is not complete without a stopover at the famous Cliffs of Moher. An awesome and imposing landscape awaits with incredible cliffs, crashing sea waves and breathtaking views. Make sure you have your camera ready!

There are a number of walking trails and hikes around the area if you wish to stretch your legs.

Close to the Cliffs of Moher is Lahinch Beach, loved by avid surfers worldwide. A great spot for a refreshing dip, some water sports or a stroll along the beach, Lahinch makes for a nice stop along the way.

Make sure to visit the Bridges of Ross on your way to Kilbaha, a quaint fishing village positioned on the western end of the Loop Head Peninsula. Here, you will not want to miss a visit to the Loop Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse closes for the winter season, so check ahead of time whether you can visit.

Where to stay in Limerick: A lively city stopover

Another bustling spot along your route, Limerick city, is a great spot for an overnight stay. King John's Castle is not far outside the city centre and is a great example of a restored medieval castle.

Similarly to Galway, Limerick's abundance of restaurants and pubs gives you many options for a great night out. If you have extra time on your hands, we recommend sparing an extra night or two staying here.

Located in the heart of Limerick city, the George Limerick Hotel offers luxury interiors with modern and comfortable rooms. The hotel's fabulous restaurant and bar have something for every meal, with local produce sourced from artisan suppliers.

This cosmopolitan-style boutique hotel is within walking distance of the main attractions in Limerick city and offers private parking to all guests so that you can leave your car behind and easily explore the city on foot.

Day 5: Driving from Limerick to Dingle

At just 3 hours and 40 minutes, the drive from Limerick to Dingle is pretty short in comparison to the others. The 210 km takes in Tralee, Brandon Point and part of the Ring of Kerry.

Dingle Peninsula, Kerry, Ireland taken at Dunquin Pier Harbor with cliffs and the sea at sunset.

Road trip route from Limerick to Dingle

From Limerick, you'll follow a more inland route as you head towards Dingle. Your first suggested stopover is Brandon Point and Brandon Mountain. Both offer fabulous views of the bay and the surrounding area.

If you don't feel like a mid-drive hike, you can always return tomorrow as it's very close to Dingle. From here, you'll drive around the mountain, through Dingle and on to Dunquin. You'll do a loop of the peninsula before returning to Dingle for the night.

Things to explore on the way to Dingle

Birdwatchers and hikers, Brandon Point is the perfect place for you to visit. Bradon Point is located at the foot of Mount Brandon, and is an excellent hiking spot. Enjoy the panoramic views before you ascend the mountain, and then enjoy even more beautiful views from the top.

Slea Head Drive is another winding drive along narrow single-lane roads that we absolutely recommend doing. You will be left in awe by its stunning scenery. Coumeenoole Beach is also located on this stretch and is good for a swim or a stroll.

If you're looking for a more strenuous walk, head up to Dunmore Head. This is another shooting location for Star Wars, which will be a treat to visit for any fans of the movie franchise.

From nearby Dunquin, you can sail across to the Blasket Islands, and get off the mainland for a while. As you drive along, keep an eye out for the beehive huts where prehistoric settlers once lived.

Where to stay in Dingle: a colourful port town

Dingle is a fishing port, with Mount Brandon overlooking it from the north. A major hub in the Dingle Peninsula, the town is the only way to get from east to west around the mountain.

Its colourful buildings, excellent food and charming hustle and bustle make Dingle a great option for an overnight stay. There are also plenty of things to do here, such as hopping on one of the sea safari tours to enjoy the rugged scenery of the area from a different perspective.

You can also visit the ancient ruins of the Gallarus Oratory to learn more about the fascinating history of Dingle which goes back hundreds of years. If history is not your thing, head to Dingle Oceanworld to learn about fascinating marine life instead.

If you're looking for a quaint Irish guest house with an Irish welcome in Dingle, stay at The Waterfront . With modern and well-equipped rooms, parking and an excellent location, this guest house offers a great place to stay.

An excellent breakfast is offered each morning and a sea view room can be requested when booking. Make sure to visit Kerry County Museum, which is a short drive from the guesthouse, before setting off on the next leg of your trip.

Day 6: Driving from Dingle to Kenmare

The sixth day will mean that you will drive from the Dingle to the beautiful Kenmare. This will not be a long drive and should take you just under 4 hours to drive the 210 km to Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Kenmare Road, County Kerry, Ireland, stone arch tunnels made from gray stone showing lined highway N71 with gray guardrail in the foreground backed by light green mountains and a mostly cloudy sky.

Road trip route from Dingle to Kenmare

The coastal views on this drive will make up for the lack of them on Day 5. You'll continue around the Ring of Kerry, driving out to Valentia Island, on to Caherdaniel and then into Kenmare. Killarney national park is just a short hop from Kenmare if you fancy a walk or a cycle.

Things to explore on the way to Kenmare

As well as being an all-year-round surfing destination, the super long Inch Beach is great for a walk to blow away the cobwebs on your way to Kenmare. Bring a picnic and a flask for a beachside lunch or snack.

Located on Valentia Island, Knightstown is one of the few planned towns in Ireland and is built in a grid shape. This quaint town is a good starting spot to explore Valentia Island, or a good end point for something to eat after a day of exploring.

You can also visit Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs, the Valentia Island tetrapod footprints and St. Brendan's Well during your visit here.

Continuing on, make sure to make a stop and take in the majestic views of Kerry Cliffs en route. If you are a history buff, the Ballinskelligs Castle and Abbey are great places to explore.

Where to stay in Kenmare: experience truly luxurious Irish hospitality

Located on Kenmare Bay, Kenmare is another traditional Irish county town, which is the Wild Atlantic Way is so famous for, with winding streets lined with colourful buildings. Boasting charming shops, restaurants, arts and culture, Kenmare offers something for every palette.

Have you ever wanted to ride a horse but not sure where to start? Kenmare has multiple stables and equestrian centres offering a number of different rides and treks.

The Park Hotel Kenmare is one of the most famous hotels in all of Ireland - and with good reason. This 5-star luxury property will give you the celebrity-style treatment with its exquisite rooms and top-notch customer service.

If you want to spend your time relaxing at the hotel, you might be delighted to hear that this fantastic property houses its own 12-seat cinema, not something you come across in most hotels!

If you are an adventurer, the hotel offers deep sea diving tours, but also a 30 feet outdoor pool for those who would like a more tranquil dip. No matter what activity you choose, you will want to head to the full-service spa on-site afterwards to treat yourself after an exhilarating day.

You won't have to venture far for an upscale meal as the restaurant features a fantastic restaurant with a changing menu dependant on seasons that feature the freshest of the local products.

If you are looking to treat yourself to a special occasion lodging option on your road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way, Park Hotel Kenmare is it; it may cost more than its competitors but this once-in-a-lifetime experience will be worth it.

Day 7: Driving from Kenmare to Kinsale

The last day of this amazing road trip packs a punch like the previous days and brings with it a 280 km drive over 5 hours and 40 minutes. This drive includes a stop at Ireland's most south-westerly point and crosses into Co. Cork, Ireland's biggest county.

Kinsale, Ireland with a view of a street with bright coloured houses.

Road trip route from Kenmare to Kinsale

The route from Kenmare will stay inland until you reach Glengarriff, where it meets the coast again. Follow the coast around the tips of the country and you will come to Mizen Head. Head east from here, winding your way along the coast until you get to Kinsale.

Things to explore on the way to Kinsale

Mizen Head is Ireland's most southwestern point, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding cliffs, landscape and crashing waves make this a place that is hard to forget.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, go to visit Mizen Head Lighthouse, which is located across the land and is accessible via a 52-metre-long bridge.

Famous for its Clonakilty Black Pudding, this little town will be one of the stars of this road trip. Voted Best Town in Europe in 2017, the locals here have a reputation for being extremely friendly and welcoming.

The Friday farmers market is full of local produce including cheese, vegetables, coffee, baked goods and fish, so make sure to stock up if you are planning a home-cooked meal or a picnic when you arrive in Kinsale.

Where do stay once you reach Kinsale: End your trip in style

Kinsale is the official start or end point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Its town centre is full of brightly coloured buildings, great shopping and delicious places to eat. With year-round events, a harbour, water sports and many walking tours, there is something for everyone here.

There is no better way to end a road trip than in a spa hotel! Kinsale Hotel and Spa is located outside of the main town centre and has everything you need onsite.

Set in 90 acres of woodland, the location of this hotel is tranquil and picturesque. The onsite spa offers a range of treatments, while the onsite restaurant and bar serve international cuisine. The rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable, ensuring you have a great night's sleep after your week of exploring.

Things to see on a 7-day road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way

One thing is for sure, you will not be short of things to see and do on this road trip. As well as the items listed below, the Irish coastline is littered with viewing points, castle ruins and little villages which you can stop at along the way.

Slieve League, Irelands highest sea cliffs, located in south west Donegal along this magnificent costal driving route. One of the most popular stops at Wild Atlantic Way route, Co Donegal, Ireland.

  • Tory Island, Co. Donegal - The inhabitants on this remote island take immense pride in the preservation of their cultural heritage through music, song and dance. A must-see!
  • Slieve League Cliffs, Co. Donegal - Experience Ireland's highest sea cliffs in Donegal. There is also a cafe, gift shop and guided tours on offer.
  • Benbulben, Co. Sligo - This tabletop mountain is a great one to either climb or admire from the 5km walking track around the base.
  • Clew Bay, Co. Mayo - It is said that Clew Bay has an island for every day of the year and is also said to be Ireland's best example of sunken drumlins.
  • Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo - Ireland's Holy Mountain, Crough Patrick is a cone shaped peak made famous as the place where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days. Today, it remains an important site of pilgrimage for many.
  • The Burren, Co. Clare - The Burren is a sight like no other in Ireland. A moon like formation of limestone, filled with crevices, caves, fossils and native flowers, it is not to be missed!
  • Treaty City Brewery, Co. Limerick - Visit this working microbrewery to taste some artisan beers and learn how they are made.
  • Connor Pass, Co. Kerry - A beautiful, scenic drive in Kerry, Connor Pass is the highest mountain road in Ireland.
  • Dingle Cookery School, Co. Kerry - Head to this award-winning culinary school to learn how to cook fish, bake bread or take a traditional Irish cookery class.
  • The Skellig Islands, Co. Kerry - Visit a UNESCO world heritage site, 27,000 pairs of gannets and a set from Star Wars by taking a boat out to the Skellig Islands.
  • The Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork - With 100 islands to sail around, sunsets to watch and castles to explore, the Beara Peninsula has it all.
  • Atlantic Sea Kayaking, Reem Pier Co. Cork - For an unforgettable kayaking experience, choose one of the night kayak tours to see the Atlantic after dark.

Burren, Co. Clare, Ireland taken at the 5,000 years old Polnabrone Dolmen at sunset.

Best time to go on a 7-day road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland has a pretty steady year-round climate, and rarely sees extremes of weather. That being said, the west coast tends to experience more wind, rain and storms than the other parts of the country.

Spring or Autumn are the best times to do this road trip as the weather will be fine and there will be fewer tourists around. Ireland in the sunshine and heat is a spectacular place to be, but it usually brings with it crowds of Irish and tourists alike.

Traveling in winter

Winter on the west coast of Ireland is likely to be rainy, windy and changeable. In recent years, winter storms with strong gales and local flooding are becoming a more regular occurrence.

Average daily temperatures are between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius with a rare chance of snow. Prices will be cheaper at this time of year, and there will be fewer people around. However, some places and attractions may be closed, so be sure to check beforehand.

Traveling in summer

Average temperatures on the west coast are between 12 and 15 degrees Celsius, however in recent years, temperatures of 20 - 30 degrees Celsius are becoming more common.

Galway, Ireland with a street view in Galway on a summers day with bunting in the street.

Summer is a good time for a road trip as you have a higher chance of getting good weather. There will always be a chance of rain though!

The downside of traveling at this time of year is that it will be busy with Irish and international holidaymakers and accommodation prices will be a lot more expensive.

Traveling in spring or autumn

Spring or autumn are two of the best times to visit Ireland and the west coast. The weather tends to be a bit milder with average temperatures of 10 - 11 degrees Celsius across both seasons.

There are usually fewer people around and accommodation prices tend to be more reasonable.

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Enjoy a journey of a lifetime as you travel the 1,500-mile-long coastal road known as the Wild Atlantic Way

From the wind-whipped tip of Malin Head in County Donegal to the balmy beauty of Kinsale town in County Cork, the west of Ireland will wow you with its epic landscapes and charm you with its quiet moments. This is a place that has inspired dreamers and drifters, poets and painters, with a landscape laced with dry-stone walls, thatched cottages, brooding mountains and deserted beaches. Escape, explore and enjoy an off-the-beaten track adventure on the very edge of Europe.

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Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

Unforgettable moments

It's easy to feel the wild that defines this coastline; it's everywhere, from sheer cliffs that plunge into crashing Atlantic waves to remote, weather-beaten islands. But the west of Ireland is about more than that, it's about moments of connection. It's the chat from locals, the warmth of a fire-lit pub, the tapping feet of a traditional music session. From the elemental weather to the oak-smoked salmon, the essence of the Wild Atlantic Way runs deep.

  • Wild beauty
  • Life at sea

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Inishowen Peninsula

“Inishowen has countryside you have to see at least once. You think it's as heartbreakingly beautiful as it's going to get, and then it gets more beautiful again.” – Irish novelist Joseph O’Connor in The Guardian newspaper

County Donegal

Strandhill, County Sligo

Strandhill Beach

“Strandhill is popular with surfers for good reason – this beach break has an easy paddle-out and delivers a reliable stream of waves in both summer and winter.” – Red Bull

County Sligo

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Killary Fjord

“The breathtaking scenery in Leenane on the shores of Killary Fjord is the stuff of epic Westerns.” – CN Traveller

County Galway

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“The land is hard, the soul is not.” – Lonely Planet

County Clare

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Blasket Islands

“We were imbued with the sound of the wind that blew in from the seashore, beating in our ears every morning, clearing our brains and rinsing the dust from our skulls.” – Tomás Ó Crohan, The Islander

County Kerry

Fastnet Lighthouse

Fastnet Lighthouse

“The Fastnet was such a treacherous rock to be on. When you were on the Fastnet, even on the finest day going, you always kept looking over your shoulder.” – Lighthouse keeper Gerard Butler in thejournal.ie

County Cork

Discover the Wild Atlantic Way with the locals

Experience the beauty of Ireland's west coast in the company of Galway man, Charlie Troy.

Charlie Troy

The Wild Atlantic Way is a journey to experience for the spectacular landscape, rich culture and the friendly people... Charlie Troy, Cnoc Suain Galway

Uncover the best of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

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Enjoy the flavors

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Life on the edge

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As seen on screen

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Take to the road

Explore the wild atlantic way.

Epic landscapes, exciting experiences and great seafood

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5 ways to tour the Wild Atlantic Way

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Surfers' paradise

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Destination

Galway city

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6 charming towns of the Wild Atlantic Way

Republic of Ireland

enniscrone, county sligo

Ireland's seaweed revival

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Hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way

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Cliffs and coves

Dun Aonghasa Inishmore County Galway

The world-famous Aran jumper

Aran Islands

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Burren National Park

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey

Limerick city

Limerick city

Limerick City

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Quiz: Star Wars on the Wild Atlantic Way

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Wild Atlantic Way highlights

Get out and about with these great experiences

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Eco Atlantic Adventures

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Doagh Famine Village

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Sliabh Liag Distillers

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Fanad Lighthouse

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Glenveagh National Park and Castle

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Leo's Tavern

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

National Surf Centre Strandhill

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Drumcliffe Church and Grave of W.B Yeats

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Coleman Irish Music Centre - Ceoláras Coleman

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Clew Bay Bike Trail

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Westport House

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Connacht Whiskey Distillery

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Céide Fields

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Croagh Patrick

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Matt Molloy

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Killary Adventure Company

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Connemara Pub Tours

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Galway Food Tours

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh Conamara - Pearse Cottage

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Dún Aonghasa

Inishmore-Árainn

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Trad on the Prom

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

West Coast RIB Adventures

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Burren Smokehouse

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

O'Brien's Tower

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Kilkee Cliffs

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Nevsail Watersports & Adventures Limerick

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Hunt Museum

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Milk Market

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

King John's Castle

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Limerick Greenway

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Siamsa Tíre, The National Folk Theatre

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Kenmare Foodie Tours

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Killarney National Park

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Ceann Sléibhe (Slea Head)

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Atlantic Sea Kayaking

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

De Barra's Folk Club

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Kinsale Food Tours

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Skibbereen Heritage Centre

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

The Healy Pass

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

West Cork Music

Eco Atlantic Adventures is an activity based enterprise located in Cranford, County Donegal.

The Doagh Famine Village outdoor museum is located on the north Inishowen Peninsula, near Ballyliffin, and about an hour from Letterkenny in County Donegal. It tells the story of an Irish family from the 18th century to the present day.

Experience the timeless magic of Fanad Lighthouse. One of the great lighthouses of Ireland standing between idyllic Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay in County Donegal, Fanad Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.

Tábhairne Leo (Leo's Tavern) is the family home of "Clannad" and "Enya". Leo and his wife Maire bought the tavern in 1968 and Leo became the resident musician with sing songs nightly and which would involve the nine members of his family.

The National Surf Centre Strandhill solidifies County Sligo’s reputation as one of the must visit outdoor adventure destinations in Ireland.

Clew Bay Bike Trail is the first looped cycle experience of Clew Bay in County Mayo, taking in both Achill Island and Clare Island. The trail can be completed in one day, but two days allows you more time to enjoy the pretty towns and impressive scenery along the way.

One of County Mayo’s best loved attractions and known as one of Ireland’s most beautiful homes, visit Westport House for a day full of adventure, history and unbeatable Irish beauty.

Traditional Irish music pub located in the centre of Westport, County Mayo.

There are adventures for everyone at Killary Adventure Company, near Leenane, County Galway. Sweeping down to the fjord through ancient woodland with spectacular mountain and coastal scenery all around, Killary is a place like no other.

Connemara Pub Tours offer guided tours of Connemara and the Aran Islands with a range of offerings from food and drink to culture and heritage with emphasis on the local experience.

For an unforgettable culinary experience, walk and eat your way around Galway City with Galway Food Tours. Choose from a range of tours and discover the best of Galway's food and drink.

Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh, is located in Ros Muc, Connemara County Galway. It celebrates the things which drew Patrick Pearse to Connemara, the same things that draw people to Connemara today, the people, the landscape, the rich Gaelic language and culture which still thrives in the area.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park in Bunratty, County Clare, is one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. From the elegance and attention to detail of the careful restoration within the castle walls, to the charm and authenticity of the village street and farmhouses, it is easy to see why visitors are so impressed by this iconic attraction.

Curious as to how the Burren Smokehouse smoke their salmon? Call into the Burren Smokehouse Visitor Centre located in Lisdoonvarna just off the Wild Atlantic Way and a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher.

Visit The Hunt Museum in Limerick City and see an internationally important collection of 2,000 original works of art and antiquity. Explore one of Ireland's greatest private collections dating from the Neolithic to the 20th Century.

Explore the Milk Market in Limerick city, a fantastic all-weather venue with daily market shops, a Friday City Market, Saturday's famous food market, Sunday's riverside variety market and an Artisan Craft Fair every month.

Step inside the walls of one of Limerick’s most iconic landmarks, King John’s Castle. From the castle’s interactive exhibition and magnificent views, to trying your skills at the series of medieval courtyard games, a visit to this medieval fortress is a must when visiting Limerick City.

If you’re looking for a family friendly adventure, the Limerick Greenway is not to be missed.

Dolans is an award winning traditional pub situated in the heart of Limerick City. It offers visitors a great choice of live music and entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the traditional folk culture of Ireland at Siamsa Tíre, The National Folk Theatre. Siamsa Tíre is The National Folk Theatre of Ireland and one of its most vibrant arts centres. It is situated on the Wild Atlantic Way in the bustling market town of Tralee in County Kerry. Siamsa Tíre is home to Ireland’s only theatre company dedicated to sustaining and sharing Ireland’s living heritage of music, song, and dance.

Accompany Karen Coakley, a food blogger and TV chef, on a fun food tour of Kenmare. Meet artisan producers and taste delicious dishes during the three and a half hour walking trail.

Make your way to the internationally renowned Killarney National Park, in County Kerry. Come here for the scenic beauty with 10,000 hectares of stunning lakes, mountains and woods.

With so many glorious venues on the doorstep, Kinsale is a mecca for tourists and Irish alike who flock here for the wonderful food. For a food fanatic, this is a particular treat, having a rich hinterland and coastline which provides Kinsale Food Tours, County Cork, with the freshest and most fabulous food and people.

Visit the Skibbereen Heritage Centre in County Cork and learn about the poignant story of the Great Famine in the 1840s. Stroll through the streets and stories of Skibbereen, which was one of the worst affected areas in Ireland during the Famine.

West Cork Music promotes the West Cork Chamber Music Festival, West Cork Literary Festival and Masters of Tradition in Bantry, County Cork.

The Wild Atlantic Way

Got a question for our Community experts?

Getting to the Wild Atlantic Way

Fly to Cork, Shannon, Ireland West and Donegal and you’re right there. Or head to Dublin or Belfast and take the scenic cross-country route. Coming by ferry? Cork and Rosslare are your closest ports. But Dublin, Belfast and Larne are easy distances.

An orange suitcase with a globe in the background.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The Wild Atlantic Way route sits along the West Coast of Ireland, covering 2700 kilometres – the longest defined coastal route in the world. The WAW encompasses 9 counties each and every one of which is stunningly beautiful. Planning an Ireland road trip itinerary can take an immense amount of time and energy. Hopefully, this article will give you some ideas on how to make your Wild Atlantic Way road trip a little easier.

Planning a Wild Atlantic Way itinerary can be a challenge it’s a hell of a long route but it is well worth taking 2 weeks to explore. It is not possible to explore the wild Atlantic coastal drive in a few days the distances are just too vast and although you can easily use Google maps to plot your route I guarantee you – you will get lost but that is part of the joy of travelling in Ireland, and when you do get lost you will stumble across some of Ireland’s off the beaten path sites that you may not have found otherwise.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Wild Atlantic Way road trip map

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101 Landmarks in Ireland to see

One of the descriptions for the Wild Atlantic Way is “where land and sea collide” which is apt as many of the views along the Wild Atlantic Way route are stunning scenes of the waves of the Atlantic crashing on Irish shores.

illustrated map of the Wild Atlantic Way route by Jen Farley

Planning a dream trip to Ireland? Everything you need to know

Classiebawn Castle in Mullaghmore Sligo on the Wild Atlantic Way route.

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Where does Wild Atlantic Way start and finish?

Technically the Wild Atlantic Way leads along the Irish west coast starting on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal and ending in the little town Kinsale in County Cork. This Wild Atlantic Way route planner will help you choose the places to see that are important to you.

The Wild Atlantic Way route is over 1600 miles long (2600 km) 

The west coast of Ireland or the Wild Atlantic Way Route covers 2700 kilometres and to plan a road trip of a week or two to cover the entire route is almost impossible unless you plan on staying for at least a month. The Wild Atlantic Way route is the longest-defined coastal driving route on earth. It’s easy to navigate and understand, but there are a few things you should know before you go.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Hiking the Wild Atlantic Way is possible but then you would have to plan to stay for several months. This part of Ireland is known for its narrow roads where barely a car can pass and there are many areas that are private land which you can’t walk through. There are several hiking locations where you can do parts of the Wild Atlantic Way route. There are even cycleways that you can ride a bike through for example the Greenway in Mayo is perfect for bike tours.

When is the best time to travel the Wild Atlantic Way route?

All I can say to that is it depends. If you love a beach and the WWA has many fine blue flag beaches then go in the summer months. You will find it much more touristy during the summer and to be honest I preferred late April and May or September. You are still going to find the weather but just pack some waterproof clothing and good hiking boots and you will be good to go.

Aerial view of Kinnagoe bay in County Donegal, Ireland.

If your road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way route takes place during the off-season , which is from late October to the end of April you can probably improvise and book into places along the route. However, if you plan on going in the summer high season months book in advance.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way vary from small cosy B&B’s to luxurious castles and manor houses and even lighthouses. There are as many types of accommodation as you could ask for. From campin g to Glamping to a spa, stay in a luxury 5-star hotel it’s all here. Rates will vary from as low as €20 per person and up to as high as €500 per night. Here are a few of my articles on where to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way.

33 of the most fabulous Hotel Castles to stay in Ireland

Perfect traditional Irish cottages for your holiday

35 of the Coolest & Unique Places To Stay In Ireland

Solis Lough Eske Castle Hotel

I don’t believe there is a best time to travel anywhere, particularly in Ireland. We experience 4 seasons in one day here on the west coast and as long as you are prepared for the weather you will be just as happy with your Ireland route no matter what the season.

The one thing I might suggest is that in some areas such as the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Way those super-hyped tourist sites will be jam-packed and it may make travelling a little harder in the summer months.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

A Wild Atlantic Way road trip should be taken in a car – it is impossible to do this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary on public transport as many of these areas simply don’t have a means of public transport. Don’t be fooled by those cheap rental car sites and aggregators offering you a rental for $5 a day.

Car rental , with all the insurance you need in Ireland it is going to cost an average of around €600-800 for a week to 10 days. The Wild Atlantic Way route can be quite narrow and tough going for those not used to driving on Irish roads so take your time and simply pull over as far as you can.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The best way to save money on car rental in Ireland is to pick and choose wisely when you need a car. Don’t for example drive in cities like Dublin or Belfast and you could take public transportation to some site you may want to see. There are many tour companies that offer great value and you don’t have to waste time or hours on buses and you don’t have to wear yourself out driving.

A fabulous way to go is the Wild Atlantic Way motorcycle route – you can follow the entire 2700 km on your bike and say you have driven the best bike route in the world – it’s sort of Ireland’s route 66 but way better.

While I believe if you really want to see Ireland’s west coast you need to drive the Wild Atlantic Way but it can be scary driving on some of those tiny roads. There is a tour you can take from Dublin that takes in the Cliffs of Moher, the barren beauty of the Burren, and you can stroll through the grounds of Killarney National Park and stay overnight on the Dingle Peninsula.

There are six basic regions to the Wild Atlantic Way and each of these regions has its attractions and stunningly different scenery.

  • Donegal – Northern Headlands
  • Donegal & Sligo – Surf Coast
  • Bay Coast – Galway and Mayo
  • Cliff Coast – Galway, Clare & Kerry
  • Southern Peninsula – Kerry & Cork
  • Haven Coast – Cork

Aerial view of the awarded Narin Beach by Portnoo and Inishkeel Island in County Donegal, Ireland.

Faqs & highlights of County Donegal

  • Donegal is called the Coolest Place on Earth according to National Geographic
  • Bundoran is called the surfing capital of Ireland
  • Donegal’s Slieve League Cliffs are the highest Cliffs on land – 3 x higher than the Cliffs of Moher
  • Donegal folks favourite saying is “it’s different up here”
  • Donegal is also known as the forgotten county – most of the county was fully electrified until the mid 1970’s
  • Letterkenny is Donegal’s largest town but Lifford is the County Town
  • There are 512 named mountains in County Donegal. The highest and the most prominent mountain is Errigal.
  • Home to Star Wars at Malin Head
  • Tory Island off the coast of Donegal is the home of Ireland’s last King
  • Is the ancestral home of the Patron Saint Colmcille
  • And most obviously is the home of Donegal Tweed

Where does the Wild Atlantic Way start? Obviously lol it starts in Donegal and I am a tad biased when it comes to Donegal after living here it does make you want to brag to the whole world about what an incredible place it is. I’ve covered a few highlights here but if you really want an in-depth guide to Country Donegal you need to read my article 46 Fantastic things to do in Donegal Ireland .

I recommend basing yourself in Donegal Town there are many things to see in the area and it’s just a few hour’s drive to the Inishowen peninsula.

The northernmost point of Ireland is at Banba’s Crown in Malin Head on the Inishowen Peninsula . Located on the Wild Atlantic Way in the Inishowen Peninsula, Donegal . A rugged raw coastline where you can see 1.7 billion-year-old rock formations and if you’re lucky and the day is clear you may even see Scotland.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Malin Head is now famed for its role in the Star Wars film The Last Jedi. North of Trawbreaga Bay, you can see Five Finger Strand, which is home to some of Europe’s largest sand dunes. At low tide, try and spot the wreckage of the ‘Twilight’, which sank in 1889 while sailing to Derry .

Malin Head is also one of the best places in Ireland to spot the Northern Lights. I have had absolutely no luck in photographing Auroras but I have promised myself one day I will learn.

Visit the Doagh Famine Village in Inishowen and discover how the Irish survived the Famine and learn the history of the area from those times to the present.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Glencolmcille

Glencolmcille is located on the Slieve League Peninsula at the southwest point of Donegal – an area starting to be known as the Donegal Highlands and part of the Wild Atlantic Way coastal drive. The area is bounded on the south by the mountains of Slieve League (Sliabh Liag) and Leahan and on the north by Slieve Tooey. To the west lies the restless Atlantic Ocean.

View of Glencolumcille on the Wild Atlantic Way

Saint Colm Cille, or Columba, is one of Ireland’s three patron saint s (along with  Saint Patrick  and Saint Brigid). Colm Cille and his followers lived in the valley for a time and the ruins of several of their churches can still be seen there.

Check out the Folk Village if you are there in the season (spring-summer) it’s a microcosm of what life was like in Ireland at the turn of the century. There are also a couple of great pubs in Glencolmcille to have a Guinness at.

Some of the best beaches are to be found in Donegal – here are the Top 10

Glenveagh National Park

One of the Wild Atlantic Ways’ best places is slightly off route and in the centre of Donegal. Although truth be told even in the centre of Donegal you are not far from the wild coastal route. Glenveagh is a designated Special Area of Conservation and Special Protection Area under EU and Irish Law. The 16,000 hectares of Glenveagh includes most of the Derryveagh Mountains, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain and is a beautiful place to walk the hills and follow trails. There’s even a shuttle bus to help lift walkers to the different hiking trails.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The Park is a place of stunning beauty from raw mountain landscapes to rushing waterfalls. The National Park is free to enter and there are many hikes around the area that make for a great day out. There is a visitor’s centre in the car park from which you can walk to Glenveagh Castle and gardens and see where famous celebrities like Marilyn Monroe swam in the lochside pool.

Glenveagh National Park is a remote and hauntingly beautiful wilderness of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, tumbling waterfalls and enchanted native oak woodland in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains in the northwest of County Donegal .

Glenveagh Castle

At the centre of the Park on the edge of Lough Veagh is Glenveagh Castle , a late 19th-century castellated mansion, built as a hunting lodge.

glenveagh-castle

Fanad Head is a small peninsula jutting out into the ocean in County Donegal which is one of the wildest Wild Atlantic Way best places to visit. The most famous site on Fanad Head is the lighthouse, which overlooks Mulroy Bay and Lough Swilly. There is much to see in the area apart from the lighthouse though. Part of the epic scenery of the area is the Great Arch, a stunning viewpoint that is one of the best places in Ireland to catch sight of the grey seals and whales.

Fanad Head lighthouse in Ireland

For beach, lovers go and find Ballymastocker Bay, near Portsalon. Named one of the best beaches in Ireland this blue flag beach is a great place to swim and just relax.

Slieve League

The highest sea cliffs in Europe and even more impressive than the Cliffs of Moher . Slieve League is one of those undiscovered beauty spots in Donegal. They have now built a visitors centre that will help maintain and sustain the Cliffs for future visitors. You can drive your car right up to virtually the top of the Cliffs, park and admire some of the most stunning views ever. Just make sure to shut the sheep gate behind you.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Grianán of Aileach

This restored Cashel or ring fort is over 23 metres in diameter with surrounding earthworks and sits atop Grianan Hill with 360-degree views across Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle and the gorgeous countryside of the Inishowen Peninsula. On a clear day, it is believed that the view includes 5 counties. At 3.9 meters thick and 5 metres tall, the dry stone walls of the “Stone Palace of the Sun” have three interior walkways, which are easily reached by several inset stairways.

long shot of An grianan the fort

The views from here are simply stunning and nearby if, you fancy the walk you can visit a cairn and a holy well .

Donegal Castle

Fully restored in the ’90s the Castle sits near the centre of Donegal Town. Built by the O’Donnell chieftains in the 15th Century, beside the river Eske in Donegal Town, Donegal Castle was rebuilt in Jacobean style in the 16th Century by Sir Basil Brooke, after Hugh O’Donnell burnt it to the ground rather than let it fall into enemy hands. Information panels chronicle the history of the castle and guided tours are available. The cost of a visit to the castle is €4.  

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Castle ruins in Ireland

Tullan Strand & Bundoran

Framed by the Sligo Leitrim Mountains Tullan Strand is known as Donegal’s best surfing beach (well one of them at least). But Tullan Strand (located in Bundoran) has much more to offer than surfing. Check out the Fairy Bridges and the Wishing Chair.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

There is also a very poignant memorial to some Canadian pilots that crashed here during WWII. There are some WWII secrets kicking around as well given that the Republic was not supposed to be involved in the war. This is a glorious beach and a great place for an overnight stay at a quintessential Irish seaside vacation. The town of Bundoran has a lot to offer and you can just kick back relax and treat yourself to some ice cream.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Donegal has some of the finest surfing beaches in Ireland . There are ancient sites such as the Beltany Stone Circl e, Court Tombs, abandoned villages, Bad Eddie the iconic shipwreck in Dunfanghy. You can climb Mount Errigal or wander through the Poisoned Glen.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

If you are looking for a tour of Donegal and want a guide I highly recommend Tours by Locals there are 3 local guides that live, eat and breathe everything Donegal has to offer. You will never be disappointed if you book a tour with them.

  • Leitrim has the smallest population in Ireland
  • Leitrim is bordered by 6 counties: Donegal, Fermanagh (Northern Ireland/UK) to the north-east, Cavan to the east, Longford to the south, Roscommon to the south-west and Sligo to the west.
  •  Leitrim has the shortest length of the coastline of any Irish county that touches the sea. 
  • The county town is Carrick-on-Shannon it sits on the River Shannon and there are hire boats to explore the Shannon-Erne Waterway
  • The famous Glencar waterfall is immortalized in Yeat’s poem The Stolen Child

Leitrim is a tiny County and probably not really worth basing yourself here – the reason I say this is that you can drive through Leitrim on your Wild Atlantic Way route and if you blink you will miss it. I suggest you head to Sligo city where you can stay a day or so and enjoy all the country has to offer.

Glencar Waterfall

With the number of rivers, canals, lakes and waterfalls across the entire county it seems like the best place to start. The absolute gem in the crown is  Glencar Waterfall , located just on the county line between Manorhamilton and Sligo. A short path from the car park brings you to the small pool, which lies beneath the falls. There is no charge to visit the waterfall. You can stop into the tearooms for a quick snack or a cup of tea and traybake after your walk.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Parke’s Castle

Just outside the town of Dromahair, along the shores of Lough Gill, stands Parkes Castle . The three-story castle, which dates from the 1600s, is now a museum, which is open to the public during the summer season from March to September. A nominal admission fee applies.

Parke's Castle on the Wild Atlantic Way

Glenview Country House

Glenview Country House and Folk Museum is located just outside Ballinamore along the Shannon Erne Waterway. Glenview Folk Museum is a private collection of over 6000 antique, historical and novel items ranging from pre-famine Ireland . There is an impressive array of farmyard equipment, a collection of horse-drawn agricultural machinery, and a thrasher.

A street scene has a number of reconstructed shops and a pub; all stocked, jam-packed with an assortment of products and equipped, as they would have existed in the past.

  • It is noted for Benbulben Mountain, one of Ireland’s most distinctive natural landmarks
  • Yeats Ireland’s famous poet is buried in Sligo under Benbulben at Drumcliff
  • The megalithic cemetery of Carrowmore is located in County Sligo
  • The tomb of Queen Maeve, Miosgán Médhbh, dominates the western skyline from the crest of Knocknarea Mountain.

I’ve always loved Sligo and its proximity to Donegal Town makes it an easy trip. There is a lot do see in Sligo and some of the best seafood around can be found here. I would suggest staying in Sligo Town and exploring from there.

Ben Bulben and the Glencar Waterfall

Ben Bulben sits in both Sligo and Leitrim and can be accessed from either side by walkers and hikers. A paved path starting at the Glencar Waterfall has a gentle slope for an easy walk. There is a unique variety of plants growing on the mountain, including some found nowhere else in Ireland.

Benbulben in Sligo on the Wild Atlantic Way route

At 526 metres high, it’s no small task to climb Sligo’s famous mountain. The journey to the summit takes about two hours, but the views you get at the top are jaw-dropping. Undoubtedly, Ireland’s most iconic mountain, Ben Bulben is the most distinctive peak in the Dartry range; it was formed during the ice age by massive glaciers segmenting the landscape.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Strandhill is a growing tourist destination thanks to its stunning sandy beaches. Why not try some of the spas on the seafront and enjoy a seaweed bath or massage. You can make Strandhill your central stop and enjoy a visit to Queen Maeve’s grave at the top of Knocknarea.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Irish legends state that Knocknarea is the burial place of the beautiful Warrior Queen Maeve of Connaught. She is said to be buried upright in the cairn at the summit of Knocknarea, spear in hand, still facing her enemies in Ulster. Until 2014, those wanting to visit Queen Maeve’s cairn on the summit of Knocknarea had to use the rugged path from the car park on the south side of the mountain.

a veiw of Benbulben and Knocknarea on the Wild Atlantic Way

Another highlight of Strandhill is visiting Ireland’s largest megalithic tombs at Carrowmore. The megaliths of Carrowmore, located just southwest of Sligo town, are at the heart of the Coolrea peninsula and are one of the greatest megalithic complexes of ancient Ireland.

Carromore in Sligo on the Wild Atlantic Way route

This peninsula on the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route is bounded by water on three sides – Ballisodare Bay to the south, the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Sligo Bay to the north. Twenty-seven monuments remain today, in varying states of preservation. The remains of at least 65 monuments are known, though it was thought by earlier researchers that there may have been up to 100 monuments at Carrowmore. The sites were extensively damaged in the early years of the nineteenth century by land clearance and quarrying.

Visit Yeat’s Grave

W.B Yeats was laid to rest in 1948 under the shadow of Ben Bulben Mountain in Drumcliffe, County Sligo . An unassuming grave holds his remains in the Cemetery of St. Columba’s Church. There is no cost to view the grave or to enter the church but donations are always welcomed.

WB Yeats Grave in Sligo

The Yeats Complex includes a tearoom, gift shop and of course, the Church that Yeat’s family worshipped at for many years as well as preached in. Yeat’s grave and an information centre about the area and Yeat’s love of Sligo.

If you are looking for a tour of Sligo and a Wild Atlantic Way day tour and want a guide I highly recommend Tours by Locals there are 2 local guides that live, eat and breathe everything Sligo has to offer. You will never be disappointed if you book a tour with them.

  • The term “boycott” originated in Co. Mayo. Boycott was a 19th-century British land agent for an absentee landlord, Lord Erne. Boycott was frozen out by his local community in Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo during the Irish Land War
  • Mayo is the birthplace of Ireland’s most famous Pirate Queen – Grace O’Malley
  • The famous Quiet Man movie was filmed in Cong Mayo.
  • Mayo is home to the iconic pilgrimage sites Croagh Patrick and the Knock Shrine
  • Ireland’s largest island is off the coast of Mayo -Achill Island
  • The Céide Fields in Mayo date back over 5000 years and are one of the largest Neolithic sites and field systems in the world
  • Mayo is home to the iconic sea stack Dun Briste

Mayo is a stunningly beautiful County and my favourite place to stay is in Westport near Clew Bay. There are views of Croagh Patrick to die for, lots of ancient ruins and famine sites to see and it makes a great base for travelling the County.

The Céide Fields

The Céide Fields in North Mayo will certainly give you a unique experience. The Céide Fields are the oldest known field systems in the world, over five and a half millennia old. It is a unique Neolithic landscape of world importance, which has changed our perception of our Stone Age ancestors. The remains of stone field walls, houses and megalithic tombs are preserved beneath a blanket of peat over several square miles.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Village of Cong & Ashford Castle

Cong is the home of Ashford Castle, a luxury hotel converted from a Victorian lakeside castle, built by the Guinness family. Ashford Castle is a tourist attraction in its own right. The castle offers a variety of activities for its guests including Falconry, cycling and sailing. If you fancy spending the day there – book a meal at one of the restaurants so you can explore the castle itself. The library holds a collection of interesting books, paintings and letters from famous visitors.

Ashford_Castle_in_County_Mayo an Irish landmark

Cong also features a ruined medieval abbey, Cong Abbey, where Rory O’Connor, the last High King of Ireland, spent his last years. It also is the origin of a piece of Celtic art in the form of a metal cross-shrine called the Cross of Cong. The original ‘Cross of Cong’ is now held in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin. There is a High Cross in the village.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The Quiet Man

Perhaps the most famous thing about Cong is the 1951 movie The Quiet Man starring John Wayne, and Maureen O’Hara, which was made there.

The Quiet Man Cottage Museum gives visitors a total Quiet Man experience as if they were actually ‘on-set’. Located by the river at Circular Road, Cong, between actual locations used for the filming, the ground floor of the cottage has been designed as an exact replica of White-o-Mornin’ Cottage.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artefacts, costumes, etc are authentic reproductions. The four-poster bed and the tables and chairs which Mary-Kate cherished, the thatched roof, emerald green half door and white-washed front combine to charm all those who visit it.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Croagh Patrick

Every year on the last Sunday of June, thousands of pilgrims take to the slopes of Croagh Patrick in Mayo . Walking, crawling or going barefoot to honour their patron Saint Patrick.

Croagh Patrick

The hike to the top is quite steep and even though the peak is (only) at a height of 764 meters (2.507 feet), the path goes pretty much straight up. The rocky hiking path cuts across several fields and it gets a lot trickier towards the top as the ground becomes more unstable and “pebbly” like walking on slippery gravel.

Historically Westport was the home of the pirate Queen Gráinne Mhaol (Grace O’Malley). The dungeons from the ancient O’Malley fortress can still be seen in Westport House. The 18th Century Westport House is a privately owned historic home and Pirate Adventure Centre. It’s a great place for anyone with a love of pirate lore.

pirate Queen Gráinne Mhaol (Grace O’Malley)

Downpatrick Head

Just outside of Knockaun, 80 meters off Downpatrick Head stands a colossal, 50 meters in height, sea-stack called Dun Briste (The Broken Fort). The surrounding cliffs, including the rock formation, were formed about c. 350 million years ago when the sea temperatures were much higher than today.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

One legend has it that the place where the stack now stands used to live an ogre Geodruisge,  He was a most obnoxious character, often making life difficult for St. Patrick, who used to pray at the church on Downpatrick Head. The saint became agitated and prayed to God to get rid of this tyrant. The next day the stack with the ogre’s residence was separated from the mainland. Geodruisg couldn’t escape and so he vanished.

If you are looking for a tour of Galway, Limerick, Clare or Kerry and want a guide I highly recommend Tours by Locals there are 8 local guides that live in these areas who would love to show you their home County.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

  • Galway is famous for being the festival capital of Ireland with 122 events throughout the year
  • In 1477, Christopher Columbus visited Galway
  • In 1473 Galway was almost destroyed by fire.
  • Bubonic plague was introduced into the city by a Spanish ship in 1649 and killed at least 3,700 of its inhabitants and forced many Galway residents to abandon the city temporarily.
  • The cannons on display on Eyre Square were captured from the Russians during the Crimean War (1853-56)
  • Galway was one of the counties most affected by the Great Famine (1845-47); approximately 20% of the population died.
  • The longest place name in Ireland is Muckanaghederdauhaulia, a townland found in County Galway.
  • There are 35 heritage sites, 31 museums and 10 art galleries in Galway City and County.
  • 689 kilometres of Galway’s coastline is part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way including Connemara .
  • Connemara marble, which is also known as Connemara Green, is estimated to be 500 million years old. It is quarried at the Streamstown Marble Quarries near Clifden.
  • There are three breeds of horses indigenous to Ireland. These are the Connemara pony, the Irish draft and the Irish hunter.
  • Galway has the largest Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking community) in Ireland.

Well, what can you say about Galway this is the place that every tourist wants to head to and there’s a reason for that. Galway City is the best place to base yourself and then you are free to wander the pubs listen to some traditional music, shop and move out of town when you want to explore the highlights of the County

Panorama of the Claddagh in Galway city, Ireland.

Galway City 

Galway city , on Ireland’s west coast, is known for its great pubs, local Irish culture, and plenty of craic. It’s an amazing city to explore on its own, but it also serves as a perfect base for exploring this section of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Galway City itself can be explored in a day. It’s a charming place with plenty of free attractions and sites. Plus, Galway is easily walkable and best explored on foot. Make sure to check out the Galway Cathedral, Eyre Square, and the Latin Quarter. Make sure to spend your evening at one (or a few) of the many live music pubs.

The Loop Head Drive; is a scenic road trip with great photo stops and a limited few other travellers. Watch the waves for dolphins and whales and be sure to stop at the lighthouse and Carrigaholt Castle.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Aran Islands

Inis Mor; is the largest of the Aran Islands. The Gaelic language, historic forts, and thatched cottages give this part of the country an old-world Ireland feel. It can be explored by bike, horse and carriage ride, or you can book a tour with a local. Inis Mor can absolutely be seen on a day trip, but if you have time to spare, I do recommend staying overnight. Most tourists don’t spend the night so it promises to be a good local Irish experience. From Hannah of Ireland Stole My Heart

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Need to watch some Irish movies before you go? Here is my list of my favourite top 43 Irish movies

Galway-to-Connemara Loop

The Wild Atlantic Way (WAW) has 1,500 miles (2,500/k) of coastal roads that start in Kinsale and goes all the way up to the border with Northern Ireland . The most popular sections of the WAW include the Ring of Kerry , Dingle and the Cliffs of Mohr (as noted elsewhere in this piece). These sections of the trail are beautiful to be sure but I found the section of road between Galway and Clifden to have its own intimate beauty and it’s far less crowded.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

My Wild Atlantic Way itinerary zigzags along the WAW west of Galway, through Roundstone, Clifden , up to the Sky Road and back to Galway via the northern Connemara road . Popular stops on the route include Roundstone’s harbour, the Marconi transatlantic transmission station, the Clifden Sky Road, Connemara National Park and the Victorian Kylemore Abbey.

But what makes this road trip worth it is all of the views in between those stops. Some people do this route in one day and you can indeed get to Clifden in 1-1/2 hours on the fast road, but that’s not the point. The true value of this road trip is taking the slow, meandering way along the coast road and through the bogs. The landscape here has a stark quiet beauty that will creep up on you. Going down the side roads and getting deliberately lost in Connemara is always worth it. Get more detail on this Galway to Connemara road trip here . contributed by Carol of Wayfaring Views 

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is quite possibly one of the most photographed places in Ireland on the Wild Atlantic Way route. Its stunning location on a lake and its beautiful pristine grandeur and welcoming appearance make it a number 1 place to visit in Ireland.

kylemore abbey

Killary Fjord

A Fjord cruise  takes only 90 minutes and you can even have lunch on the boat if you want.  It is one of three glacial fjords that exist in Ireland and you can see dolphins sometimes swimming around the boat. After that, you can go straight to Kylemore Abbey. The cost of the cruise is €20 per adult and it is an absolutely stunning way to spend 90 minutes.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Like to know more about Galway City and what to see? Janet has written a great post on  23 Fun Things to do in Galway City on her blog Your Irish Adventure.

  • In 1881, in County Clare, John Philip Holland was the first person to successfully launch a submarine. 
  • Muhammad Ali’s great-grandfather was born and raised in Ennis, Co. Clare
  • The Cliffs of Moher in Clare are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland
  • County Clare is home to the miraculous Burren
  • The inventor of the submarine was from County Clare.

My favourite place to stay in County Clare has got to be one of Ireland’s perfectly charming villages Doolin. It is the epitome of Irish charm and has some great craic in the local pubs. Not only that but it’s easy to get to places like the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren .

Cliffs of Moher - O Briens Tower castle at sunset  in Co. Clare Ireland Europe.

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty is the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland and an absolute must-do when in Ireland. With its impressive castle, stunning Folk Park and the new fairy gardens Bunratty will keep the whole family occupied for hours.

Bunratty-castle-and-durty-nellies

The Cliffs of Moher

I planned out my trip to Ireland in great detail and was so excited when we finally arrived.  The itinerary included major sites as well as small surprises.  After landing in the morning in Shannon, it began with the dramatic Cliffs of Moher , after which we drove on to Cong to overnight at Ashford Castle. 

There we took a lesson in falconry and explored the tiny village and after two nights continued on to the Dingle Peninsula, where we spent one night in charming Dingle Town.  The next day we drove the rustic Ring of Dingle and then moved on to Adare, a village of thatched-roof buildings, for the night.  Then it was on to Dublin for four nights and the unusual Art Tea at the lovely Merrion Hotel, plus a lot of sightseeing.  I am quite pleased with all we saw in such a short time. From Carole at BerkeleyandBeyond

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Sites like the Burren  on the Wild Atlantic Way encourage the imagination to wander. The Burren appears to be a desolate, moonscape but it holds a curious beauty. It intertwines with the Cliffs of Moher, which stand proud against the ravages of the sea. Birds whirling overhead clash with the crows that seek out tourists to scavenge for food in some of these heavily visited areas. Some of the best bird watching in the world can be found in this region hard up against the Atlantic waters. 

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

If you are planning a trip to the Cliffs of Moher on a day trip make sure you check out Bruna’s post-Dublin  to Cliffs of Moher , she has some great tips on getting there and more.

Doolin is often called the most perfect Irish village on the west coast. Doolin is a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and the Aran Islands.  Adventure beyond the usual by taking a horseback ride through the Burren, or head to one of the two pubs in town: McGann’s and Fitzpatrick’s and enjoy some great Irish craic .

Doolin is picture perfect and finding things to do in Doolin is not difficult you can take a cruise, visit the Arran Islands, grab some great Irish food or simply hang out in the pubs.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Often touted as better than the Cliffs of Moher – Loop Head is a relatively short drive from those cliffs. Loop Head, however, is worlds apart. Here you will find very little traffic, no parking lots and virtually no tourists. What you will find is the true virtually undisturbed Irish views and cliffs that you have dreamt about. If you wish to avoid shelling out high prices for tours of the Cliffs of Moher, explore on your own, go, and find Loop Head.

  • Limerick is home to the longest footbridge in Ireland on the campus of the University of Ireland, this footbridge pans across the River Shannon, connecting the university grounds on either side of the river.
  • The world-famous Irish Coffee was first made back in the 1940s in the small port village of Foynes, Limerick
  • King John’s Castle is the most Western castle in Europe
  • The Vikings invaded Limerick around 800 AD and called the area Hlymrekr
  • Limerick is the only Irish town to give its name to a style of poetry
  • Limerick was once declared a Soviet City – During the War of Independence, the British government declared Limerick a Special Military Area under the Defence of the Realm Act and the Irish responded by claiming the city was the Irish Soviet

As much as I like shopping at the Milk Market Limerick City is not one I would choose to stay in. I would head to Adare where you can stay in a very luxurious castle or perhaps Ennis which is another very pretty Irish town.

Sunset over the Shannon river in Limerick, Ireland

King John’s Castle

King John’s castle dates back to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. The interactive visitors’ centre offers to pull out drawers filled with artefacts including weapons and coins (minted in the castle) to dress up areas for children and cannonball games.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

In the main courtyard of the castle, you can watch a blacksmith at work in his forge from the sidelines of a 17th-century siege. The castle itself has been restored beautifully, which allows you to climb several viewpoints that offer a 360-degree view of Limerick.

Lough Gur, in Ballyhoura close to the village of Bruff, is a beautiful little lake with several archaeologically significant sites. At the Heritage Center, there are many displays that prove this was one of the oldest settlements in Ireland. Hundreds of ancient objects emerged, including a bronze shield, pottery fragments and spearheads.

The Lough Gur Stone Circle , located on private land, can be seen from Route 512 a short distance from Bruff. The circle, 46 meters in diameter within a perimeter mound, is the largest of its kind in Western Europe, estimated to be over 4000 years old.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The Limerick Milk Market

As in many countries, Ireland is working to emphasize buying local, buying fresh and supporting small producers and the Limerick Milk Market is the epitome of that ethos.

A bustling foodie mecca the Milk Market Limerick has something for everyone. From special events to foodie tastings and cooking classes the Milk Market covers the gamut of gourmet events in the area.

The freshest locally grown produce speciality bread from gluten-free to beautifully presented wheaten and sodas. The pastries, cakes and traybakes (what the Irish call things like brownies and dessert bars) this market has some of the best in Ireland.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

  • Rural County Kerry is home to stunning natural sites like the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula and the Skellig Islands.
  • Kerry is one of the most mountainous regions of Ireland and contains two of its three highest mountains, Carrauntoohil, part of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks range, and Mount Brandon, part of the Slieve Mish range.
  • Just off the coast are a number of islands, including the Blasket Islands, Valentia Island and the Skelligs. Skellig Michael is a World Heritage Site, famous for the medieval monastery used in Star Wars clinging to the island’s cliffs.
  • Kerry contains the extreme west point of Ireland, Dunmore Head on the Dingle Peninsula
  • The most westerly inhabited area of Ireland is Dún Chaoin, on the Dingle Peninsula.

My absolute favourite place to stay in Kerry is Killarney. From here you can explore the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle peninsula and take a boat trip out to the Skelligs from Port Macgee. Don’t forget to take a jaunting cart around the Ring but if you drive it go counterclockwise so you don’t get stuck behind a bus. You can read my Ring of Kerry itinerary her e.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Dingle Peninsula

Lonely Planet says that Dingle is truly quaint without even trying. Dingle is famous for its traditional music pubs of which there are a number of as well as some great cafes and restaurants. It is, after all, an Irish “seaside” town and to the Irish, that means a visit for some Murphy’s Ice-cream made only from Kerry cattle.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest Ireland’s County Kerry on the wild Atlantic way coastal route. Taking you through some of the most breathtaking vistas in Ireland the route is a circular 179 km.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Beginning in the Killarney National Park, we started from Killarney. Staying in Killarney makes it a grand jumping-off point for the Ring of Kerry and you can easily book a jaunting cart to tour the Ring.

The Gap of Dunloe, Killarney

Everyone has heard of the jaunting carts and the trip through the Gap of Dunloe . This narrow mountain path sits between Purple Mountain and the evocatively named MacGuillycuddy Reeks. You can also do a boat tour from Ross Castle through the lakes and you can get dropped off at Brandon’s Cottage. From there you can grab a cart or walk the 6 miles between the mountains if you fancy it.

KILLARNEY, IRELAND - AUGUST 13, 2019: Tourists in a traditional jaunting car explore Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland.

Driving the Gap of Dunloe in a private car can only be done during the off-season and should only be attempted by the brave! The single-lane road leaves little room for passing and blind corners will test your nerves to the breaking point.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

The Skelligs

Skellig Michael & Small Skellig lie 13 km from the southwest coast of Valentia Island. Weather permitting you can head to the Skelligs by way of boat. Over 1400 years ago Skellig Michael became home to a small group of men seeking religious solitude and isolation.

Skelligs in the Wild Atlantic Way

You can take two types of tours to the Skelligs. The cruises of the Skelligs are usually 2 hours long & run between April & September. You should book a trip around 6 months in advance but be prepared for the wild Atlantic Way as there is no predicting whether or not the boats can sail. 

  • The Royal Cork Yacht Club is the world’s oldest yacht clubThe Crosshaven club is said to be the oldest yacht club in the world. It was originally founded in Haulbowline Island in 1720.
  • The Dursey Cable Car is the only cable car to be found in Ireland
  • The first steamship to leave Ireland and cross the Atlantic sailed from Cobh
  • The first documented immigrant at Ellis Island came from Cobh
  • In 1903 Cobh hosted the first motor boat race
  • Skibereen was home to Europe’s first Temperance Society.
  • The first potato was planted in Cork by Sir Walter Raleigh, the man who is said to have brought the potato crop to Ireland from the Americas, is said to have planted the first potato near his home in Youghal around 1588.

Cork is high on everyone’s list and of course, a visit to Cobh where the Titanic left on its fateful voyage is a must-do. I wouldn’t stay in Cobh though as it is a very short drive from Cork. Cork is a really vibrant town with lots of trad music pubs and a great foodie scene.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Kinsale, Old Head

Ever since I moved to Ireland , one of my favourite places to visit is the cliffs at Old Head in Kinsale as it is the perfect day trip. For me, this place totally represents Ireland – beautiful nature, lots of green and fresh air.

The best way to get there is either by car (if you rent one) or by bike since it is located about 10km away from Kinsale city centre. You can walk/climb around the cliffs on both sides, while one is more open and the other one quieter and wind safe. There is no fence protecting you from the edges since this place is pure nature. So, be careful in case you are there on a windy day.

Kinsale Cliffs on the pathway with views of the ocean on the Wild Atlantic Way

After visiting the cliffs, it is worth exploring Kinsale. It is a very small town; you can literally walk through within 30min. On Main Street, you should grab a bite at the Lemon Leaf cafe/restaurant to finish off your trip. From Sixtine of Six Miles Aw

Blarney Castle

Probably one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks the legend of the Blarney Stone is one that many tourists pilgrimage to. Not my idea of fun as you have to hike up many stairs and then take care that someone has a good grip on you as you literally bend over backwards to kiss the stone. But it does seem to be high on many a bucket list .

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Gougane Barra

On a small island in the middle of a beautiful lake sits one of the most romantic places in Ireland . Never has there been a prettier location for a church ( Glendalough included) than St Finbarr, patron saint of Cork’s Oratory. This has to be one of the most beautiful places to visit on the Wild Atlantic Way route but beware of its tiny little single-lane roads if driving.

A deep U-shaped valley carved out of the mountains of West Cork at the end of the last ice age, Gougane Barra is also, where the Lee River rises. Up until the 1930s, this area was covered with smallholdings, with farmers and shepherds following the pilgrim paths for 100s of years.

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Gougane Barra Park has developed more of a recreational focus and is the only National Park in Ireland that you can actually drive into and around for a small charge.  Although it is a lot healthier and more environmentally sound obviously, to leave your car and walk. There are 5 km of roads and 10 km of hiking/biking trails.

Ring of Beara & Dursey Island

The Ring of Beara is a stunning circular drive in southwestern Ireland, lesser-known than the Ring of Kerry just to the south. The trail around the Beara peninsula begins in Kenmare and takes in some beautiful panoramic views.

At the end of the Beara Peninsula is Dursey Island & Ireland’s only cable car, which connects Dursey Island (County Cork) to the mainland. You can visit the Island via cable car and you can find the  opening times of Dursey Island Cable Car here .

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

There are perhaps half a dozen occupied houses on Dursey Island, mostly small crofting farms, along with holiday cottages you can rent. Please note though there are no shops, pubs, restaurants or anywhere else to buy anything, so do take any food & water you might need with you.

Martello Tower

The Martello Tower is over 200 years old and stands on the top of Western hill. It was built as a lookout for French invasions during the Napoleonic Wars. There are towers dotted along the whole coastline, each insight of each other. They would each have a fire built and ready on the roof, and if enemy ships were spotted the fires would be lit, the signal travelling tower to tower to rapidly send the message back that an invasion was imminent.

If you would like to read more about the Beara Peninsula take a look at Naddya’s article on the Beara Peninsula: Spectacular Views, Kind People, And Delectable Food .

The English Market in Cork

The English Market is intricately linked to the city of Cork and over its 218 years of history, it has been a bastion of Irish food traditions.  To this day, even among the “foodie” trends of the middle class the Market still supplies old-school favourites like crubeens, drisheen and tripe to its customers. 

For those who don’t know crubeens are boiled, battered and fried pig’s feet, drisheen is a type of black pudding made from a variety of animal blood, black pudding is sausages made from pigs’ blood and white sausages are made from the fat from pigs. Tripe is from a cow’s stomach when I was a kid my grandfather used to boil it on the stovetop for hours (yes, it was disgusting).

Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Mizen Head 

If you’re short on time in Ireland or simply want to experience a great mixture of amazing landscapes, incredible history, and charming Irish towns in a short period of time, the Haven Coast leg of the Wild Atlantic Way is a fantastic place to start. This itinerary takes you past colourful villages, for a tour through the star-shaped Charles Fort, to weather-beaten headlands, past stunning beaches, and leads to amazing ancient artefacts.

Mizen Head on the Wild Atlantic Way Cork - photo by Nadine Maffre

It’s entirely possible to drive this route in a day, but I’d recommend spreading it out over two or three days to appreciate the sights on the way. I particularly enjoyed spending time at Mizen head with its walkways and breathtaking viewing platforms, and Gougane Barra, which is even more spectacular at night. Written by Nadine of Lelongweekend

Cobh makes a perfect day trip from  Cork  and you can enjoy the fascinating Cobh Heritage Centre, talk an uphill walk to the Cobh Cathedral and check out the colourful houses, enjoy sailing on the bay, and learn about the tragedy of the Titanic. 

St. Colman and the deck of cards colourful houses in Cobh. Landmarks in Ireland you must visit

There you have it – not by any means a complete guide to the Wild Atlantic Way but some of our favourites along the route. You can also pick up a free Wild Atlantic Way guidebook . This great 24-page guide will help you plan your next trip to Ireland. It has pages for each county along the coastal route showing county maps of the official Discovery Points plus more detail about the main Signature discovery points in that county.

Touring the Wild Atlantic Way is an unforgettable experience that offers visitors a glimpse into the untamed beauty of Ireland’s rugged coastline. From breathtaking landscapes and charming towns to rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, this 2,500 km route has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, hiking along cliff tops or indulging in fresh seafood, you’ll be immersed in the natural wonders of this stunning region. So pack your bags and hit the road to discover the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way for yourself!

What’s your favourite place on the Wild Atlantic Way route?

More articles to read before visiting Ireland

27 Things to do in Galway in 2 days

A Traditional Irish Breakfast – the lush full Irish breakfast

Ireland’s Ancient East – an epic road trip

Ancient Ireland 30 sacred places

Cool things to do in Dublin off the beaten path Ireland

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary in 14 days

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Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip

Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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4 thoughts on “Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Route Ireland: A WAW Road Trip”

You know, we’ve never been to Ireland but your article makes us think we really should just take a plane and rent a car. We lived in the UK for so long and we loved driving next to the coast, it’s something really cool about it. Wales looks stunning.

I feel intoxicated by scenery, and wishing for months of time (and funds) to explore the whole west coast in full. But aside from being greedy to see everything – and what a beautiful everything there is to see – I can pick out segments of the drive to enjoy in bite sized chunks. I had no idea the Yeats memorial was there, and beautiful to see “He wishes for the cloths of heaven” laid out like that. Whoever did the graphic for the Way needs a word of congratulation too; it’s such a vivid icon to spot on signs.

Wow – so many places to see! We’ve never been to Ireland before so I’m going to pin this for when we do go! Thanks for sharing all your fantastic photos as well.

Aww man this post is making me miss Ireland so much! We were able to drive some of the WAW during our seven day road trip, but it was not enough time. We really wanted to see the slieve cliffs and Glencar Waterfall. But we managed to hit a lot of stops you mentioned and stayed at Lough Eske Castle!

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The Irish Road Trip

Wild Atlantic Way Map With Attractions Plotted

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 17, 2023

Wild Atlantic Way Map With Attractions Plotted

We created a Wild Atlantic Way map over the course of around 30 hours.

I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t been a nightmare of a task (and one that’s ended in repetitive strain disorder!).

However, the result is, from what I can tell, one of the most complete interactive West Coast of Ireland maps available online.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about our Wild Atlantic Way map

west coast Ireland map

The map above will give you a very quick overview of the layout of the Wild Atlantic Way. Below, you’ll find some need-to-knows about our interactive West Coast of Ireland map:

1. It has hundreds of attractions split into categories

For example, the blue pointers on our Wild Atlantic Way map below show often-missed viewpoints that look out onto incredible scenery while the turquoise pointers show the key attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way.

2. It includes ‘main’ discovery points and hidden gems

You’ll often hear of the Wild Atlantic Way discovery points. These are specific locations along the Wild Atlantic Way route that have WAW signs and that tend to mark a point of significance. We’ve included these, but we’ve also included many hidden gems that aren’t designated discovery points.

3. Always use caution when using Google Maps like this 

Although we’ve tried our best to plot accurate locations on our West Coast of Ireland map below, mistakes happen. This  tends  to be caused by where a location is plotted within Google Maps. So, please, always use caution.

4. You have to log in (takes 10 seconds)

We have our Wild Atlantic Way map below ‘locked’. I know this isn’t ideal, but let me explain (it’s free and takes seconds to access):

  • If you sign up for free, we’re able to show you relevant ads on our website
  • While this won’t cost you anything, it helps us to get a fairer price from advertisers
  • This helps us pay the bills. If you do sign up – thank you . You’re helping us to keep The Irish Road Trip alive

Our interactive West Coast of Ireland map

As I mentioned above, it’s free and takes only 10 or so seconds to get access to our West Coast of Ireland map.

In the process you’ll help us keep The Irish Road Trip running.

To use our Wild Atlantic Way Map, simply click it and zoom in on whatever part of the route you’re looking to explore.

We’ve included many of the places in the map in our 11-day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary .

Here’s an overview of what to expect from the various places and things that we have plotted.

The pink pointers: ‘Main’ Towns + Villages

Kinsale

Photos via Shutterstock

There’s plenty of charming towns and villages dotted right the way along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Although some, like Kinsale , Killarney and Westport , are fairly well known, others, like Allihies , Union Hall and Eyeries , tend to get overlooked.

The orange pointers: Beaches

Kinnagoe Bay

There’s some incredible beaches in Ireland and, as it happens, many are located along the West Coast of Ireland.

Some of the more famous beaches that you’ll find on our Wild Atlantic Way map are Keem Bay and Coumeenoole Beach .

The navy pointers: Accessible islands

The Banshees of Inisherin cottage

Many of Ireland’s islands offer a unique experience that you won’t find on the mainland. The likes of the Aran Islands and Arranmore Island are usually tourist hotspots, but there are plenty more to consider.

For example, if you zoom in on the coast of our Wild Atlantic Way map, you’ll see the likes of Dursey Island , Bere Island and Cape Clear Island off of West Cork. 

The purple pointers: Castles

minard castle and beach

Some of the finest castles in Ireland are dotted along the Wild Atlantic Way route.

Although some, like Doonagore Castle in Doolin are on the main tourist track others, like Minard Castle on the Dingle Peninsula , lay a little off the beaten path.

The turquoise pointers: Key attractions

Slieve League

The turquoise outline the Wild Atlantic Way’s main attractions, like the Ring of Kerry , Killarney National Park and Croagh Patrick .

You’ll have very likely heard of many of these but we’ve also thrown in some great  slightly  hidden gems, like Brow Head .

The brown pointers: Rainy day attractions

Donegal County Museum

Photos via Donegal County Museum on FB

This is probably the most neglected section of our West Coast of Ireland map and it’s dedicated to rainy day attractions.

The brown pointers include everything from museums and aquariums to some slightly unusual indoor attractions.

The blue pointers: Viewpoints

Caves of Keash

This section of our Wild Atlantic Way map took the longest and, in my opinion, it’s the section that’s worth paying the most attention to.

The Wild Atlantic Way has endless viewpoints but many of them aren’t widely known. The blue pointers will take you to our favourites.

The grey pointers: Family attractions

Inis Mor

The final pointers are the grey ones and these are for those of you looking for family-friendly attractions.

You’ll find everything from sheep farms and kid-friendly activities to gentle strolls and more here.

What has our Wild Atlantic Way map missed?

Although we tried our best, I have no doubt that there are places that we unintentionally missed when creating our West Coast of Ireland map.

If you’ve noticed somewhere that we’ve left off, please do let us know in the comments section below.

West Coast of Ireland map FAQs

Since publishing the Wild Atlantic Way map, we’ve had a clatter of emails asking everything from where the route goes to how long it takes.

Below, we’ve answered the most FAQ. Shout if you have one that we haven’t covered.

Is there an interactive Wild Atlantic Way map?

Yes, it’s in the body of our article above. You just need to log in (takes 10 seconds) and then you’ll have full access to it.

How long does the Wild Atlantic Way take to drive?

This is an ‘How long is a piece of string’ type question. Ideally, you need as long as you have, as it’s a lengthy route that needs time. However, the minimum that you could do it in is 7 days.

wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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John D O'Sullivan

Monday 12th of June 2023

Thanks for this wonderful resource.

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Ireland itinerary guides and tips

HOME   |  IRELAND

The wild atlantic way: my 9-day ireland road trip itinerary.

Ireland is without question, one of the most underrated countries in Europe.

From the country’s wild nature and rugged landscapes to the delicious locally grown produce, the rich and captivating history to the utterly friendly people, Ireland will win your over as soon as you’ve set foot into the country.

Add to that, that Ireland is the motherland of the world-famous Guinness beer, produces some of the finest whiskey on the planet, and it’s safe to say that Ireland breaths uniqueness and authenticity.

Ooh, and there are sheep. Lots of sheep!

Having now road-tripped through Ireland for nine days, ‘the Land of Saints and Scholars’, with its many interesting features has become one of my favourite trips of the year.

Starting in Dublin, my Ireland road trip has taken me to the majority of the highlights that are found along Ireland’s popular Wild Atlantic Way, including the Cliffs of Moher , Slieve League Cliffs , Connemara National Park , and the Fanad Lighthouse to name but a few.

As a result, this itinerary reflects my 9-day road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, and talks you through my detailed route, while also providing all the essentials in terms of accommodation, weather, transportation and more.

Here’s my Ireland road trip itinerary – enjoy sorting out yours!

RENTING A CAR IN IRELAND

I highly believe that a destination like Ireland is best explored on your own set of wheels, as it provides all the freedom to travel around at your own pace.

And while driving on the left-hand side of the road is somewhat challenging at the beginning, the road infrastructure is extremely good, not to mention the views along the way.

One crucial thing you should be aware of though, is that the costs of renting a car in Ireland are some of the highest I’ve ever seen, with prices ranging from €400 to €600 a week during the high season. This includes free cancellation, theft protection and collision damage waiver. 

If you choose to opt for a car with automatic transmission (which I highly recommend if you haven’t driven on the left before), the costs of car rental will average out at €600 to €800 per week.

All in all, a road trip in Ireland is far from cheap, and with the above in mind, I’d advise booking your rental car well in advance to save a few bucks.

For car rental in Ireland, I’d highly recommend Rentalcars.com . They offer brilliant service, additional insurance options, as well as a wide selection of cars to choose from. Prices and availability here .

I’ve also written a complete guide to driving in Ireland (coming soon) , so make sure you check that one out too before planning your own road trip.

Wild Atlantic Way Ireland itinerary

Accommodation | Where to stay in Ireland

Ireland, with its exceptional natural scenery, isn’t by any means a budget-friendly destination, this is clearly also the case when we’re talking accommodation.

During my road trip in Ireland, I noticed that the starting price for a standard double room ranges anywhere from €50 to €70 per night . One big upside though, is that in many cases, you’ll be staying in quite a luxurious hotel, apartment or guesthouse for only €15 extra.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget, €25 to €35 per night should be enough to get you a bed in one of the many great hostels that are dotted throughout the country.

Though prices are a little higher than elsewhere in Europe, the accommodation options in Ireland are actually pretty luxurious, which makes it a good value for the money.

BOOKING.COM

As a solo traveller, my favourite website to find accommodation is booking.com .

If you’re curious to see my recommendations, make sure you check the accommodation options I’ve marked under each day of this itinerary. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Accommodation | Find your perfect stay here .

MY IRELAND ITINERARY DAY TO DAY OVERVIEW

DAY 1 | Arrival in Dublin DAY 2 | Car pickup, Cliffs of Moher and Galway DAY 3 | Connemara National Park, Achill Island and Keem Beach DAY 4 | Down Patrick Head, Mullaghmore Head and Classiebawn Castle DAY 5 | Secret waterfall, Slieve League Cliffs and Glen head DAY 6 | Fanad Lighthouse, Benbulbin Mountain and Gleniff Horseshoe DAY 7 | Hill of Tara and drive back to Dublin DAY 8 | Lough Tay, returning your rental car and exploring Dublin DAY 9 | Exploring Dublin and catching your flight home

Day 1 | Arrival in Dublin

Given most International flights arrive in Dublin, it is most likely that your trip will start out here.

While it’s totally possible to book your rental car from the start of your trip, I’d advise anyone to first take some time to get their bearings in Dublin before picking up their rental at the airport.

Not only is a car unnecessary when spending time in Dublin, but you will also save a bunch of money, as the parking costs will add up quickly in the city centre.

Having said that, how you plan your first day in Dublin is highly dependent on your arrival time at the Dublin International Airport . 

If your flight arrives in the morning or early afternoon, I’d suggest exploring some of Dublin’s many highlights straight away. 

If you arrive late, opt for a top-notch burger at Feather Blade or a few pints at the Templebar instead, before catching up on some sleep at your accommodation.

Ooh, and don’t worry, this itinerary ends with two full days in Dublin!

Where I stayed | For my first night, I opted for the Templebar Rooms , a budget-friendly apartment at only a stone’s throw away from the Dublin city centre.

How to get to Dublin | Take the Dublin Express for a quick transfer to the city. A return ticket costs only €10,- per person.

Trinity College | Wild Atlantic Way road trip itinerary

Day 2 | Car pickup, Cliffs of Moher and Galway

After your first day in Dublin, it’s time to head back to the airport to pick up your rental car.

To me, this day started off with a mix of feelings of excitement and nervousness, given it was my first time ever driving on the left-hand side of the road. If it’s your first time too, make sure you take a few moments to practise in the parking lot of the car supplier, before setting out on the road.

Now that you’ve got a feel for the car, it’s officially time to start this Ireland road trip itinerary. 

And to be honest, this part of the itinerary isn’t for the faint of heart, given you will start with almost a full day behind the wheel. Still, it’s absolutely one of the most rewarding days.

After covering lots of ground, you’ll reach your first stop, and immediately one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions; the sheer Cliffs of Moher .

Slightly isolated on Ireland’s rugged West Clare coast, the Cliffs of Moher is an otherworldly natural sight and an essential stop for anyone travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Once arrived at the Cliffs of Moher, it takes around 2 hours to walk along the insanely rough cliffs, with some of the most incredible views along the way.

From the Cliffs of Moher, it’s time to continue in the direction of Galway, a lively harbour city where I’d highly recommend you to stay overnight.

Upon arrival in Galway, make sure you drop by at the Dough Bros  for one of the best pizzas you will ever eat – believe me, you won’t regret it as they’re freakin’ delicious.

Where I stayed | I opted for The Continental Boutique Residence , a great hotel that offers great value for the price. It’s also pretty close to the city centre of Galway.

Related | Check out my Cliffs of Moher guide (coming soon) for inspiration, travel advice and essential information.

Driving time: 4,5 – 5 hours | Distance: 343 Kilometres

9 day Ireland itinerary

Day 3 | Connemara National Park, Achill Island and Keem Beach

Day three is off to an early start, as the morning is all about hiking the Upper Diamond Hill trail in the Connemara National Park .

But first, it is time for a scenic drive through the rugged landscape of County Galway, which was one of my favourite stretches of road during this road trip through Ireland.

After around 1,5 hours of driving along picture-perfect mountain peaks and lakes, you’ll reach the Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s most prestigious national parks, and one of the absolute highlights on this itinerary.

Situated in the northwest of Connemara, this popular national park is home to the Upper Diamond Hill trail; a gentle 6-kilometre hiking loop that offers the most stunning views of both the Twelve Bens Range and the Valley of Glanmore.

Following the hike, it’s time to head in the direction of Achill Island and Keem Bay . 

Even though it’s slightly off the by Google Maps advised route, I can’t stress it enough to drive via the exceptional Doolough Valley between Leenaun and Louisburgh – trust me, this place is simply too good to miss out on.

Wild Atlantic Way | 9 Day Ireland itinerary

Once you’ve arrived on Achill Island, drive all the way west over winding mountain passages until you’ll reach Keem Bay, an unspoiled stretch of white-sanded beach that is flanked by rough seaside cliffs on either side. 

The views over Keem Bay are like nowhere else in Ireland and the iconic setting causes for a moody and somewhat mysterious vibe, making it the perfect place to snap some stunning photographs while also having a well-needed moment to stretch your legs.

If you haven’t packed lunch, opt for a late lunch in one of Achill Island’s typical Irish pub-like cafeterias, before heading to Belmullet, where I’d advise you to stay for the night – since it’s nearby the stops that are planned for the next day.

Where I stayed | I’ve chosen to spend the night at Broadhaven Bay View House , a cosy family-run bed and breakfast in Belmullet. 

Related | I’ve written an entire guide on the Connemara National Park , so make sure to read it for inspiration, travel advice and all the essential information.

Driving time: 6 – 7 hours | Distance: 312 Kilometres

Wild Atlantic Way Ireland

Day 4 | Down Patrick Head, Mullaghmore Head and Classiebawn Castle

For day four, my plans had originally included the 3-hour Erris Head Loop Walk , but unfortunately, the weather gods had different plans for me. However, if the weather is in your favour, I’d still recommend doing this scenic walk along the rugged coast of Erris Head.

As a result, my first stop of the day took me to another incredible highlight found along the Wild Atlantic Way; the breathtaking Dún Briste sea stack of Downpatrick Head.

This 45 metres high sea stack was once connected to the mainland, but as a byproduct of rough seas and fierce weather conditions, it eventually got separated from the mainland.

While it’s a tad frightening due to the deep abyss, the sea stack of Dún Briste is a unique landmark to behold and thus an essential stop on any Ireland road trip itinerary.

From Downpatrick Head, make your way to Sligo, a lively town that makes the perfect base for explorations around County Sligo.

After a short lunch break and a quick check-in at your hotel, continue to Mullaghmore Head for the Classiebawn Castle , a privately owned castle with the towering Ben Bulben mountain as its backdrop. Though it’s not possible to enter the grounds, it truly is an epic scene to capture.

Once you’re done capturing some Instagram bangers, head back to Sligo for an afternoon of sightseeing and relaxation. While Sligo itself is rather small, the centre is worthy of an afternoon stroll.

Where I stayed | Make sure you stay at the Glasshouse , a comfortable hotel in the centre of Sligo.

Driving time: Around 3 hours | Distance: 193 Kilometres

My 9 day Ireland itinerary

Day 5 | Secret waterfall, Slieve League Cliffs and Glen head

Day five of this 9-day Ireland itinerary starts early, as it’s time to head to an undiscovered gem along Donegal’s scenic coastline; the Secret Waterfall in Donegal , also known as the Largy waterfall. 

Completely hidden under the cliffs of Largy, this secret waterfall is reached by an adventurous hike, which takes you along muddy farmland, a secluded stretch of beach, and several boulders of rock, before reaching the remote waterfall.

Once arrived at the Secret Waterfall, you will be welcomed by a small, yet impressive waterfall that is still largely unexplored by those travelling along Ireland’s popular Wild Atlantic Way.

Following this off the beaten adventure, it’s time to continue along the Wild Atlantic Way in the direction of the Slieve League Cliffs , a set of 600-metre high sea cliffs that are without question the highlight of this day.

Located on the Donegal coastline, these impressive cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe and are definitely a must-see for anyone road tripping along the Wild Atlantic Way.

After hiking the incredible trail at Slieve League Cliffs, it’s time to set off to your last point of call for the day; the dramatic coastal cliffs of Glen Head in Glencolmcille.

On route to Letterkenny, and nestled on the edge of the towering cliffs,  Glen Head is rugged, huge in size, and incredibly impressive to behold, especially when visiting around sunset, which is the case in this itinerary. 

Once you arrive at the viewpoint, roll down your windows and watch an epic sunset unfold, before continuing in the direction of Letterkenny, where you will be spending the night.

Where I stayed |  In Letterkenny, I decided to go for a little more comfort, so I chose to stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel , an excellent hotel with a sauna and swimming pool in the centre of Letterkenny.

Driving time: 4 – 5 hours | Distance: 212 Kilometres

Ireland itinerary 9 days

Day 6 | Fanad Lighthouse, Benbulben Mountain and Gleniff Horseshoe

This morning is fully dedicated to driving to the far most Northern tip of Ireland to visit the incredibly scenic Fanad Lighthouse.

Perched on the eponymous Fanad Peninsula, the Fanad Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world and is truly a photographer’s dream.

After snapping some awesome photography shots of the lighthouse, it’s time to head in the direction of Benbulben Mountain , another incredibly picturesque spot and easily one of my favourite stops on this Ireland itinerary.

Rising high above Drumcliffe village, the Benbulben Mountain is a gigantic flat-topped rock formation in the heart of County Sligo and is also part of the Dartry Mountains.

This iconic mountain range is best enjoyed by following the leisurely Benbulben Forest walk .

Situated at only a short distance from Benbulben is your next stop, the impressive Gleniff Horseshoe , a 10-kilometre hiking loop that offers sensational views of the encircling Dartry Mountains .

In the afternoon, head back to Sligo for an afternoon of exploring and relaxing – I’ve left this part of the itinerary open for you.

Where I stayed | I stayed at the Glasshouse , a comfortable hotel in the heart of Sligo Town.

Driving time: 3,5 hours | Distance: 222 Kilometres

Ireland road trip

Day 7 | Hill of Tara and drive back to Dublin

On day seven of this Ireland itinerary, I chose to sleep in and spend some extra time at the excellent breakfast buffet of the Glasshouse , before beginning the lengthy drive from Sligo to Dublin.

After a late check-out, it’s time to make your way to the Hill of Tara, an ancient ceremonial site that has great significance, given it is known as the inauguration place and seat of the High Kings of Ireland.

Legend has it, that the site has been in use for more than 5.000 years, and that it was once the ancient seat of power in Ireland. It is also said that during both prehistoric and historic times, a total of 142 kings reigned over the Hill of Tara.

While I’d have to admit that it’s not the most picturesque stop on this itinerary, I believe its long and captivating historical timeline is enough reason to include the Hill of Tara in your Ireland road trip itinerary. 

From the Hill of Tara, it’s time for the last leg of the journey back to Dublin. This part of the trip should take around one more hour.

With a bit of luck, you’ll arrive in Dublin in the early afternoon, meaning there is plenty of time for a coffee break and explorations around town.

But let’s start with the coffee part. Brother Hubbard is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon coffee, so make sure you grab one before exploring the vibrant streets of Dublin.

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Dublin , I’ve written an in-depth guide on Dublin , so make sure you read that one too!

Where I stayed |  I stayed in the excellent Cassidy hotel in the centre of Dublin, which was both comfortable and quiet.

Driving time : 3,5 hours | Distance: 227 Kilometres

Car rental | Ireland itinerary

Day 8 | Lough Tay, Kilmainham Gaol Museum and returning your rental car

Now that you’re back in Dublin, it’s time to make your way to the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains.

Situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, Lough Tay is a stunningly beautiful lake that has become famous for its appearance as ‘Kattegat’ in History’s blockbuster series ‘Vikings’.

While the shore is private property, and thus not accessible to the public, you’ll notice several viewpoints along the road, offering the iconic view that made the ‘Guinness Lake’ famous.

From Lough Tay, head back to Dublin for a visit at the intriguing Kilmainham Gaol Museum , a former prison turned museum that reminds its visitors to Ireland’s tragic fight for independence. 

Since parking fees in the city centre of Dublin add up quickly, I’d recommend dropping off your rental car at the airport after visiting the Kilmainham Gaol Museum in Dublin.

Once you’ve returned your rental, jump aboard the Dublin Express for a short transfer back to the city centre (make sure you buy a return ticket so you can use it again tomorrow).

After you’ve returned your rental car, there’s still plenty of time to explore Dublin, so make sure to check out my guide to Dublin  to make the most of your day.

Where I stayed | I’ve stayed a second night at the Cassidys Hotel .

Driving time: 2 hours | Distance: 100 Kilometres

Lough Tay | Ireland itinerary

Day 9 | Exploring Dublin and catching your flight home

Depending on your flight time, the last day of your itinerary will be all about catching your flight home. 

If you have a late flight though, you can still squeeze in some sightseeing in the morning, before heading to the airport.

Since my flight was at 17:15, I was fortunate enough to visit the iconic Guinness Storehouse Factory (which is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Dublin), as well as revisiting a few spots that I visited earlier on this trip, including Murphy’s Ice Cream , Dublin’s best ice cream shop.

Then, after 9 incredible days in Ireland, it is sadly time to pack your stuff and head to the airport.

Dublin Ireland road trip itinerary

Weather in Ireland | Best time to visit

It is largely known that the weather in Ireland is far from predictable, meaning you could experience all four seasons in a matter of one day.

While you should always bear in mind the potential weather changes, I’d believe the best time to plan your Ireland road trip itinerary is during the summer months of June, July and August, when the days are longer and the weather is slightly more stable.

Additionally, the shoulder months of April, May and September will still offer enjoyable circumstances – plus you will experience smaller crowds when visiting the major highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way too .

Atlantic Way ireland

How to get to Ireland

Whether you’re from neighbouring England or Scotland, or from the other side of the world, it is safe to say that the easiest way to get to Ireland is by air.

Most international flights to Ireland arrive at the Dublin International Airport , situated around 20 minutes north of the city centre of Dublin, Ireland’s iconic capital city.

Dublin Airport is extremely well kept and hosts a great range of international flights, including those from major hubs in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

While Dublin International Airport is clearly your best pick, you can also choose to fly into the country via the airports at Cork, Shannon and Knock. For this Ireland itinerary, however, I’d recommend entering the country at Dublin.

For flights to Ireland, I would advise the use of Skyscanner . Not only is their website super user-friendly, but they also offer a great selection of airlines and the option to find good rates.

Safety in Ireland | Travel insurance

Given travelling in Ireland is all about the outdoors, I recommend everyone to sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own road trip adventure.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike, a stolen camera, or an accident on the road. 

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo , as they offer full covid-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too. Additionally, I also recommend World Nomads .

PLAN YOUR IRELAND ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

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A complete guide to the Slieve League Cliffs, Ireland

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What do things cost in Ireland

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13 Incredible things to do in Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital

A complete guide to the Connemara National Park

A complete guide to the Connemara National Park, Ireland

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- Ireland Highlights Wild Atlantic Way Special -

Wild Atlantic Way

Plan your Wild Atlantic Way road trip

Ireland is a dream destination for independent travellers. The Emerald Island is easy to reach by plane or ferry and you can explore the country as you wish with a rental car. Stay in a cosy hotel or traditional B&B.

Wild Atlantic Way Travel Guide

Explore the best offers for traveling around Ireland:

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wild atlantic way road trip 4 days

Adventures in Destinations Unknown

Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal

A Donegal Road Trip along the Wild Atlantic Way

Last modified on July 19th, 2023 at 11:04

County Donegal is Ireland’s wild child. Home to some of the country’s most sublime scenery, the northwest corner of the country boasts gold-sand beaches, towering cliffs and rugged hillsides. Shrouded in mist and battered by the elements, its evocative landscapes are like the backdrop of a fantasy novel.

The Donegal road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way wraps around the topsy-turvy coastline of this Gaelic-speaking region. From abandoned castles, to quaint seaside villages, to majestic mist-covered landscapes, the winding coastal route showcases many of the top things to do in Donegal.

WILD ATLANTIC WAY: DONEGAL ROAD TRIP MAP

Dan and I chose to road trip around County Donegal during a short visit to Ireland . We were drawn to the area’s wild and unspoiled scenery, as well as to the fact that neither of us had visited the area in the past.

With only three days in Ireland, we decided to follow a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way—a 2,500km driving route that exposes the best of Ireland’s western coastline. The winding scenic road meanders past craggy outcrops, lonely beaches and windswept hillsides. It is at once subtle yet dramatic, monochrome yet colorful.

Wild Atlantic Way Route Map, Donegal

Our Wild Atlantic Way road trip began with a three hour drive from Dublin to Donegal Town. From there, we followed the coastline past sea cliffs, castles, lighthouses and sleepy coastal villages.

Exploring Donegal in-depth requires more than just two days. During our drive, we found ourselves continually taking shortcuts in order to reach our destination by nightfall. With more time, we would have loved to get lost along the lonely side roads of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Regardless, our road trip allowed us to visit some of the top tourist attractions in Donegal, while giving us a sampling of the area’s untouched beauty.

THINGS TO DO IN DONEGAL

Donegal is full of things to do and places to visit. The county’s rugged interior—with its remote mountain passes and shimmering lakes—borders a labyrinthine coastline sprinkled with thousands of islets, coves, and isolated towns. County Donegal is home to the tallest cliffs in Ireland, as well as the country’s second-largest national park.

And yet, despite its surreal landscapes and picturesque scenery, it remains largely off-the-beaten-path.

Coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way Route

We did not spot any large tour buses during our road trip around Donegal. Nor did we see any crowds along the Wild Atlantic Way. And while I am fully aware that we visited the area during a rainy week in October, I couldn’t help but feel as though we had stumbled upon a corner of the Emerald Isle that is often overlooked by travelers.

DONEGAL TOWN

Our first stop along the Wild Atlantic Way, was Donegal—the area’s namesake town. Pretty and compact, the town sits in a photogenic spot at the mouth of Donegal Bay. Boasting a mountainous backdrop, a well-preserved castle, and a good choice of places to eat and sleep, Donegal is an excellent base for exploring the popular coastline nearby.

Donegal Cathedral in Ireland

The Donegal Castle was closed during our visit, as was the cathedral. So instead of visiting the town’s monuments, we walked around its cute compact center and found a small cafe for lunch.

After lunch, we continued toward the majestic cliffs of Slieve League.

SLIEVE LEAGUE CLIFFS

The Cliffs of Moher get more publicity for being one of the top things to do in Ireland , but the towering Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal are just as worthy of attention. Visiting the lofty sea cliffs is a highlight of Donegal and a must-see stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

The cliffs of Slieve League (also known as Sliabh Liag) are among the highest in Europe—plunging some 600m into the churning sea below.

From Teelin, a narrow road leads to a lower car park. We parked our car alongside a small handful of other vehicles and began to trek onward, past a gate.

Soon, however, we realized that the narrow vehicular road continues past the gate to an upper parking lot. We turned back, retrieved our car, and drove to the top.

Sheep at the Sleive League Cliffs

From the upper car park, a rough footpath leads along the edge of the precipitous cliffs, to One Man’s Pass.

We did not make it to the top due to limited daylight and blustery weather.

Still, views in every direction were nothing short of breathtaking.

From Slieve League, our route continued past the Glengesh Pass, to Ardara. There, we chose to stay the night at the lovely Lookout Ardara. The cozy guesthouse has near-perfect reviews and an idyllic setting outside of Ardara town.

I wish we had more time so that we could have lingered around Ardara and its nearby waterfall for a few days.

GLENVEAGH NATIONAL PARK

On the following day, we headed inland for a brief visit to the Glenveagh National park. Glenveagh, Ireland’s second-largest national park, boasts a collection of mist-covered lakes, sweeping hillsides, sheep-speckled valleys and isolated forests. It showcases the best of the area’s enticing and unspoiled landscapes.

Glenveagh National Park

The Glenveagh Castle Gardens are the main reason that most travelers choose to visit the park. Since we visited the area on a rainy October day, we skipped the castle gardens and chose, instead, to savor views of nearby Mount Errigal and the Poisoned Glen.

MOUNT ERRIGAL AND POISONED GLEN

Mount Errigal is Donegal’s highest mountain and one of Ireland’s most iconic natural features. At its foot, lies the Poisoned Glen—a beautiful valley at the edge of Glenveagh National Park.

Mount Errigal in Glenveagh National Park

‘Poisoned Glen’ is likely a mistranslation of the Irish term, Gleann Nemh ( Heavenly Glen).  In Gaelic, the words heaven and poison (Neamh and neime  respectively) are confusingly similar.

At any rate, ‘Heavenly Glen’ is a much more apt description of the idyllic valley.

HORN HEAD PENINSULA

The Horn Head Peninsula lies in the north of Donegal, adjacent to Fanad Head.

The hour-long loop drive around Horn Head encircles an area of treeless heather-clad hillsides ringed with picturesque villages. The circular road offers some stunning viewpoints of the peninsula’s towering cliffs, its quaint coastal towns and its crashing waves.

Donegal Coastal Village

From Dunfanaghy, the coastal road skirts the left side of a beautiful inlet. As the road climbs, spectacular vistas of headlands open up to the east—revealing Rosguill, Fanad and Inishowen in the distance.

Fanad Head sits firmly in the Donegal Gaeltacht, sandwiched between the Horn Head Peninsula and Inishowen. Like its surroundings, the strip of land features chiseled coastline and picture-perfect vistas as every bend.

At the Peninsula’s northern terminus, sits the Fanad Head Lighthouse—a beautifully-positioned beacon that doubles as a guesthouse.

Lighthouse in Donegal Ireland

When Dan and I reached the lighthouse parking lot, a sign indicated that the Fanad Head Lighthouse was closed to visitors. We decided to get out of the car to see if we could catch a glimpse of the structure from a nearby lookout.

The wind whipped our faces. We could hear the waves crashing against the area’s rocky shoreline. Rain pelted down with a vengeance. We didn’t pack for Ireland , because traveling to the country was never part of our original plans.

So a few minutes later—shivering from the cold and soaked through to the bone—we turned back.

As soon as we reached the car, however, a man appeared out of nowhere and opened the gates. He allowed us the opportunity to visit the lighthouse grounds.

We grabbed our cameras and set out to photograph the lighthouse and its rugged surroundings. When we were sufficiently soaked, we hopped back in the car and continued toward the beaches of Ballymastocker Bay.

Beaches in Donegal Ireland

Dan and I found many of Donegal’s best beaches along the eastern shore of the Fanad Peninsula. While it was certainly too cold to jump into the water, we spent a bit of time soaking in views of the sandy bays before continuing on, toward our hotel in Letterkenny.

The Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny—our last-minute booking for the night—was a steal. It offered us clean spacious rooms, an affordable price, and a steamy sauna that warmed us up after a wet afternoon along the Wild Atlantic Way.

MALIN HEAD AND THE INISHOWEN PENINSULA

Past Fanad Head, the Inishowen Peninsula constitutes the northernmost part of Ireland. Boasting wild and untouched beauty, it is one of the best places to visit in Ireland. Due to the numerous stops we made around Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way, we opted to skip the Inishowen Peninsula and Malin Head Lighthouse altogether.

I have no doubt, however, that the area is ripe with things to see.

AN AFTERNOON IN DUBLIN

Though our Ireland itinerary focused almost exclusively on the top attractions in County Donegal, we began and ended our road trip in Dublin.

As with most tourists to Ireland, we used Dublin as our gateway to the country. The afternoon we spent in Dublin gave me a taste of the Ireland’s urban offerings. We stayed at the centrally-located Isaac’s Hostel , ate at a traditional Irish pub, and spent the better part of a day wandering through St Stephen’s Green and the Trinity College Campus.

In addition, our limited Dublin itinerary brought us on a whirlwind tour past the Temple Bar, the Dublin Castle and the secret Iveagh Gardens.

Temple Bar, Dublin

And while I know I only skimmed the surface of things to do in Ireland’s bustling and lively city, my limited itinerary gave me ample excuses to return in the future for a more in-depth visit.

Visiting Ireland was never part of our original plan. But when a SATA Airlines strike forced us to abandon our dreams of visiting the Azores, Dan and I rushed to come up with a last-minute plan B.

We scoured the Lisbon Airport departure board in search of an alternate vacation destination. Due to time constraints, we knew we wanted to stay in Europe. We also knew we wanted access to idyllic nature, verdant scenery, and sleepy coastal towns.

Seemingly at random, we chose to fly to Dublin and take a Donegal road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. We had few plans, no set itinerary, and limited knowledge of the area.

Yet, in every single way, Ireland’s County Donegal delivered.

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Wild Atlantic Way, Donegal Road Trip

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COMMENTS

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    Day 5: Galway to Clifden. This is a relatively short driving day but by far one of the most beautiful drives in the country. This drive takes you out Galway City and west into the region of Connemara. It is a beautiful region that offers some spectacular scenery along the way.

  10. Ultimate guide to the Wild Atlantic Way road trip in Ireland

    It might not hug the coastline as strictly as California's Highway One, but this road takes in over 1,550 miles of scenery that make for the perfect road trip. It's easy to stick to its path -- the blue and white signs mark the way, dipping between coastal villages and green fields, the sea never too far away.

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    DAY 1: Inishowen Peninsula & Fanad Head (Co. Donegal) Total Distance: 224 miles (360 km) Route: Muff - Bunbeg. Top Tip: For the best experience, make sure you spend a good amount of time exploring the Inishowen Peninsula as there are lots of sights to see here.

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  14. Wild Atlantic Way Route: a 7-day itinerary for 2024

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  19. Wild Atlantic Way Map (Interactive With Attractions)

    1. It has hundreds of attractions split into categories. For example, the blue pointers on our Wild Atlantic Way map below show often-missed viewpoints that look out onto incredible scenery while the turquoise pointers show the key attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way. 2. It includes 'main' discovery points and hidden gems.

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    DAY 3 | Connemara National Park, Achill Island and Keem Beach. DAY 4 | Down Patrick Head, Mullaghmore Head and Classiebawn Castle. DAY 5 | Secret waterfall, Slieve League Cliffs and Glen head. DAY 6 | Fanad Lighthouse, Benbulbin Mountain and Gleniff Horseshoe. DAY 7 | Hill of Tara and drive back to Dublin.

  21. Plan your Wild Atlantic Way road trip

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  23. A Donegal Road Trip along the Wild Atlantic Way

    With only three days in Ireland, we decided to follow a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way—a 2,500km driving route that exposes the best of Ireland's western coastline. The winding scenic road meanders past craggy outcrops, lonely beaches and windswept hillsides. It is at once subtle yet dramatic, monochrome yet colorful.