A bay with an island for every day of the year, views from atop a holy mountain, and a taste of the traditional. The best plan is to grab a Guinness from one of the traditional pubs and then eat some amazing food from the many restaurants nearby. May 27, 2019; Base for northern headland wild Atlantic way Apr 30, 2019; 7 days in Ireland Jan 08, 2019; See All Wild Atlantic Way Conversations. Cliffs Of Moher Day Trip (A Guide To Ireland’s Favourite Visitor Attraction), Aran Islands Day Trip – Inishmore Island (The Best One Day Itinerary). Discover the drama of Ireland's west coast on the world's longest defined coastal touring route. It is a must for any 7 day Ireland itinerary! The thing we love most about Inishmore is that you can cycle around the whole island. When confronted by an enemy, she simply pulled out a sword and killed him, and so began her infamous career. Ask a question in our Community, they're the people who know Ireland best. The islands are all accessible by boat from the mainland via ports such as Rossaveel. DAY 1 : … Then tuck into some deliciously prepared shellfish at Pub of the Year, O'Dowd's, instead. This tourism route is a great place to explore, and one we can’t recommend enough. These three islands are; Inishmore, Inisheer and Inishmaan. Dramatic cliffs and a lively traditional music scene lead on to one of Kerry's golfing greats. If you want the perfect Irish road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way then you need to include the Aran islands! The harbour is also a pleasant place to have a stroll and take in the views. There are plenty of antique shops to explore, and some great coastal paths that lead to beautiful white-sand beaches. There is no fee for entering the castle grounds, but to get into the castle you will have to pay a fee. St Nicholas’ Church is also a great place to check out, with it being rumoured that Christopher Columbus visited this church once. The price is €7.20 for adults and €4.95 for children aged 5-16yrs. Wild Atlantic Way Destination Experts. Welcome to the Bay Coast, a kaleidoscope of raw landscapes where land and water collide between Erris and Galway Bay. 5 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. Journey along the Bay Coast with stunning cliff views, an island adventure and a fearsome pirate encounter. Charter a boat, drive through the mainland, catch a ferry or even a cable car to access one of the many islands on the Wild Atlantic Way. Westport House looks like the home of a grand old dame, but don’t be fooled: the owners of the Estate are descended from fearsome pirate queen Grace O’Malley. Sign up to our mailing list and have the latest tips and newsletters regarding the world of travel sent directly to your inbox. It is a picturesque little village with a lovely atmosphere. The fort sits on the edge of a 1o0ft cliff, so as you can imagine the views are incredible. Roundstone Musical Instruments & Crafts is a spot you should visit, and they even have a little cafe inside. Have you ever done a road trip around Ireland? The National Park serves up a number of breathtaking walks, including the modest Diamond Hill Loop, which suits most fitness levels. A lot of the cafe’s and pubs have garden areas or a balcony so you can have incredible views whilst you eat. 1. The Wild Atlantic Way runs along the west coast of Ireland, with parts of this route found in Northern and Southern Ireland. Photo on left by Madrugada Verde (shutterstock) I n this guide we’ll be taking you on a 2-day Wild Atlantic Way Donegal road trip that’s wedged with the best things to do. Saint Joseph Church, Clifden Castle and Clifden Eco Beach are just some of the amazing sights in this colourful town. Planning a Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary can be very hard. Visiting at least one of Ireland’s beaches is a must because the views are incredible. START IN DUBLIN, & SLEEP IN DUBLIN. Head to Inishmore where Dún Aonghasa, an ancient stone fort, clings to the cliffs high above the crashing Atlantic waves; Inishmaan, the often overlooked middle island with its cosy B&Bs and age-old traditions; and Inisheer, renowned for its upbeat traditional music sessions! Tour the grounds and discover more about the life of the “the original Wild Atlantic Woman”. The cliffs were formed over 300 million years ago, when sand, silt and mud compacted together. This is what creates the layers in the cliffs, and they each show a different period of time. Whether rugged Connemara or the bright lights of Galway city – there’s always something to do in County Galway. The island isn’t that big so cycling is a great way to get around! Roundstone is known for its music shops that sell a variety of traditional Irish instruments. We had the perfect view of the lush countryside, the lake located nearby and animals grazing in the fields next to us. But it’s also about the men and women who mix tradition and 21st-century techniques to bring it from tide to table, to serve it just a few miles (or in some cases, just a few feet) from where it’s caught. For more information on travel, accommodation and attractions have a look at our brochures and maps. The centre shows how global warming is affecting the area and also gives information about the wildlife that is found here. Refresh your soul when you dip your toe and swim in the wild waters of Ireland. Log in as an administrator and view the Instagram Feed settings page for more details. Stretch your legs on Mannin Bay: on close inspection, the "sand" is made up of finely ground shells that twinkle pink and yellow in the sun. 48 Hours In Donegal: The 2-Day Wild Atlantic Way Donegal Itinerary That’ll Leave You Drooling. Excited your interest? Step back in time at this Celtic hill fort and explore Inis Mór, one of the fabled Aran Islands. It’s about lobster and crab, salmon and mackerel, oysters and mussels plucked fresh from the heaving ocean. They have delicious food, fresh cakes and a beautiful view of the local area. Then head to Aesleagh Falls in summer to see gravity-defying salmon leap upstream! Enjoy. We spent 7 days in Ireland and got to see so many sites along the Wild Atlantic Way route. There will be numerous spots where you can just pull over, and take amazing photographs of places! With only the sheep for company, take a walk to the edge of the world along the Erris Head Loop. A lot of the beaches in Ireland have a tropical feel to them because the water is so beautifully clear. The County Mayo Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Tour Itinerary. … Continue reading "Fishing Tour Itinerary" The tour continues to Schull where you can imbibe some lunch or refreshments or wander at your leisure until we depart for Mizen. Dun Aonghasa is impressive and has been called “the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe”. The castle is a 16th-century tower house found on the southeast coast of Galway Bay. 3. Check out The Best Things to do in Dublin. Highlights and secret gems of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way This wild atlantic way tour is a 6-day journey along Ireland's stunning West Coast with optional extensions to make a 10 or 14 day trip. The Galway International Arts Festival every July is an arty party of drama, theatre, pop-up surprises and LOTS more.... Be wowed with panoramic views from atop the Wild Atlantic Way's most dramatic cliff edges. Photo on right by MNStudio. Renowned for its unforgettable hospitality and jaw-dropping landscape, the Emerald Island has it all. The entrance fee for adults is €8  and €7 for students. See Wild Atlantic Way things to do When confronted by an enemy, she simply pulled out a sword and killed him, and so began her infamous career. This means the landscape here is of significant geological importance. The Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland's spectacular coastal route The Wild Atlantic Way, 1600 miles (2600 km) in length, is one of the longest defined coastal route in the world. Discover aviation history, a link to the Caribbean and home of the “Man of Aran”. Posted by slug420 on 08/12/19 05:49 PM. Think of colourful quirky shops, beautiful scenery and so many great places to eat. It's a fun-filled day out, but beware the tide – it is said that Omey "eats cars"! The bright coloured flowers made the spot even more beautiful! Views that change like the weather, the sight of Illandavuck island at the head, and history moulded into the land, with the World War II marine and coastguard service look out post still intact. It is the largest town in Connemara and our favourite! As technically the Wild Atlantic Way only include destinations on the west coast of Ireland. 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. Keep your eyes out for the large stone markings of ÉIRE – one of many coastal navigational aids placed during World War II to help pilots identify this land as Ireland. There are also plenty of lessons for those wanting to learn a new instrument. Legend has it that those unfortunates who frequented this hostelry met a grisly end, for the inhabitants would murder them at midnight. Here are several more mad Irish roads (if you follow the Kerry section of this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, you’ll be taken along the craziest). 27 May 2019; Base for northern headland wild Atlantic way 30 April 2019; 7 days in Ireland 08 January 2019; See All Wild Atlantic Way Conversations. One of the most beautiful places in Europe (just look at these pics from my last trip! Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary Day 1: Dublin to Kinsale If you’re not too tired you can make the drive from Dublin to Kinsale in a minimum of 3 and a half hours. On the morning of 15 June, 1919, a Vickers Vimy biplane swooped low through the skies over Clifden…. Celebrate more than just shellfish at the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival (September). Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: A 10-Day Itinerary Posted on May 20, 2016. It gets its name from ‘Dun of King Guaire’ who is a legendary king of Connacht. He didn't recognise her. Galway City is located in County Galway, in the west of Ireland. Look out for our newsletter in your inbox. Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival. Children under the age of 16 always go free. Unfortunately there was a problem signing you up for E-Zine, please click the button below to try again or refresh the page. The beautiful blue waters here have been known to make people step out of their comfort zone, so head to the folks at Achill Surf Adventure for a kayaking tour of the Blueway – a network of water trails that weave beneath Achill's towering sea cliffs. They are a set of three islands found off the west coast of Ireland. A pair of peregrine falcons live on the cliffs, and there are plenty of other seabirds here including puffins and razorbills. Many of the sights on this island have historical importance both in Ireland and throughout the world. Another example was the beautiful village of Kinvara. Once dominated by 14 merchant families from the 13-19th centuries, the past lingers in the air at the distinctive Spanish Arch, along its winding lanes and inside its traditional shops. There are several locations you can view the cliffs from. Since that is not possible for everyone, I recommend this shorter 7 day Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary! 2. Discover The Undiscoverd Banner County. Bryno. The cliffs are found in County Clare, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes from Galway. Ideally, you would travel across the fourteen different sections over three weeks. Dunguaire Castle sits in the middle of a small lake which creates a beautiful reflection on a sunny, clear day. P.S If you want to follow our travels, you can find our Instagram HERE. New posts will not be retrieved. The Wild Atlantic Way is 1,600 mile scenic road trip stretching from County Donegal to County Cork. You can find this cottage by clicking here! Dingle still feels like the fish and the farm actually matter. Day One ~ “Welcome to Ireland!” Arrive at Shannon Airport and travel through scenic areas of Clare, Galway, and Mayo to Westport. The Wild Atlantic Way Trip Guide. Here are the places that you have to visit during your West coast Ireland road trip! The Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland is the longest defined coastal driving route on earth. The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500km tourist route found on the west coast of Ireland. In 2020, Galway becomes the European Capital of Culture, a year of extraordinary experiences, events and creativity. One of the most popular sites along the Wild Atlantic Way is the Cliffs of Moher. If you are lucky and have binoculars you could even see dolphins, sunfish and even basking sharks down in the waters below. Hmm, don't know that email. The choice is yours at Rossaveal, with three Aran Islands – Inishmore, Inisheer and Inishmaan – beckoning you to take a ferry trip back in time. Discover ten of the most unique and incredible experiences in Ireland. Jump to bottom. The area is incredibly picturesque and is a great place to explore. Where is your favourite place if you have? The best place is from the visitor centre, where you can get amazing views. Tour the grounds and discover more about the life of the “the original Wild Atlantic Woman”. If you have 1.5 to 2 weeks, you really have a chance to soak in the magnificent views! From the wilds of Erris Head to the bohemian buzz of Galway city, this trip takes you on a spectacular journey. Including the Haven Coast, Southern Peninsulas, The Cliff Coast, The Bay Coast, The Surf Coast, and finally the Northern Headlands. Inishmore is the largest island, and probably has the most to see. The Aran Islands are a must for any Wild Atlantic Way itinerary! Your reward? This happened to us so many times, especially on the way to the Cliffs of Moher. All three islands have plenty to see but in our opinion, you will want to visit Inishmore island. 5 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. An Intergalactic Itinerary. During the drive, you will get amazing views of Burren National Park. It passes through nine different counties and is where many of Ireland’s most popular attractions can be found. Comforting homemade soda bread, freshly caught seafood and steaks flambéed on antique swords – the Surf Coast has a... A world-famous oyster festival, a super-creative food scene and a stunning location on the Wild Atlantic way. The festival combines all sorts of different arts and crafts including music performances, and visual pieces. You can get to the Aran Islands from the port in Rossaveel. 16th-century noblemen used to travel across Europe, and then visit the Cliffs of Moher to marvel at their beauty. We stopped at a small church, which had plants growing all up the side. This traffic-free pathway is packed with some of Ireland’s best scenery and follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway, which closed in 1937. The Neo-Gothic church is Henry's final tribute to his dear wife. Plunging into the Atlantic, the gigantic Cliffs of Moher are the superstars of County Clare. 14,442 forum … 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. Wild Atlantic Way Destination Experts. If you book the tickets online, they are even cheaper. We started in Dublin where you will most certainly want to spend a few days. There are plenty of things to do in Galway city including paying a visit to the Spanish Arch, the city walls and Kirwan’s Lane. Want to know more? Roundstone is located in County Galway, in the west of Ireland. The moment when one of these magnificent creatures lands on your gloved hand is genuinely thrilling. Take a cruise and you might just spot dolphins swimming in the inky waters. Choose from a great range of airlines and destinations to travel to Ireland. The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route. Schull is set in the centre of an area of outstanding natural beauty, an idyllic place to visit along the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit Kinvara Village and Dunguaire Castle, County Galway; Arrive at hotel and check in; Relax at Spa or explore the tidy town of Westport. Well, in Roundstone you can catch it yourself, with angling trips taking you out around the nearby islands. Westport is the perfect place to embark on an outdoor adventure, from sacred mountains and stately homes to island-studded... Sea and land combine to create a vista of pure poetry on the Wild Atlantic Way's Surf Coast. Individual tours may be scheduled through hotel concierge for any day. Next time we go to Ireland we will stay there longer than a week, so we can see more of the amazing places this route has to offer! The fort dates back to around 1100BC and still stands today! There are airports throughout the Island with international arrivals. There were plenty of beautiful walks in the area and lots of beaches. Dine out on Clew Bay lobster, prepared by the careful hands of Frankie Mallon at An Port Mór restaurant in Westport. This vibrant harbour city is a hub for traditional Irish pubs, incredible architecture and awesome street performers! Note: Please fill in your email address manually instead of copy/pasting it. Galway City is one of the most popular cities in Ireland. Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary For 7 Days Hailed by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful places in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way is a spectacularly scenic drive that’s a must if you’re in Ireland. From Malin Head in County Donegal, the country’s most northerly point, to Mizen Head in County Cork, the most southerly point, the route weaves and winds across 2,500km of beautiful Irish coastline. Reached by a road bridge, indulge in a stroll along any of Achill's five long, sandy beaches, including the blissful Keem Strand. A craggy stretch of coastline from Cork to Kerry that takes in five sensational peninsulas. The owners even had a little rowing boat here, which you could take out whenever we wanted. Prefer a quick dish? So Day 1 you’ll land in Dublin. There is so much to choose from it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options. Keith O'Hara. The landscape along the Wild Atlantic Way is unreal. Discover airlines flying to Ireland from your location. For more information on how we handle your personal data please read our. 5 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. Bryno. It’s easy to navigate and understand, but there are a few things you should know before you go. Eyre Square is where you need to visit in Galway as it is bursting with life. For a real treat, don't miss the Hawk Walk – stroll through the beautiful woodlands surrounding the house in the company of a bird of prey. From 764m (2500 feet) above sea level, look out to Clew Bay, a bright blue vista studded with, they say, 365 islands – one for every day of the year. 14,442 forum posts. Dunguaire Castle is a great place to visit during your Wild Atlantic Way road trip. And another, far less celebrated spot: the ruins of an 18th century inn, called the Halfway House. Their castle rose beside the lake, gardens blossomed and for almost 10 years, Mitchell, Margaret and their nine children lived here, in what sounds like a state of bliss.. Legend has it she cut off her hair and pretended to be a boy before sneaking on to her father’s ship as he set sail. Roundstone is a small village in the region of Connemara. Error: API requests are being delayed for this account. Lights, camera, action – start your journey to uncover the cinematic landscapes of Ireland. Visiting one of the many Irish pubs in Galway – a must for any Ireland road trip itinerary! Dunguaire Castle in County Galway – a great place to visit during your Wild Atlantic Way self-drive itinerary! This route is a great way to experience Ireland, as there is so much to see. You must pick somewhere that is in a prime location for your Wild Atlantic Way trip. Before Hollywood glistened in anyone's eye, Kylemore Abbey in Connemara set the scene for one of the greatest love stories of all time. The official Wild Atlantic Way website breaks the route up into 6 key sections. Clifden is located in County Galway, in the west of Ireland. Framed by mountains that vary in colour depending on where the sun hits, Killary Fjord is a spectacular glacial fjord that forms a natural border between counties Mayo and Galway. Have cake and coffee, then browse the crafts in the adorable Beehive Café on Achill. Holiday ideas, news, offers… sign up for our ezine and we’ll keep you in touch with Ireland. There are over 1,000 attractions to see along this route, but it is impossible to see them all in one trip! The easiest way to come up with your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary is to break it up into sections. Share This Article. We stayed in a little cottage, with a large garden which backed onto a lake. The centre is found near the village of Lislarkin. Settle down for some "blether and blarney" – also known as music and dance – at McDonnell's pub in Belmullet. This was our base during our stay in Ireland. Southern Ireland Road Trip Itinerary Via the Wild Atlantic Way. Shimmering lakes, miles of bogland and ancient stone walls that defy gravity are classic Connemara – and Derrigimlagh is no exception. The beautiful lake outside our cottage in Lettermullan – the perfect place to stay for your Wild Atlantic Way 7-day itinerary! Wild Atlantic Way Discover the drama of Ireland's west coast on the world's longest defined coastal touring route. 4. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre tells the story of the cliffs, as well as introducing you to the thriving wildlife that call them home. The Bay Coast moves from inland to island, presenting you with awesome coastal views, fearsome histories, and more than a few delicious meals along the way. A visit here charts the tale of Henry and his beloved wife Margaret, who fell in love with this picturesque spot. Horseback riding, fishing and tennis are complimentary at the hotel, but riding times or equipment must be reserved through Concierge. Wild Atlantic Way (northwest) itinerary. The home of the Claddagh Ring at Thomas Dillon’s Jewellers is always a must-visit, while cutting-edge restaurants like Michelin-starred Anair reveal exciting culinary flair. In this blog post, we will go through some of the sites that you should add to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary! You can also see the cliffs from a boat trip with some trips even including the Aran Islands. So we started saving, quarters and pennies mostly. Aside from the main sites, make sure you wander around the narrow streets of Galway. But many must-see attractions are also found along the way, and while the west coast of Ireland is ridiculous scenic at times, a road trip of neverending seascapes will become a tad monotonous for many. Clauds. You may get to see some incredible wildlife from up here, especially if you have binoculars. Bryno. Can you check it and try again? From the stark wilderness of Connemara, Galway city eases you gently into its urban surrounds. The Cliffs of Moher are famous all across Europe and they have been for some time. An easy cycle along bog roads, if you're so inclined, highlights include the unintended landing spot for transatlantic pilots, Alcock and Brown, when they crashed (safely) here in 1919.