The Wild Atlantic Way is a world-famous coastal route that spans seven of Ireland’s counties, taking in some breathtaking scenery along the way. From Donegal to Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way is a journey of discovery and opportunity.
Stretching over 1,600 miles (2,600 kilometres), The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal driving routes in the world – it is certainly the most spectacular coastal route in the world!
From Malin Head to Fanad Head and Inishowen to Slieve League, Donegal’s section of the Wild Atlantic Way route is full of stunning surprises. Over millions of years the Atlantic has carved dramatic crevices into the rugged headland that are stunning to behold. The dramatic Slieve League cliffs are said to be some of the best and highest examples of marine cliffs in the world.
On the second stage of the Wild Atlantic Way, take in the majesty of Mullaghmore Head, Downpatrick Head and Keem Strand as you travel from Donegal to Mayo. Mullaghmore Head, off the coast of Sligo, is a paradise for surfers with a reputation for gigantic ‘prowler’ waves. Surfing schools abound in this neck of the woods, so if you want to get in on the action, take a lesson or two. Then it’s onwards to Downpatrick Head in Mayo, a spectacular headland rising 38 metres from the sea. Prepare to be charmed and beguiled by the sights and sounds of the Donegal to Mayo section of the Wild Atlantic Way.
As you continue through the Wild Atlantic Way, the Mayo to Clare section of the route will offer up its own unique landscape for your pleasure. The picturesque fjord of Killary Harbour nestles in the heart of Connemara, providing the perfect holiday hideaway. Sample some delicious and world-renowned local mussels before moving on with your journey. The patchwork of tiny lakes in the Derrigimlagh Bog are ideally explored by bike, while the magnificent Cliffs of Moher in nearby Clare need no introduction. Take your time travelling this section – the wealth of scenic attractions is worth savouring.
Before you say goodbye to Clare, visit the Loop Head peninsula, a region renowned for its breathtaking beauty. A visit to Loop Head Lighthouse offers panoramic views of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher and is well worth the climb. Onwards to Kerry, where the Blasket Islands – just a boat ride from the Dingle Peninsula – await, rich in Irish heritage. UNESCO World Heritage Site Skellig Michael is next on your journey, an attraction steeped in tranquillity and mystique. Let the road take you on an exciting journey through the Clare and Kerry section of the Wild Atlantic Way.
The dramatic Kerry to Cork section of the Wild Atlantic Way provides the perfect backdrop to the end of your Atlantic odyssey. The rugged, remote Beara Peninsula of Co Cork is a stunning sight, with views of mussel rafts and seal colonies of Kenmare offering the perfect excuse for a pit stop. From Dursey Island to Mizen Head – Ireland’s most southern point – and then on to the Old Head of Kinsale, this stretch of the road should be enjoyed at leisure.
This is only a taste of what Ireland has to offer. There really is so much to see and do in the Emerald Isle.
Fairways and FunDays promise the very best of Ireland by day and by night – spectacular scenery, exhilarating entertainment, fantastic food, amazing activities, and magical memories are guaranteed!
Fairways and FunDays – Your Ultimate Golf & Ireland Experience