What is the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way is the best road trip in Ireland. On this 1,600 mile journey, stretching from Kinsale, County Cork to Malin Head, County Donegal, you will encounter some of Ireland’s most beautiful sights. For those looking for an adventure, this scenic route offers breathtaking ocean views and opportunities to explore the Irish coastline in all its glory. Between the luscious green hillsides, beaches, and magnificent cliffs, it makes out to be one of the best experiences for any traveler in Ireland.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Starting Point
Kinsale, County Cork
Kinsale is one of those true port towns that lives in postcards and photos you send home to family members. With all its charm and colorful doors that paint the town, it is a picturesque place to start your Wild Atlantic Way journey. With lots of restaurants, cafés, and stores right near the bay, it is a great place to walk around, window shop, and enjoy a nice drink or bite to eat by the water, taking in the views.
Things to Do:
I always love a good ferry ride on the water. The ocean breeze, the smell of salt water. As a nice change of pace from the car views, it’s perfect getting to take in all that the town has to offer from a different perspective. This boat takes you around the Kinsale Harbour, for a 50 minute cruise. You get to see all the sail boats docked up in the pier, fishing boats out making their catches of the day, the Charles Fort, James Fort, Kinsale Beach, and loop back from the River Bandon to head back to the docks. It makes for a great way to spend a sunny day in Ireland out on the water.
With this particular cruise, the company does a “first come, first serve” ticket system, where you purchase your ticket as you enter the boat (€14/Adult). I would recommend standing in line for the boat at least 30 minutes prior to the departure time to ensure you get a spot. Visiting in September, the boat was only running two cruises per day being in the off season. If you were standing in line for the second boat of the day and the boat hit full capacity, the captain told those who were still waiting in line to come back the next day. Moral of the story: plan ahead and be in line early, because you don’t want to miss out.
Charles Fort/James Fort
If history is what you are looking for, Kinsale has just that in store. Dating back to 1670, the historic star-shaped structure of the Charles Fort was used as a military fort for centuries and is one of the most well preserved sites in Ireland. Across the bay, you’ll see James Fort, built in 1602, which was captured by those in command at Charles Fort. As you can walk around James Fort, there are no official tours. However, Charles Fort offers self-guided tours, exploring the unique structure, has a wonderful view of Kinsale and the harbor, and free admission.
Window Shopping
On every corner and down each avenue, colorful buildings and blooming flowers fill the streets as they invite you in to take a stroll. Which may be why it is so easy to walk along them and window shop your way through Kinsale. From fashion boutiques and art galleries, to home good stores and Irish souvenirs, there is a shop for everyone here. I recommend Main St. and Market Quay if a little retail therapy is your plan for the day.
Dock Beach
For those who are visiting in the summer months, or are lucky enough to visit Kinsale on a warm, sunny day in the off season, Kinsale Beach may be where you want to spend your afternoon soaking in the rays. Just south of the town, you have beautiful views of the ocean, Charles Fort across the bay, and sailboats cruising by. Take it all in as you walk along the shore or lounge in the sand.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Mizen Peninsula & Sheep’s Head Peninsula
As some travelers could spend a full day or two on each peninsula, I have combined these two together. Both are unique and beautiful places, however, as the end goal for my road trip was to reach the top of Ireland, it was easy to stop at the highlights of the peninsulas and continue on. That being said, Mizen is the first of many peninsulas you’ll drive around on the Wild Atlantic Way, and it offers a few special stops and early glimpses into the diverse beauty of the coast. You’ll encounter your first sights of mountainous terrains and rocky hillsides, to which surprised me, as this type of landscape was not how I pictured much of Ireland at all. Where white rocks meet with lavender grasses and yellow flowers, it is an impeccable drive filled with unexpected beauty. Sheep’s Head is the smallest peninsula, meaning you’ll be able to drive it pretty quickly. However, don’t let that allow you to miss out on all it offers. As a continuation of a similar landscape to that of the Mizen, you’ll notice some unique qualities that differentiates itself. Sometimes not being able to quite put my finger on just what I mean by this, I’ll leave it to you to go out and see if you can understand and see all the beauty for yourself. While you’re at it, be sure to check out the following.
Things to Do:
Mizen Head Signal Station and Bridge
Mizen Head Signal Station, known as “Ireland’s Most Southwesterly Point”, is a main point of interest. Just a 10 minute walk from the Mizen Head Visitor Centre, you take a step back in time when you enter this historic building, once used to save sailors traveling near the rocky coast off the foggy shoreline. To reach this however, you’ll have to cross the Mizen Head Footbridge. Dating back to 1909, this bridge connected the Signal Station to the mainland over the 147 ft. gorge below. Don’t be so worried crossing though. The bridge was recently reinforced with concrete a few years ago, ensuring it could continue to withstand the harsh conditions Mizen Head often gets.
Mizen Head Bridge (Below) 
Mizen Head Bridge 
View From Signal Station
Visit the Bantry House & Gardens
If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustles of modern society, head over to the Bantry House. The house sits near the water, with views that stretch across the Bantry Bay. You can walk through and admire the furnishing pieces and artwork, dating back to the 1700s when the house was originally built. On your stroll through these historic grounds, make sure not miss out on the lovely gardens as well.
Barley Cove Beach and Floating Walkway
Before you reach Mizen Head Visitor Centre, you will drive by the picturesque Barley Cove Beach. As one of the most stunning beaches you’ll encounter on the Wild Atlantic Way, it is definitely worth a stop to pull over, park the car, and snap some pictures. You can also find a floating walkway that will take you across the water when the tide is in, guiding you to the beach, allowing you to walk along the pristine sand. Across the way, you may even encounter a furry friend, enjoying the grassy land and views themselves.
Honorable Mention: Blairscove House
Now, as this is not a tourist attraction, nor a sightseeing spot to get out and walk around, I need to include it. It was by chance that while driving, we passed a place called Blairscove House and decided to turn back to check it out. (My sister’s name is Blair, so naturally, we at least had to stop and take a picture to send to her- maybe other families aren’t the same in doing this, I don’t know…). But, nonetheless, we whipped our car around.
Pulling in to the white gated entrance, we came upon a few cottages on the property, overlooking the bay with spectacular ocean views. Christmas lights hung in the trees, a garden behind the main entrance bloomed with flowers. Although they were completely booked, I still think it would be the perfect place to stay and I dream about going back someday. For me, this was how I’d imagined every house was on the coast of Ireland. Anyone looking for a quaint, cozy, and clean accommodation, this place would make for the most ideal hidden gem on the peninsula. If you’re staying near this area, I highly recommend looking into this place and checking out their website.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: The Beara Peninsula & Iveragh Peninsula
The Beara Peninsula is another beautiful peninsula on the Irish coast. Filled with lush greenery, lakes, and mountains, it continues to showcase a new image of the diverse landscape Ireland offers. As you travel off the beaten path, you’ll find yourself driving from one quaint village to the next, with many colorful buildings in between and small cozy cafés. As you continue to the Iveragh, there is even more in store. Between the islands of Skelling to a first glimpse of coastal cliffs, it may become your favorite peninsula thus far. I would even recommend spending extra time on this peninsula, especially if a boat trip to the islands is on your agenda. Don’t rush this drive, because it is not one to miss out on.
Things to Do:
Dursey Cable Car & Hiking Dursey Island
As the only cable car in Ireland that crosses open water, this is a unique experience you can’t find anywhere else. Operating since 1969, the cable car takes you across the rushing Atlantic below, over to the Dursey Island just off the mainland. It is €10/adult to ride, and a cool experience to have while you’re in Ireland. Although Dursey Island itself is not inhabited, there are hiking trails that take you all across, allowing you to get out and see Ireland in a new perspective.
For all my Star Wars fans, this is going to be your place of interest. In the newer films, “Episode VII “The Force Awakens” (2015) and Episode VIII “The Last Jedi” (2017), these islands were used as filming spots, specifically the Skellig Michael. There are two tours that go out to the Islands. One is an eco tour where you stay on the boat the whole time, taking you around the islands. It costs €40/adult and takes about 2 1/2 hours. The other is a landing tour, where you can get off the boat and walk around the islands. This is a little more expensive, costing €103.50, and takes about 5 hours to hike around both islands in total. Both offer different perspectives and experiences, but I would recommend a visit either way.
Kerry Cliffs
Out of all the places to visit on the Wild Atlantic Way, the Kerry Cliffs were my favorite. I know this is a bold statement because Ireland’s most famous cliffs are the Cliffs of Moher. However, the Kerry Cliffs are absolutely stunning, in a different and more captivating way. We stumbled upon these cliffs at random, and they ended up being a marvelous hidden gem discovered. Not to mention, there were no crowds and the awesome part about these is that there is a ledge you can walk out on that allows you to look back at the cliffs, offering more views. At just €4/person, it is the place to see on this road trip.
For those looking to add a little more adventure and outdoor activities to your travels, a stop at the Killarney National Park is just the ticket. With 17 hiking trails, bikes to rent to ride around the park, and boat cruises through the park’s lakes, there is something to do for every person here. Matched with impeccable views, it is a spot to stop and take a break from the car ride.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Dingle Peninsula
Probably the most popular of the southwest peninsulas, Dingle is filled with beaches, rolling green hills, and windy roads taking you up the mountains. This is one spot on this trip I look back to and wish I would have spent more time, only because there is so much to do here. Just in the main town of Dingle, you can find pubs, tasty restaurants, boat tours, kayaking, whiskey tasting at the local distillery- really a whole day can be spent just exploring this cute village. As we only stopped here to grab a bite for lunch and continued on, I recommend taking a bit more time to have some fun in this town and explore a little more. With that said, we did find a lot of other great places on the peninsula, matched with stunning views the entire way around.
Things to Do:
Inch Beach
As one of the first spots to come across on this peninsula, Inch Beach is just as gorgeous now in hindsight. Don’t be fooled by the name, this is a huge beach that stretches 3 miles long. We encountered this place just after the tide moved out, giving a gorgeous reflection where the sky meets the sea. If you catch this spot on an even better, more sunny day, it is worth walking around and enjoying some time here.
Dunmore Head/Great Basket Island
Found at the tip of the Dingle Peninsula and one of the most westerly points of Ireland lies Dunmore Head. As another Star Wars “The Last Jedi” filming spot, you can hike up the trail here to oversee the Basket Islands in the distance and smaller chain islands just in front. Be in mind that this trail is on farm land, so you will more than likely be encountering a few sheep as well. It all encompasses a quirky pit stop that continues providing endless beauty and stunning views of Ireland’s coast.
Conor Pass
As you loop back on the North side of the peninsula, you’ll be greeted with a windy road bringing you through the peaks. Welcome to Conor Pass. Again, a hidden gem unexpectedly discovered as we drove through this peninsula. With a small parking lot to pull into, take a walk up the trail and be surrounded by picturesque views of luscious green fields rolling down to meet the Atlantic Ocean on both sides. One of the most beautiful drives to find on the peninsula, as well as the Wild Atlantic Way as a whole.
Honorable Mention: The Ashe Hotel, Tralee
Again, not a tourist attraction, but when I find a nice place to stay for the night, I always want to share it with you. The Ashe Hotel was an absolute delight to stay at after a long day of driving. This boutique hotel is nothing short of perfect. Between the golden shelves filled with green plants, blue velvet chairs, brick walls, and blue patterned wallpaper, it makes for the best place to relax and unwind. Highly recommend booking this place in Tralee.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: The Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland. Stretching 5 miles long, and 702 feet at their highest point, these cliffs are considered a grand wonder. It is a place where nature joins together, housing over 20 different types of birds. They are a sight unlike any other, and if you come to Ireland, they are one to cross off your bucket list.
Things to Do:
Visitor Center/Hiking Trails
Near the cliffs is a visitor center that allows you to learn a little more in depth about all the species that live in or nearby. Along the top of the edge is a walking path that spans the length of the cliffs, allowing for views of the ocean, the Aran Islands off the coast, and a few spots to look back on the rocky ridges.
The best way to view the cliffs however is by water. It is really the only way to see just how far they stretch and get the best view of the cliffs themselves. In the town of Doolin close by, there are a couple of tours you can take. Some offer just a boat ride to view the cliffs and come back. Others give you the option to combine that, as well as a day to explore 1 of the 3 Aran Islands. If hiking and/or biking are what you are looking for, then I would recommend the Aran Islands. However, if you are just there to see the cliffs, I would not advise including the islands on your trip. A cool place to see for an hour or so, but they are very rural, offering limited places to eat, shop, or sight-see. My recommendation would be that unless you are looking to enjoy outdoor activities for a full day, skip the islands and just buy the Cliffs of Moher only boat tour. That was a great experience, a fun venture out on the water, and the best way to see the cliffs in all their beauty.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Galway
As a major city along the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a sure spot to explore for a day or two while road tripping. It is truly an extraordinary city, filled with lots of life, vibrancy, history, and encompasses everything Ireland is about. Between the lively pubs, historic buildings, and busy street markets, it is well worth exploring all this city has to offer.
Things to Do:
One way I like to see a city when I first get somewhere is take a bus tour. This is a great way to understand how the city is laid out, get an overview of the sites to see, and learn a little more about the place you’re about to explore. The nice thing about the Hop-On-Hop-Off tour is that you can do just that; hop on when you would like and get off when you find a spot you want to spend more time at. They are relatively cheap and you can use the pass all day, or even upgrade to a 2-day pass if you are spending a little extra time there. The link above also saves you a couple extra Euros on your tour, so take advantage, because it is not one to miss out on.
Visit the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter of Dublin is part of the heart and center of Galway. Spend the day doing some shopping, with stores lined up each avenue. Stop in some local restaurants for a bite to eat as well, as this part of Galway is filled with tons of restaurants. A lot of places have seating near the streets, which makes a great stop to people watch. Later, come back to this area to enjoy a Guinness (or other beer or cocktail of your choice), cozy up, and listen to live music. You can find tons of pubs within this area that will add to the best of your Irish experience.
Take a Walk by the Water
Galway sits right on the Atlantic Ocean, making for impeccable views. With a walking path right along shore, you can enjoy the ocean breeze for yourself. I would recommend walking along Sahill, also known as the Midway Point of the Wild Atlantic Way, and another cute part of Galway. In this area, you’ll find coffee shops, ice cream stores, the aquarium, amusement park, and beaches all right on the water.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Galway County
As you continue your road trip heading further up the coast, you’ll move out of the big Galway city, into the county of Galway. This bog filled land holds an entire new perspective of landscapes that continue North. Not to mention the coastal island lands and endless Celtic villages. You transport back to an older world and slow-paced time, bringing a whole new meaning to rural Ireland.
Things to Do:
Lettermullan: Trá Mhór
Back roads take a whole new meaning through the second half of the Wild Atlantic Way journey, starting with Lettermullen. What seems as to what would be someone’s driveway is in fact a main road, you have reached the point where you can call yourself a true road-tripper! Congrats! Don’t let that steer you away from making it to the end of this island chain though. Some beautiful views lay ahead of endless waterways and bays, bringing you to the Trá Mhór point to encounter it in all its beauty.
Clifden
As rural as the northern countryside is, Clifden is a hidden town that soon makes it appearance out of nowhere. As the largest town in the Connemara area, this coastal village is a great place to grab some lunch and window shop through the streets. In addition, you can drive just a few short minutes out of the town to the Clifden Castle, a ruined manor house, available to walk around the grounds.
Drive the Sky Road
As you move out of Clifden and continue up the coast, be sure to take the Sky Road. As one of the most picturesque parts of the larger Connemara area, it is a beautiful drive you don’t want to miss out on. With two options of the Upper Sky Road or Lower Sky Road, both provide amazing coastal views and take you around the peninsula.
Watch the Sunset at the Island Viewing Point, Gannoughs
Just past Claddaghduff is a small road bringing you out to the peninsula’s point. Again, a more rural and back road experience, the end destination is totally worth it. This rock filled, boggy area overlooks islands just off the coast. Walk just 20 feet out, sit on a rock, and take in the sun setting on water. With little to no other tourists around, it will sure make you feel like you are on the edge of the world, sitting with just yourself and all the beauty our great wide world offers.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Mayo County
Mayo County was a very fun part of Ireland to experience. You can tell that the people here are very prideful of their county, as almost every house you pass has the Mayo flags hung big and bold for everyone to see. This area is gorgeous, no matter where you are driving. With more islands and beaches to discover, it is a wonder how Ireland can continue to get that much more beautiful as you drive up the coast.
Things to Do:
Achill Island and Keem Beach
Achill Island is a stunning place in Mayo County. With beaches lining the roads, more mountains for viewing, and unexpected cliffs on the shore, it makes for a beautiful drive. My favorite part about this place was at the end of the road. Bringing you up the mountain side and down the other, you’ll find a hidden beach known as Keem Beach. An oasis, if I ever saw one, it is the perfect mix of sandy beach, surrounded by grassy fields, turquoise water, and sights of cliffs out in the distance. The perfect ending to this gorgeous island drive.
The Lost Valley
As mentioned, Ireland’s landscape continues to change as you drive along the coast. Moving through this mountainous area, this green, grassy valley gives glimpses into a similar Scottish look, while still differentiating itself in its own Irish way. It is a unique view, unlike any other you have seen on the Wild Atlantic Way. With hiking paths all within this area, you can spend a whole day walking around and exploring. Long lakes break up the grass areas as well, which make for great spots to do some kayaking or paddle boarding and get your outdoor adventure on!
Watch the Sunset at Dun na mBo
A lot of the hidden places I found on this road trip were simply found by looking at Google Maps as we drove, and navigating my mom to sights found at random that would pop up. With this place in particular, the sun was at the start of setting. I searched the coast, trying to find a lookout point we could watch it. Soon to find Dun na mBo, and having no idea what it was, I gave my mom directions and off she drove. Little did we know that Dun na mBo was a blowhole right on the coast, where we got to watch the ocean tides move swiftly below, coming up over the rocks, filling the hole beneath us. With the sky changing to colors of warm oranges and pinks, it was the perfect ending to the day and a hidden gem yet again to add to my Wild Atlantic Way list.
Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Donegal County
As the last leg of this road trip and final stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, there is still so much to see within this area. The coastal drive itself brings more beautiful views, and begins to sadden you knowing that there is only a few short hours you get to continue soaking it all in before the end. Yet, this drive also excites you knowing you have made it this far and only have a short ways to go. Mixed emotions, we continued on the last journey ahead…
Things to Do:
Visit Slieve League
As one of the tallest mountains in Ireland, Slieve League is incredible. Not to mention, it’s cliffs reach heights of over 1,900 feet, almost 3 times the height of the Cliffs of Moher. Whether you stop for a few quick pictures or take a couple hours to hike the mountain itself, be sure to add this place to your Wild Atlantic Way list.
Glenveagh National Park
With any national park, you can find some of the highest beauty of that country. With Glenveagh, it combines mountains, impeccable waterfalls, and amazing lakes, making it a marvelous addition to your Wild Atlantic road trip. There are hiking trails all over the park for you to walk around. You can also find the Glenveagh Castle and Gardens, located on the shores of the Lough Veagh lake. Although the castle grounds are currently closed due to Covid-19, it is a place I would love to come back and visit.
Malin Head
The final stopping point on the Wild Atlantic Way! Overlooking the great Atlantic and rugged rocks, you’re standing at Ireland’s most Northern point. Take a brief walk along the cliffs to look down upon Hell’s Hole, a subterranean cave. While you’re near the Malin Head point, be sure to stop in to Farren’s Bar, Ireland’s Most Northernly Bar, dating back to 1825. Enjoy a nice cold Guinness or bite to eat.
The Wild Atlantic Way is a journey everyone should take while visiting Ireland. Whether you drive the entire 1,600 mile coastal stretch or plan a shorter excursion, it is 100% worth it. There is so much more to Ireland, way more than I ever anticipated. Between the charming villages and port towns, wondrous cliffs and ocean views, as well as the unexpected mountains and green hillsides, you can’t find this type of drive anywhere else. This was the trip of a lifetime, one I will look back on and cherish forever with time here in Ireland. If you are planning to visit this marvelous country, please add the Wild Atlantic Way to your Irish Bucket List. You will surely not be disappointed in any way.