Top 10 things to do on the Wild Atlantic Way
Posted by Neil Hand on the 1st of September 2016 at 16:13:16
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500km route along the Ireland’s coastline in the west – passing through 9counties. Along the route from Co. Donegal to Co. Cork in the South you can discover many different activities, pretty towns and much more than just stunning views. Here are our Top 10 Things To Do on the Wild Atlantic Way to get the most out of your trip!
Southwest
- Cork City: One of the largest cities in Ireland, featuring one of the largest historic trading harbors in the world. Established by vikings in the 10th century, this port offers a great base to visit the 16th-century Blackrock Castle; the old city wall; historic Holy Trinity Church and more.
- Blarney Castle: This 15th century castle is just 15 minutes from Cork City and is very well preserved. For a gift of eloquence, make sure to lean backwards off the castle wall to kiss the Blarney Stone ;)
- Killarney Town: Voted Ireland's tidiest town in 2011, the town is a great base to see several amazing sights nearby. Southwest of the city you can find the 15th-century Ross Castle and close-by you can also go for quick boat ride to Innishfallen Island to visit the Innishfallen Abbey founded in 640. Also, take a trip to Portmagee to catch the ferry to the Skellig Islands, home to a historic Christian monastery and the second largest puffin bird population in the world. Set at the base of Ireland’s highest mountain range, Killarney is at the edge ofKillarney National Parkand just 2km from Lough Leane, the largest of the three famed Lakes of Killarney.
The West
- Dingle: Europe's most westerly town, was once one of Ireland's main trading ports. Nowadays, Dingle's main activities include listening in to the local Irish music scene and a boat ride to say hi to Fungie the bottlenose dolphin.
- Galway: This town feels rather young, lively and modern – no wonder since a quarter of its population are students – but it is the only large city where visitors can hear Irish spoken on the streets. Find a colorful and culturally vibrant town with many small shops, pubs, restaurants and hotels.
- Connemara: Situated at the western edge of Europe, this is one of the most beautiful, unspoiled places. Go for great walks in this real emerald of Ireland; see Kylemore Abbey and enjoy this distinct landscape, culture and heritage.
- The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's top Visitor attractions in County Clare. The Cliffs are 214m high at the highest point and range for 8 kilometres over the Atlantic Ocean on the western seaboard of Clare.
The Northwest
- Sligo’s connection to the sea is obvious, as Sligo is well-known for its surfing spots, especially around Mullaghmore. Other things to do in Sligo town include pub visits, listening to live music, enjoyingrestaurants and going into small shops that have embraced a distinct, local ingredient - seaweed.
- Slieve League: The rugged County of Donegal offers its visitors a unique and beautiful scenery. Visit the 600m-high Slieve League, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Also, go for a boat trip to see the rugged cliffs from below and perhaps spot some dolphins, seals and even whales. On top of the cliffs enjoy breath-taking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. If you're up for it, steep hiking trails lead you even higher up the cliffs.
- Glencolm Folk Village: About 15 minutes from Slieve League you may find this traditional. living-history museum. Experience a real folk village and see traditional cottages, furnishings and artefacts that are exact replicas of the dwellings of local people in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.
Enjoy your trip along the Wild Atlantic Way with many activities to do, things to try and sights to see and discover your very own West Coast of Ireland! Plan your trip with us now !
