Castles of the Wild Atlantic Way

Surrounded on three sides by water, Doe Castle dates back to the 1420s. Its tranquil setting in Sheephaven’s Bay negates its turbulent history. Once the stronghold of the MacSweeney clan during centuries of conflict, the castle now offers guided tours on request, despite its ruined state. Doe Castle served as a refuge for the 1588 Spanish Armada Fleet survivors.

One of the most common legends associated with Doe Castle is one told by a poet of the doomed love between Aileen and Turlough O’Boyle. When her father, a chieftain, discovered their romance, he captured and brutally killed O’Boyle beneath a tree, as Aileen watched from the castle tower. Overcome with grief, she leapt to her death. Local fishermen say their spirits still linger, glimpsed as two smiling lovers rowing a phantom boat at dawn.

Discover more about the rugged wildness of County Donegal with our regional travel guide.

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Perched above the Atlantic near Doolin, Doonagore Castle is a privately owned 16th century tower with a fairy-tale silhouette. While the interior isn’t open to the public, the dramatic setting, with views of the Clare coastline, makes it a worthwhile photo stop.

As with all castles on this list, there are spooky stories attached. Local folklore ties Doonagore Castle to the Spanish Armada. In 1588, shipwrecked sailors were captured and hanged by the High Sheriff of Clare, Boetius MacClancy, before being buried at nearby Hangman’s Hill. Legend says their restless spirits still haunt the shoreline, with ghostly whispers reported to this day.

It’s also a short drive from the Burren, a fascinating limestone landscape rich in archaeology and folklore, and the Cliffs of Moher, a bucket list destination for many visitors to Ireland.

Find everything you need to know about County Clare in our travel guide.

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Nestled on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, Ross Castle is a restored 15th century tower house that was once the stronghold of the O’Donoghue clan.

According to legend, Chieftain O’Donoghue Mór is said to rest beneath the lake’s waters. Every seven years, on the dawn of the first day of May, he emerges riding his white steed. If you’re fortunate enough to see him, you’ll enjoy good luck for the rest of your life.

Nowadays, visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the castle interior to see period furniture and learn how native Irish chieftains once defended their territory. Pair it with a boat trip across the lake and an amble into the lively town of Killarney for a perfect day out.

Dive deeper into Killarney National Park by exploring our travel guide.

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