Wild Atlantic Way Travel Guide

The northwest region of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, covering Donegal and Sligo, is a rugged, scenic stretch of coastline known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

The northwest Wild Atlantic Way is steeped in ancient history, with remnants of Neolithic settlements, Gaelic culture, and traditional Irish music. Visitors can enjoy surfing, hiking, and cycling amongst the wild beauty. Taste the freshly caught fish in Sligo and Donegal, two regions renowned for their seafood (mussels for Sligo and fish for Donegal). Pair with a pint of local craft beer – Kinnegar, White Hag, and Lough Gill are all local brews – while catching a trad music session in Sligo town.

Northwest Ireland is the place to go to combine outdoor activities with the warmth of small coastal villages, and you have the recipe for a stunningly cool, wild adventure.

Highlights include: the Slieve League Cliffs, the windswept Malin Head with its folkloric and Star Wars connections, Swilly Fjord, the chill surfing village of Strandhill, the dramatic Knocknarea Hill and Ben Bulben mountain that both dominate the Sligo skyline, as well as quaint coastal villages, trad music sessions, and fresh seafood.

The central region of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, weaving its way along the beloved coasts of Galway, Clare, and Mayo, offers a myriad of breathtaking landscapes.

In Galway, the scenic Connemara region captivates with its rugged mountains, boglands, and stunning coastline, while the vibrant city of Galway buzzes with traditional music and culture.

Clare is home to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, the bustling market town of Ennis, and the Burren, a unique limestone landscape rich in ancient history.

Mayo features the untamed beauty of Achill Island, the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick, and serene little-known beaches. This region blends outdoor adventure with deep-rooted Irish heritage, making it a must-see along the Atlantic.

The west coast of the Wild Atlantic Way is studded with islands, featuring a plethora of amazing things to discover, from pirate queen strongholds to white sand beaches to eerie abandoned settlements.

The southwest portion of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, covering Kerry and Cork, is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, rugged peninsulas, and lively cultural traditions.

Most famous is the Ring of Kerry (on the Iverah Peninsula), renowned the world over for its stunning mountain and lake views of mountains. While Kerry can be busy, there are still clutches of wild corners and hidden spots.

To the north, the Dingle Peninsula is rich in ancient heritage, pockets of Gaeltacht (Irish speakers), and breathtaking beaches. To really get off the beaten path, head to the unspoilt hills of the Beara Peninsula, where you’ll find epic passes, winding mountain roads, and gushing waterfalls.

Further south in Cork, the region abounds in charming coastal towns, vibrant music, cheesemakers, whiskey distillers, and a variety of islands. Blending outdoor adventure with a deep sense of history, making it one of the most captivating stretches of the Wild Atlantic Way.