23/01/2025
ROI 🇮🇪 and NI's 🇬🇧 Ultimate Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip! 🗺
Embarking on a journey along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way offers an unparalleled experience of the country's rugged coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture. This 2,600 km (1,600 miles) route stretches from the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork, making it one of the world's longest defined coastal routes.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Kinsale to Mizen Head
Kinsale: Begin your adventure in this charming harbor town, renowned for its colorful streets and gourmet food scene.
Old Head of Kinsale: A short drive from Kinsale, this headland offers panoramic ocean views and is near the historic site where the RMS Lusitania sank in 1915.
Mizen Head: Continue to Ireland's southwestern tip to explore the Mizen Head Signal Station and enjoy breathtaking cliff views.
Day 2: Mizen Head to Kenmare
Sheep's Head Peninsula: Detour to this tranquil peninsula for scenic walks and unspoiled landscapes.
Bantry: Visit Bantry House and Gardens, a stately home with stunning views over Bantry Bay.
Kenmare: End your day in this picturesque town, known for its traditional music and vibrant arts scene.
Day 3: Kenmare to Di**le
Ring of Kerry: Drive this iconic loop, taking in highlights like Ladies View and Moll's Gap.
Skellig Ring: A scenic detour offering views of the Skellig Islands, famous for their monastic history and as a filming location for "Star Wars."
Di**le: Arrive in this lively town, celebrated for its friendly dolphin, Fungi, and bustling pubs.
Day 4: Di**le to Limerick
Slea Head Drive: Explore the Di**le Peninsula's rugged coastline, with stops at Blasket Islands View and ancient beehive huts.
Tralee: Visit the Kerry County Museum to delve into local history.
Limerick: Discover King John's Castle and the vibrant Milk Market in this historic city.
Day 5: Limerick to Galway
Cliffs of Moher: Marvel at these iconic cliffs, rising over 200 meters above the Atlantic.
The Burren: Explore this unique karst landscape, home to rare flora and ancient monuments.
Galway: Enjoy the city's lively arts scene, bustling Latin Quarter, and traditional Irish music.
Day 6: Galway to Westport
Connemara: Drive through this region of bogs, lakes, and rugged mountains, stopping at Kylemore Abbey.
Killary Harbour: Ireland's only fjord offers stunning views and boat tour opportunities.
Westport: A charming town known for its Georgian architecture and vibrant music scene.
Day 7: Westport to Sligo
Achill Island: Cross the bridge to explore Keem Bay and the Deserted Village.
Downpatrick Head: Witness the sea stack of Dun Briste and the blowholes along the cliffs.
Sligo: Visit the resting place of poet W.B. Yeats and explore the surrounding landscapes that inspired his work.
Day 8: Sligo to Donegal Town
Mullaghmore Head: A surfers' paradise with impressive waves and stunning coastal views.
Slieve League: Experience some of Europe's highest sea cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramas.
Donegal Town: Explore Donegal Castle and enjoy traditional music sessions in local pubs.
Day 9: Donegal Town to Londonderry
Fanad Head: Visit the picturesque lighthouse and enjoy views over the Atlantic.
Malin Head: Ireland's northernmost point, known for its rugged beauty and as a filming location for "Star Wars."
Londonderry: Walk the historic city walls and learn about the city's rich history.
Day 10: londonderry to Belfast
Giant's Causeway: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with its unique basalt columns.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: Test your nerve crossing this bridge to a small island.
Belfast: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum and explore the city's vibrant cultural scene.
