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  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks
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    Cliffs of Moher_web-size copy Cliffs of Moher_web-size copy
    10 days 1241 km

    Explore the Wild Atlantic Way in 10 days

    • #WildAtlanticWay
    • #Landscapes
    • #CultureandHeritage
    From County Donegal to County Cork
    Nearest Airport Shannon Airport, Ireland West Airport
    Attractions Kylemore Abbey, Cliffs of Moher
    Kinsale town Kinsale town
    Fisk Seafood Bar Fisk Seafood Bar
    Thomas Connolly Bar Thomas Connolly Bar

    What better way to celebrate a decade of the Wild Atlantic Way than with a 10-day trip on the epic coastal touring route?

    Starting at the north in the ruggedly remote wilds of County Donegal, this breathtaking adventure winds its way down Ireland's sublime west coast before finishing with a bang in lively Cork city. Along the way, you'll be WOWED by crumbling clifftop castles, wave-lashed lighthouses, charming seaside towns, the freshest seafood and more! Let's go wild...

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    Day 10

    Malin Head Malin Head
    Day 1 County Donegal

    Day 1

    Kick things off in style in County Donegal, voted one of the world's best regions to visit in 2024 by Lonely Planet!

    Explore Day 1

    Morning

    Fanad Lighthouse, County Donegal

    Fanad Lighthouse Fanad Lighthouse

    Start your ten-day adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way with a visit to Fanad Lighthouse, a towering white beauty that’s been standing tall on the craggy Fanad Peninsula since 1817. Guided tours led by local experts are available, and climbing to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Lough Swilly is a must. If you have more time, you can even stay overnight here. Seeing the light’s beam sweep across the dark Atlantic waters is a magical moment you’ll never forget.

     

    From Fanad, head south for half an hour to another historic landmark – Doe Castle. This 15th century fortress nestled on the shores of Sheephaven Bay is a sight to behold. As the medieval home of the MacSweeney clan, the castle has seen its fair share of conflict and strife through the years. The stronghold even provided shelter for survivors of the Spanish Armada fleet which ran aground off the Donegal coast in 1588! If only the old castle walls could talk, what tales would they tell? Nevertheless, the sense of history at this atmospheric castle is palpable.

    40 km

    Afternoon

    Marble Hill Beach, County Donegal

    Marble Hill Beach Marble Hill Beach

    First morning done and you’ve already ticked a lighthouse and a castle off your bucket list, not bad! For the afternoon, take things a little slower at Marble Hill Beach, a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline that’s popular with walkers, swimmers and surfers alike. During the summer months, many small yachts and boats are moored in the bay. Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the sand dunes here as it’s a great place to spot native birds and wildflowers.

     

    After soaking up the pleasures of the sun, sand and sea for a bit, you’ll be hungry for lunch. Make the five-minute drive into Dunfanaghy, a small fishing village backed by the brooding Derryveagh Mountains. Try Arnou Café & Burger Bar, which serves up tasty local ingredients including curried seafood chowder and beer battered haddock. Hunger sated, peruse the local stores and boutiques before the next leg of your trip.

    108 km

    Evening

    Killybegs, County Donegal

    Killybegs Killybegs

    Donegal is a BIG county, so there’s a solid 1 hour 45 minute drive down the coast before you reach your destination for the evening. But, as always on the Wild Atlantic Way, the sea views along the way are spectacular. So, sit back and enjoy the journey as you travel past Glenveagh National Park and Arranmore Island before arriving at another show-stopping sight – the Slieve League Cliffs. These sea cliffs are some of the highest in Europe and make for an epic sunset location.

     

    After catching the last rays of the day, make the short jaunt to the large fishing port of Killybegs, your resting place for the night. For dinner, enjoy fish and chips from the popular Killybegs Seafood Shack as you walk along the pier, or dine at Anderson’s Boathouse Restaurant for a more upmarket seafood experience. Overnight in the Bay View Hotel in the heart of town which has both a pub and cocktail bar on the premises. Make sure to book a room with a view of the gorgeous bay and harbour.

     

    If you want to spend more time in County Donegal, continue down the coast to the busy seaside town of Bundoran, a top surfing location on the island. If it’s activities you’re after, you’ve come to the right spot! From hiking and fishing to cycling and golf, Bundoran has the lot. The town also plays host to one of Ireland’s top festivals every summer. Sea Sessions is a weekend of music, surfing and sporting fun.

    Horse riding Sligo Horse riding Sligo
    Day 2 County Sligo

    Day 2

    A new day, a new county! Get set to explore the land that inspired WB Yeats and wowed on screen in Normal People – County Sligo.

    Explore Day 2

    Morning

    Mullaghmore Head, County Sligo

    Mullaghmore Mullaghmore

    From Killybegs, head down the coast and cross the county line from Donegal into Sligo, en route to one of Ireland’s most scenic headlands – Mullaghmore. You’ve probably seen the iconic photograph online: a winding country road leading to Classiebawn Castle with the mighty Ben Bulben mountain in the background. While this striking landmark is privately owned and not open to the public, the route offers many great vantage points from which you can take stunning shots of the 18th century beauty. It even starred in Netflix’s The Crown.

     

    After capturing your castle shots, drive 15 minutes further on to Streedagh Beach, which starred in Normal People. Walk the 3km of sandy shore or join surfers on the waves. The exposed beach has reef breaks offshore, providing ideal surfing conditions all year round. For an experience to remember, book a horse riding trot along the coast here with Island View Riding Stables.

    89 km

    Afternoon

    Gleniff Horseshoe, County Sligo

    Gleniff Horseshoe Gleniff Horseshoe

    After a lovely morning on the coast, head slightly inland to the Gleniff Horseshoe, a 10km looped route that can be enjoyed by car, by foot or by bike. The trail is surrounded by the imposing Dartry mountains and the grandeur of the landscape is truly impressive. Diarmuid and Grainne’s cave is the must-see sight along the way. One of the most famous caves in Ireland, it owes its name to the doomed lovers from Celtic folklore who hid here after fleeing together from the legendary warrior, Fionn mac Cumhaill.

     

    You’ll find the cave on the north face of the distinctive flat-topped Ben Bulben, which was forged by huge glaciers during the last ice age. A hike to the summit offers panoramic views of Sligo Bay. Afterwards, stop by Drumcliffe for lunch at Pink Clover, a cute café serving homemade goods. Then pay a visit to the grave of WB Yeats in the cemetery. Having followed in the footsteps of the great poet by exploring these magical landscapes, you’ll understand why they inspired him so.

    46 km

    Evening

    Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, County Sligo

    Carrowmore Carrowmore

    Round off your second day with a stay in Rosses Point, a charming seaside village. After an eventful day uncovering Sligo’s many gems, you might fancy a bit of rest and relaxation. If so, Yeats Country Hotel is ideal. This four-star spa and leisure retreat has a fine restaurant and two bars where you can unwind for the evening. Austies Pub & Kitchen is also a good shout. The 200-year-old bar serves up pub grub staples including pizzas, chicken wings and even homemade Guinness bread.

     

    Want to spend more time in County Sligo? We wouldn’t blame you! Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery is just a little further down the coast through Sligo town. It has the oldest and densest concentration of Neolithic tombs in Ireland. More than 35 passage tombs are located here, dating back over 6,000 years. Close by is another ancient wonder – Queen Maeve’s Cairn. Sitting atop Knocknarea Mountain, this passage grave is said to be the resting place of the Iron Age queen of Connacht. However, the site has never been excavated, so who knows what truly lies within...

    Doo Lough Valley Doo Lough Valley
    Day 3 County Mayo

    Day 3

    It's time to say goodbye to Sligo and hello to a picturesque sea stack, a buzzing town and Ireland's holy mountain in County Mayo.

    Explore Day 3

    Morning

    Dún Briste sea stack, Downpatrick Head, County Mayo

    Downpatrick Head Downpatrick Head

    Head west from Rosses Point, past Easky and Enniscrone on the coast before crossing over into County Mayo and your first stop of the day – Ballina. The town is picturesquely situated at the mouth of the River Moy. But it’s not this water you’ve come here to see, but “uisce beatha” which is the Irish name for whiskey – the “water of life”. Irish whiskey is world-famous and Ballina is home to The Connacht Distillery, one of the finest on the island. Enjoy a tour and tasting which includes samples of their whiskey, gin, vodka and poitín.

     

    Next up is a trip to one of the most unique landmarks along the Wild Atlantic Way, Dún Briste sea stack at Downpatrick Head. The name Downpatrick comes from St Patrick himself, who founded a small church here. Local legend says he even created the sea stack by striking the ground with his crozier, stranding a local chieftain offshore when he refused to convert to Christianity! It’s a great spot for a bracing coastal walk, while the sea stack with its layers of multi-coloured rock strata is a gorgeous photo opportunity.

    180 km

    Afternoon

    Croagh Patrick, County Mayo

    Croagh Patrick Croagh Patrick

    Next on the itinerary is a 90-minute drive from one legendary St Patrick location to another, and it’s probably the most famous of them all. Croagh Patrick is revered as Ireland’s holy mountain and thousands of pilgrims climb to the summit every year to pay homage to the saint, who fasted atop the peak for 40 days and nights in 441 AD. A small church sits atop the mountain, and the views of Clew Bay from there are majestic. It’s a moderate hike up but a recently completed stone pathway that goes from the base all the way to the peak makes the ascent much easier if you fancy following in the footsteps of Ireland’s patron saint.

     

    It’s a short journey into Westport where you’ll spend the rest of the day, but an essential stop on the way is Westport House, a grand country home that’s been adding a touch of class to its surroundings for over 300 years. Take a guided tour and hear tales of kings, queens and pirates who have walked the halls here! Grab lunch from one of the many dining options on the grounds, which include a range of food trucks and a farmyard café. Foodies will be spoilt for choice.

    10 km

    Evening

    Matt Molloy's Pub, Westport, County Mayo

    Matt Molloys Matt Molloys

    One of the most popular towns on the Wild Atlantic Way, Wesport is known for its colourful tree-lined streets and is bursting with top places to eat and drink. For dinner, dine in style at the award-winning An Port Mór, where fresh local ingredients such as turbot and pork are cooked to perfection. Or try Sage, an intimate spot with rabbit and crab on the richly varied menu.

     

    After a delicious meal, how about a little nightcap in one of Westport’s lively bars? Matt Molloy’s is the place to go for live traditional Irish music. Owner Matt Molloy is a member of the legendary Irish folk band, The Chieftains, and if you’re lucky enough to stop in on a night when he’s taking part in the session, seeing him perform up close is something you’ll never forget. A must for Irish music lovers. If you’d prefer a quiet drink, sink into a cosy snug in Hoban’s. Then rest your head in The Mariner boutique hotel in the heart of town.

     

    If you have more time in County Mayo, Achill Island is a must. The ruggedly beautiful island has had a bit of a glow up recently, thanks to its starring role in the hit film, The Banshees of Inisherin. From the horseshoe-shaped beauty of Keem Bay – which is regularly named one of the finest beaches in the world – to the highest sea cliffs in Ireland at Croaghaun, this island gem is worth the detour.

    Connemara Connemara
    Day 4 Connemara, County Galway

    Day 5

    Leave Galway city behind for a wild adventure in spectacularly scenic Connemara.

    Explore Day 4

    Morning

    Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

    Kylemore Abbey Kylemore Abbey

    A new day, a new adventure awaits on the Wild Atlantic Way. From Galway city, drive west for 90 minutes to Connemara, the remote region in the corner of County Galway that has long called out to painters, poets and other artists due to its overwhelming natural beauty. Connemara National Park is the focal point of the area, a 2,000 hectare nature haven comprising mountains, bogs, woodland and more. Whether you want to spot native Connemara ponies in the landscape or hike up Diamond Hill for epic views of the surrounding countryside, there are trails aplenty to keep even the most outdoorsy folk active.

     

    Don’t miss Kylemore Abbey on the outskirts of the park. This lakeside castle is nestled amid Connemara’s stunning landscape like something out of a fairy tale. Even its origin story is full of romance, built as it was by a wealthy businessman in the mid 1800s as a love token for his new bride. Today, the castle is home to Benedictine nuns, who it must be said have chosen a rather heavenly location for their community. There’s much to see and do here, from exploring the Victorian Walled Gardens to visiting the neo-Gothic church on the grounds. It’s a magical attraction, we think you’ll agree.

    106 km

    Afternoon

    Dog's Bay Beach, County Galway

    Dogs Bay Beach Dogs Bay Beach

    From Kylemore Abbey, make your way to Clifden, the unofficial capital of Connemara. The scenic Sky Road offers excellent views of the town, surrounded by brooding mountains. Ambling around the streets here is the way to go, popping into local galleries and gift shops as you see fit. For lunch, try Guys Bar, a friendly gastropub with plenty of seafood specials on the menu.

     

    Next, it’s on to two gorgeous beaches that lie back-to-back, Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Beach. Uniquely, the sand of both beaches is not made of traditional limestone, but is composed entirely of seashell fragments, which gives both beaches their uniquely white colour! Better yet, the tombolo is sheltered from Atlantic Ocean currents, resulting in crystal clear water that’s ideal for swimming.

    24 km

    Evening

    Roundstone, County Galway

    Roundstone Roundstone

    Spend the evening in Roundstone, a 200-year-old village that featured in the hit movie, Marley & Me, due to its picturesque setting. Go to O’Dowd’s of Roundstone, an award-winning seafood bar and restaurant with Killary Bay mussels and oysters on the menu, alongside a host of other modern Irish dishes.

     

    Afterwards, take in the fresh evening air on a stroll along the harbour where local fishermen dock with catches of lobster, crab and mackerel. Then check into one of the many B&Bs in the village for a sound night’s sleep. If you’d prefer less of a drive in the morning, return to Galway city for the night, ahead of the next chapter in your west coast odyssey.

     

    If you have more time in County Galway, no trip to these parts is complete without a visit to the Aran Islands. Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are the stuff of legend, rugged outcrops in the raging Atlantic Ocean. Or as the famous Irish playwright JM Synge called them: “the last outpost of ancient Europe.” Ferries to the islands depart daily from just outside Galway city. Whichever island you visit, you won’t be disappointed. A quaint land of dry-stone walls, thatched cottages and prehistoric stone sites awaits.

    Loop Head Loop Head
    Day 5 County Clare

    Day 6

    You've passed the halfway point of your trip so let's kick off the second half with a cracker – County Clare.

    Explore Day 5

    Morning

    Poulnabrone Dolmen, The Burren, County Clare

    The Burren The Burren

    Go south from Galway and cross over into County Clare. The first stop of the day is the Burren, a moon-like limestone plateau that has to be seen to be believed. Check out the Burren Ecotourism Network for a range of ways to enjoy this area of natural beauty in an eco-conscious fashion. From visiting artisan food producers such as the Burren Smokehouse to descending into 330-million-year-old caves at the Aillwee Burren Experience, there’s something for everyone here.

     

    Top tip: don’t miss the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a striking monument to Neolithic Ireland that dates back some 5,800 years! In fact, it’s the oldest dated megalithic structure in Ireland. The sight of the dolmen standing tall after all these years amid a desolate landscape will be seared into your memory for a long time.

    50 km

    Afternoon

    Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

    Cliffs of Moher Cliffs of Moher

    Then you’ve got a big afternoon ahead at the wondrous Cliffs of Moher. These staggeringly beautiful sheer sea cliffs are a standout attraction in Ireland, and when you lay eyes on them you’ll understand why. There’s something raw and elemental about their timeless beauty; the essence of Ireland captured in a single ocean view. Get lunch in the Cliffs View Café in the Visitor Centre, where traditional Irish food is served up with lovely views of the surrounding landscape.

     

    For a memorable experience on the cliffs, book Doolin Cliff Walks. Guide Pat is a local historian and walking enthusiast who will regale you with tales from the area as you explore the majestic clifftops together.

    9 km

    Evening

    Doolin, County Clare

    Doolin Doolin

    Stay the night in Doolin, a cute and colourful village dotted with thatched cottages. Catching a traditional music session in a pub here is a must, especially as Doolin is famed as the home of traditional Irish music. Try McDermott’s or McGann’s for some toe-tapping, hand-clapping action!

     

    For dinner, go to Russells Seafood Bar, a modern establishment which champions a farm-and-sea-to-fork ethos, working with seasonal and local ingredients. The bar also stocks over 50 Irish whiskeys, so it’s an ideal spot for a tipple before bed. Overnight in The Lodges @ Sea View House. These luxury rental homes each have their own private hot tub.

     

    If you have more time in County Clare, check out the Loop Head Peninsula, a dramatic headland with a stunning coastal drive and a towering lighthouse. No wonder it was a filming location for Star Wars – the views are out of this world!

    Limerick Greenway Limerick Greenway
    Day 6 County Limerick

    Day 7

    All roads lead to lively Limerick city before an unforgettable stay in one of Ireland's premier five-star retreats.

    Explore Day 6

    Morning

    King John's Castle, Limerick city

    King Johns Castle Limerick King Johns Castle Limerick

    Leave pretty Doolin behind before crossing over into County Limerick. The first stop of the day is Limerick, an ancient city built by the shores of the River Shannon. The big attraction here is right by the river, too. King John’s Castle is a mighty fortress that has dominated the skyline in these parts for 800 years.

     

    Elsewhere in the city, visit the Hunt Museum, which houses over 2,600 works of art and antiquities. Drop into the Milk Market, a melting pot of local vendors, where you can pick up everything from artisan jewellery and vintage clothes to homemade sweet treats and organic wine. And if there sports-lovers in your group, don’t miss the International Rugby Experience – a must in this rugby-mad city.

    95 km

    Afternoon

    Adare village, County Limerick

    Adare Village Adare Village

    After an eventful morning in Limerick city, it’s time to retreat for the afternoon to the idyllic thatched cottages of Adare village. These delightfully old-style cottages have earned Adare the moniker of Ireland’s prettiest village, so bring your camera and get snapping.

     

    Pat Collins Bar is a fine place for lunch, with Irish classics such as bacon and cabbage on the menu. They do a great pint of Guinness as well. When you’ve had your fill, check out Adare Desmond Castle on the outskirts of the village. The ruins here date from the 13th century. Or enjoy a stroll around the quiet village park, a green oasis that’s home to an array of local wildlife.

    1 km

    Evening

    Adare Manor, County Limerick

    Adare Manor Adare Manor

    When in Adare, one place to stay stands out, the five-star Adare Manor. If you’d like to treat yourself to a little luxury on your epic adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way, this is a great place to do it! Set in an 840-acre estate, the manor radiates class and elegance, from its Michelin-starred restaurant to its lavish spa. No wonder Condé Nast Traveller has named it both the #1 resort in Europe and the #1 resort in the world in recent years!

     

    Adare Manor is also home to a superb golf course, which will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. How about getting a round or two in on the pretty parkland before golf’s biggest stars take to the fairways here? The experiences don’t stop there. Falconry, archery, fishing, clay pigeon shooting... there’s no finer location to try these activities.

     

    If you want to spend more time exploring County Limerick, rent bikes and cycle along the Limerick Greenway, a gorgeous 40km route that follows the old Limerick to Kerry railway line through green fields, woodland and quaint towns and villages.

    County Kerry - Header County Kerry - Header
    Day 7 County Kerry

    Day 8

    You’re on the home stretch of the trip, but not before a few last showstopping destinations. First up, County Kerry – one of the most scenic counties on the island!

    Explore Day 7

    Morning

    Coumeenoole Beach, Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry

    Coumeenoole Beach Dingle Coumeenoole Beach Dingle

    After sleeping like royalty in Adare Manor, hit the road and venture into County Kerry. Next stop: the Dingle Peninsula. Take the popular Slea Head driving route to circle the entire headland. Key stop-off points along the way include the beguilingly twisty pathways of Dunquin Harbour and the sandy shores of Cuomeenoole Beach. The Conor Pass is another stunning drive here; it’s one of the highest roads in Ireland with panoramic views of the mountainous surroundings.

     

    That’s a solid morning’s drive, but it has to be done to cover all the beauty spots in this vast county! No doubt you’ll now be hungry for lunch, so stop into Dingle town where there are plenty of bars and eateries to choose from. The Fish Box serves the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, as it comes directly from their very own family trawler. For a pint, go to Dick Mack’s or Foxy John’s, although practically every eclectic pub in Dingle is worth a visit. Don’t leave without treating yourself to a scoop of ice cream from Murphy’s, a small gem that has gained notice for its delicious flavours. For gifts and souvenirs, The Dingle Woollen Company does premium handmade Irish knitwear. Why not pick up a quality item to remember your visit to the Dingle Peninsula?

    220 km

    Afternoon

    Skellig Michael, County Kerry

    Skellig Michael Skellig Michael

    From Dingle, head further south to the Skellig Ring, another picturesque coastal drive, which this time offers amazing views of the Skellig Islands. When you see these otherworldly shards of rock jutting out of the ocean, you’ll understand why the makers of Star Wars chose to film here. UNESCO has rightly designated Skellig Micheal, with its 6th century monastic settlement, a World Heritage Site and boat trips to and around the island allow you to experience their wild beauty for yourself.

     

    If you can spend more time in this area, Portmagee is a charming little village with a host of excellent bars and restaurants. While Valentia Island is a balmy island oasis, owing to its position in line with the Gulf Stream. The result is an array of lush vegetation you won’t find anywhere else in Ireland.

    74 km

    Evening

    Kenmare Stone Circle, County Kerry

    Kenmare Stone Circle Kenmare Stone Circle

    Your destination for the evening is the bustling town of Kenmare. Before dinner and drinks, stop by the Kenmare Stone Circle on the outskirts of town and soak up the primordial aura at this early Bronze Age monument. It’s one of the best-kept ancient standing stone sites in Ireland.

     

    For a meal, it has to be No. 35 Restaurant on the main street. This Michelin Guide-featured establishment does Irish favourites such as lamb and duck with a touch of class. Then check into Davitt’s, a restaurant, bar and guesthouse all in one, so you can savour a night cap of your choice before heading up to bed for a well-earned rest.

     

    If you have more time in Kerry – and you’d need it to see all of the county’s attractions – visit Killarney National Park, which is home to splendid Muckross House, Torc waterfall, a herd of native red deer and much more. Alternatively, head offshore to the Blasket Islands, remote wonders in the wild Atlantic Ocean which offer secluded hilltop walks and an abundance of wildlife from seals to gannets.

    West Cork - Dursey Island West Cork - Dursey Island
    Day 8 West Cork

    Day 9

    Welcome to West Cork – it's wild, wonderful and home to some truly unmissable landmarks.

    Explore Day 8

    Morning

    Garnish Island, County Cork

    Garnish Island Garnish Island

    Goodbye Kerry and hello County Cork, West Cork to be precise! Cork might be most famous for its cosmopolitan city, but the west of the county offers up landscapes just as BIG and jaw-dropping as anything you’ll see elsewhere on the Wild Atlantic Way. First up is Garnish Island in Glengarriff, an island garden of rare beauty. Pathways around the island lead to a Grecian temple, a clocktower and a Martello Tower, as well as a wide array of plants and flowers. It’s a lovely place to while away a few hours amid nature. Don’t forget to look out for seals on the ferry trip over and back!

     

    Back on the mainland, wander the colourful streets of Glengarriff village, a quaint locale nestled between the Caha mountains and the bay. In no time, you’ll understand why famous writers such as William Wordsworth and Virginia Woolf have sung the area’s praises down through the years.

    45 km

    Afternoon

    Bantry House and Garden, County Cork

    Bantry House Bantry House

    From Glengarriff, follow the coast around to one of the grandest country homes in Ireland – Bantry House and Garden. Here you can tour the splendidly decadent house which has been home to the White family since 1739. The garden is also well worth a visit to see the many terraces, statues and flowers on display. Make sure to climb the 100 steps which lead to the woodland for a gorgeous view of the garden, house and Bantry Bay beyond.

     

    Next, it’s a 45-minute drive to another of West Cork’s premier landmarks – the Baltimore Beacon. This uniquely cone-shaped, white-washed tower acts as a lighthouse without a light, guiding boats into Baltimore Harbour below. The beacon sits atop the cliffs and the views out to sea are spellbinding. Stop into Baltimore village afterwards for a lunch to remember at Dede, a two Michelin-star restaurant that mixes chef Ahmet Dede’s Turkish heritage with fresh and local Irish ingredients. It’s a winning combination. Make sure to book in advance.

    123 km

    Evening

    Kinsale, County Cork

    Kinsale Kinsale

    Drive northeast up the coast to your destination for the night, the gourmet capital of Ireland – colourful Kinsale. The winding streets and laneways here are known for their multi-coloured shopfronts so don’t miss the opportunity to capture them for your socials.

     

    You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to bars and restaurants here. Fishy Fishy – as its name suggests – is a funky seafood restaurant with local lobster, yellow fin tuna and much more on the menu. For an end of evening drink, it has to be what is probably Kinsale’s most famous pub, The Bulman. You can’t miss its bright orange façade on the fringes of Kinsale Harbour. Sailors, locals and merchants have been enjoying pints here since the 1800s.

     

    Want to spend more time in West Cork? Make a beeline for Dursey Island on the Beara Peninsula and hop into Ireland’s only cable car, and the only one that traverses open seawater in all of Europe! Talk about a bucket list essential! Another gem is Bull Rock – boat trips to this staggering mound of rock will take you under the island’s natural sea arch, which was once believed to be the entrance to the underworld...

    English Market English Market
    Day 9 Cork city

    Day 10

    On the final day of your trip, finish with a flourish in one of Ireland's finest cities – Cork!

    Explore Day 9

    Morning

    Shandon Bells and Tower, Cork city

    Shandon Bells Cork city Shandon Bells Cork city

    From Kinsale, head slightly north to the final destination on your 10-day adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. The bright lights of Cork city are calling. First up, the English Market, the city’s iconic food hub which has been trading since 1788. From the delicatessen and fishmongers to the bakeries and cafés, it’s a cornucopia of foodie delights!

     

    After, make your way through the city streets to the Shandon Bells & Tower at St Anne’s Church, which dominates the city skyline. Built in 1722, St Anne’s is one of the oldest churches in the city. Climbing the 132 steps to the top of the tower for views of the city below is a must. You can even ring the bells on the way up, heralding your arrival in Cork to all the locals. For lunch, try the Liberty Grill, an American-influenced eatery serving up fluffy pancakes, Nova Scotia fish cakes, brunch cocktails and more.

    10 km

    Afternoon

    Blarney Castle and Gardens, County Cork

    Blarney Castle Blarney Castle

    In the afternoon, head outside the city to one of the most famous attractions in Ireland – Blarney Castle. Built almost 600 years ago, the castle is still a mightily impressive sight to behold today. Climb to the top of the tower for a must-do activity – kissing the Blarney Stone. You’ll need to hang upside down (while being held by a guide) to peck the legendary Stone of Eloquence, which is believed to bestow the “gift of the gab”.

     

    While on the grounds, don’t miss the chance to explore the wonderful gardens. There are three walking trails available: woodland, lake and riverside, so choose your favourite and enjoy the sights and smells of nature along the way. Red squirrels, otters and swans can all be seen on the routes. With Blarney Castle and Gardens ticked off the bucket list, it’s time to return to Cork city for your final evening out. Best make it a good one...

    9 km

    Evening

    Franciscan Well Bar and Brewery, Cork city

    Franciscan Well Brewery Franciscan Well Brewery

    A night out in Cork city has got to start with a delicious dinner – this is the food capital of Ireland, after all! Veggies and vegans must try Paradiso, one of the finest vegetarian restaurants on the island. Orso is another good shout. Pan-seared prawns, slow-cooked lamb shank and house-baked stone bread? Yes, please.

     

    Round off your trip with a drink at the Franciscan Well Bar and Brewery. Based on the site of a medieval monastery, “The Well” as it’s known to locals mixes age-old tradition with modern brewing technology to serve up a tasty range of their own beers from stout and ale to IPA. The beer garden is the perfect place to enjoy a long summer’s evening, while the Monk Bar is a cosy and intimate spot with unique cocktails on the menu. It’s the ideal location to toast a trip well spent.

     

    Fancy more time in Cork city? There are plenty more things to see and do. Atmospheric Cork City Gaol, towering St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, the star-shaped Elizabeth Fort... the list goes on and on. One thing’s for sure, you’ll be talking about your escapades on the Wild Atlantic Way for a long time to come. So maybe that Blarney Stone works after all. In truth, this once-in-a-lifetime trip along Ireland’s breathtaking west coast speaks for itself, we think you’ll agree.

    Galway city - Header Galway city - Header
    Day 10 Galway city

    Day 4

    Get set for the first city stop of the trip. The bohemian cool of Galway is calling...

    Explore Day 10

    Morning

    Middle Street, Galway city

    Middle Street Galway Middle Street Galway

    Leaving Westport, head down through Mayo and cross over into County Galway, before arriving on the coast in Galway city. Whether it’s the grand edifice of Galway Cathedral, the elegant 18th century architecture of the University College Galway, or the bustling cobbled streets full of shops selling local artisan crafts, there’s so much to see and do here. We suggest booking a walking tour for a guided saunter around this charming hub.

     

    Then for lunch, go veggie at The Lighthouse Café, or try Kai, a rustic spot with stone floors, an eclectic interior and refined lunch menu.

    1 km

    Afternoon

    The Claddagh, Galway city

    The Claddagh The Claddagh

    In the afternoon, stroll on down to The Claddagh, an old fishing village just a stone’s throw from the city centre, where the River Corrib enters Galway Bay. Galway Bay Boat Tours offers you the chance to see the city from the sea on a scenic tour along the coast. If you’re on foot, the Salthill Prom is a lovely walk. Check out the Blackrock Diving Tower, a popular meeting point for local sea swimmers. Fancy joining them? Bring your togs along and jump in!

     

    Feeling well and truly invigorated thanks to the fresh sea air, it’s time to turn back towards Galway city for a fun night out in the Latin Quarter.

    1 km

    Evening

    The Seafood Bar at Kirwan's Lane, Galway city

    Kirwans Lane Galway Kirwans Lane Galway

    Galway’s Latin Quarter is the beating heart at the centre of the city, a maze of cobbled streets and lanes brimming with bars, restaurants and stores. Soak up the atmosphere on a wander through, while eyeing up places for dinner. The Seafood Bar at Kirwan’s Lane does exactly what its name suggests, serving up quality seafood dishes alongside an extensive wine list. For Michelin-starred excellence, head across to Aniar in Galway’s West End, where cool and contemporary Irish cuisine is showcased in stunning style.

     

    Galway’s pub scene is second to none, so how about a small pub crawl after dinner to tick off a few must-visit joints? Taaffes Bar is a go-to locale for live traditional Irish music. Check out the Roisin Dubh for more modern live music and comedy gigs. Tigh Neachtain is another local favourite, and has been serving pints since 1894. By now you’ll be fit for bed! 7 Cross Street is a good shout if you want to stay in the midst of the action. The boutique hotel is located in a 600-year-old medieval building right in the Latin Quarter.

     

    If you plan on staying for longer in Galway city, Galway Food Tours offers a range of culinary experiences. From a food and cycling excursion to a craft beer expedition, these foodie tours are a great (and delicious!) way to uncover more of Galway’s culture and heritage.

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