Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way is a 2500 km route that will immerse you in an exciting adventure conquering the famous Irish “Cliffs.” Created mainly for car journeys, the route starts from Donegal and ends in Cork. A blend of wild nature and culture, exemplified by the stretch from Mayo to Clare, where you’ll encounter the narrow sea arm of Killary Harbour, the ruins at Derrigimlagh Boh, and the majestic Cliffs of Moher.
As for walking, the route does not offer a single linear path but features various circuits and treks along the way. Among the most scenic is the Appalachian Trail, over one hundred kilometers long and located at the westernmost point in northern Ireland.
A journey full of rocks and marshes, rugged coasts, and deserted beaches. Another notable trail is the Diamond Hill, located in the stunning Connemara National Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views, secret coves, and desolate islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Doolin Cliff Walk, instead, runs along the Moher coasts, a challenging route given the trail’s height, perched steeply above the sea. Another multi-day trek is the Beara Way, 196 km long. Located on the southwestern Beara peninsula, along this path you’ll admire many archaeological and historical sites without ever leaving the coastal landscape.
The final route to mention is the Sheep’s Head, situated in a southwestern corner of Ireland. This trail will let you discover some of the most remote places along the entire Wild Atlantic Way. Stretching 88 km, Sheep’s Head is a colorful panorama featuring picturesque villages and wild scenery.
Points of Interest:
- Cliff of Moher: The wonderful and impressive Moher Cliffs are located near the village of Doolin on the western coast of Clare.
- Killary Harbour: A scenic narrow sea arm serving as the boundary between Galway and Mayo counties.
- Cork: A lively town full of surprises waiting to be discovered.
- Connemara National Park: Located in County Galway, it covers 2000 hectares of meadows, woods, mountains, and marshes.
Information Sheet:
- Country: Ireland
- Official website of the Wild Atlantic Way
- Length in kilometers: 2500
- GPX: Smartphone App
- KMZ: Smartphone App
