AUTHOR Robert Gillespie

Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way consists of some 2,500km of coastline with rugged cliffs, luscious green fields from West Cork to Donegal. This is the world’s longest driving route and one of the most splendid with stunning views and a real way to connect with nature in this fascinating country.

kick Off From Cork And Kerry

Your itinerary starts in Cork and Kerry on Ireland’s southeastern corner. You can visit:

• Rizen Head where you can discover Festrel lighthouse on a rock known as Teardrop. The latter is so-called as it was the last sight of home for emigrants to America during the Famine.
• On Slea Head Drive as well as spectacular scenery you will find prehistoric sites too.
• For some soulful serenity a visit to Dursey Island is recommended free of everyday hubbub and fuss with some intriguing castle ruins and standing stones.
• Plus kissing the stone at Blarney Castle;
• picnic at Fitzgerald Park;
• follow the fairy trail at Glenview Gardens;
• or get scientific at the CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory.

continue To County Clare

On to County Clare for:

• hiking at Loop Head with gorgeous views of Dingle Peninsula to the south and Galway and the Aran Islands to the north.
• More natural beauty can be found in the ever-popular Cliffs of Moher, some 300m above sea level in their splendour.
• And there are three reasons to visit Lahinch, namely surfing, golfing and traditional music.
• Or take a flight with Atlantic Air Adventures.

gorgeous Galway

In County Galway you can:

• take the Sky Road (by bike if you like) northward to Inishbofin and the islands of Clew Bay in Mayo.
• And the real remoteness of the three Aran Islands of Inishmor, Inisheer and Inishmaan can be reached by ferry or plane.
• While for canine capers on the beaches take in Dog’s Bay for scintillating white sand.

In Galway city take in:

• the buskers on Quay Street;
• dine out in the Latin Quarter;
• admire the breathtaking Cathedral;
• or take in the sea air on Salthill Beaches.

mighty Mayo To Serene Sligo

Then from Mayo to Sligo go to:

• Achill Island by causeway for more beaches and rolling hills.
• And the ancient Irish feel is found on Mollett Peninsula with perfect beaches also here.
• The country is famed for its poets and indeed writer WB Yeats was inspired by Benbulben mountain to wax lyrical.

In Mayo you can see:

destination Donegal

If you are motoring sount to north your last stop is at County Donegal. There are:

• the astounding cliffs of Slieve League (some 600m);
• and a 19th century Martello Tower at Malin Head
• and delightful dunes of Tramore beach.

Take in:

• the tea room at Glenveagh Castle;
• the butterfly house at Tropical World;
• or be a culture vulture at Glebe House & Gallery.

a Good Craic

You will be sure to have a good craic on your journey, witnessing the hospitality and kindness of the Irish way as well as seeing spectacular sights you will never forget.

Having worked in the car rental industry for over 15 years, he really knows his stuff. Rob heads up our marketing department and as a keen traveller, always has a new location to talk about. Particularly if there is a golf course nearby.

Robert Gillespie

Traveller