The Wild Atlantic Way

Downpatrick Head

Downpatrick Head is a breathtaking coastal site famous for its dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and rich history. The most iconic feature is Dún Briste, a towering sea stack that stands alone just off the coast, shaped by centuries of Atlantic waves. The area is steeped in legend, linked to St. Patrick, who is said to have driven pagans from the headland. With stunning ocean views, blowholes, and a wild, rugged atmosphere, Downpatrick Head is a must-visit stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Mayo

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, rising dramatically to heights of 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching for about 14 kilometers along the coast, these rugged cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views, especially at O’Brien’s Tower, a historic viewpoint. Home to diverse birdlife, including puffins and razorbills, the cliffs are a haven for nature lovers. Whether you explore the visitor centre, walk the scenic trails, or simply take in the raw beauty of the Atlantic, the Cliffs of Moher are an unforgettable highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Clare

Muckross Head

Muckross Head is a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering stunning coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and unique rock formations. The headland is particularly famous for its layered sandstone cliffs, which attract rock climbers and geology enthusiasts. Nearby, Muckross Beach provides a perfect spot for surfers and those looking to enjoy the wild, unspoiled beauty of the Atlantic coast. With its breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere, Muckross Head is a must-visit for anyone exploring Ireland’s rugged western shores.

County: Donegal.

Doolin Port

Malin Head

Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland, is a place of wild beauty, dramatic cliffs, and rich history. Famous for its rugged coastal scenery, it offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic and is a prime spot for witnessing the Northern Lights on clear nights. The area is also steeped in history, with remnants of World War II lookout posts and connections to Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which was filmed here. Whether you’re exploring Banba’s Crown, walking the rocky trails, or simply soaking in the untamed landscape, Malin Head is an unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Donegal

Dursey Island

Trá an Dóilín

Trá an Dóilín, also known as Coral Strand, is a stunning beach near Carraroe, famous for its crushed coral-like maerl instead of sand. Its crystal-clear waters and unique seabed make it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Located in the heart of the Gaeltacht, the area is rich in Irish language and culture, adding to its charm. With breathtaking views of the Atlantic and nearby islands, Trá an Dóilín is a must-visit for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Benwee Head is one of the Wild Atlantic Way’s most spectacular yet lesser-known coastal cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. Towering over the sea, these dramatic cliffs feature rugged rock formations, sea arches, and hidden caves, shaped by centuries of powerful waves. A haven for hikers and nature lovers, the Benwee Loop Walk provides stunning panoramas of the coastline and nearby Inishkea Islands. Remote and unspoiled, Benwee Head is a perfect destination for those seeking peace, adventure, and raw natural beauty.

County: Mayo

Bridge of Ross

The Bridge of Ross is a stunning natural sea arch along the Loop Head Peninsula, shaped by the relentless power of the Atlantic. Once part of a trio of arches, only one remains, standing as a breathtaking reminder of the area’s ever-changing coastal landscape. The site is a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering incredible views of the ocean and a peaceful atmosphere away from crowds. A popular spot for birdwatching and photography, the Bridge of Ross is a must-visit for those exploring Ireland’s dramatic western coastline.

County: Clare

Strand Hill

Strandhill is a vibrant coastal village known for its spectacular surfing waves, golden beaches, and stunning views of Knocknarea Mountain. A paradise for surfers, the powerful Atlantic swells attract wave riders from around the world, while the beachside promenade is perfect for walkers and nature lovers. The area is also home to the famous Voya Seaweed Baths, where visitors can relax in traditional therapeutic seaweed soaks. With its lively cafés, breathtaking sunsets, and outdoor adventures, Strandhill is a must-visit destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Sligo

Inish Bofin

Inishbofin is a remote and picturesque island off the coast of Connemara, known for its pristine beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich history. A haven for walkers and nature lovers, the island offers scenic trails, stunning coastal cliffs, and abundant wildlife, including rare bird species. History enthusiasts can explore the ruins of Cromwell’s Barracks, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere and traditional Irish music sessions. With its crystal-clear waters and untouched beauty, Inishbofin is a true gem along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain, is a majestic peak that rises 764 meters above Clew Bay, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic and its 365 islands. A site of pilgrimage for centuries, it is said to be where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days in the 5th century. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and hikers make the challenging ascent to the summit, following in the footsteps of generations before them. Whether for its spiritual significance, historical roots, or stunning scenery, Croagh Patrick is an unmissable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Mayo

Garnish Island

Garnish Island is a hidden paradise in Bantry Bay, renowned for its lush gardens, exotic plants, and stunning coastal views. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the island’s Italian and Japanese-style gardens flourish with rare plant species, creating a magical escape for nature lovers. Visitors can explore Bryce House, stroll through beautifully designed landscapes, and enjoy a short ferry ride that often includes sightings of seals basking on the nearby rocks. A tranquil retreat with breathtaking scenery, Garnish Island is a must-visit along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Fanad Head

Fanad Head is home to one of Ireland’s most iconic lighthouses, perched dramatically on rugged cliffs overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean. A visit to Fanad Lighthouse offers breathtaking coastal views, with waves crashing against the rocks below and the possibility of spotting dolphins or even whales in the waters beyond. The surrounding landscape is perfect for scenic walks, photography, and exploring hidden beaches. With its remote beauty and maritime history, Fanad Head is a must-see destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Donegal

Horn Head

Horn Head is a spectacular headland offering some of the most breathtaking coastal views along the Wild Atlantic Way. Towering 180 meters above the Atlantic, its rugged cliffs are home to seabird colonies, including puffins and razorbills. The scenic drive and walking trails around Horn Head provide stunning panoramas of Sheephaven Bay, Tory Island, and the Derryveagh Mountains. A haven for wildlife and nature lovers, this remote and windswept landscape captures the untamed beauty of Ireland’s west coast.

County: Donegal

Inis Oirr

Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, is a charming island known for its traditional Irish culture, rugged landscapes, and stunning Atlantic views. Visitors can explore the ruins of O’Brien’s Castle, the famous Plassey shipwreck, and the island’s intricate network of stone walls. With its pristine beaches, welcoming locals, and lively traditional music, Inis Oírr offers an authentic and peaceful escape along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Erris Head

Erris Head is a wild and remote headland offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and unspoiled landscapes. A looped walking trail takes visitors along rugged coastal paths, where they can witness stunning sea arches, hidden coves, and diverse birdlife. The headland’s isolation and raw beauty make it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Mayo

Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ireland’s most breathtaking and remote landmarks. Rising 218 meters above the Atlantic, this rugged island is famous for its ancient monastic settlement, where monks lived in stone beehive huts over 1,000 years ago. Today, it is a haven for puffins and seabirds, as well as a must-visit destination for history lovers and adventure seekers. Made even more famous by its appearance in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, Skellig Michael is an unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Omey Island

Omey Island is a tidal island off the coast of Connemara, accessible by foot or car only at low tide via a vast sandy strand. Rich in history and natural beauty, the island features ancient ruins, hidden burial sites, and the remains of Teampaill Feichín, a 7th-century church buried beneath the sand. With its wild landscapes, quiet beaches, and breathtaking Atlantic views, Omey Island offers a peaceful retreat for walkers, nature lovers, and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Spanish Point

Spanish Point is a scenic coastal spot known for its golden beaches, rolling waves, and rich maritime history. Named after the Spanish Armada ships that were wrecked here in 1588, the area offers a mix of history, surf, and stunning Atlantic views. Popular with surfers and walkers, Spanish Point is the perfect place to enjoy wild seascapes, fresh ocean air, and breathtaking sunsets along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Clare

Killary Harbour

Killary Harbour is Ireland’s only fjord, stretching 16 kilometers between the rugged mountains of Galway and Mayo. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this deep-water inlet offers stunning views, scenic boat tours, and excellent hiking trails, including the famous Famine Walk along its southern shore. The fjord’s sheltered waters are also home to mussel farms and diverse marine life, making it a fascinating stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway & Mayo

Conor Pass

Conor Pass is one of Ireland’s highest and most breathtaking mountain passes, offering dramatic views of rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and the Atlantic coastline. The winding road, which connects Dingle to the northern side of the peninsula, is narrow and thrilling, with sheer drops and stunning scenery at every turn. A stop at the viewing point near the summit provides an unforgettable panorama of the Dingle Peninsula, making Conor Pass a must-see destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Mizen Head

Mizen Head is Ireland’s most southwesterly point, famous for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and breathtaking ocean views. The Mizen Head Signal Station, perched on the edge of the cliffs, offers visitors a chance to cross a thrilling arched bridge and explore the area’s maritime history and lighthouse heritage. With its wild landscapes, dolphin and whale sightings, and incredible sunsets, Mizen Head is an unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Tory Island

Tory Island is a remote and culturally rich island, known for its rugged beauty, strong Gaelic traditions, and legendary history. Home to a small but vibrant community, the island has its own King of Tory, a tradition that continues today. Visitors can explore dramatic cliffs, ancient monastic ruins, and the famous Balor’s Fort, tied to Irish mythology. With its stunning coastal walks, thriving arts scene, and warm hospitality, Tory Island is a truly unique stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Donegal

Mullaghmore Head

Mullaghmore Head is a breathtaking coastal headland, famous for its dramatic ocean views, golden beaches, and world-class surfing waves. The area is home to the stunning Classiebawn Castle, which overlooks the Atlantic, adding to its fairytale-like scenery. Known for its massive waves that attract big-wave surfers from around the world, Mullaghmore is also a great spot for coastal walks, wildlife watching, and enjoying fresh sea air along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Sligo

Gorteen Bay

Gorteen Bay is a stunning crescent-shaped beach near Roundstone, known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Sheltered by the rugged Connemara coastline, this peaceful bay is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing seaside strolls. Often visited alongside nearby Dog’s Bay, Gorteen Bay is a must-see for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, offering a perfect mix of tranquility and natural beauty.

County: Galway

Barley Cove

Barleycove is a stunning sandy beach nestled between rolling dunes and crystal-clear waters on Ireland’s southwest coast. Formed by a tidal wave in the 18th century, the beach is now a protected area, home to diverse wildlife and rare plant species. Popular for swimming, surfing, and scenic walks, Barleycove offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. A short drive from Mizen Head, it’s a must-visit stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Sky Road

Sky Road is a scenic drive along the Clifden Peninsula in Connemara, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Twelve Bens mountain range, and the rugged Connemara coastline. The road loops around, taking you past wild landscapes, hidden coves, and sandy beaches, with plenty of spots to pull over and soak in the views. Whether you’re driving or walking, Sky Road provides one of the most memorable experiences along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Slea Head

Slea Head is one of the most scenic and dramatic coastal routes in Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic, the Blasket Islands, and rugged cliffs. Part of the famous Dingle Peninsula drive, it is rich in history, ancient stone structures, and Gaelic culture. Visitors can explore prehistoric beehive huts, stunning beaches like Coumeenoole, and the iconic Dunquin Pier. Whether driving, cycling, or walking, Slea Head is a must-visit stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Inch Beach

nch Beach is a stunning Blue Flag beach stretching for over 5 kilometers along the Dingle Peninsula, offering golden sands, rolling dunes, and breathtaking Atlantic views. A paradise for surfers, swimmers, and walkers, it provides the perfect spot for a refreshing dip or a peaceful stroll. Inch Beach has also been a filming location for movies like Ryan’s Daughter and The Playboy of the Western World. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, it’s a must-visit along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Inis Mór

Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, is a place of rich history, stunning landscapes, and deep-rooted Irish culture. The island is home to the iconic Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort perched on towering cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, endless stone walls, beautiful beaches, and lively traditional music sessions in the local pubs. With its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, Inis Mór is an unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Aughris Head

Aughris Head is a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering dramatic coastal views, rugged cliffs, and a peaceful seaside atmosphere. A scenic walking trail leads visitors along the headland, where they can take in stunning panoramas of Sligo Bay and the distant Benbulben mountain. Nearby, the traditional thatched Aughris Cliff View Bar provides the perfect spot to relax after exploring. With its wild beauty and serene charm, Aughris Head is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

County: Sligo

Blasket Island

The Blasket Islands are a group of remote, unspoiled islands off the Dingle Peninsula, known for their rugged beauty, rich literary heritage, and thriving wildlife. Once home to a small Gaelic-speaking community, the islands were abandoned in 1953 due to harsh living conditions. Today, visitors can explore the largest island, Great Blasket, where they’ll find ruined cottages, scenic walking trails, and incredible views of the Atlantic. The islands are also a haven for seals, dolphins, and seabirds, making them a magical stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Slieve League

Slieve League boasts some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, soaring almost three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher at 601 meters. Offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean, Donegal Bay, and even as far as Sligo and Mayo on a clear day, these cliffs are a paradise for hikers and photographers. The scenic drive or walk to the Bunglass viewpoint provides a dramatic first glimpse of the cliffs, while the more adventurous can tackle the One Man’s Pass for an unforgettable experience. A must-visit along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Donegal

Sheep’s Head

Sheep’s Head Peninsula is a peaceful and unspoiled gem, known for its rugged coastal beauty, scenic walking trails, and breathtaking Atlantic views. The Sheep’s Head Way is a renowned hiking route that takes visitors past dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and rolling green hills, leading to the iconic Sheep’s Head Lighthouse at the very tip of the peninsula. With its tranquil atmosphere, charming villages, and welcoming locals, Sheep’s Head is a must-visit for those seeking a quieter, more remote escape along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Keem Strand

Keem Strand is a breathtakingly beautiful beach nestled between rugged cliffs and rolling hills at the western tip of Achill Island. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and scenic walks. Once a historic basking shark fishing spot, Keem is now a haven for nature lovers, offering stunning views of the Atlantic and the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds. A drive along the dramatic cliffside road to Keem Strand is an unforgettable experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Mayo

Salthill Prom

Salthill Promenade, or “the Prom,” is a vibrant seaside walkway stretching for over 2 kilometers along Galway Bay. A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, it offers stunning views of the Atlantic, the Aran Islands, and even the Burren on a clear day. The tradition here is to “kick the wall” at the end of the walk for good luck. With its beaches, lively cafés, and fresh sea air, Salthill Prom is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway

Doolough Valley

Doolough Valley is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and deep historical significance, with its dark lakes, towering mountains, and dramatic landscapes creating one of the most breathtaking drives along the Wild Atlantic Way. This remote valley is also a site of remembrance for the Doolough Tragedy of 1849, when many perished during the Great Famine. Today, it offers a peaceful escape, perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and quiet reflection in one of Ireland’s most untouched natural settings.

County: Mayo

Fanore Beach

Fanore Beach is a stunning golden-sand beach set against the backdrop of the rugged Burren landscape and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Popular with surfers, walkers, and nature lovers, it offers great waves, rolling dunes, and breathtaking coastal views. The beach is also a fantastic spot for a sunset stroll, with the dramatic limestone hills of the Burren providing a unique contrast to the sea. A peaceful and scenic stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Clare

Old Head of Kinsale

The Old Head of Kinsale is a dramatic headland that juts out into the Atlantic, offering breathtaking coastal views, sheer cliffs, and rich maritime history. Best known as the nearest land point to the Lusitania sinking in 1915, it is home to the Old Head Lighthouse, which has guided sailors for centuries. While much of the headland is now a private golf course, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery from nearby walking trails and viewpoints. A must-see stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Rosses Point

Rosses Point is a scenic seaside village known for its stunning beaches, rugged coastline, and breathtaking views of Sligo Bay and Benbulben. A paradise for walkers, swimmers, and watersports enthusiasts, it’s also home to a historic lighthouse, a championship golf course, and a deep maritime heritage. The iconic “Waiting on Shore” sculpture stands as a tribute to those lost at sea. With its fresh sea air and tranquil beauty, Rosses Point is a must-visit along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Sligo

Loop Head

Loop Head is a spectacular headland on the westernmost tip of Clare, offering breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and unspoiled landscapes. Home to the historic Loop Head Lighthouse, the area provides a wild and rugged escape away from the crowds. Visitors can enjoy scenic coastal drives, dolphin watching, and walking trails that showcase the sheer power of the Atlantic. Recognized as a European Destination of Excellence, Loop Head is a must-visit for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Clare

Glengesh Pass

Glengesh Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass that winds through the rugged and remote hills of Donegal, offering spectacular views of rolling green valleys and dramatic landscapes. The narrow, twisting road makes for an unforgettable drive, often compared to the famous routes of the Alps. This hidden gem is a paradise for photographers, cyclists, and nature lovers, providing a peaceful escape into Ireland’s untouched wilderness. A must-see stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Donegal

Dunquin Pier

Dunquin Pier is a stunningly scenic and iconic landmark on the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its steep, winding pathway that zigzags down to the Atlantic. It was once the main departure point for the Blasket Islands, and visitors can still take boat trips from here. The pier offers breathtaking views of the ocean, the Blasket Islands, and the rugged coastline, making it a dream spot for photographers and nature lovers. A truly unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Cape Clear Island

Cape Clear Island, Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island, is a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) island known for its rugged beauty, rich history, and strong maritime culture. With stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking ocean views, it’s a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. The island is also home to the Cape Clear Bird Observatory and the ruins of Dún an Óir (Fort of Gold). A boat trip to nearby Fastnet Rock Lighthouse adds to the adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Cork

Kerry Cliffs

The Kerry Cliffs offer some of the most breathtaking and dramatic coastal views in Ireland, with sheer drops of over 300 meters into the Atlantic Ocean. From the viewing platforms, visitors can take in panoramic sights of the Skellig Islands, Puffin Island, and the rugged Kerry coastline. Less crowded than other famous cliffs, this hidden gem provides an awe-inspiring and peaceful experience. A must-visit stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Aasleagh Falls

Aasleagh Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near the mouth of the Erriff River, just before it flows into Killary Harbour. Surrounded by rolling hills and rugged landscapes, this peaceful spot is a favorite for walkers, photographers, and anglers, especially during the salmon fishing season. The sound of rushing water and stunning backdrop of the Connemara mountains make it a perfect place to pause and take in the natural beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Galway & Mayo

Geokaun Mountain

Geokaun Mountain, the highest point on Valentia Island, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Skellig Islands, Dingle Peninsula, Blasket Islands, and the Atlantic Ocean. A drive or hike to the summit leads to a series of viewing platforms that showcase the rugged beauty of the Kerry coastline. The nearby Fogher Cliffs add to the dramatic scenery, making this a must-visit spot for photographers and nature lovers exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

County: Kerry

Kilkee Cliffs

The Kilkee Cliffs offer a stunning and less crowded alternative to other famous cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way. Towering over the Atlantic, these rugged sea cliffs stretch for miles, providing breathtaking views of the coastline, dramatic rock formations, and crashing waves below. The scenic cliff walk is perfect for those looking to experience the wild beauty of Clare’s coastline without the crowds. A must-visit for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

County: Clare

Cnoc Fola

Cnoc Fola (Blood Mountain) is a stunning coastal hill on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, nearby islands, and the rugged Donegal coastline. The area is known for its dramatic sunsets, which can cast a deep red hue over the landscape, inspiring its name. A popular spot for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection, Cnoc Fola showcases the untouched beauty of Ireland’s northwest.

County: Donegal