west coast of ireland tours

10 Places You MUST Visit on The West Coast of Ireland!

Categories Europe , Ireland

The West Coast of Ireland is a beautiful part of Ireland and there are so many places to visit on the West Coast of Ireland. I did a 3 day West Coast of Ireland Road Trip  driving up as much of the West Coast as I could and I couldn’t believe the beauty of it!

The scenery on the West Coast of Ireland changes so dramatically as you drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and go between the South, Mid and North of the West Coast.

Here are 10 places on the West Coast of Ireland to visit which are also the best things to do on the West Coast of Ireland and the best things to see on the West Coast of Ireland .

Whether you are hiring a car in Ireland and doing a West Coast Ireland road trip as I did, planning on driving the Wild Atlantic Way , or using public transport and doing day tours around Ireland , I give you options below to suit all trips to Ireland!

Places to Visit on West Coast of Ireland!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

West Coast of Ireland Map

Here’s a map of all of the best places to visit on the West Coast of Ireland to help you plan your trip whether you have 3 days in Ireland or 1 week in Ireland !

Car Hire in Ireland

In this list of places to visit in the West coast of Ireland, I have given group day trip options in case you don’t have a car, however, for the best way to see Ireland, I recommend hiring a car as I did.

I hired a car for Ireland through Rental Cars which work with all the big car rental agencies in Ireland.

Search for car rental in Ireland here!

Best Places to Visit on the West Coast of Ireland

Now, here are the best places to visit on the West Coast of Ireland to add into your Ireland itinerary and road trip!

1. Cliffs of Moher

No West Coast of Ireland trip would be complete without a trip to the iconic and famous Cliffs of Moher, this is the top Ireland tourist attraction .

They are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and they’re popular for a reason .

This area of coastline is simply stunning and the visitor centre, although touristy, gives you the chance to get up close to the cliff’s edge.

If you’re hiring a car in Ireland , the best time of day to visit the Cliffs of Moher is  as late as possible (3pm-7pm depending on the time of year and what time it gets dark) as the morning is when the coach day tours visit the Cliffs of Moher and ideally you want to avoid these.

In fact, when I went in August there were signs well before getting to the Cliffs, and in Shannon Airport, advising people to go after 4:00 pm   in the Summer,  so keep this in mind when you’re thinking about what to do in West Ireland.

If you’re staying in Galway without your own transport, do not worry! There are plenty of Cliffs of Moher Tours leaving Galway and even tours leaving Dublin !  I would recommend one of these . They start at a great price, you see a lot and they are stress-free!

I use  Skyscanner   to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!

Open Skyscanner by clicking here  and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Galway is Ireland’s most famous City after Dublin , however, it’s much smaller in size than Dublin so it’s a lot easier to navigate and get a good feel for in a small amount of time so it should be on your West Coast of Ireland itinerary .

Galway is full of colourful buildings , plenty of local Irish Pubs and is situated on the water.

There are street performers day and night giving you a taste of traditional Irish music and generally, its just a good craic!

Things to do in Galway include taking the Galway Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus to see the city in a quick and easy way!

I stayed overnight in Galway and I’m really glad I got to see Galway in the evening and in the day time because it seems like a different city when it gets dark.

If you want a place to go out for some drinks on the West Coast of Ireland and for a few Guinness’s, Galway is the place to go and stay for a night or two.

3. Limerick

Limerick is the third biggest city in Ireland however it’s a city that isn’t centred around tourism like Galway is but it’s still a good place to visit when thinking about where to go in Ireland.

I would suggest visiting Limerick for a few hours if you are passing by on a road trip to visit the Castle and have a walk along the River Shannon. Here are some things to do in Limerick !

• More of my Ireland posts:
• 3 Day West Coast of Ireland Road Trip Itinerary!
• 10 Incredible Places To Add To Your Wild Atlantic Way Route in Ireland!
• Helpful Tips To Prepare You For Your Ireland Road Trip!  
• What To Do in Limerick!

4. Killary Fjord

The Killary Fjord on the West Coast of Ireland was a complete surprise to me! It’s Irelands only Fjord which extends 10 miles from the Atlantic.

I drove along the Fjord when driving from Kylemore Abbey to Westport and every turn and corner provided a completely different view of the fjord, it really was incredible.

It’s a mix of New Zealand and Norway on the West Coast of Ireland! Boat tours are available from Killary Harbour which would be brilliant if you can find the time, you can book a 1.5-hour boat tour here !

If not, just make sure you at least drive alongside it.

5. Achill Island

Another surprise for me on the West Coast of Ireland and along the Wild Atlantic Way was Achill Island. It’s the largest island off of the mainland of Ireland , connected to the mainland via a bridge.

It’s a remote, rugged and unspoilt island!

I felt like I was uncovering a gem as I drove towards and around the Island.

I used ‘ Keel ‘ on Achill Island as my endpoint on my satnav and just before I reached the village I saw signs for the beach.

The beach was so remote and quiet , it filled me with peace and calm so I would definitely recommend heading up there to see a less visited place on the West Coast of Ireland.

6. Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is a big area of land in West Ireland and one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland and one of the most popular things to do in West Ireland.

The scenery here is very mountainous and rugged with lots of lakes.

You can drive through it taking in the beauty surrounding you, stopping when you feel like it to take pictures and have a walk, and you can go to the main visitor centre and walk a suggested walking route around the Connemara National Park which is what I did.

There are 3 walks available  that all start at the Connemara National Park Visitor Centre ranging from 30 minutes to 90-120 minutes .

I did the Lower Diamond Hill Walk which was 3km and took about 45 minutes, it wasn’t particularly strenuous but it gave amazing views from a high part of the mountain overlooking the lakes and countryside.

If you don’t have a car, you can book on a day tour to the Connemara National Park from Galway like this , or from Dublin like this !

7. Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is an iconic place to visit in Ireland and one of the best places to see in Ireland.

It’s a 10-15 minute drive from the Connemara National Park visitor centre so if you visit one you should visit both.

Kylemore Abbey was built in the 1800s and it’s had a lot of love, care and money put into it. It’s been a hotel and a girls school and experienced a fire or two that could have ruined the castle but luckily didn’t.

The Abbey is beautiful to view from the lake and up close. I would suggest buying a ticket so you can get closer to it and go inside to read more about its history.

There is also a gorgeous walled garden a mile from the Abbey which is accessible via foot or a shuttle bus that runs every 10-15 minutes to take you between the two areas.

Again, do not worry if you do not have your own transport, you can still reach the Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey on day tours from Dublin and Galway like this, click through to check availability for when you’re there!

8. The Burren

I didn’t get to visit The Burren due to time constraints but I wish I had visited and thought about what to see in Ireland in advance of my trip.

It’s located close to the Cliffs of Moher and is famous for its limestone landscape . From the photos I have seen it looks quite otherworldly and a really unique place to visit in West Ireland.

It’s also popular because you would think this landscape is barren with nothing growing it in but actually, The Burren blossoms into a rock garden of wildflower in the spring, so Spring is a great time to visit this part of West Ireland.

9. Aran Islands

This is another part of the West Coast I didn’t visit as I only had 3 days in Ireland but would have loved to visit. Sat in Galway Bay mouth are 3 islands known as the Aran Islands.

It’s possible to visit the Aran Islands on a Day trip from Doolin or Galway and there are regular ferries running to take you and your car.

There are also many coach tours and boat trips around the Aran Islands if you’d prefer to see the islands from the water which sounds like one of the fun things to do in Ireland.

The islands are known for their ancient sites, beaches and Irish speaking locals.

If I didn’t have a car for my trip and had done my Ireland trip via public transport I definitely would have gone on an organised day trip to the Aran Islands from Galway like one of these:

How to get the best flights??

I use  Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

10. Donegal

Donegal topped National Geographic’s Cool List of What to See in Ireland and for good reasons. Donegal appears to be the place that makes you feel like you’re really ‘ off the beaten path’ in Ireland .

Escaping the rest of the world with its wild landscape, country roads and incredible coastline so make sure you visit on your West Coast of Ireland trip!

FAQs about the West Coast of Ireland

Here are answers to the frequently answered questions about visiting the West Coast of Ireland:

What is the best way to see the West Coast of Ireland?

Driving yourself on a road trip is the best way to see the West Coast of Ireland. I suggest hiring a car via Rental Cars who work with all the top rental car agencies in Ireland! Search here!

What is the prettiest part of Ireland?

The West Coast of Ireland has many of the top prettiest places in Ireland like the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara National Park, the Wild Atlantic way.

Is Galway on the West Coast of Ireland?

Yes, Galway is part of the West Coast of Ireland and a brilliant place to stop when travelling along Ireland’s West Coast.

What is the West Coast of Ireland called?

The West Coast of Ireland is also known as the Wild Atlantic Way because it runs all the way along the West Coast from the South to the North and is the longest coastal route in the world at 1600m / 2600km.

Enjoy these places to visit on the West Coast of Ireland!

• What To Do in Limerick!  
• 5 Pubs in Dublin to visit for a great Craic!  

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Friday 29th of June 2018

We just did the Wild Atlantic Way and I have to say its been one of the best holidays ever...the weather was sublime too. 28 degrees and sunny, just beautiful!

TheWanderingQuinn

Saturday 30th of June 2018

That sounds amazing!! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

Tuesday 7th of November 2017

Pictures are lovely! In some it looks like you were the only person there which must have been pretty special, or maybe just clever camera timing! Thanks for sharing this post :)

Emma Hart | Paper Planes and Caramel Waffles

Thursday 12th of October 2017

Ooh, I'd definitely recommend visiting Doolin! It's such a gorgeous little village with the coolest Irish bars. The Burren is also pretty cool too, it's so wild there. I remember when I visited a few years ago, The Cliffs of Moher were covered in fog but it made the scenery really atmospheric! Hopefully I'll make it back again on a clearer day!

Emma | Paper Planes and Caramel Waffles

Samantha Sparrow

Monday 18th of September 2017

This area of Ireland has been on my wish list for years - I definitely want to do more road trips in 2018 if I can - to Ireland, Scotland and Wales! The pictures are just sublime, you've made me want to book right now!

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24. From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

25. Cliffs Of Moher Tour from Galway including Doolin Village

26. Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin

27. From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop in Kylemore Abbey

28. Galway Food Tours

29. The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

30. 4-Day South West Ireland Tour from Dublin

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• Jennifer E 3 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic day! What a fabulous trip! The company, Lally Tours, did an amazing job of hosting. I was fortunate to have John B as my driver on this Sunday tour. The weather was iffy and I had my fingers crossed the entire time. Turns out that it was perfect! It stopped raining just like John said and the views were stunning. The extra stop off at the caves was a hit! And the fact that the lunch room was secured for our day made it even better. Kudos to John and Lally tours! Read more Review of: Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway Written April 29, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Adrienne F 3 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent! Barry and Sarah were great!! Barry was super knowledgeable about the area and history! Sarah navigated the narrow roads with surgical precision! We had a lot of fun. Read more Review of: Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway Written April 29, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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You dearly would love to be chauffeured through the historic, enchanting, and scenic West of Ireland on a guided tour. You want to experience and enjoy places on the Wild Atlantic Way like Kylemore Abbey, The Ring of Kerry, Sky Road, Connemara, Clifden, Famine Memorial, Roundstone, Connemara National Park, Dingle Peninsula. 

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You're "Free as a Bird" Tell us what you would like to see and do and we will work out an itinerary with you. While we have sample Tours like "The Stroller" and "Ultimate Connemara" etc. most of the tours that we do are actually tailored and personalized to suit you, the customer.

My name is Jim Parslow and I am a native of Galway.  I am the founder, owner, and general manager of 'Ireland West Tours', and I have been chauffeuring people like you on guided tours along the Wild Atlantic Way for many years.

"Paul Hehir, our driver was the most pleasurable person to drive throughout Ireland with. If you asked me for just one word to describe Paul, it is Excellent, but my husband and I know he went beyond excellent."

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Over the years we have had several compliments on our drivers from many of our satisfied customers. Click on the link to "Tripadvisor" below to read, in full, the reviews of some of our many happy customers.

"Paul seemed to know just the right amount of time to stop and see things and was very knowledgable and interesting. Even though we had a long day, we wish it lasted longer and felt like we were saying goodbye to a friend when he dropped us off."

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Wild Atlantic Way

Welcome to the wild atlantic way.

The Wild Atlantic Way, 1600 miles (2600 km) in length, is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. It winds its way all along the Irish west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula in the north down to the picturesque town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south.

Discover the Wild Atlantic Way

Go for the road trip of your life and discover the Wild Atlantic Way

Wild Atlantic Way Route

 The route which is over 1600 miles long is divided into 14 stages for easier orientation

Wild Atlantic Way Sights

Discover must-see attractions, famous landmarks and hidden gems of the Wild Atlantic Way

Wild Atlantic Way Map

With our interactive Wild Atlantic Way map, all the must-see attractions are just one click away.

The Wild Atlantic Way route from start to finish unfolds the wonders of nature, the power of the ocean and its imprint on the west coast of Ireland, and the stunning countryside in all its diversity. Enchanting villages are nestled along the coast as well as ancient monuments – their origins having long sunk into the mists of oblivion dot the landscape. Behind every bend on this magical coastal road a new delight awaits.

The wild Atlantic with its unrestrained and untameable tides and storms has continuously been moulding the west coast of Ireland. With a constant meeting of water and land, a deeply indented and wild terrain has emerged with towering cliffs, spellbinding bays and beaches, mystical islands, always changing and never reaching the end. In the isolation or perhaps expressed in a different way living near and with the Atlantic at your doorstep has ensured that old traditions and the Irish language have been preserved. A trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is also an encounter with the past.

Must-see sights of the Wild Atlantic Way

Need inspiration? Explore some of the must-see highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way:

Slieve League

Cliffs of Moher

Baltimore Beacon

Your Wild Atlantic Way Travel Guide

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Navigating on the Wild Atlantic Way

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West Ireland Travel Guide

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West Ireland Visitor's Guide

Ireland's rugged west coast, splintered by the Atlantic's tireless persistence, is peppered with peninsulas, ports and tiny islands. Home to the famous Wild Atlantic Way route, this region is bejewelled by a wealth of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors to the West of Ireland will marvel at its natural beauty and will cherish its memories as fondly as they do the friendliness of the locals.

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Top Attractions in West Ireland

The top attractions of the west of Ireland centre around the epic landscape and rugged terrain it is famous for. Gigantic cliffs, endless Mars-like landscapes, ancient monastic cities, modern new-age cities and what is known as Ireland's most romantic buildings all await visitors to the west of Ireland.

1 The Cliffs of Moher

They are one of the most popular and frequently most-hyped attractions on any of our Ireland tours , and the views will not disappoint. Rising to a height of 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun on any Ireland tour you will not find.

Another thing you will not find is the visitor centre; at least, until you get close, you won't find it. Designed very cleverly to blend into the local landscape, this extensive attraction is all but invisible as you approach the cliffs themselves. Inside, it is large, modern and informative.

You can also climb the O'Brien's Tower, a 19th century lookout tower with a viewing platform. Please note that entrance to the tower is limited each day. To get different perspective of the Cliffs and maybe even the best views in good weather conditions, you can visit the Cliffs by boat.

Insider Tips

To get the most out of this incredible experience, wrap up warm and allow enough time for a good walk about on the clifftops. Turn right and head toward O'Brien's Tower, then continue along the Burren Way footpath for one mile to reach the Viewing Point. From here, you will get some of the best angles for your photographs, but be warned that you will have competition from many other happy snappers.

Practical information

Information leaflets and site map are available in 14 languages in the visitor centre. If you would like to have a picnic at the Cliffs of Moher, then you can pre-order a picnic box by emailing the Café manager.

OPENING HOURS

Opening hours in November to January are 09:00 to 17:00.

Opening hours in March, April, September and October are 08:00 to 19:00.

Opening hours in May to August are 08:00 to 21:00.

Admission fee

Your admission ticket covers all attraction, such as the visitor Centre and O'Brien's Tower. Prices are cheaper if you book them online for off peak hours. You can find all the prices on their website .

2 Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings, since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcoming visitors from across the globe.

Among Kylemore's many notable attractions are the unmistakable Victorian Walled Gardens, restored in 2000 and now open to the public. As a heritage garden, this beautiful space only uses Victorian gardening methods. Only seeds and strains from the 1800s are ever planted here.

The building of Kylemore Castle was inspired by Margaret Henry, to whom the Gothic Church still stands in tribute, serenely secluded in Kylemore's woods. It was Margaret's husband Mitchell Henry who produced, from little more than desolate bog land, the beautiful attraction we now know as Kylemore Abbey. Following Margaret's death in 1874, Henry returned to Kylemore to live, and he remained here until his passing in 1903.

If time, mobility and weather allow, skip the shuttle bus to the garden and make your way on foot. There is so much to see along the way, you will be glad you did.

A new visitor experience, "From generation to generation", opened in 2019. This self-guided tour will lead you through the ground-floor rooms of the abbey and tell the stories of the generations that have wandered Kylemore Abbey's rooms. If you are planning on exploring one of the trails or walks, then we recommend that you bring good footwear.

Opening hours

All details regarding opening times can be found on their website .

The admission fee includes entry to the ground-floor rooms, the victorian walled gardens and the shuttle bus, the Neo-gothic church and guided garden tours in June, July and August. Entry tickets cost 15 euro for adults and children under 16 go free.

3 Galway City

Galway, City of the Tribes, is one of Ireland's most popular tourist destinations, known for its charming cobbled streets, its friendly residents, and its pervasive sense of history. The city sits on the location where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. The main hub of activity in the city is the 18th century Eyre Square, here you can find numerous shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants. Visitors to Galway City are drawn to the brightly-painted pubs, teeming with activity and traditional Irish folk music; the legendary street performers, enchanting the crowds; and the countless festivals which take place in Galway every year.

In recent years, Galway City has become the cultural hub of Ireland, the city attracts people who share an artistic outlook and a more Bohemian way of life. For those interested in all things art, Galway City is definitely not to be missed on your tour of Ireland. The Galway city museum covers three floors with the archaeological, political, cultural and social history of the City and is free to visit.

A favourite pastime among the locals is to walk the Salthill prom, A 2km-long promenade running along the sea. The tradition among the locals is 'kicking the wall' at the end, across from the diving boards, before making your way back into the City.

If you're looking for the best way to see the City of Tribes on foot, check out our Galway City Walking Tour page .

If you're visiting on a Saturday or a bank holiday, head to Church Lane by St Nicholas' Church in the centre of the city. Here you will find the local farmers' market, loved by locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere and its alluring mix of crafts and foodie treats.

Westport is a charming town in County Mayo. Located about 1hr 30 mins from Galway, this remote area of Ireland retains all of its rugged beauty. There's plenty to see and do around Westport including the Great Western Greenway, Achill Island, Clare Island, Clew Bay with its 365 Islands, Westport House and Croagh Patrick.

If you have a car with you, be aware that you will need to purchase a parking disc from any of the local shops. The first hour is free of charge.

Our own Visit

We headed to Westport ourselves for a fun few days of activities and adventure. Click here to find out about our Weekend in Westport

5 Clonmacnoise

Perched on the banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is perhaps the foremost of Ireland's many monastic cities. For those interested in early Christianity, it is a must-see destination. Enclosed within the ancient city walls are various ecclesiastical ruins including a cathedral, seven ancient churches, three high crosses, round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe - all remarkably well-preserved and fascinating to anyone, not just those with a special interest in Ireland's religious history.

The cathedral is perhaps the most logical starting point after the museum. Built in 909AD, it has been significantly altered over the years. The 15th Century Gothic doorway with carvings of St Francis is worth a few minutes of closer scrutiny.

Clonmacnoise's small churches are known as temples; a derivation from the Gaelic teampall . Each has its own distinctive character, and states of preservation vary significantly. Giving each of these sites the attention they deserve, not to mention the many sites outside the city walls, will not be easy for those bringing young families. But, for grown-ups interested in history, Clonmacnoise is a fascinating and vivid realisation of Ireland's past.

Head for the museum first, an interactive multimedia experience housed in three conical huts designed to mirror the early dwellings of the region.

You can also travel down to Clonmacnoise by boat from Athlone. Viking tours run boat journeys to Clonmacnoise and bus transfers back to Athlone.

The average duration of a visit to Clonmacnoise is around an hour and a half. Guided tours in different languages are available. The audiovisual presentation in the museum lasts 20 minutes and provides important context for the rest of your time in Clonmacnoise. The museum also houses the largest collection of early Christian grave slabs in Europe and the original high crosses.

Open from 9:00 to 18:30 from June to August, from 10:00 to 18:00 in mid-March to May, September & October and from 10:00 to 17:30 in November to mid-March.

An entry ticket costs €8 for an adult and €4 for a child.

6 Flaggy Shore

Found in one of the most northerly parts of County Clare, Flaggy Shore is a geologist's dream. Made up of mainly grey limestone there are also the remnants of glacial rock from the last ice age, over 12,000 years ago, in the form of granite and limestone. Fossils of creatures from over 330 million years ago have also been found in the limestone. For us non-geologists of the world, Flaggy Shore is also just a simply beautiful sight.

Be advised that perhaps the biggest attraction of Flaggy Shore could also be seen by some as its biggest downside. Namely, there is nothing there but nature and peaceful solitude. Bring everything you need to this very isolated spot.

7 Kilmacduagh Monastery

Kilmacduagh Monastery is located just outside the town of Gort in south west County Galway. Today only the ruins remain. Saint Colman is said to have founded the monastery in the 7th century. Legend has it that as Saint Colman was walking through the woods of the Burren when the belt from his robe fell to the ground. Saint Colman took this as a sign that this was to be the location of his monastery.

It was also said that in the village of Kilmacduagh, no man will die from lightning. This myth was tested when a man was struck by lightning and send over a ditch, into the neighbouring County Clare, where he was declared dead. It is not known if he died when he was stuck or after he crossed the border, so the myth lives on.

An ideal detour en route to the Cliffs of Moher. Just an hour's drive will take you from this most peaceful retreat to the much busier tourist hotspot to the West.

There is plenty of space to park your car. As Kilmaccduagh is an open site, you ar free to roam the site without having to pay an admission fee. However the buildings might be locked. For a small deposit, you can get a key from the house across the street.

Another of Ireland's best kept secret beaches, found on the western shores of Achill Island in County Mayo. Framed by such an enchanted landscape, many visitors will find the journey here just as rewarding as the day out itself. A truly stunning location.

Achill's most remote blue flag beach is a great place for water sports and you will find surfing schools in area. At the right time of the year, you might even spot some dolphins or a basking shark from the beach. See our page on Irish Islands for more hidden treasures like this one.

Visitors are advised only to swim if there is a lifeguard as there is a very strong riptide. Even then, it would be best to swim with a partner and at a depth that you are comfortable with.

9 Downpatrick Head

Located just north of the village of Ballycastle in County Mayo, Downpatrick Head is a heritage site that gives visitors a unique view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Dún Briste sea stack lies close by, which looks like a chunk of Downpatrick Head that has been cut away from the mainland. Also found on Downpatrick Head are the ruins of a church founded by Ireland's patron saint Patrick, a holy well, a stone circle and nesting sea birds.

Photographers will remember this visit forever, but watch your step and follow the signage on these treacherously high cliffs.

10 Bluebell Woods

Dereen Woods, also known as Bluebell Woods, is located outside the town of Boyle in County Roscommon. A magical setting throughout the year, the woods become even more special during the spring when they are carpeted with Bluebells. On a clear spring morning, Bluebell Wood is one of the most unique sights in Ireland.

Visit mid-April to late May to get the full effect of the bluebells in bloom. Be advised that there is limited parking, especially during this more popular time.

11 The Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch arguably stands out more because of the vibrant atmosphere which pervades the surrounding area, particularly in summer when visitors and locals mingle together, eating out in the sun and enjoying the buskers and street performers. The arch itself is thought to be part of the original medieval city walls.

This is a great spot to sit and eat outdoors. But keep an eye on your lunch: there are many seagulls here and they'll be very grateful if you leave a tasty snack unguarded.

Cong is a village on the border of counties Mayo and Galway, with a population of just 145 people. It is best known as being the location for the John Ford directed, John Wayne starring film The Quiet Man. The film remains one of the few Hollywood productions where the Irish language can be heard. Filming started in Cong in the summer of 1951 and employed numerous actors from the Irish Theatre, as well as extras from the surrounding countryside. Every outdoor scene in the film was shot in County Galway and County Mayo. While the majority of the film was shot in the village of Cong, it is set in the fictional village of Innisfree.

Another notable aspect of the village is that it was home to Sir William Wilde, the father of — arguably — Ireland's most famous writer Oscar Wilde. Today, as well as visiting The Quiet Man museum, the most popular destinations of Cong include Cong Abbey and Ashford Castle .

For a truly luxurious experience, you might consider an overnight stay in nearby Ashford Castle - arguably Ireland's most opulent castle hotel. Ideal if you're looking to treat yourself on one or two nights of your stay in Ireland.

13 Killaloe & Ballina

Situated on the Clare and Tipperary banks of Loch Deirgeirt respectively, Killaloe and Ballina offer a tale of two cities ... well, two villages, perhaps. Close enough to be considered one destination, they have quite distinctive and different characteristics. Pack your camera before you head to Killaloe, the epitome of beautiful County Clare; then use it to get some foodie snaps over dinner in Ballina, where you will find fantastic pubs and restaurants.

Be sure to stop here if you are into watersports, if you enjoy a good day's fishing, or if you're tempted by a boat cruise up the River Shannon to Lough Derg.

14 Connemara National Park

Located in County Galway, Connemara National Park is one of Ireland's six national parks. Founded and opened to the public in 1980, the majority of the land had previously been part of the Kylemore Abbey estate. Evidence of human settlement across the park include 4,000-year-old megalithic court tombs and a 19th-century graveyard.

Comprising three thousand hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and woods, Connemara National Park is a nature-lover's paradise; home to countless native species including red deer, wild ponies and peacock butterflies. The park is also home to several of the famous Twelve Bens , the unmistakable range of mountains which gives such character to the landscape of this part of Ireland. Dedicated walkers will find plenty of challenge here, but easier strolls can also be found on nearby Diamond Hill.

Head to the northern reaches of the park, near Letterfrack village, to find the Connemara National Park Visitor Centre and tea rooms.

The connemara National Park and Visitor Centre are open all year round. However, make sure to check the weather forecast before visiting, as the grounds will be closed during Orange and Red weather warnings. We recommend you wear suitable footwear and clothing. There is no entry fee or charge.

You can reach the National Park Visitor Centre both by public and private transport. Bus eireann (Route 419) and CityLink (Route 923) operate bus services to Letterfrack from Clifden and Galway.

15 Trad on the Prom

If Riverdance did festivals..? This showcase of Irish traditional folk music and dance combines the best of Irish trad culture with a great open-air festival atmosphere. Featuring world-champion dancers, as well as some of the Riverdance cast, the show has met with near-unanimity in its positive reception among visitors. The price tag might rule it out for some, especially larger families, but those who go are in for a treat. Be sure to book well in advance: shows sell out months ahead.

Be advised that this show is only available during the summer months. Check www.tradontheprom.com for the most up-to-date information about performance times and location.

Getting to Western Ireland

Arriving by plane, shannon airport.

Shannon Airport is located in County Clare and services numerous airport in North America. To connect with Galway City from Shannon Airport you have the options of car rental or bus and train journeys. If you are planning to rent a car in Shannon Airport and drive to Galway City it is relatively easy. The drive takes you an hour north on the M18 motorway.

Bus Eireann operates a bus service between Shannon Airport and Ennis in County Clare, Limerick City and Galway City. Citylink also operates a service between Shannon and Galway. A train journey from Shannon to Galway is a little more complicated as there is no direct service. It will involve taking the bus from the airport to Limerick City and getting the connecting train to Galway City .

Dublin Airport

While it's the whole width of Ireland away from Galway, Dublin Airport offers the greatest option of flights into Ireland. Ireland is longer than it is wide anyway so the distance isn't too bad (208 km/129 miles). If you are renting a car in Dublin Airport and driving this journey it will take 2 hours and 25 minutes, travelling west along the M4 and M6 motorways.

Booking a Sat-Nav with your rental car is a good idea to make the journey out of Dublin City that bit easier, as well as exploring the smaller roads in western Ireland's rugged terrain. You can also travel to Galway City from Dublin Airport on the bus via Citylink for as little as 18 euro (one way), when you book online. There is currently no train running from Dublin airport. To catch a train to Galway you will first have to travel into Dublin City and to Heuston Station ( route 747 ).

Cork Airport

To travel by car from Cork Airport to Galway City takes 2 hours and 45 minutes, travelling on the N20 and the M18. Again, if you are renting a car in Cork Airport and you're planning to drive anywhere outside of the main roads of the west of Ireland a Sat-Nav will come in handy along the way. Citylink https://www.citylink.ie/new-galway-cork-nonstop run a nonstop coach from Cork Airport to Galway City for 20 euro return when booked online. The journey takes 3 hours and 20 minutes and runs twice a day. The train from Cork Airport can be a little trickier, it involves a bus journey from the airport to Kent Station in Cork City, a train from Kent Sation to Limerick and then onto Galway.

Arriving by Bus

The main bus station in Galway is the Seán Duggan Centre , close to Eyre Square in Galway's city centre. This station connects directly to all other cities in Ireland as well as the major towns in County Galway. In County Clare the main bus station is Ennis Bus Station in Ennis Town, again this will connect you with the rest of Ireland. You can find connecting buses in and out of County Mayo in the towns of Westport and Castlebar.

Arriving by Train

The Counties of Mayo, Clare and Galway are all well serviced with railway services. The main train station is Galway railway station which is located in Galway city centre. From this station you can connect to the cities of Dublin to the east, Cork and Limerick to the south. Travelling to Belfast City in Northern Ireland would require a change over in Dublin. The main train station in County Mayo is in the town of Westport and in the town of Ennis in County Clare.

Arriving by Car

Getting to Galway City, the town of Ennis in County Clare and the town of Westport in Mayo, from anywhere else in Ireland, is relatively easy. Over the past number of decades, the main road network across the whole of Ireland has been greatly improved. The same can't be said for the secondary and tertiary roads in certain areas. The west of Ireland is notorious for being as close to the old image of Ireland as people remember.

Once you travel off the main roads you'll be greeted with stonewalls and fields, rugged landscapes and scenic views. While it is all quaint and pleasing on the eye it can be a tricky terrain to navigate for the inexperienced. Narrow roads, a lack of signposts, some locals that claim they only speak Irish, a flock of sheep that don't want to move will all equal a great driving story on your arrival home. But these are not the most pleasant of experiences at the time. If you renting a car in the west of Ireland, might we suggest renting one that is as small as possible? Top tip: Most cars in Ireland are manual, so if you haven't driven one before you should definitely try to book an automatic. It's not fun getting to grips with a stick while you're battling uncharted territory. P.S. a Sat-Nav is also pretty vital when driving in the west.

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

Ireland Travel Guide

As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.

This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!

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Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Tours & Trips

From gazing over the seas at the iconic Cliffs of Moher and hiking 'on the moon' in Burren, to the unusual coastline of Giants Causeway and the birdwatcher's paradise of Ross Bay, in the way that road trips go, there's nothing quite like an adventure of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. It is a scenic road along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in Western Ireland. It is a popular route for travellers who want to tour Ireland , as it starts in the north in County Donegal and goes all the way to the south, ending in the counties of Kerry and Cork.

193 Ireland Wild Atlantic Way tour packages with 4,269 reviews

10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

We just finished an outstanding 10-day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour with our exceptional guide, Finn! We selected this tour as it had, for us, the right combination of the highlights of Ireland and varied activities, it included both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and it was a small group tour. This tour absolutely exceeded our already high expectations! The itinerary proved to be excellent, but a lot of the credit for the success of the tour has to go to Finn. Like any good teacher, he is truly passionate about his country and sharing all it has to offer! He shared his knowledge and love of Irish history, literature, culture, sports and music throughout the tour which added so much depth and color to our adventure. Finn is competent, personable, patient, funny, and flexible — to name a few of his many virtues. He proved to be an excellent driver as we traversed many winding, narrow and challenging roads! He kept us on schedule, made modifications when needed, and provided us with a smooth running tour and a once in a lifetime experience for our group! We highly recommend Finn and the 10-day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour! We made new friends and enjoyed a lot of fun and laughter along the way!!

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

I really enjoyed the tour. Our tour director was charming. She gave us so much background for the places we visited. Our driver was amazing. I would like to revisit soon, spending more time in Dublin, Cork and Galway.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

Small Bus touring is the way to go!

• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

It was fantastic! Our Travel Manager, James Creegan was excellent. He kept us ontrack the whole tour. Love his accent. Its obvious he is from Dublin. His knowlege of places, history, people, music was outstanding. He took us to a couple places off the beaten which I appreciated very much. We met some nice locals which made the experience even better. I would love to go on another of his tours again! Kris was a great tour bus driver. He made it into places I didn't think possible. He got us to our destinations safely. He and James, are very nice guys. I would go anywhere with James and Kris. I have dreamed about coming to Ireland all my life. This tour met and exceeded my expectations.

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

Northern & Southern Ireland

there is a difference between, a tour guide and a tour leader, this i did not know. a leader is the organizer of all events, transportation and accommodations. Zoe far exceeded my expectations in this role, and i would highly recommend her. She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

I had the most wonderful time on the 10 Day Wild Irish Experience. Our group was only a small one but everyone got along very well and it was oftentimes more of a family outing than strangers travelling together. Our driver/guide Lee was very invested in all of our wellbeings - making sure everyone's interests and needs were met, and then going the extra mile in the little details (like carrying our bags or providing little insider tips on what to do or where to eat for every town we stayed in). He was always available to answer any questions our group might have and could also entertain with a story or background information about a town or region while we where driving to it or through it. Especially on the often narrow and winding Irish country roads he made sure everyone was comfortable during the twists and turn and I (having the seat upfront and the best view of the landscapes and vistas but also the roads and the traffic) always felt safe and in the most capable hands with him. Even though our trip took place in the pre-season, for the most part of it we got to enjoy very lovely weather, with blazing blue skies and already emerald green hills doing their reputation justice. When one of the destinations on our itinerary wasn't open yet for the season or closed for construction (this happened only on one or two occasions out of more than thirty-five), our driver/guide knew this beforehand because he checked with all of them - and the tour operators of Irish Experience provided more than adequate alternatives so that our group didn't miss out on anything. I can only recommend this tour most wholeheartedly and to everyone. It was an excellent introduction to the Irish culture and country and the lives of Irish people and has made me want to return soon to the island. Thank you to my lovely fellow travellers - but mostly to everyone at Irish Experience and to Lee!

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

The trip was very well organized with lots of options to do things at each destination. Our tour guide Anthony was great. His knowledge of the area was very comprehensive and he told great stories as well. The Irish people were wonderful and the Irish breakfasts were delicious. It was a great way to see the country without having to navigate all of the narrow roads along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Incredible trip. Very well planned. Helpful and accommodations where spectacular. Don't worry about luggage!

• Hiking & Trekking

Highlights of Ireland

3-Day West Coast Explorer Small-Group Tour from Dublin

I had a blast on this tour! It had a sweet mix of Irish towns, culture, and some seriously breathtaking nature. Stephanie, our guide, was awesome - she had all the inside knowledge at every spot, making the trip super fun. This was my first time on a tour like this, but I'm definitely down for more in different places!

Irish Wonder (9 Days)

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

Fantastic tour. Gregg looked after needs, worked tirelessly and ensured that all important points and places were covered. Great personality, very personable, knowledgeable and outgoing.

3-Day Dingle, Killarney & the Wild Atlantic Way Small-Group Tour from Dublin

The three day Dingle trip was fantastic! Our tour leader was exceptional. He was informative, helpful and fun! We packed in a lot of experiences in a short time but never felt rushed. The bed and breakfast was great and the town of Dingle is a wonderful place to stay!

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

This was the trip of a lifetime for me. I have always dreamed of going to Ireland. It was everything I dreamed of and this tour and the experience prided by Insight, from the pace of the tour to the special flourishes and the local experts as well as the fabulous cuisine and breathtaking scenery made this a trip I will never forgot.

What people love about Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Tours

Mike was an excellent guide, informative, very knowledgeable and flexible with the itinerary when necessary

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

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West Coast Explorer 3 day tour

Discover the soaring mountains, spectacular wildlife, and mystical history of Ireland’s West Coast.

Tour Highlights

The Burren - This national park is home to some of Ireland’s most profound spiritual and natural culture.

The Cliffs of Moher - An awe-inspiring 700ft drop into the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Wild Atlantic Way - Discover the rugged beauty of one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world.

Galway City - After the sights of Galway Bay, this lively place will be your home. Plenty of excellent food and cosy pubs to choose from.

Kylemore Abbey - A home for Benedictine nuns fleeing World War 1, this incredible neo-gothic building is steeped in the scars and bravery of world history.

Connemara National Park - Stunning vistas and superb wildlife abound within this famously serene park, from the towering peaks of the Twelve Bens to the panoramic Sky Road.

Clonmacnoise - A 1500 year old abbey, whose ancient spirituality pervades the whole area. The heart of Ireland’s Golden Age of Learning.

Kilbeggan Distillery - The oldest licensed distillery on Earth has something for the history buff and the beverage connoisseur.

Your journey

This compact tour is your perfect introduction to Ireland’s highlights and tucked away treasures.

You visit the country’s superstar wonders, such as the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City. You venture to hidden away charms, like Kilbeggan Distillery and the Connemara National Park. And you learn all the adventurous stories from your passionate guide.

Join this trip and sample the best of Ireland.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)

• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Access to distillery production areas may not be possible
• Some distilleries offer tutored tastings instead of tours
• Distilleries may be substituted
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour.
• All road tolls and the Killimer to Tarbet ferry
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Tour accommodation
• Attraction entry tickets
• Stare at the stunning Dunguaire Castle, perched on an isolated, rocky outcrop on the shores of Galway Bay
• Discover the Burren, a land of ancient spirituality and natural beauty, ripe for exploration
• The Cliffs of Moher, where cliff top trails boast gorgeous views over the rugged Atlantic waves

Departing Dublin, you travel west through the counties of Kildare and Offaly. The first stop is the attractive village of Kinvara, where you get a chance to take some superb photos of Dunguaire Castle and discover its remarkable historical legacy.

From here you head to the Burren. This is one of Ireland’s true national treasures: a land of limestone pavements, rare flora and ancient stone monuments. The Burren was also home to one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland.

From there, you head to the incredible Cliffs of Moher. Here, you can walk the stunning cliff trails and watch rare seabirds swooping through the air. You can also delve into the excellent and award winning environmental exhibition nearby.

After exploring the area thoroughly, you head to Galway City, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights. On the way, you pass through the famous Galway Bay. Picturesque views, excellent food and cosy pubs await you within this lively student town.

• See the iconic locations from “The Quiet Man” on the scenic shores of Lough Corrib
• Stroll through the superb grounds of Kylemore Abbey
• Explore the verdant marshes and awesome Diamond Hill of the Connemara National Park
• Prepare to be stunned by the legendary Twelve Bens, the famously jagged mountain range in Connemara

Travel inland through the Maam Valley to the village of Cong, the setting for the film classic, “The Quiet man”. You’re free here to visit the local museum devoted to the movie, or discover the magnificently restored 12th century Cong Abbey.

You continue through the heart of Connemara and the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, where grand buildings and magnificent man-made gardens are a treat for the eyes and soul.

Your journey continues to Connemara National Park, where abundant wildlife resides amidst the ancient tombs and wood paths. Here you’ll see the magnificent Diamond Hill, a 500m peak that rivals any summit in Europe.

And then we travel to Clifden, famous for being the location of the first transatlantic flight landing. In the National Park, you’ll also enjoy the majesty of the Sky Road, as well as the sharp peaks of the Twelve Bens of Connemara.

You then travel back for the night to your cosy residence in Galway City.

• Connect with your spirituality at Clonmacnoise, home to an early Christian site brimming with stone crosses and legends
• Wade through the core of Ireland’s unique peat bog scenery and discover the startling array of wildlife
• Enjoy a drink at Kilbeggan Distillery, the oldest legal distillery in the world!

We wave goodbye to Galway and take some of the quaint back roads through central Ireland.

Clonmacnoise is the first major highlight of the day. It’s the site of an early Christian settlement and boasts a famed collection of churches, fabulous stone crosses and round towers.

After lunch in a local village, the tour continues through the peatiest Irish bogs you’ll ever see. The flora and fauna will take your breath away, as your guide shows you the incredible biodiversity of the bogs.

Then you make your way to your final stop before Dublin: Kilbeggan Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery on the planet. Here you can relax with a glass of their famed whisky; and after a drink (or two?), you’ll head back east to Dublin.

*Itinerary and distillery visits are subject to change.

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

• Cliffs of Moher

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight.

You stay in Galway* City for two nights.

  *Please note there are limited hotel options in Galway and the prices are above average in peak season. Additionally, if you book on the weekend, accommodation may be limited to Hotels or other expensive options.

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE .

Alternatively, please email us your questions at [email protected] or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab : types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices,  per person per night :

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

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To the waters and the wild...

Wild west ireland tours, featured tour, land of hearts desire, follow us on instagram @wildwestirishtours.

Departing from Galway A RA N ISLANDS, CLIFFS OF MOHER CRUISE AND THE BURREN

AWARD WINNING TOURS

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with our day tour to Inisheer and Cliffs of Moher cruise. Experience the magic of the Aran Islands and marvel at the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher from both below on our Stunning Cruise and above from the Cliffs of Moher Experience Centre. Our tour also includes a visit to the unique landscape of the Burren. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

IRELANDS WES T D ay tours from Dublin & Galway

Aran islands cliffs of moher connemara/galway giantscauseway belfast/dublin glendalough/kilkenny, 20 years of, combined experience.

We have the know-how you need

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Experience Nature's Majesty with a Cliffs of Moher Tour. From Galway

Cliffs of moher, experience the breathtaking beauty of the cliffs of moher on our day tour from galway. marvel at the impressive 702-foot cliffs and take a two hour break to explore the area. also included in this tour is a visit to the stunning burren landscape and dunguaire castle - two more must-see destinations in ireland. join us for a memorable day trip filled with stunning views and rich history..

From Galway Explore the Majestic Beauty of Diamond Hill with Ireland's West

Connemara national park, get ready for an unforgettable day tour with irelands west immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the connemara region, with a 3 hour stop at the national park. our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through history and culture, giving you a true taste of ireland..

Experience the Beautiful Kylemore Abbey from Galway

Connemara and kylemore, join us on a fully guided day tour to connemara, one of ireland's most breathtaking regions. explore its rugged landscapes, stunning mountains and tranquil lakes as your expert guide shares their knowledge of the area's history and culture. visit kylemore abbey and its victorian walled garden and marvel at the sweeping vistas of the twelve bens. don't miss this unforgettable experience.

EXPLORE KILLARY FJORD  

Ireland’s only glacial fjord, ​ the cruise offers an incredible opportunity to survey the dramatic sweep of the rugged, north connemara landscape, shaped both by nature and by our ancestors. the fjord passes between the twelve bens and majestic maumturk mountain ranges to the south in county galway and the mighty mweelrea massif, connacht’s highest mountain, to the north in county mayo. at the most westerly point lies the vast expanse of the atlantic ocean and breathtaking views of the many islands that are scattered along our western shores..

Tours Departing Dublin & Howth

Ready to explore dublin and beyond from the iconic cliffs of moher and galway to the beautiful glendalough (wicklow) and kilkenny, not forgetting  the buzzing city of belfast and onwards to the giants causeway and antrim coast. staying local try our 5 star walking tour of dublin or why not treat yourself to the exceptional cliffs cruise around dublin bay departing from howth..

Journey to One of Ireland's Top Natural Wonders

Dublin to the cliffs of moher, award winning tour, hop on our cliffs of moher day tour from dublin and experience dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views. we'll take you on a journey through galway on-route to the iconic cliffs of moher. with photo stops along the way, this is a tour you won't want to miss. book your tour today and get ready to take in one of ireland's most famous landmarks..

Our Best Selling Day Tour From Dublin

Glendalough, wicklow and kilkenny tour from dublin including sheepdog trails, join us on a journey through ireland's history and culture with our day tour to glendalough and kilkenny. discover the enchanting beauty of the wicklow mountains and the captivating medieval city of kilkenny. then, experience the peace and tranquility of glendalough, an incredible monastic site tucked away in the mountains. book your adventure now and immerse yourself in the emerald isle's rich history and breathtaking views..

MULTI  DAY

Welcome to Irelands West, where we have streamlined the process of booking a multi-day tour of Ireland. Our goal is to provide you with a truly unforgettable experience by taking the hassle out of planning and managing everything. With our comprehensive package, you can explore the different facets of Ireland, including the breathtaking landscapes, the rich history and the vibrant culture, all while feeling safe and secure in the hands of our experienced team.

Discover the Wonders of Belfast through Our Eyes

Giant’s causeway and titanic tour from dublin, join us on our day tour to the giants causeway and belfast for an unforgettable experience of northern ireland. explore the best attractions at your own pace including the titanic belfast experience, giant's causeway, and dark hedges. our tour is designed to give you maximum time at each attraction, so you can truly enjoy everything northern ireland has to offer..

Get an insight into our literary past, learn why Irish whiskey is better than its counterparts, and why Irish music is so popular worldwide. 

Dublin walking tour, from its birth in 988ad by viking settlers to the famine and ireland’s uprising against the english right up to modern day dublin, this tour has it all, 5 star rating on tripadvisor.

Experience the best of Dublin Bay and embark on an exhilarating journey

Hello from howth, dublin, this cruise offers an enchanting and breathtaking experience on the waters of dublin bay. setting off from the picturesque fishing village of howth, this cruise is the perfect way to end a day, as it takes you on a leisurely journey to witness nature's most stunning display of colors. delve into the rich maritime history of howth. immerse yourself in stories of lighthouses, shipwrecks, and ancient fishing traditions that have shaped the town's identity. our knowledgeable guides will transport you back in time, allowing you to truly appreciate the deep-rooted heritage of this vibrant coastal community..

Unforgettable Tours

Discover the beauty of Ireland's West with our unforgettable sightseeing bus tours. From the vibrant cities of Dublin and Galway, we offer day tours that will take you on a journey through Ireland's stunning landscapes and rich history. Immerse yourself in the culture, visit iconic landmarks, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Coastal Adventure

Experience the thrill of our Coastal Adventure tour. Explore the breathtaking cliffs, picturesque beaches, and hidden gems along Ireland's rugged coastline. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the region, making your journey even more memorable. Join us for an adventure like no other.

Ancient Ruins Exploration

Step back in time and uncover the mysteries of Ireland's ancient ruins. Explore historic sites such as ancient castles, monastic settlements, and mystical stone circles. Immerse yourself in the rich history and legends of Ireland as you explore these fascinating landmarks.

Cities Dublin, Belfast and Galway

As the name suggests, Irelands West specializes in bringing the West of Ireland's best experiences to our guests. From Dublin's historic landmarks to Belfast's political history to Galway's vibrant culture, we offer you the chance to explore the best of the West. Our expert guides have local knowledge and insights that ensure you learn and see more than you ever imagined. Join us for an unforgettable journey through Ireland West, where the stunning scenery is matched only by the warm welcome of its people.

West Coast of Ireland: Ultimate Travel Guide 2024

The West Coast of Ireland is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of land that stretches from Donegal in the north all the way down to Cork in the south.

It is a rugged and wild landscape, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the coastline with great force, creating dramatic cliffs, sweeping bays, and secluded beaches.

The west coast of Ireland is a place where the beauty of nature is inescapable, where the variable weather conditions provide an incredible spectrum of ever-changing light.

It is a place of nature and tradition, where the people are warm and welcoming, and where in many places, the Irish language and culture still thrive today.

As a person who grew up in the west of Ireland, I’m thrilled to present you with an overview of the West Coast of Ireland, including where to visit, how to get around and where we believe are the best bases for exploring this magical area.

West Coast of Ireland Maps

Where exactly is the west coast of ireland.

Below, you will see a general outline of the west coast of Ireland, starting in the north of the country in the Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal .

Then it follows along the intricate bays and inlets of the county of Donegal to Sligo and then westwards along the county of Mayo . South of Mayo is County Galway .

Moving further south, the west coast continues to the County of Clare , followed by Kerry in the southwest, while the last section we see taking in the southwest coast of County Cork .

Map of main towns along the West Coast of Ireland

The above graphic shows the island of Ireland, with the main towns along the west coast of Ireland. The towns of Wesport , Galway, Dingle and Killarney are the most visited and offer a fantastic base for exploring the nearby beautiful areas.

Sligo and Donegal are also popular coastal towns with Sligo being one of the larger towns along the west coast.

How to get to the West Coast of Ireland

• Ireland West Airport, Knock is located in County Mayo and although is quite a small airport, it serves many airports in the UK, some in Europe and as of 2023, there are connections to the USA over London Heathrow. All destinations you’ll find here.
• Shannon Airport is located in County Clare, in close proximity to many well-known attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and Galway.

It services many European and UK destinations and also has direct flights to the USA. A relatively small airport, which offers a lot more comfort than the busier Dublin Airport.

• Dublin Airport is Ireland’s largest and has connections to a huge variety of places worldwide. Most tourists who arrive in Ireland will arrive through Dublin.

From Dublin to Westport is a driving time of approximately 3 hours, due to a new bypass road at Castlebar, which has sped up the trip by about 15 minutes.

From Dublin to Killarney, it’s about 4 hours and to areas in the northwest of Ireland, around the same driving time.

• Cork Airport is located in the south of the country and also services many European and UK destinations, but does not fly directly to the USA. For those wishing to base yourselves mainly in the south west, Cork and Shannon would be ideal options.
• Kerry Airport is one of the smallest on our list and services Manchester and London, as well as a few European destinations. There are also flights from Dublin to Kerry.
• Donegal Airport, certainly the smallest and most scenic on our list, services Dublin twice a day, and offers some good connections to UK and European airports.

There are train stations in the towns of Killarney, Tralee, Galway, Westport, Ballina and Sligo, all of which connect to the main train stations in Dublin.

It is highly recommended to book ticket in advance as it is cheaper and you are guaranteed a seat.  Early morning and early evening trains can get busy and you may end up standing for the duration of your trip.

Click here for details.

One of the best options to get around Ireland without a car is by bus. The main bus operator in Ireland is Bus Eireann. 

Bus Eireann has an extensive network of routes throughout Ireland, more so than the train network, and are generally speaking, cheaper.

The go-to website for checking timetables, planning your journey and booking tickets is  www.buseireann.ie

Other bus carriers which operate between the main towns and cities are Citylink and GoBus. Sometimes their rates work out cheaper than Bus Eireann, so worth looking into before your trip. Click here for details.

Renting a car in Ireland is an incredible way to explore all the fine landscapes, towns, castles and historical sites. But, it has become quite expensive of late to rent in Ireland. Why not combine renting a car with using public transport?

This link shows you all places in Ireland where you can rent a car.

We recommend using Rentalcars , as we have done in the past. They are similar to ‘Skyscanner’, and will scan thousands of rates to get the best deal, also on insurance. Have a look below to see what’s on offer:

Towns/Cities on the West Coast of Ireland

Westport, located in County Mayo, offers a taste of everything that is great about the West of Ireland, including colourful streets, mighty pubs and delicious restaurants. Nearby, you’ll find some beautifully scenic beaches, such as Bertra and Old Head .

If a more active holiday is your preference, why not tackle the mighty Croagh Patrick , located just outside the town. The mountain offers a great challenge and arguably Ireland’s greatest views over the uniquely beautiful Clew Bay.

Then, there’s The Greenway , Ireland’s longest designated bike lane. This follows through some breathtaking coastal scenery, passing through the villages and Newport and Mulranny on the way to Achill Island.

From Westport, you can venture on some epic road trips that will leave some long-lasting memories. The island of Achill is less than an hour away and this, we feel is a must-see for anyone who visits the country. From the highest cliffs of Croaghaun , to one of the world’s great beaches, Achill offers so much.

Sligo of late has become a busy town for tourists also and also has its fair share of great places to stay, pupbs and restaurants.

It also offers some excellent nearby outdoor activities such as surfing and hill walking, with the stunning nearby ‘Table Mountain of Ireland’, Ben Bulben , providing a spectacular backdrop to the town.

Sligo is located in a very underrated little pocket of Ireland, with mountain scenery which is truly unique and offers some great walking. The nearby county of Leitrim, with its lakes and hills, has long been a county known for great walking, with stunning Glencar, and the Gleniff Horseshoe springing to mind.

Near to Sligo town, you may have heard of the surfing town of Strandhill, a household name in the surfing world. Let’s not forget Easkey and Enniscrone, the former known worldwide for its ‘barrels’; the wave all surfers dream about!

For the extremists out there, you may have heard of the ‘Mullaghmore wave’. In fact this wave is so iconic, it’s not uncommon for surfers in Hawaii to just drop everything and fly to Ireland just to catch it!

Donegal town and county are often overlooked as a tourism destination, and this is a big mistake.

The county boasts some of the best beaches and coastal scenery anywhere to be found in Ireland and for those who appreciate the Great Outdoors and vast, open landscapes, visiting this county should be high on your agenda.

The town itself is quite small, with Donegal castle being the main attraction. Donegal is a good base to explore the cliffs of Slieve League (601 metres) and during the summer months, there’ll be good life around the town, with many pubs offering some traditional Irish music.

Many would argue that the county of Donegal, with its beautiful beaches, enormous cliffs and offshore islands is Ireland at its very best, and it would be hard to disagree.

The largest settlement along the west coast of Ireland, Galway is a very popular vibrant and picturesque city. It is known for its scenic location, rich history, and lively cultural scene. The city is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Connemara Mountains , Wild Atlantic Way , the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.

Galway’s bustling streets are lined with colourful buildings, quaint cafes, and traditional pubs where you can enjoy live music and warm hospitality. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, and the 16th-century Lynch’s Castle.

Galway also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Galway Arts Festival and the Galway Races, which attract visitors from all over the world. Overall, Galway City is a must-see destination.

It gets very busy in the summer months and the streets come alive with buskers and various other street performers. This, coupled with the fact that you are near some of Ireland’s true landscape highlights, makes it an ideal destination.

Killarney is a picturesque town located in County Kerry, Ireland. Nestled in the heart of Killarney National Park, it is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

The town itself is a great mix of traditional Irish architecture and modern amenities, with colourful buildings lining the streets and a bustling town centre filled with shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Visitors can explore the nearby lakes and mountains, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, or visit historic landmarks such as Muckross House and Ross Castle.

Killarney is also a popular destination for music festivals, with traditional Irish music and dance performances held throughout the year.

With its stunning scenery and lively atmosphere, Killarney also is very popular in the summer months and is the traditional starting point of the iconic ‘Ring of Kerry’, a 180 km road through some phenomenal coastal and mountain scenery.

Dingle is a beautiful, small coastal town located also in County Kerry. Nestled between rolling hills and the Atlantic Ocean, Dingle boasts great scenery, with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and some of that iconic emerald green countryside we are all so familiar with.

The town itself is a charming and colourful hub of activity, with quaint shops, traditional pubs, and cosy cafes lining its narrow streets. Dingle is also renowned for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage, with ancient archaeological sites and Irish-speaking communities still thriving in the area.

Take a stroll along the picturesque harbour, watch fishermen bring in their daily catch, or drive along one of our favourite roads to Slea Head , which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Blasket Islands.

Nearby, you’ll also find some beautiful beaches, such as Inch Strand, Ventry or Coumeenole.

Although a popular summer destination, Dingle has never lost its charm. In a similar vein to some of the smaller towns we have mentioned, such as Westport or Donegal, Dingle offers a little bit of everything, from fantastic food and lovely quaint pubs, to breathtaking nearby scenery.

West Coast of Ireland Weather/Climate

The weather/climate along the west coast of Ireland can be described as changeable, with no extremes in temperature.

The prevailing winds are westerly or south-westerly, and therefore are laden with moisture, which of course only means one thing: rain!

It rains quite often on the west coast of Ireland, more so than the east, but snow is rare. Expect to see a sprinking of snow on high ground if you decide to visit in the winter months .

For example, Finner Camp, located in Donegal receives an average of 130 mm of rain in January and its driest month is June with 72.3 mm (source: met.ie)

Valentia Island, located in the southwest in County Kerry receives 170 mm of rain in January, and its driest month is May, with 93.5 mm of rain. (source: met.ie)

Although the weather is quite changeable, there are no extremes in temperature and that’s due to the Gulf Stream, which acts almost like a thermostat, regulating the temperature and keeping it frequently within the range of 7 to 20 degrees (45 – 68 Fahrenheit)

But there can be spells of beautiful warm weather too! In summer it is very common to go above the 20 degree mark, but 30 degrees I’m afraid is very, very rare.

When the warm, settled weather does come, the whole west coast almost seems like a HD movie, with the sea glistening in blue and the beaches almost looking tropical.

Based on weather data and my own experience of actually living there, the most settled weather is generally speaking May and June, along with the month of September (as we like to call it, ‘the back to school weather’)

Click on to the next page to continue reading about the best places to visit on the west coast.

Best places to visit on the West Coast of Ireland

There is a huge amount of sights and regions to explore along the west coast of Ireland and it is almost impossible to mention every one. The list we are about to show you will try to encompass everything that is magic and unique about this part of the world.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a true natural wonder located on the western coast of Clare, towering 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean and stretching for over 8kms. With their dramatic sheer drop and breathtaking views, the cliffs are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction.

The cliffs are located near to the Burren National Park , a unique limestone region famous for its diverse flora, fascinating caves and almost lunar appearance.

Achill Island

Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island, is a rugged and beautiful island located off the west coast of County Mayo. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, highest cliffs , sandy beaches , and crystal-clear waters.

Despite its remote location, the island offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, fishing, and cycling. Achill also was also chosen as one of the prime filming locations of The Banshees of Inisherin.

It also has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites and traditional Irish music still thriving in the area. We feel, a must-visit to anyone visiting the country.

Slieve League Cliffs

Slieve League is another natural wonder of Ireland, famous for its towering sea cliffs that rise over 600 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. Expect incredible views and a dizzying cliff walk that will leave you amazed at the sheer scale of the landscape.

A breathtaking natural attraction located in a county full of wonderful scenery: County Donegal.

The Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a group of three rugged, windswept islands located off the west coast of Galway.

Known for their stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, the islands offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Irish life, with centuries-old stone walls, thatched cottages, and ancient ruins dotting the landscape.

The Aran Islands are also famous for their unique language and culture, with many residents speaking Irish as their first language. Visitors can explore the islands on foot or by bike, taking in views of the wild Atlantic coastline, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches.

Our favourite is the smallest island of Inisheer, a delightful island that can be covered in a few hours by bike. Expect a myriad of stone walls and incredible vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the Cliffs of Moher.

One of my favourite (if not my favourite) region along the west coast of Ireland.

Connemara is a rugged and scenic region in the west of County Galway, known for its incredibly varied landscapes, from the mountains of the 12 Bens to the exceptional, almost tropical in appearance beaches, this region has it all.

Pay a visit to Connemara National Park and take on the Diamond Hill trail. Here you’ll witness true west of Ireland magic, with Connemara ponies grazing away and panoramic views as far as the eye can see to the 12 Bens mountains and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

Don’t forget to take in the nearby Kylemore Abbey, a stunning castle nestled on some magical lake and mountain scenery.

We have the wonderful region of Connemara covered in detail here .

Slea Head is a scenic coastal drive located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, offering exceptional views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and the Blasket Islands.

Like Connemara, Slea Head is also a ‘Gaeltacht’ region, where the main language in use is Irish. The region is known worldwide for its high density of prehistoric sites, testament to the incredibly rich history and culture in the area.

The Ring of Kerry

Perhaps one of Ireland’s most known tourist attractions, the Ring of Kerry has been bringing tourists to Kerry for many’s a day, and for good reason too.

In no way overrated, this 180 km circular driving route starts traditionally in Killarney. The road passes some magnificent scenery. Expect practically every landscape feature you can imagine, from beaches to bays, mountain valleys to lakes.

• Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is a small, rocky island located off the coast of Ireland, known for its ancient monastic settlement and stunning natural beauty. It is also a designated UNESCO heritage site.

Reaching over 200 metres in height, a trip to this island is an absolute must, be be warned, you’ll have to book in advance and the trip is weather dependent! Truly one of Ireland’s landscape and historical highlights.

Clew Bay/Croagh Patrick

Clew Bay is a uniquely picturesque bay located on the west coast of Ireland, in County Mayo. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with 100s of islands scattered throughout the bay and a backdrop of rolling hills and Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick , Ireland’s holy mountain, overlooks Clew Bay and is Ireland’s most climbed mountain. It’s a steep climb but the reward at the summit will leave you in awe.

The mountain is famous for its association with Saint Patrick, who is said to have fasted and prayed on its summit for forty days. We have a detailed guide to Croagh Patrick here.

Sometimes overlooked due to its close proximity to the very popular county of Kerry, West Cork offers some phenomenal coastal scenery. This part of Ireland is known for its fertile green pastures and coupled with the drama of the Atlantic, makes for a very special region on the west coast of Ireland.

Here, you will find Ireland’s most southerly point, Mizen Head. Irish tradition and language is strong here with the towns of Bantry, Clonakilty and co. offering a brilliant base and a true west of Ireland experience.

The Donegal Coast

The coast of Donegal, with its fine beaches, soaring cliffs, beautiful bays and headlands must be one of Ireland’s true hidden gems.

In no way less beautiful than the far more popular destinations of Kerry or Galway, a trip to the beaches west of Glenties or Gweedore, or indeed the Bluestack or Derryveagh mountains, will leave impressions for a lifetime.

Culture is strong up here too, with the Irish language being heard daily (although with a very strong dialect!) and the county is known for producing some of Ireland’s most well-known musicians, with Enya and Clannad springing to mind.

One of Ireland’s true hidden gems?

A West of Ireland Roadtrip: The Wild Atlantic Way

After reading a sample of some of the best places to visit along the West Coast of Ireland, are you starting to feel a little overwhelmed about where to visit?!

Why not take the whole lot in and go on the road trip of a lifetime?

The Wild Atlantic Way is a beautiful and rugged coastal driving route that spans over 2,500 km. It starts on the northern tip of Donegal and ends in County Cork.

Along the way, you’ll get to experience all the highlights mentioned above, and so many more landscapes, towns and sights that are impossible to fit into one single article.

You’ll also experience the rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s west coast, from traditional music and dance to ancient archaeological sites and Irish-speaking communities.

Due to the sheer scale of this journey, we would recommend taking at least 2 weeks to take it all in, but these 2 weeks will leave memories and impressions you won’t be forgetting in a hurry.

Islands off the West Coast of Ireland

As cultrally rich as the western shores of Ireland are, taking a trip to one of the offshore islands offers even further immersion into the old Irish way of life.

Starting from the county of Donegal and working our way south, here is a list of islands you can visit by boat or car (via bridge)

• Inishmurray
• Inishbiggle
• Abbey Island (reachable by foot)

Many of the above islands feel like their are stuck in their own time zone, adhering to a different pace of life we may all be used to. You’ll hear Irish still spoken and the old traditions still being carried out.

A day (or longer) on an offshore Irish island is a must on your visit to the west coast of Ireland.

We have the best of these islands covered in detail here.

Best Beaches on the West Coast of Ireland

In all honesty, I could go on all day listing the best beaches along the west coast of Ireland, but here are a few of our very favourites:

Inchydoney Beach

Located near Clonakilty, County Cork, Inchydoney Beach is a long and sandy beach that is perfect for swimming and surfing. On a fine summer’s day, you’ll be amazed with the almost turquoise waters in contrast to the beautiful surrounding green hills and pastures.

Lahinch Beach

Lahinch Beach is situated in County Clare and is a well-known spot for surfing. This beach has great waves for beginner and experienced surfers alike.

Keem Beach is situated on Achill Island, County Mayo, and is known for its crystal-clear water and white sand. It is surrounded by enormous cliffs and offers unrivalled marine life, such as basking sharks and dolphins.

We have a full guide to Keem here.

Located once again on amazing Achill Island, this long sandy beach is located under some enormous cliffs, and offers fantastic panoramic views of the Atlantic, as well as being a mecca for watersports enthusiasts.

We have a full guide to Keel here.

Silver Strand (Mayo)

Silver Strand is located in south County Mayo, at the mouth of Ireland’s only fjord, Killary. In a very remote location, this beach is wide and expansive, beautifully nestled under Connacht’s highest peak, Mweelrea.

Have a look at our 15 best beaches in Mayo here.

Coumeenoole Beach

Located on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry, Coumeenoole Beach is a wild storm beach that offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. The beach is not ideal for swimming, but it’s perfect for taking in the surrounding views of Slea Head.

Barleycove Beach

Barleycove Beach is located in County Cork and is a popular spot for families. The beach is wide and sandy, and it offers plenty of space for kids to play. The water is shallow, making it safe for swimming.

Dogs Bay/Gurteen Beaches

Dogs Bay Beach is a stunning horseshoe-shaped beach located in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland. This beach is known for its incredibly white sand and its nearby sister beach, Gurteen, which is equally as impressive.

Glassilaun Beach

Located in spectacular Connemara, this beautiful stretch of sand is a feast for the eyes. Its white sand and surrounding greenery epitomises everything that is wonderful about the west coast of Ireland.

We have a full guide to Glassilaun here.

Rossbeigh Beach

Rossbeigh Beach is located in County Kerry and is a long and wide sandy beach that is perfect for long walks. The beach offers spectacular views of the Dingle Peninsula, the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for swimming and surfing.

Silver Strand (Donegal)

Silver Strand is a beautiful, secluded beach located in Malin Beg, a small village on the west coast of County Donegal. It is a magnificent horseshoe shaped beach backed by magnificent cliffs.

Kinnagoe Strand

Kinnagoe Strand is a secluded beach also located in Donegal on the Inishowen Peninsula. It is known for its breathtaking surrounding scenery as well as being a very popular surfing spot.

Strandhill Beach

Strandhill is located in the county of Sligo and is world-renowned as one of the best surfing beaches. A long, wide beach, it’s also ideal for a good, brisk walk to get that pure west of Ireland air into the lungs.

Where to Stay on the West Coast of Ireland

The 6 towns detailed previously provide a great variety of places to stay. Below, we have our choice of the 3 best hotels in each location, from budget to luxury:

We have a very detailed guide to the best hotels in Westport, from budget to luxury. Click here for more details. Off the bat, here are our favourite 3:

The Mariner $

Westport Plaza $$

Knockranny House $$$

With a population of around 20,000 Sligo is one of the larger towns along the west coast of Ireland.

An ideal stopover if travelling north to Donegal, or as a base for exploring the local area. Nearby, you’ll find some excellent hiking, walking and watersports.

Here, our top 3 hotels:

The Riverside $

The Glasshouse $$

Markree Castle $$$

A small town located in the south of the county of Donegal, the town is lively in the summer months, with plenty of the well-renowned traditional Irish music to be heard in the local pubs.

A great town for exploring the majestic coastline and mountains of the county. Here, our top accommodation picks:

The Gateway Lodge $

Mill Park Hotel $$

Harvey’s Point $$$

The City of the Tribes, Galway is a busy, bustling place in summer so expect prices to be a little higher than other smaller towns.

An incredible base for exploring some of Ireland’s best known landscapes, such as Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. Here, our picks of the best places to stay:

The Menlo Park $

The Salthill Hotel $$

The g Hotel $$$

Perhaps the tourism hub of Ireland, there certainly is no shortage of places to stay. A beautiful town to spend your holiday in, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, drives, hikes and tons more.

Here, our choice of the best places to stay:

Foley’s Townhouse $

The Lake Hotel $$

Killarney Park $$$

An incredibly charming coastal town, with an vast array of things to explore nearby. Known for some excellent b&bs, along with some of the best pubs you’ll find in Ireland.

Dingle Harbour $

An Capall Dubh $$

Dingle Garden Townhouse $$$

West Coast of Ireland Tours

Many believe that the best way to explore Ireland is by renting a car. There’s a lot of truth in that. You’ll get to explore at your own pace, and go to some of the off-the beaten-track locations, which is what travelling to Ireland is all about.

But what if, for whatever reason, you may not be willing to travel Ireland by car. the good news is that in recent times, day trips i.e. bus tours, have become quite popular. It’s even possible to visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin in one day!

Below, you’ll see a link to all possible bus tours in Ireland. If there is a single one I would pick from the list, it would be the Cliffs of Moher cruise and trip to the Aran Islands …an incredible insight into all that is magical about the West of Ireland.

Click here to find your favourite tour.

Map of West of Ireland Highlights

Final Thoughts

The West Coast of Ireland is a feast for the eyes, along with being culturally and historically fascinating. We hope you are left with some great impressions and that one day you’ll get to experience this beautiful part of the world some day.

We would welcome any questions or queries you may have, so if you are wondering about what routes to take on your road trip or need any other advice, please leave a comment below. We’d be delighted to help!

What is the most beautiful place along the west coast of Ireland?

There is such a selection of incredible landscapes to discover from the north of Donegal all the way down to West Cork. We recommend driving the Wild Atlantic Way to take it all in.

You won’t be disappointed wherever you go. Some of the landscapes you can’t miss are the Slieve League cliffs, Achill Island, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Slea Head, Ring of Kerry and offshore islands such as the Aran Islands.

Where should I stay on the West Coast of Ireland?

We reckon the towns of Westport, Killarney, Dingle, Galway and Sligo are great lively towns with lots of accommodation on offer and within close proximity to many beautiful landscapes.

How long is the West Coast of Ireland?

The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal road and stretches the whole length of the west coast, covering a length of 2,500 km.

Is it always rainy and windy on the West Coast of Ireland?

Not always, but it does get its fair share of wind and rain, especially in the winter months. The weather can be described as changeable, with showers frequent and no extremes in temperature.

2 thoughts on “West Coast of Ireland: Ultimate Travel Guide 2024”

Great article! Has me all geerd up to take a couple weeks of leisure in this so magical of country. thank you dearly for your input! Cheers Roy

Delighted you enjoyed the article Roy! It sure is a magical patch of Planet Earth! Cheers, Niall

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17 Places to Visit on Ireland’s West Coast

Posted on September 22, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on November 18, 2023

Planning on visiting Ireland’s West Coast? Discover below the best places to see on the West Coast, a sample itinerary, and tour options if you don’t want to drive.

The West Coast of Ireland is filled with incredible sights and some of the country’s best attractions , making it a top destination for a road trip . Following along the Wild Atlantic Way , pass by jaw-dropping landscapes, ancient castles, and quaint towns.

Whether you just have a couple of days, a full week, or more, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to visit along the coast . From the majestic Cliffs of Moher to the rugged beauty of the Beara Peninsula, Ireland’s West Coast is home to some of the best destinations in the country.

Keep on reading to discover all the best places to visit on Ireland’s West Coast and start planning your trip!

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Places to Visit on Ireland’s West Coast

The places listed below are from North to South and can more or less be visited in that order. It’s better if you have a car, especially for the loops, but you can also use public transportation to get to most places or book tours from Dublin .

Technically Western Ireland is made up of the counties of Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon , and some people might only consider these as part of the West Coast.

However, I’m including places from farther south and farther north that are located geographically on the West Coast and part of the Wild Atlantic Way.

One of the best places in the country for surfing , Sligo is home to beautiful beaches and offers plenty of opportunities when it comes to water-based activities.

The best time to surf is from September to May , but you can go year-round. Beginners can head to Enniscrone and Strandhill while intermediate to advanced surfers can surf in Easkey and Streedagh Strand . Mullaghmore More features some of the biggest, coldest, and heaviest waves on the planet, while most people can’t surf there, going to see the few who can is a show like no other.

The coast here is also good for sea kayaking and freediving . In Sligo, you can rent kayaks and go on your own, starting from Rosses Point or you can arrange for a kayaking excursion with a local guide.

Achill Island

Featuring rugged mountains and peat bogs, Achill Island is known for its tall sea cliffs and pretty beaches popular among water sports enthusiasts. There’s a bridge connecting it to the mainland, so access is pretty easy.

You can spend a day there, driving around, enjoying the scenery, and visiting the island’s attractions . In summer, you can plan to spend a couple of days there to enjoy the quiet beaches and laid-back vibes.

On the island, you’ll find Kildavnet Castle , a tower house from the 15th century where Grace O’Malley, the “Pirate Queen” lived for a while. You can also stop by the deserted village at Slievemore , Achill Heritage Centre, and Achill Henge.

Clare Island

Another beautiful island off of Ireland’s West Coast, Clare Island is a must-visit and a true hidden gem . To get there, take the Clare Island Ferry from Roonagh Quay (west of Louisburgh) to the island, the trip takes 15 to 20 minutes.

With only 150 inhabitants, the island is a haven of peace and a great place to disconnect and relax. There are plenty of hikes and scenic walks to go on to visit the island’s main sights and enjoy the landscape.

Don’t miss the Clare Island Abbey from the 12th century, Granuaile’s Castle , the Napoleonic Signal Tower , and the Archaeological Trail.

Roundstone is a charming colorful seaside town often considered as one of the most beautiful places in the Connemara. Spend some time enjoying the peaceful vibes , having a meal or drink at one of the local restaurants, before strolling around town.

South of town, you can stop by Roundstone Musical Instruments & Crafts to see how traditional bodhráns are made and visit the small museum there.

Nearby, you can head to Gurteen Bay and Dog’s Bay , two of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Connemara National Park

One of my favorite places in Ireland, the Connemara National Park is only an hour’s drive away from Galway City but you might want to take your time and drive around the peninsula. If you’re driving straight to the park, half a day is enough, otherwise take 2 days to explore the area.

The highlight of the park is the stunning panoramic views you get from one of the highest points. On clear days, you can see the coast, Kylemore Abbey, and the surrounding mountains. There are basically 2 trails you can hike, the Lower and Upper Diamond Hill Loops , both joined, so you can start with the lower one and continue onto the upper one.

If you’re doing both, count around 3 hours with breaks . I definitely recommend doing the upper one for the best views, however, you need to be fit as it goes up quite a lot.

For something easier, you can hike the Sruffaunboy Trail (30 minutes) or the Ellis Wood Nature Trail (15 minutes).

Kylemore Abbey

Next to the Connemara National Park is the stunning Kylemore Abbey, one of the best places to visit in Ireland and probably one of the most iconic as well. This Gothic Benedictine nunnery was founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle and features restored Victorian rooms that can be visited plus a stunning garden .

The castle dates back to 1868 and was restored by the nuns who still live here and make some of the crafts and food you can buy at one of the shops. There are daily history talks in the Abbey and tours of the Walled Garden throughout the summer, but you can also easily visit on your own.

Galway is a vibrant city and a good base to explore the Connemara peninsula. Spend some time strolling around the downtown area before picking a pub for dinner and/or a pint. Galway is also a perfect place to listen to live Irish folk music , no matter what day of the week you visit, you’re sure to find a pub hosting a band.

Tig Chólí, Taafles Bar, and The Quays (one of the oldest pubs in the city) usually offer daily live music.

You can also visit the Galway City Museum , featuring exhibits ranging from Prehistoric and Medieval Galway to the 1916 revolution.

If you’re visiting during a weekend, shop for local crafts and produce at the Galway Market , located around St Nicholas’ Church.

Nature lovers can go for a peaceful walk at the nearby Barna Woods and Rusheen Bay Nature Reserve , both great places to spot birds and see wildflowers.

Aran Islands

Made up of three main islands (Inis Mor, Inis Oirr, and Inis Meain), the Aran archipelago is one of the top destinations in Western Ireland . You can take a ferry from Rossaveel or Doolin to reach the islands, a seasonal ferry operates from Galway City to Inis Mor.

The biggest and most visited island is Inis Mor where you can rent a bicycle and head to the Seal Colony Viewpoint , before hitting the beach. Other must-sees include Dún Aonghasa , the largest of many stone forts in the group of islands, the Wormhole , a strange hole connected to the sea, and the Black Fort .

On Inis Oirr and Inis Meain , rent a bike as well and explore the small islands’ scenery and archaeological sites.

Cliffs of Moher

One of the most visited places in Ireland , the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see on the West Coast. It’s a spectacular sight like no other, offering breathtaking vistas and awesome hiking opportunities.

You can easily access the cliffs from the visitor center, Doolin, or Hag’s Head . If you don’t want to hike along the cliffs. then head directly to the visitor center, where you’ll find several viewpoints to see the cliffs. You can just sit on the grass if the weather is nice and enjoy the view.

If you’re planning on hiking along the cliffs, there’s a path from Doolin to Hag’s Head , with the visitor center in the middle. The trail is about 10 miles (15 kilometers) . You can hike all or part of it, just make sure to pack enough snacks and water.

Burren National Park

The Burren is easily one of my favorite places in all of Ireland. The otherwordly landscape makes it a unique place you won’t see anywhere else. While the Burren is along the coast and offers coastal hikes like the Black Head Loop , it’s in the national park that you’ll find the most spectacular hikes.

All the hikes within the national park start at the same point, type “ Gortlecka Crossroads ” on Google Maps. There, you’ll find the parking lot and the starting point for the hikes. I recommend doing the 4.7-mile Blue Trail for the best views.

It is quite challenging as it goes up a lot – so if you have limited mobility or are traveling with children pick one of the easier trails.

Dingle Peninsula

Ireland’s West Coast is full of stunning peninsulas that are great destinations for a road trip along the coast . Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula is a treasure trove of quaint towns, prehistoric sites, and scenic landscapes.

There are plenty of things to do and places to explore around the peninsula. If you like hiking you can plan to spend a few days there – a popular multi-day hike is the one from Tralee to Dingle . You’ll also find plenty of shorter hikes between Cloghane and Brandon .

Among the must-visits, you’ll find the Lispole Railway Viaduct, the ruins of the Killelton village, Inch Strand, Brandon Point, Fermoyle Beach, the Gallarus Oratory, and Glanteenassig Forest Park . If driving, make sure to pass by the Connor Pass and hike to Pedlar’s Lake.

A road trip through the Slea Head Drive is also a must with stops at Clogher Beach, Dunmore Head, Dunquin, Cashel Murphy, and Kilmalkedar.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most popular driving loops in the country and not for nothing. Featuring dramatic beaches, rugged cliffs, medieval ruins, and stunning scenery , this area is filled with hidden gems and beautiful sites.

Start in Killorgin and drive straight to the Kerry Bog Village to visit a reconstitution of a 19th-century Irish village before heading to Cahersiveen to visit some ring forts. Next, head to Valentia Island where you can see the lighthouse and some historic sites.

At the tip of the peninsula, you’ll find majestic cliffs just a short drive from the main road with a nice viewpoint. Make sure to drive the Skellig Ring from Portmagee to Waterville to not miss the cliffs.

Keep driving along the coast, stopping in Caherdaniel to visit the house of Daniel O’Connell, and ending your trip in the charming town of Kenmare .

Skellig Islands

From mid-May to September, you can visit the beautiful Skellig Michael with a boat tour from Portmagee, Ballinskelligsn, or Derryname . Make sure you reserve your spot in advance as a limited number of people are allowed daily. You can either book a tour including some time on the island, or book an eco-tour where you just circle the island and stay on the boat.

The island is first famous for having been home to monks centuries ago. In the 6th century , they built the stairs you use today to reach the top where you’ll find the famous beehive huts .

It was also made famous by the Star Wars franchise when several scenes for the sequel trilogy were shot there. The island appears in The Last Jedi and The Force Awakens .

Killarney National Park

While technically not on the coast, Killarney National Park is worth the short detour if you’re traveling along the West Coast. The park is stunning, driving around is just a feast for the eyes with plenty of jaw-dropping viewpoints.

Apart from driving around, you can go hiking through the forest and around the lakes . You’ll find several types of trails of all lengths and difficulties. Make sure to visit the iconic Muckross House and Ross Castle as well.

You can also take a boat ride on the lake or go kayaking when the weather is nice.

Beara Peninsula

One of the wildest parts of Ireland, the Beara Peninsula is known for its rugged landscape and secluded feel . It’s as interesting as the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry, minus the crowds.

Enjoy driving around, taking in the scenery, stopping by viewpoints and quaint villages . Don’t miss driving the Healy Pass Road all the way to the tip of the peninsula. From there, you can take the only cable car in the country to Dursey Island .

In Adrigole, you can go sea kayaking to see a colony of seals .

If you’re visiting during summer, you can spend some time on the beautiful Ballydonegan beach .

Sheep’s Head Peninsula

Starting in Bantry, embark on the beautiful Sheep’s Head Drive through untouched landscapes, far away from the hordes of tourists. This unspoiled part of the Wild Atlantic Way is an opportunity to explore a stunning hidden gem off the beaten path.

It’s one of the smaller loops so you can easily visit it within half a day . Count some extra time if you want to go for a hike. An easy one is the trail to Seefin Viewpoint providing views over Bantry Bay. The easy trail to Sheep’s Head Lighthouse is also a must-hike. For something more challenging, check out the Poet’s Way Loop.

You can stop at some of the few villages along the way. Durrus, Ahakista, and Kilcrohane all offer shops, pubs, and restaurants with a scenic backdrop.

If you want to go birdwatching, you can take the ferry from Bantry to Whiddy Island known for its abundant wildlife.

Last but not least, Mizen Head marks the end of Ireland’s West Coast. It’s also one of the most popular sites in West Cork offering stunning scenery and opportunities to spot marine life.

Drive all the way to the station and once there, try to spot seals , if you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins and whales . You should also cross the bridge to Cloghane Island (be prepared if you suffer from vertigo as it’s suspended 150ft above the Atlantic).

At the visitor center, you can learn more about local history and enjoy a drink and a piece of cake at the Mizen Café .

In the area, you can stop by Dunlough Fort overlooking the bay, check out some of the beaches, and stroll around a village or two.

Ireland West Coast Itinerary

An Ireland West Coast itinerary is pretty straightforward as you can just follow the coast. Depending on how much time you have, you can only focus on a part of it, do the entire route skipping some places, or visit everything.

If you have 10 days to visit the West Coast, you can just start in Sligo and make you’re way down, or vice-versa. You could do it in 7 days but you’ll be rushed – 7 days is okay if you’re not planning on hiking and just want to be doing sightseeing.

Here’s a sample Ireland West Coast itinerary featuring the highlights of the area:

• Day 1 – Drive the Connemara loop, stopping at the abbey, the national park, and Galway
• Day 2 – See the Cliffs of Moher and hike in the Burren
• Optional Day – Drive around the Dingle Peninsula and the Slead Head Drive
• Day 3 – Ring of Kerry and Skellig Michael
• Day 4 – Killarney National Park

If you have extra time, you can continue with this Southern Ireland itinerary .

West Coast of Ireland Tours

If you don’t want to drive or don’t want to bother with public transportation, a good alternative is to book a tour . I recommend booking tours via TourRadar, they carefully select the tour operators they work with, offer a wide variety of tours, and you can easily filter results based on age range, duration, size of the group… and many other filters.

While I rented a car and explored Ireland’s West Coast independently, here are a few small-group tours I’ve selected that have good reviews and include the best sights along the coast (if you try one let me know!):

• 8-Day Castles & Coast Experience – 4.7/5 stars (34 reviews)
• The 6-Day Celtic Voyage – 4.6/5 stars (65 reviews)
• 7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure – 4.8/5 stars (151 reviews)
• 3-Day Dingle, Killarney & the Wild Atlantic Way – 4.8/5 stars (4 reviews)

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The Best of The West: 8 Day Ireland Tour

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8 Days Touring Ireland's Beautiful West Coast

Are you ready to experience the best of the west coast of Ireland on our 8 day private guided tour itinerary!

This guided tour combines some of the very best highlights of the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, with some more off-the-beaten-track and lesser-known gems to be found in the region. With dramatic sweeping coastlines, rugged mountain vistas, and quaint Irish charm by the bucketload as your driver guides you through some of our most authentic and traditional villages and towns.

The West Coast of Ireland delivers an enchanting and beguiling mix of everything that makes Ireland so special, so read on and find out some of our favorite spots to take our guests on our 8 D ay Best of the West guided tour itinerary.

• Cliffs of Moher & The Burren
• Croagh Patrick Mountain & Westport

Connemara National Park

• Kylemore Abbey
• Bunratty & Adare Tour
• Slea Head Drive
• Dingle Sheepdog Demonstrations
• Muckross House & Killarney National Park

Ring of Kerry

Skellig ring road.

• King John's Castle
• Risk-free booking guarantee: Full refunds up to 7 days before the start date
• Certified driver-guides with 15+ years of experience, passionate about sharing their love of Ireland
• Discover the historic legends, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating tales woven into Irish culture with your private guide
• Exclusive experiences that others without our local insight will not provide
• Travel in style in our luxury air-conditioned Mercedes vehicles
• Fully customizable bespoke and complimentary itinerary for your vacation

Day 1: Cliffs of Moher - The Burren - Galway

They say first impressions are the most important, so we have a simply stunning introduction to Ireland waiting in store for you as your first stop on this 8-day itinerary will be at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher.

Cliffs of Moher

Neither words nor pictures can fully capture the power and grace of the Cliffs.

Rising over 200 meters high and spanning 8 kilometers along the wild Atlantic coast, the Cliffs provide stunning views of the Aran Islands with the ocean crashing below. Your driver-guide will be able to inform you of all the folklore and myths that surround this incredible testament to the beauty of nature.

It is not just the setting of the cliffs of Moher that will blow you away, fans of wildlife and bird watching will want to spend hours here appreciating the Puffins, razorbills, Kittiwakes, and occasional peregrine Falcons that call the area home.

Take a break and enjoy a spot of lunch in the picturesque coastal village of Doolin. Tradition is the name of the game here, so be advised that you will not find any chain restaurants or modern coffee shops in the tiny little village, but your guide will direct you to the best places to enjoy a traditional Irish meal.

Next on your driver-guided tour is The Burren, a region famous internationally for its landscape and flora. Most of the Burren is designated a Special Area of Conservation to protect this extremely unusual habitat of Limestone Pavement, Calcareous Grassland, Hazel scrub, Ash/Hazel Woodland, Turloughs, Lakes, Petrifying Springs, Cliffs, and Fen.

The word “Burren” comes from the Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place. An invading Army Officer once said, “here there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury one”.

Arrive at your Accommodation in Galway

Your driver will take you to the stunning little coastal village of Galway for your evening meal and accommodation for the night. Before checking in for the evening, your guide will be happy to tell you where to find the best traditional food and music venues to spend the evening enjoying a Guinness or two!

Day 2: Croagh Patrick Mountain & Westport

Beginning with your guide collecting you from your hotel, you will make our way to a historic mountain that takes its name from our Patron Saint after St Patrick was believed to have fasted here for 40 days all the way back in 441 AD!

Croagh Patrick Mountain

Croagh Patrick, nicknamed the Reek, is a 764 meters (2,507 ft) mountain and an important site of pilgrimage in County Mayo in Ireland. It is 8 kilometers (5 mi) from Westport, above the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. It is the third highest mountain in County Mayo after Mweelrea and Nephin. 

It is climbed by pilgrims on Reek Sunday every year, which is the last Sunday in July. It forms the southern part of a U-shaped valley created by a glacier flowing into Clew Bay in the last Ice Age. Croagh Patrick is part of a longer east-west ridge; the westernmost peak is called Ben Gorm.

To get an authentic flavor of Ireland it is essential to visit some of our villages and mingle with the locals, and small towns don’t come much more charming than Westport in county Mayo.

Alongside getting to know the local folklore, Westport has many ways to spend an entertaining afternoon with your guide, there is the Great Western Greenway, Achill Island, Clare Island, Clew Bay with its 365 Islands, and Westport House. That’s before we even begin to mention the gorgeous scenery, white sandy beach, and of course fantastic choice of restaurants and bars to enjoy before retiring to your Westport accommodation for the night.

Day 3: County Clare Private Tour

This morning after breakfast, you will be picked up by your driver-guide and taken to explore Connemara National Park.

Here you can admire the incredible scenery in a place where rugged mountains dominate the dramatic landscape that covers 3,000 hectares of, scenic mountains, expansive bogs, glorious grasslands, and enchanting woodlands, a place where you will have the chance to see Connemara Ponies, Red Deer, and birds including Peregrine Falcons. 

Your first stop in the park will be the Visitor Center where guides will be on hand to provide information about the park including the wildlife within the park and walking trails you can enjoy regardless of your trekking experience.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

Next, it’s the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Kylemore was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman, and liberal politician, who, inspired by his love for his wife Margaret, and his hopes for his beloved Ireland, created an estate boasting ‘all the innovations of the then modern age’. Kylemore is now owned and run by the Benedictine community of Nuns who have been in residence here since 1920.

To round off the days traveling, your driver-guide will drop you off at your accommodation in Co Clare.

Day 4: Bunratty Castle, Adare & Dingle Day Tour

Today you will get to know some historic Ireland as your driver-guide takes you towards the wonderfully picturesque Dingle Peninsula.

Bunratty Castle

On the way, we will first stop at Bunratty Castle and its Folk Park. Here you will visit the acclaimed 15th century Castle, the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. 

The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. You will take a tour of this iconic fortress; hear and see how the lords and ladies of this castle lived; hear stories of battles and bravery and enjoy stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside.

The Folk Park, set on 26 acres of unspoiled Clare countryside, is a treat for persons young, old, and in-between, and features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village in a rural setting. Farmhouses, village shops, and streets are recreated and furnished as they would have been at “that time” according to their social standing, from the poorest one-roomed dwelling to Bunratty House – a fine example of a Georgian residence that was home to the Stoddarts, the last family to occupy the Castle.

Adare & Dingle

Before we reach the Peninsula your guide will take you to discover Adare, a quite typical village in the Midwest of Ireland. Your driver-guide will take you on a trip to explore the mysterious ruins and churches which surround the village and whisper of its rich history.

Antique shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes, sit side by side. Make sure to make time for a wander around this magical village, pause in a cozy pub for a well-earned pint, taste the food and see why ‘a hundred-thousand welcomes’ is actually an understatement.

Your driver-guide will deliver you to your accommodation in plenty of time to enjoy the traditional Irish town of Dingle.

Day 5: Slea Head & Dingle Sheepdog Demonstrations Private Day Tour

This morning after breakfast your driver-guide will collect you from your accommodation and will be on hand to take you to explore all the sights on offer in Dingle and the surrounding area.

Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, takes you on a journey through historic sites, Irish-speaking villages, famous Hollywood film locations with close-up views of the world-renowned Blasket Island, and distant views of the Skellig Islands on the southwestern horizon.

The Slea Head Drive is a circular route, forming part of the Wild Atlantic Way, beginning and ending in Dingle, that takes in a large number of attractions and stunning views on the western end of the Dingle Peninsula.

Sheep Dog Workshop

Now located in the Slea Head Famine Cottages are working sheepdog performances. Visitors can view a local sheep farmer skillfully working his sheepdogs in gathering and controlling sheep movement. This skill has been handed down from generation to generation as sheep have been kept here on Mount Eagle for hundreds of years.

Visitors are also given valuable insights into the sheep farmers’ way of working. Learn how local farmers could forecast the weather long ago, tell the time when many of the poor could not afford a watch, or even how they managed to communicate with relatives living ten miles away.

After exploring Dingle & all it has to offer, your driver-guide will return you to your accommodation for the evening.

Day 6: Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park Private Day Tour

Today your driver-guide will collect you after breakfast and you will make your way to the famously beautiful Co. Kerry. There are many stops along the way,  and when you arrive in Killarney you can enjoy taking a stroll through the streets of this quaint town to enjoy the great pubs, restaurants and enjoy the traditional Irish music on offer.

Muckross House

First is Muckross House. This nineteenth-century Victorian mansion bearing all the necessary furnishings and artifacts of the period is set against the outstanding beauty of Killarney National Park. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.

Torc Waterfall

Following on from this, you will visit the famous Torc Waterfall which is located close to the entrance to Muckross House. From the viewing point, you will have a view over the Middle Lake as well as the falls themselves. 

You will marvel at the falls that are a 20-meter high, 110-meter-long cascade waterfall formed by the Owengarriff River as it drains from the Devil’s Punchbowl corrie lake at Mangerton Mountain and sits at the base of Torc Mountain.

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is your next destination, located south of Killarney City, in County Kerry in South West Ireland. It stretches along the banks of Lough Leane and Muckross Lake and covers a total area of 102.89 km2.

Killarney is the very first national park to be established in Ireland in 1932, is a very popular tourist attraction, for its diverse nature and amazing scenery. The park is of high ecological value because of the quality, diversity, and extensiveness of many of its habitats and the wide variety of species that they accommodate, some of which are rare. The park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.

The park contains an expanse of rugged mountainous country. This includes the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland.

You will stay in Killarney for your accommodation on this night. You will love walking the streets of this historic little town with its colorful 19th-century buildings.

Day 7: Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring Road Driver-Guided Day Tour

Sure to be a highlight of your Best of the West trip, your driver-guide will collect you from your accommodation in the morning and take you to explore the stunning driving route known as the Ring of Kerry.

The Ring of Kerry is the ring road that follows the coastal contours of Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula. The Ring is one of Ireland’s most famous circuits, but it’s much more than a simple driving route, the Ring of Kerry is an iconic destination wrapped in stunning visual history.

This scene-stealing route beginning and ending in Killarney takes in all the big hitters – Moll’s Gap, the Torc Waterfall, and the Gap of Dunloe are places you will see, but really, the route itself is so much more than the sum of its parts. Within this 179km of tarmac road, you’ll find that each turn brings a new treat to the eye, from lakes, rivers, and waterfalls to grand houses and castles, and there is really nothing like breathing in the fresh Kerry air as you drink up the incredible views around you.

There is also an established walking path named The Kerry Way, which takes its own route, and a signposted Ring of Kerry cycling path which uses older quieter roads where possible. The Kerry Way roughly follows the scenic driving route of the Ring of Kerry.

As if that isn’t enough for one day, you will also take a trip along the Skellig Ring Road, one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 rated destinations. 

From this little-visited 18km stretch of road, you’ll get lovely views of the Skellig islands from most of the coastal stretches on the Ring of Kerry. This small detour off the main ring follows the coast through the villages of Portmagee and Ballinskellig, providing you with great views of the Skellig Islands.

Next, we will take a short detour from the road to the famous mountain pass, the Gap of Dunloe, which slices through the MacGillycuddy Reeks. The narrow road winds through the pass into the Black Valley passing five beautiful lakes.

The glacial valleys of Moll’s Gap are one of the most dramatic views on the Ring of Kerry route. On the road between Killarney and Kenmare, Moll’s Gap boasts the ultimate view of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain range, the predominant mountain range of the Iveragh Peninsula. It derives its name from Moll Kissane who set up an illicit bar here during the 19th century. Moll’s Gap is the highest point on the Ring of Kerry with a 235-meter climb.

Ladies View is the first viewing point you’ll meet, or the last, depending on which direction you drive around the Ring. Named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting who saw it in 1861 and gaped in awe at the majestic valley spreading out before them. Just 16km from Killarney, it provides a panoramic painting of the lakes and mountains of Kerry.

After your Ring of Kerry tour, your driver-guide will return you to your Killarney hotel.

Day 8: King John's Castle - Airport Transfer

And finally, we reach your last day touring Ireland with us! Today we’ll head for either Shannon or Dublin airport in time for your flight. 

If your group chooses to fly out of Shannon Airport, then we could possibly have time to visit the impressive King John’s Castle in Limerick.

King John’s Castle

The castle has a turbulent history dating back to Viking times and has undergone several sieges, battles, and triumphs over its long history, this is one of Limerick’s most iconic landmarks! Here you will discover the stories of ruthless King John, the noble knights, and rebellious natives.

King John’s will bring to life for you close to 1,000 years of dramatic local history. You will explore the courtyard where you’ll get a sense of the bustling activity that took place all those years ago. You will discover a medieval campaign tent, a blacksmiths forge, and scenes from a seventeenth-century siege. The sights, scents, and sounds of the Castle and its environs combine to recreate the atmosphere of the era. On your journey, through King John’s you can expect to see some lively characters as well as getting the chance to visit a state-of-the-art, technologically advanced visitor center.

After you’re tour – you might want to take a break to relax in the café, the perfect place to unwind while enjoying the views of the castle courtyard and the River Shannon before we head to the airport and bid your group Slán leat until next time!

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Interested In Our The Best Of The West Tour?

We hope you agree that we managed to pack in as many of the highlights and iconic locations found on the West Coast of our beautiful country into our tour itinerary, however, we understand that every client is different, and that is why we ensure every single tour is tailored to their exact tastes and requirements.

We would love to discuss any changes or alterations you think would improve the tour or even just to get in touch to request some inspiration from our specialist tour planners on how we could customize this itinerary to make it closer to your perfect Irish vacation.

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Wild Atlantic Way

Experience the untamed west coast of Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way: an adventure you will want never to end.

Meandering 1,500 miles (2,500 km) from Cork in the South to Donegal in the North, you will be overwhelmed by choices on a self-drive tour of the Wild Atlantic Way. Our in-depth local knowledge – we won’t send you anywhere we haven’t been ourselves – will help you discover the real Ireland. We’ll advise on which of the profusion of Wild Atlantic Way squiggly signposts are really worth the detour, helping you find beautiful yet deserted beaches, recommending the best spots for great sunsets and suggesting where to leave the main roads behind and continue by bike or on foot. Bring your own car if you wish from the UK, or fly into Ireland and we’ll arrange a rental vehicle for you.

Often it is better to take your time and explore a smaller section of the Wild Atlantic Way in detail, uncovering hidden gems, or relaxing on a boat trip to an Irish island , rather than rushing along the main tourist route. Let us know what you prefer and we can pace your holiday to suit.

If the thought of driving and navigating your own way along the Wild Atlantic Way is a little daunting, why not explore  car-free instead? We also have a variety of other Irish train holidays that take in part of the route: we are expert in planning rail trips, linking in local guides, experiences and authentic accommodation, so you don’t need to miss out.

Top Tips for your Wild Atlantic Way Holiday

Galway is famed for its oysters. Order them in a city pub along with a pint of Guinness for an authentic taste of the West of Ireland.

Visit Doagh Famine Village in County Donegal for thought-provoking, very quirky and often humorous insights into Irish life across the ages.

Look out for bogwood sculpture – beautiful creations combining nature’s power over thousands of years with creative artistry.

Learn about Neolithic times, fairy myths and legends at Carrowkeel and Carrowmore in County Sligo, and spot the cairn of Queen Maeve atop Knocknarea.

Treat yourself to a cup of fresh barista coffee and home-baking at mobile Caffe Banba at Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head.

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Things To See & Do

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way and its many peninsulas of the west of Ireland , pointing like fingers out into the ocean. You’ll find foaming seas, craggy coastlines, end-of-the-road viewpoints to offshore islands and quaint towns and villages, such as Schull on the Mizen Peninsula, packed with local craft shops and super cafés. The Ring of Kerry is the most famous, of course, though that also means it can be rather crowded and busy. Set off early or linger late to avoid the main tourist traffic yet still enjoy the magnificent scenery.

Don’t miss the barren, rocky landscape of the Burren in County Clare, with its limestone pavement and petrified springs. It’s like nowhere else on earth. Look closely and you’ll find signs of life everywhere, from wild flowers clinging in crevasses to cows seemingly grazing on stone.

Connemara is still a hidden delight, often referred to as Ireland’s last wilderness. In the summer it is bursting with colourful hedgerows of wild flowers. Make the most of long, light evenings by wandering along sandy beaches or rocky shores. Keep an eye out for seals and perhaps even dolphins, then cosy-up in a local pub and hum along to traditional music.

McKinlay Kidd puts time and effort into hunting out the best places to stay so you don’t have to: we seek out the friendliest, best-value small hotels, guest houses and charming restaurants that Ireland has to offer.  Many have a fascinating history of their own, having been family-run for five, six, seven or even eight generations! Or if you are looking for somewhere very special to stay, perhaps for a celebratory occasion, we can include a magnificent tower house right on the shoreline in County Clare, or an Irish castle nestling within a glorious 1,000 acre lakeside estate. Whether you are looking for a self-guided journey of discovery, or would prefer to relax and explore the acclaimed touring route in a small group guided tour , we have a variety of holiday options in this special part of Ireland that are sure to be unforgettable. Please ask us: the possibilities are endless – just like Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way!

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Welcome to our

Wild Atlantic way Tour

7 Day Essential Ireland Tour

Small group tours

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Our passion is you meeting the locals. Live like the Irish for a week on an Essential Ireland Tour

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Visit our Facebook or Instagram page to enter the competition. All you have to do is like, share and leave a comment as to what you'd most like to see on your visit to Ireland. Enter before February 1st to be in with a chance of winning a place on our April 2019 Wild Atlantic Tour.

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Get €150 off your next  Wild Atlantic or Castles & Classics Essential Ireland Tours with this Black Friday special offer code: Ireland‍ or €115 of the True North Tours with this code: Ireland-North

Limited places so Book Now! Offer valid until 4 December

Price Per Person Sharing from Only €1,799 - €2,299

Reserve place with 10% deposit, average tour size: 16 guests.

Solo supplement of €500 applies to solo travellers, see FAQs for details

Check Out our 2024 Dates!

We run a limited number of exclusive tours of Ireland each year, they take you to the 'heart of Ireland' and all sell out! Book early to avoid disappointment

If a particular date does not suit you, your family or group, don't worry - extra dates will be added in January 2023. Also please get in touch to request other dates, join the waitlist for tours already open or ‍ let us organise an amazing PRIVATE TOUR just for your group of friends or family

Click to See Dates

All availble 2024 Ireland  tour-dates are listed below. ‍ ‍ ‍ APRIL 2024: 13th April - sold out 22nd April  - OPEN ‍ MAY 2024: 1st May - sold out 6th May- sold out 13th May- sold out 20th May - sold out ‍ 27th May - OPEN ‍ JUNE 2024: 7th June - OPEN (email us to book) 10th June - sold out 17th June - sold out 24th June - sold out ‍ JULY 2024: 1st July  - OPEN 8th July - OPEN 15th July - OPEN 22nd July - sold out 25th July - OPEN AUGUST 2024: 5th August - sold out 12th August - OPEN 19th August - OPEN 26th August - sold out ‍ SEPTEMBER 2024: 2nd September  - sold out 6th September - OPEN 16th September - OPEN 23rd September - sold out 28th September - OPEN ‍ OCTOBER 2024: 8th October - OPEN 14th October  - sold out 26th October - OPEN To book a tour or join a waitlist click here Any queries? email Stephen McPhilemy at [email protected] ‍

The ultimate introduction to Ireland’s South West

Join us for an action-packed week in the beautiful West Coast of Ireland. You’ll enjoy the benefits of a small group with an expert local guide. The ideal tour to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll stay in the charming and lively towns of Killarney, Dingle and Galway. Dine like royalty, enjoy music-filled pubs, meet the locals (and our Irish Wolfhounds!), sing our songs and learn the lively history of this great land.

This is a VIP tour, a lifetime experience and the small group size ensures wonderful personalised service!

Price: Only €1,999 - €2,999 per person

Highlights of our tour.

The ultimate introduction to the South West of Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way

You’ll enjoy a jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park

Fly Falcons and Golden Eagles at the School of Falconry in Dingle

Hold baby lambs during your Slea Head Drive experience on the Dingle Peninsula

Gaze in awe at the glorious Cliffs of Moher on County Clare's Atlantic Coast

Enjoy tea in the grounds of Ashford Castle a 13th Century stately home in county Mayo

Visit Clonmacnoise an ancient Irish Monetary founded in 544 AD on the banks of the Shannon

Finish your Essential Ireland tour with a pint of Stout in the home of the Guinness Brewery since 1759

Whats included in the tour package

All activities are fully covered in the Essential Ireland Tour Package

All Breakfasts are included. From cooked gourmet feasts of eggs and bacon; and healthy fruit, homemade muesli and porridge

All accommodation costs are covered, you will stay in a range of luxury accommodation outlined below

All tips to guides, drivers, local guides, bar-staff, servers etc ALL covered while on a tour activity or meal

All transport , from luxury coach travel, shuttle buses, taxis etc used for tour activities are paid for

Snacks are regularly provided while aboard our small luxury coach going from destination to destination

3 picnic lunches are provided - hand-picked artisan Irish cheese board , cold meats, homemade breads and fresh-fruit

1 group meal by private chef serving local produce, this takes the form of a gala banquet

What type of accommodation will I stay in?

We handpick quality accommodation based on quality, location, and the best customer service on offer. We like to provide a balance between 5 star luxury hotels and high-quality guesthouses, to give a variety of experiences, we also offer one night in a traditional B&B to experience life with an Irish family environment and world-class quality customer-service.

Our co-founder, Patrick, always like to remind guests that we “don't stay in generic big-brand hotels, we prefer to offer you historic and luxury homes of character, that have housed Hollywood stars and withstood sieges”.

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OVERVIEW OF 7 DAY SOUTH WEST & WILD ATLANTIC WAY

EXPLORE IRELANDS ATLANTIC COAST FROM KERRY TO GALWAY

7 DAYS AND 6 NIGHTS (1 NIGHT IN KILLARNEY , 3 NIGHTS IN DINGLE & 2 IN GALWAY)

Day 1: Dublin to Killarney (1 night) Highlights:

Welcome Irish-coffee

Visit Dublin’s Phoenix Park

Rock of Cashel Tour

Group lunch at Cashel

An evening of Irish music in lively Killarney

Day2: Killarney to Kenmare to Dingle ‍ ( 3 nights ) ‍ ‍ Highlights:

Jaunting-car ride through Killarney National Park

Mini ‘Ring of Kerry Tour’

Kenmare (and the stone circle!)

Sheepdog demo on the Ring of Kerry

‘Welcome to Dingle’ Gourmet banquet with private chef

Day 3: Dingle Peninsula tour and Falconry ‍ Highlights:

Award-winning Walking Tour of Historic Dingle

Slea Head Tour, experience the idyllic peninsula

Dingle Crystal workshop visit

Fun musical Pub tour (including Dick Macks)

Private Dingle Falconry Experience. (awesome!)

Day 4: Dingle in-depth ‍ ‍ Highlights:

Harbour Cruise and Fungie the Dolphin!

Irish bread making class and lunch.

Free afternoon to enjoy Dingle.

Dingle Whiskey tasting session

World Champion Irish dancer performance

Day 5: Dingle to Galway (2 nights) Highlights:

Free morning to enjoy Dingle.

Visit Adare, National ‘tidy town’!

Experience the famous Cliffs of Moher

Walk the Burren

Walking tour & orientation of magical Galway

Day 6: Connemara in-depth ‍ ‍ Highlights:

Visit the historic village of Cong (The Quiet Man)

Tea at Ashford Castle

Tour the epic Kylemore Abbey (Ireland’s Taj Mahal)

Scenic drive through Connemara

Music & Dancing in Galway’s ‘Latin Quarter’

Day 7: Galway to Clonmacnoise, Guinness Storehouse & Dublin. ‍ Highlights:

Free morning in Galway

Visit Clonmacnoise, ancient monastic city on River Shannon

VIP Connoisseur experience at Guinness Storehouse

SEE NEXT TAB FOR DETAILED ITINERARY

DETAILED DAILY ITINERARY

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS, 2 nights Killarney, 3 nights Dingle & 1 night Galway). This popular tour is based on 20 years of experience and features the personal favourites of our Co-Founder & Chief Guide, Stephen McPhilemy (Rick Steves' Ireland sidekick for over 20 years and counting) Wonderful experiences - incredible value for money! Please note: this tour itinerary below is in a 'clockwise' direction , the tour is often often operated in the opposite direction or  'counter-clockwise'. The tour is always exactly the same of course, but some departure dates may go west first instead of south-west.

Day 1: Dublin to Killarney ‍ Highlights:

Welcome 'tea and cream buns'

Rock of Cashel guided tour

Orientation tour of Killarney

A fine group-dinner in the heart of Killarney

[9.30am] Depart central Dublin. Pickup at the Leonardo Hotel (formerly Jury's Inn, Christchurch. Directly opposite Christchurch Cathedral and one minute walk from the Harding Hotel). We’ll enjoy some commentary on Dublin’s attractions, en route to the lush Irish countryside.

Onwards to Cashel, its a long way to Tipperary (2 hours actually!)

[12.30] Enjoy a complimentary Irish-coffee or tea/coffee and a 'cream bun' together at a cosy wee spot en-route to the midland of Ireland. You’ll have an itinerary Q&A session with your 'Essential Ireland' Tour-Guide.

[1.30pm] The Rock of Cashel. Follow in the footsteps of St. Patrick in one of Irelands blockbuster archaeological sights, we’ll enjoy a guided tour led by your passionate ‘Essential Ireland’ Guide and history buff or if available - one of the great guides on site. The views are simply awe-inspiring, the history of this sight is awesome.

[3pm] Depart for Killarney, one the jewels in Ireland’s crown, welcoming tourists since the visit of Queen Victoria in the 1860s.

[5pm] Arrive in Killarney, relax by the magnificent Lakes. Short orientation tour and evening free in Killarney, one of Ireland’s most welcoming and picturesque towns, excellent for shopping and strolling through the lively streets. ‍Enjoy a fine meal together in a traditional Killarney restaurant, group dinner #1 Later you're welcome to join us for a fun Irish-Ballad Music evening.

Day 2: 'Mini Ring of Kerry tour' (overnight Killarney) Highlights:

Muckross House & Gardens

Sheepdog demo on the Ring of Kerry (subject to availability & weather)

Torc Waterfall

[10am] After a delicious breakfast and a leisurely morning. We’ll take a relaxing ‘Jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park, the local traditional horse & carriage experience for 150 years.“When in Venice, one takes a Gondola; in Killarney, it’s a Jaunting Car” - Stephen McPhilemy. Hear stories and tales from your always entertaining ‘Jarvey’ (carriage driver) and enjoy the blissful lakeside views from Ross Castle, ancestral home of the O’Donoghue clan. Always a highlight for our Tour-Guests

[10.30am] We’ll enjoy one of our trademark ‘Mini Ring of Kerry’ Tours stopping at Torc waterfall and visiting picturesque Kenmare and visiting it’s ancient stone circle, built by our ancient pre-Celtic ancestors even before the Celtic Druids got the credit! A place of strong spiritual energy.

[2pm] Stop up at Molls gap on the Ring of Kerry and take in the breathtaking scenery, a real highlight.

[2.30pm] Visit the Kissane Family Sheep-Farm, in a landscape filled with sheep this is always one of our most popular stops. We’ll meet the Kissane brothers and their super-smart Sheepdogs round up a herd of sheep in one of the most impressive natural amphitheatres anywhere, the black Valley in County Kerry. We will also experience a Sheep shearing and maybe even adopt a wee lamb!

[4pm] Enjoy a stroll though the gardens of Muckross House. You’ll enjoy free time in the lakeside lawns before and have time to tour the beautiful stately home. [5pm] Back in bustling Killarney with the evening free to to dine, dance, sing, shop or relax!

Day 3: Dingle in-depth Highlights:

Private Falconry experience. (awesome!)

‘Dingle Crystal’ workshop visit

Complimentary 'Dingle Gin & Tonic' welcome-reception

[9.30am] After a spectacular breakfast we'll depart Killarney for the one hour scenic drive to magical Dingle.

[11am] Arrive in Dingle and after an orientaion tour by bus we’ll break for an artisan coffee or maybe a Murphys Ice-Cream.

[11.30am] We'll enjoy the famous ‘Historic Dingle Walking Tour’ with excellent loca-guide, born and bred in Dingle, taking in all the history of this charming seaside village and meeting its great local characters

[2.30pm] We'll visit Sean Daly, a good friend of ‘Essential Ireland Tours’ and the former Master-Cutter at Waterford Crystal, a chance to get up close and personal with a renowned craftsman.

[3.30pm] Dingle Falconry Experience! Hold and fly majestic Birds of Prey in this once in a lifetime experience. ‘Essential Ireland Tours’ has our very own Falconry School and we offer our Tour Guests a unique opportunity to experience the ancient Irish art of Falconry, which came to prominence in 12th Century Ireland with ancient Norman clans like the Fitzgeralds and Fitzmaurices. We have our very own School of Falconry with 50 birds of prey and a Master Falconer and 2 other full-time falconers who will introduce you to a wide range of Birds of Prey as you slip on a long leather glove (very medieval!) and hold and fly Hawks, Falcons, Owls and Orla (our majestic Golden Eagle). All on the beautiful backdrop of Dingle Harbour, a great photo opportunity but an even greater travel experience…

[5.30pm] Checkin at Milltown House, our exclusive luxury waterfront Guesthouse and former home of Hollywood actor Robert Mitchum (in town to film Oscar winning ‘Ryans Daughter’ in 1969), now home Seamus & Ogie, our Gentle-Giant Irish Wolfhounds. Check in here is always a special event, with a remarkable warm hospitality that ‘Essential Ireland’ and all our team are renowned for. [6.00pm] Complimentary Dingle Gin & Tonic cocktails in our very own ‘Robert Mitchum Bar & library’. Free time in Dingle. Evening free for dinner, but we offer the famous Dingle Musical Pub Crawl, which  Tour-Guests  enjoy immensely due to our subtle small-group size, a great chance to meet the locals.

Day 4: Dingle peninsula tour ‍ Highlights:

Blasket Islands interpretative centre

Gallarus Oratory

Kilmalkeadar monastic site and ogham stones

'Hold a baby lamb'!

[9.30 am] After our home-made breakfast in the waterfront glass conservatory at Milltown House, we will load up our luxury ‘Essential Ireland’ Tour Bus and head ‘back-west’ to enjoy a guided tour of scenic Slea Head and the coastline of the Dingle Peninsula (now even more famous since it became the set for Star Wars!) The finest scenery in Ireland? You’ll decide. We will take our time, relax and enjoy the beauty and make lots of stops, including Gallarus Oratory (the oldest free-standing Church in the world!), a short-hike to Slea Head and discover Kilmalkedar church with its Celtic carvings and spiritual beauty. Visit Cuminole beach  (a delightful sheltered cove) and enjoy some complimentary wine or craft beer, and some fine Irish cheese. The higlight of today is always the Blasket Island Interprative centre, presenting the rich Gaelic culture of the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula and it's islands.

Afterwards some Tour-Guests may consider joining an optional hike to nearby Esk Tower, unreal views over Dingle and overlooks the ‘Star Wars Island’ Skellig Michael, a monastic icon and UNESCO world heritage site.

[4pm] A Dingle craft-beer  tasting session, including the first beer in Ireland made by a female brewer, always a treat.

[6pm] Free time to explore this quintessential Irish village.

Day 5: Dingle free day and 'farewell to Dingle' gourmet dinner Highlights:

Free day to enjoy Dingle (tour activities in evening)

Dingle Whiskey tasting - compare Scotch with Irish!

• Gala Irish dancing and music private-concert! ‍

Gourmet home-cooked dinner (with wine)

[8am - 10am] Enjoy a delicious home-cooked and leisurely Irish breakfast.

[10am] Free day in Dingle to enjoy a host of possible activities, or just relax and update your travel journal before our fun evening ahead.

Some guests enjoy a tour of the Dingle whiskey distillery or weather-permitting a Dingle Sea Safari. And some just prefer a day of shopping, snacking and trying out a few more of Dingle's 56 pubs!

5pm: Gather in our very own library-bar for a Dingle whiskey tasting.

[6pm] A home-cooked meal by our private chef, wine inclued. All ingredients sourced within 10 miles of Dingle. Such an enjoyable experience.

[7 pm] A gala private concert of brilliant music and dance, one of the consistent highlights for all tour-guests.

Day 6: The cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Galway ‍ Highlights:

Visit the world famous cliffs of Moher

Explore the grounds of Ashford Castle (subject to availability)

Explore the historic village of Cong (The Quiet Man)

[8am] Depart Dingle after an early breakfast. (note: this is the only morning we will begin the touring day before 9am)

[10am] Cross the estuary of the river Shannon by Ferry and hopefully spot some dolphins! 12 noon: Relax and enjoy the scenic coastal drive past some of Ireland's best surfing and golf courses before our lunchtime visit to the Cliffs of Moher, plenty of time to stroll and enjoy the blockbuster attraction on Irelands West Coast!

[2.30pm] We have the pleasure of introducing you to the idyllic village of Cong, gorgeous in every detail and once the setting for the Hollywood Classic - ‘The Quiet Man’ with John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. Perhaps enjoy the gardens of Ashford Castle, former summer-home of the Guinness Family. (note: On the occasional event there is a VIP wedding by an international celebrity or royalty, we will have to respect the privacy requirements of the Castle and host tea in another of Ireland’s fine Castles or beauty spots)

[3pm] Visit Cong Abbey, the 12th Century resting place of the last High-King of Ireland, Rory O’Connor. Then Free-time to wander in the forests and quaint streets Cong. [4pm] We’ll take a scenic drive through Connemara, stopping to bounce on the Peat-bogs (yes, bounce!)

[5pm]: Return to Galway. Free for dinner. Your 'Essential Ireland' Guide will offer a dinner meet-up  in one of the funky and fun oubs in the latin-quarter.

Free time to hike around the banks of the river Shannon

Visit Guinness Storehouse for a grand farewell.

[10.30am] We will have a late-morning departure to give you some strolling and shopping time in Galway city-centre.

[11am] Departure for Dublin via Clonmacnoise. Drive across the midlands of Ireland to the bogland of County Offaly. Our Chief-Guide, Stephen, is a judge in the ‘Best Place in Ireland to Holiday’ competition for the National newspaper, the Irish Times, and recently lamented that travel in Ireland was a like a donut, all sweet around the outside with nothing in the middle. We will prove that theory wrong today with a visit to the ancient monastic city of Clonmacnoise perched on the banks of the epic River Shannon.

[12noon] Guided tour and afterwards ensure you have ample free time to explore the Celtic crosses and Round Towers and see where Pope John Paul II said Mass here in 1979.

Free for lunch.

[2pm] Depart for the Capital City.

[3.30pm] Arrive in Dublin around 4pm for our grand finale - a visit to one of the most famous Brewery’s in the world, learn the history of this iconic Irish institution enjoy the all-glass Gravity Bar on the top floor. We’ll see all of Dublin from the comfort this 360 degree vantage point. A fitting, historic and all-weather venue for us to say goodbye as a group.

[5.30pm] We’ll say our farewells in the environs of The Guinness Storehouse and then drop you off at your desired location in Dublin city-centre, (we can also help you arrange a taxi or a drop-off at Dublin Airport or to an airport hotel, after 6 pm approximately).

Go n-éirí an bóthar leat, may the road rise to meet you.

WILD atlantic way tour dates 2019

We run a limited number of tours each year, book early to avoid disappointment

March 18th to March 24th - SOLD OUT

April 14th to April 20th - SOLD OUT

June 30th to July 6th

September 1st to September 7th

If a particular date does not suit your group please get in touch about organising a private tour

Check Out our 2020 Dates!

Sunday 15th March - Saturday 21st March

Sunday 22nd March - Saturday 28th March

Sunday 29th March - Saturday 4th April

Sunday 26th April - Saturday 2nd May

Sunday 3rd May - Saturday 9th May

Sunday 24th May - Saturday 30th May

Sunday 14th June - Saturday 20th June

Sunday 28th June - Saturday 4th July

Sunday 5th July - Saturday 11th July

Sunday 19th July - Saturday 25th July

Sunday 9th August - Saturday 15th August

Sunday 23rd August - Saturday 29th August

Sunday 6th September - Saturday 12th September

Monday 12th October - Sunday 18th October

Reserve your space with a 20% deposit

Contact Us to Find Out More

Any Questions we are happy to help!

OUR GALLERY

One of the unique features of Essential Ireland Tours is that we bring our own in-house professional travel-photographer and videographer with us on all tours

Stephen McPhilemy and Patrick Wade are the co-founders of Essential Ireland Tours. One Irish and one Irish-American, they met 20 years ago while Patrick was backpacking through Ireland and Stephen was his tour-guide. Two decades later they (and their Irish Wolfhounds) are experienced and respected figures in the Irish tour and hospitality scene with a passion for providing high quality tours. Authentic Irish experiences for unbeatable value.

Founded by Stephen McPhilemy and Patrick Wade. Essential Ireland's mission is to introduce its guests to wonderful Irish experiences in small groups that allow them to see the real Ireland.

Wade McPhilemy Teo, company reg # 535035, registered in Ireland

Milltown House, Dingle, County Kerry, V92DP93

[email protected]

(+353) 83 1477 363

West Coast of Ireland

The west coast of Ireland is the perfect escape, especially for outdoor enthusiasts!  We love the unique combination of wild rugged nature and vibrant cities and towns. It really sums up Ireland wonderfully!

If you plan on doing a road trip as part of your Ireland travel holiday, then you should really spend some time on the Wild Atlantic Way . This coastal driving route runs from Malin Head in Donegal , to Kinsale in the south of the country , just a short distance from Cork City . 

The entire route spans over 2500 km (1550 miles) and meanders the west coast taking in stunning headlands, superb surfing spots, towering cliffs and wild national parks. 

Some of the scenery may even seem somewhat familiar to you. The beauty of the isolated Irish landscapes has caught the attention of filming location scouts from some of Hollywood’s biggest movies including Star Wars and Harry Potter . 

A visit to Galway city should be included in everyone’s itinerary, if possible. This charismatic city offers a rich history of arts and culture that will delight visitors. Check out one of the city’s many hotels, great restaurants and stroll the streets enjoying the entertaining street performers.

From Galway , it is also easy to do day trips by car and take part in organized bus tours to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren in County Clare , the Aran islands , as well as the scenic Kylemore Abbey in Connemara .  

Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sport are especially well catered for along the west coast of Ireland. Some of my favorite hikes are in Connemara National Park , where the views over Connemara and beyond are absolutely breathtaking. Achill Island also has fantastic hiking routes.

The Great Western Greenway is a 42 km (26 miles) traffic-free trail for walkers and cyclists that takes visitors along the route of a 19th century Midlands Great Western Railway.

Water enthusiasts will be kept busy with the ample surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and kayaking opportunities, particularly along the stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal town to Erris . 

It is easy to reach the western Ireland, either directly from Dublin city , where the majority of tourists start their Ireland vacation. Alternatively, there are also airports in the west of Ireland , such as Shannon Airport near Limerick or Knock Airport in County Mayo .

Check out our post on the Wild Atlantic Way to learn more about why you should visit this fabulous area of Ireland.

Ireland Destination Guides

Find our guides for each destination in Ireland by clicking on the images below.

SOUTH OF IRELAND

EAST COAST OF IRELAND

NORTHERN IRELAND

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The ultimate road trip along Ireland's west coast: a three day itinerary

Thanks to the Wild Atlantic Way, more travellers than ever are discovering the jewels of the west coast of Ireland by car. Take a long weekend to tour this spectacular coastline, stopping at everything from geological marvels to decadent spas and experience the very best of Irish heritage and hospitality.

DAY 1 – CORK TO KERRY

Start your tour of Ireland by flying into Cork and making the short 25-minute drive to the town of Kinsale , the very beginning (or end) of the Wild Atlantic Way. Ireland's first long-distance driving route is renowned for its rugged coastal beauty, and you could spend weeks exploring each craggy inlet and winding country lane. This small town, which Condé Nast Traveller previously named one of Ireland's most beautiful , is overflowing with character. With houses painted in bright sherbets, ultramarine and chalky pink, it's reminiscent of the colourful Venetian island of Burano.

Spend a day wandering through the pretty boutiques and watching yachts from the harbour, or embrace one of Ireland's oldest traditions – the ancient art of distilling. Visit the Kinsale Mead Co for a modern take on the honey-based drink, or drive around 40 minutes outside the town to the Clonakilty Distillery . Founded in 2016 by the Scully family, who have farmed the land for nine generations, the distillery immerses travellers in Cork's illustrious whiskey heritage through tours and tastings of their award-winning collection. It's not just whiskey, either: they also produce vodka, gin and sloe gin with local hedgerow fruit. Pick up a bottle of your favourite and return to Kinsale for supper – the town has been hailed as one of the best dining spots in the whole of Ireland.

Unsurprisingly, given its coastal location, Kinsale is renowned for its seafood. Head to Fishy Fishy for an extensive menu of fresh oysters, local lobster and the creamiest fish pie you'll ever taste, or reserve a table at Bastion to experience Michelin-worthy dishes. The restaurant earned its first star in 2020 and has been delighting diners ever since with a tasting menu that shines a spotlight on Ireland's incredible seasonal produce.

After you've paid your compliments to the chef, it's time to head to your lodgings for the night. An hour and 45 minutes through the charming Irish countryside will bring you to Kenmare on the Kerry coastline, where you have the choice of two indulgent places to stay. On one side of the bay, you'll find Sheen Falls Lodge , a grand five-star escape set in 300 acres of jaw-dropping scenery. Opt for one of their decadent suites, or cosy up in a traditional thatched cottage on the grounds. On the opposite side of the water is the spectacular Park Hotel Kenmare , which dates back to 1897. It’s an idyllic spot for sipping Champagne in front of a roaring log fire or to gaze at the water as the sun sets out to sea.

DAY 2 - KERRY TO LIMERICK

No matter which Kenmare hotel you've chosen, you're sure to wake up bright and well-rested for your second day of exploring the west coast. Ireland is rightly celebrated for its stunning scenery, and just an hour’s drive will transport you to a world of dramatic peaks, lakes and dense woods of oak and yew. Killarney National Park is home to McGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland, and a chain of three lakes. Spend the morning hiking or walking, keeping an eye out for native red deer as you go, or take to the lakes for a kayaking adventure.

In the afternoon, soak up the park's heritage at Muckross House . The 19th-century mansion is surrounded by manicured grounds and inspirational gardens; visitors can enjoy freshly made soups, scones and sandwiches in the Garden Restaurant conservatory.

Half an hour further north is a different kind of retreat. Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa , on the edge of the national park with impressive views over Lough Leane, is one of Ireland's premier spa resorts and the perfect place to unwind. The spa draws inspiration from the Irish landscape in both its slate interiors and its treatments, which use exclusive VOYA Organics products, made of seaweed harvested from Ireland’s pristine ocean waters. From facials to massages to intense relaxation sessions in the thermal suites, you'll leave rejuvenated and ready to continue your journey to your final destination of the day.

Adare Manor in Limerick is astonishing – its splendid architecture and grounds coupled with sublime hospitality have led to this glamorous locale being named best resort in the world in Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2022. Suites are elegance personified, activities such as falconry, archery and horse riding can be enjoyed, and in Michelin-starred restaurant The Oak Room, Ireland's bounty of seasonal food is celebrated amid glowing candlelight. .

DAY 3 - LIMERICK TO GALWAY

On your final day exploring the west coast of Ireland, you'll be immersed in incredible scenery from Limerick to Galway, travelling through Clare and along the coastline.

The Burren is one of the world's most striking geological sights; a rugged landscape of buckling limestone that’s almost lunar-like in its harshness. Driving through the rocky terrain is awe-inspiring. Despite its remoteness, there's still plenty going on here – you'll even find the Wild Honey Inn, a pub with rooms and a Michelin star, in the centre of the national park.

Afterwards, head west towards the coast and another one of Ireland's most famed sites. Together with the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher have been recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, with their steep drop and breathtaking walks drawing almost a million visitors each year. The landscape is scattered with sea caves and sea stacks rising from the waves, and it's a prime spot for bird watching – keep an eye out for razorbills and even Atlantic puffins on the more secluded areas of the cliffs. Those with particularly keen eyesight might catch glimpses of dolphins, minke whales and basking sharks.

Travelling up towards Galway, you can make a mini detour to take in the neolithic burial ground of Poulnabrone Dolmen, the 330-million-year-old warrens of Aillwee Cave, or the ruins of 16th-century tower house Dunguaire Castle .

In Galway, more high-end dining awaits. Visit Aniar , where dishes draw heavily from the west coast and surrounding areas of Galway. Here, dishes such as kelp and sea radishes, lamb and artichoke and beef with arrowgrass have earned it a Michelin star. Or try bohemian Kai , an eclectic spot with a focus on sustainability – produce is local and organic, menus are short and seasonal, and its dedication to zero waste and recycling mean that it's been honoured with a Bib Gourmand as well as a Michelin Green Star.

Finish your journey with a final hour-long drive to Ashford Castle . On the very northernmost tip of Lough Carrib, a stay in this remarkable 800-year-old building will make any traveller feel like royalty. With sumptuous suites and dreamy estate gardens to explore, it's the perfect place to end your tour of the west coast.

Find out more here  

Welcome to Journeys with Ulla

Hi! My name is Ulla and I love to explore new places. I'm originally from Estonia, but I arrived in Ireland more than a decade ago, fell in love with its breathtaking beauty and never left. I'm happy to share the west coast of Ireland's most scenic roads, awe inspiring views, cosy pubs and stories with you.

This is my story

Originally from Estonia, my own journey in Ireland started in 2004. I was  a passenger on the first ever direct flight from Tallinn to Dublin. All I had at the time was very little money in my pocket, one suitcase and willingness to explore and experience living in a different country. It was just a “leap of faith” as there was no pre-arranged job waiting for me nor any accommodation. I barely spoke English.

What people say

I have used ulla’s help twice to discover ireland. it has been a wonderful opportunity to drive through this beautiful and historical country in a  comfortable car and with a great guide as i didn’t have to worry about left-hand traffic or that i could miss out some interesting places. i highly recommend journeys with ulla as you most certainly will see more than you expect., kristiina from estonia, private tours on the west coast of ireland.

If you love to immerse yourself in beautiful scenery and prefer privacy, then come and join me for a day trip to the magnificent west coast of Ireland. Get spoiled by the grand views and vistas of Connemara, or get carried away by the rugged Atlantic coastline  and the spectacular Burren. Feel the freshness of the Atlantic breeze and embrace the sense of freedom while you’re standing on the edge of the Cliffs of Moher! Let it be a journey to rest your mind and nourish your soul.

West Coast of Ireland Tour: Galway Bay to the Cliffs of Moher

Journey to the fascinating Burren and Cliffs of Moher, UNESCO Global Geopark. Stay in a Michelin-starred inn and discover the natural and man-made wonders that layer these landscapes with intrigue.

• Explore some of Ireland’s most famous landmarks as our expert guides take you behind the scenes of West Ireland’s fascinating deep-time origins.
• Get under the skin of Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, from its highest point to the network of curious caves that dwells beneath.
• Uncover the human stories of Ireland’s West Coast as you sail to an Iron Age fort on the striking Aran Islands and recognise scenery that has stolen the limelight in many Hollywood movies.
• Bookend each day in The Burren with a comfy bed and meals made with produce from the lands and waters you see during your tour, in Ireland’s only Michelin-starred pub.
• Enjoy Irish hospitality with traditional pub visits and music sessions.

Discover the fascinating geology and human history that shaped Ireland’s incredible West Coast on this seven-day, six-night tour from Dublin to County Clare.

Your Ireland tour starts in the nation’s characterful capital before journeying to the wild West Coast. Here, you’ll relax in comfort at the Wild Honey Inn, a home-away-from-home with Michelin-starred service and meals focused on tradition and the freshest seasonal ingredients. The inn has a prime position within the Burren Geopark, and is an excellent base for exploring the wonders of the surrounding area.

Spend the next four days exploring the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, where archaeology, geology, botany and culture collide to create one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Your expert Tour Leader and handpicked local guides will explain how the region’s unique rocky landscape was caused by changing global sea levels, and how ancient continent formations created the Burren’s karst ‘pavements’ and intriguing cave systems.

You’ll see the clifftop Iron Age fort of Dun Aonghasa on the magical Aran Islands, the solemn monument of Poulnabrone Dolmen, Ireland’s longest cave system and Europe’s largest stalactite, and the towering, world-famous Cliffs of Moher, festooned with seabirds.

There are early medieval forts, hidden churches, tiny coastal villages and bustling market towns – all set to a soundtrack of traditional Irish music and crashing Atlantic waves. No wonder the region has starred in movies such as Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince, Star Wars: The Last Jedi and The Banshees of Inisherin.

During your travels, there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy Irish hospitality, with classic pub drinks and hearing traditional music.

• Activity level: Easy, with optional longer walks and hikes across Ireland’s landscape. Walks are generally less than 3 miles ( view activity level definitions ). This trip to Ireland also includes boarding and disembarking a passenger boat to visit the nearby Aran Islands.
• Transport: Getting around: Comfortable small coach and passenger boat to and from the Aran Islands.
• Accommodation: First and sixth night in a comfortable Dublin Hotel (to be confirmed).
• Four nights at the Wild Honey Inn , Lisdoonvarna, Ireland’s only Michelin-starred pub with rooms and an ideal base to explore the surrounding Geopark. 
• Weather: September in the west of Ireland is typically mild. Rain is always possible, and guests should be prepared with warm and waterproof clothing.

Day 1 - Dublin: Ireland’s Capital

Explore historic Dublin, a city packed with Irish history, culture and cuisine, then meet your Tour Leader, local Tour Guide and your fellow travellers.

Your Ireland vacation package begins in its most famous city: Dublin. The Irish capital has plenty to offer visitors, from the Guinness Storehouse to the medieval crypt of Christ Church.

Check into your hotel mid-afternoon, and in the late afternoon, meet your friendly Tour Leader, local Tour Guide and fellow travellers for an introduction, group dinner and the first night of your stay.

If you arrive earlier, take the opportunity to see The Book of Kells, an exquisite Early Christian illuminated manuscript, and follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker and Oscar Wilde as your wander the campus of Trinity College. You could also investigate your Irish ancestry at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, and the Irish Family History Centre. There’s also Dublin Castle and a plethora of free museums to explore.

• Check into Dublin hotel, for one night
• Group dinner

Day 2 – Dublin to County Clare and the Wild Honey Inn: Discover Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Journey across Ireland to County Clare, home to the Burren Geopark and the Michelin-starred Wild Honey Inn.

It’s time to leave Dublin behind and move your Ireland vacation to the spectacular West Coast, a picturesque area shaped by pounding waves and powerful geological forces.

We’ll enter County Clare from the north, taking in the impressive sight of Dunguaire Castle and Galway Bay, before arriving at the Wild Honey Inn, your hotel for the next four nights.

Ireland’s first and only Michelin-starred pub, the Wild Honey Inn is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. The breakfasts will set you up for a full day of exploring, while the mouth-watering dinners promise to be a highlight of your trip.

• Check into Wild Honey Inn, Lisdoonvarna, for four nights
• Group dinner at Wild Honey Inn

Day 3 - The Burren: Explore Ireland’s Captivating Geopark

Wake up to County Clare and the West Coast of Ireland, and discover the wonders of the Burren.

After a full Irish breakfast at the Wild Honey Inn, you’ll head out into the Burren Geopark to discover how this distinctive landscape came to be, and to learn about the processes that have helped to sculpt and define its terrain over millennia.

The Burren was officially established in 2011 and has retained its status as a unique part of the Irish landscape with 11 internal ‘geosites’, recognised as areas of outstanding geological significance.

• Return to Wild Honey Inn in the evening
• Group dinner at nearby restaurant or pub

Day 4 – Aran Islands: Living History on Inishmore

Take a boat to the largest of the Aran Islands and explore the links between geology and archaeology in one of its most iconic ruins.

This leg of your Irish adventure will see you land on Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands.

As well as being the most populated of the Aran Islands today, Inishmore also boasted a significant Iron Age population. You’ll visit the clifftop hill fort of Dun Aonghasa to uncover the link between human and geological history on the island.

After a day’s exploring, we’ll cross back to the mainland for another hearty group dinner at a local pub or restaurant.

• Group dinner at local restaurant or pub

Day 5 – Cliffs of Moher: Witness Ireland’s Barrier against the Wild Atlantic

Travel to the Burren’s spectacular cliffs, and marvel at their geology and sheer beauty.

Today sees you heading to one of Ireland’s most acclaimed natural sites: the towering Cliffs of Moher.

Reaching 214m (702 feet) in height, the impressive cliff face is strikingly vertical, and their unassailable appearance has featured in films such as The Princess Bride and Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince.

Beyond their visual appeal, the Cliffs of Moher also have plenty of geological points of interest on this Ireland tour and stand as an excellent example of sedimentation and ancient delta formation.

You’ll also visit the geologically impressive coastal features of the Bridges of Ross and Loop Head, and examine the world-renowned deep-water turbidite sequences of the Clare Basin.

• Group dinner at the Wild Honey Inn

Day 6 – The Burren: Above and Below, then back to Dublin

Descend into the caves of Doolin and then enjoy the view from the highest point in the Burren limestones to marvel at the landscape from above. Finally, travel back to Dublin to conclude your tour of Ireland.

The last day of your Ireland vacation takes you to both ends of the Burren. After a final breakfast at the Wild Honey Inn, we’ll explore the underworld of the Burren, travelling into its extensive cave systems beneath Doolin. Back above ground we’ll then head off to Mullaghmore one of the highest points in the Geopark. While not a towering peak at 180 metres (590ft) above sea level, the peak provides excellent views of the surrounding area, and the whole mountain is made up of irregular sequences of folded rock.

After admiring the view, we’ll explore the underworld of the Burren, travelling into its extensive cave systems beneath Doolin.

Back above ground, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to County Clare, and travel back to Dublin for final night in a Dublin hotel.

• Check into your Dublin hotel, late afternoon.
• Group Dinner

Day 7 – Return home

Enjoy your final hotel breakfast of the tour and then check out.

Either stay longer to explore more of Dublin, or head home.

Note: If required for reasons beyond our control, GeoCultura reserves the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.

Single Supplement

There is a charge of £595 / $745 for solo travellers.

Activity Level and Transport

The activity level is rated as EASY, requiring an average level of fitness ( view activity level definitions ). The tour will involve walking in generally easy terrain but will require good walking boots and a moderate level of fitness (please note, some paths may be uneven and loose underfoot). Hikes are 1–3 miles long, This tour also involves boarding and disembarking from a passenger boat to Aran. Transport will be by comfortable small coach.

September in the west of Ireland is typically mild. Rain is always possible, so you should bring warm and waterproof clothing.

If walking is an issue, alternative arrangements can be made during the scheduled longer walks, so please let GeoCultura know in advance. To enjoy the full experience, a good level of fitness is required – please call us to discuss this if you have any concerns.

The Tour Includes/Excludes

The tour includes:.

• The services of your tour expert and local guide, who will be with the group throughout the tour, providing pre-visit briefings, walking seminars and being available to answer questions.
• Your two guides will provide additional historical and cultural insights to entertain and enhance your trip.
• All transportation costs from the start to the end of the tour, including the services of a professional coach driver.
• All accommodation costs for the nights stated, assuming two people sharing a double room. Single occupancy rooms are available for a surcharge. Please contact GeoCultura for details.
• All breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
• Entry fees, local guide fees and activity fees, where arranged as part of the tour.
• All service charges and most gratuities.

The Tour Excludes:

• Travel insurance. Guests should carry their own health and travel insurance.
• Alcoholic drinks with meals are not included.
• Extra or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
• Personal expenditures, including bar bills, laundry bills.
• Transportation to the start venue or from the end venue of the tour (air fares are not included).
• Passport and visa fees.

Alternate Activities

Our tour leaders are happy to provide suggestions for alternative activities for guests who prefer not to participate in certain parts of the tour walks, visits or group dinners.

Accommodation

Night 1: A centrally located hotel, Dublin 

Nights 2-5:  Wild Honey Inn , Lisdoonvarna, County Clare Ideally situated in the Burren Geopark, the Wild Honey Inn is Ireland’s only Michelin-starred pub with rooms, with a restaurant offering ‘frequently changing menus…based on sustainable gastronomy’, which feature ‘flavourful Irish produce – organic vegetables, freshly picked berries, seasonal game and wild fish straight off the day boat’.

Bedrooms are ‘uncluttered’ with ‘many fine touches: duck-down duvets, hand-woven throws and glossy magazines’. Good Hotel Guide (46th edition)

Night 6: A centrally located hotel, Dublin 

Note: If required for reasons beyond our control, GeoCultura reserves the right to substitute alternate accommodations of equal or higher quality.

Deposit and Payment Terms

Deposit: A deposit of 10% of the tour price is due upon registration for a tour.

Final payment: Full payment is due 60 days before a tour begins, or upon registration if within the 60-day window.

Cancellation by participant: A participant may cancel a registration after securing a confirmed place on a tour for any reason. The following refund terms will apply:

• Greater than 60 days before tour begins: Any monies paid plus half of the deposit will be refunded
• 30 to 59 days before tour begins: 35% of tour price will be refunded
• 15 to 29 days before tour begins: 25% of tour price will be refunded
• Within 14 days of tour or during the tour: No monies will be refunded

Cancellation by GeoCultura: GeoCultura reserves the right to cancel any tour due to low enrolment, inability to run the tour or concerns about the safety, health or welfare of participants. If a tour is cancelled before it begins, all monies paid will be refunded (including any deposit).

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions page for additional details.

With an extensive background in hiking and exploring Ireland’s geological gems, John Walsh is ideally placed to take you around, above and below the country to visit its most fascinating features.

John is a great communicator and known for his super public speaking.

John is Professor of Structural Geology at University College Dublin, Co-Director of the internationally recognised Fault Analysis Group, and in 2015 became the first Irish Honorary Fellow of the Geological Society of London.

John has served on the editorial boards of five geological journals and has published countless papers. He is the Founding Director (2014-2018) and Earth Resources Theme Leader of the Irish Institute for Research in Applied Geosciences (iCRAG), which works in areas including protecting water sources, sustainable energy production and assessing the effects of climate change.

John has won prestigious awards for his research and contributions to geology – he is also known for his success as a stand-up comedian!

The Wild Honey Inn is ideally located within the Burren Geopark, and a short drive from the famous Cliffs of Moher.

With individually-furnished rooms featuring duck down duvets and Egyptian cotton sheets, the Wild Honey Inn's rooms promise a unique stay in a beautiful part of Ireland.

Ireland's only Michelin-starred pub, the Wild Honey offers an enticing menu filled with quality meals made from seasonally-appropriate ingredients.

Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands, has plenty of points of interest, including the perfectly rectangular, naturally formed ‘Wormhole’.

The Burren Geopark in County Clare is a site of incredible beauty, and significant geological interest.

Nine miles long and 702 feet high, the Cliffs of Moher are a spectacular feature of Ireland's west coast.

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Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

• The Experience
• 9 Days In 2024
• 9 Days In 2025
• 10 Days In 2024
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See Ireland's glorious Atlantic coast

Trip details.

Tour start Dublin

Tour end Dublin

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Featured Attractions

Westport House

Tour this 18th-century grand manor, with its exquisite furnishings and artwork. It was once home to the famous pirate queen Grace O'Malley.

Strokestown Park

Immerse yourself in the compelling history of Strokestown Park, where the evocative Famine Museum tells the poignant story of Ireland's Great Hunger.

Blakes of the Hollow Pub (CIE Tours Exclusive)

Visit the Victorian Blakes of the Hollow Pub, which famed author John McGahern once called “one of the happiest and most beautiful bars” in Ireland. Enjoy a pint as you view the handcrafted “Game of Thrones” door, carved from the trees of the Dark Hedges.

Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle and unlock the enchanting opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, while exploring the castle's ancient ruins and surrounding gardens, immersing yourself in a tradition believed to bestow the "gift of eloquence."

Slieve League Cliffs

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Slieve League Cliffs, where towering sea cliffs offer breathtaking views and a sense of serenity, providing an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature at the dramatic coastal scenery.

Sheepdog Demonstration

Stop by and watch highly skilled sheepdogs show off their talents at minding their herd. Learn about the agility, intelligence and capability of the sheepdogs at work.

A night in Dublin at The Abbey Tavern

Spend an evening at one of Ireland's most traditional Irish shows. Experience the best of hospitality, entertainment and scrumptious Irish food.

Belleek Pottery

Come along to Belleek Pottery to view the fine craftsmanship in action. Step into the world of Belleek Pottery and discover why it is one of Northern Ireland's oldest and most fascinating attractions.

Galway Walking Tour

Embark on a Galway walking tour to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this charming city, where you'll discover hidden gems, colorful streets, and captivating stories, truly capturing the essence of Galway's vibrant culture.

Experience Glasnevin

Explore this beautifully restored garden cemetery that feature epic monuments from Ireland's historic past. The stories of those who shaped Ireland's history are brought to life.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Dublin City Tour | Experience Glasnevin | Clontarf Castle

Day 2 strokestown park | blakes of the hollow pub | donegal, day 3 slieve league cliffs | triona design | nancy’s bar, day 4 belleek pottery | westport, day 5 sheepdog demo | galway walking tour, day 6 adare | john b. keane’s | dingle, day 7 ring of kerry, day 8 blarney castle | abbey tavern, day 9 your tour ends in dublin, where you’ll stay.

Clontarf Castle Hotel Dublin, Ireland

Set in an 11th-century castle the Clontarf Hotel combines ancient architecture...

Mill Park Hotel Donegal, Ireland

The spacious rooms at the Mill Park Hotel have flat-screen TVs, telephones and hairdryers. Some...

Knockranny House Hotel Westport, Ireland

This Victorian-style property features public areas with fine antiques. La Fougère Restaurant...

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel Limerick, Ireland

Woodlands House Hotel in Limerick, is owned and managed by the Fitzgerald Family. This hotel in...

Manor West Hotel Tralee, Ireland

  Manor West Hotel, located in the picturesque town of Tralee, seamlessly blends modern...

Herbert Park Hotel Dublin, Ireland

Overlooking the 48-acre Herbert Park, this hotel is 350 feet from the RDS and a 5-minute walk...

A Hidden Gem

Exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is a simply awe-inspiring adventure, immersing you in breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and the untamed beauty of the rugged coastline.

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Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin

Set in an 11th-century castle the Clontarf Hotel combines ancient architecture with 21st-century facilities. Just 10 minutes from central Dublin, this boutique hotel offers an award-winning restaurant and luxurious bedrooms. Rooms at the Clontarf Castle Hotel feature air-conditioning, LCD satellite TVs and free Wi-Fi. There is a 24-hour room service menu and beds have pillow-top mattresses. The Fahrenheit Grill serves fine cuisine and specializes in local beef and fish dishes. 

Clontarf Castle Hotel Front Entrance

• 24-hour Front Desk
• Business Center
• Dry Cleaning
• Fitness Center
• Laundry Facilities
• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• 24-hour Room Service
• Air Conditioned
• Cable/Satellite Television
• Coffee & Tea-making Facilities in Room
• Daily Maid Service
• In-Room Wifi (Complimentary)
• Iron/Ironing Board
• Private Bathroom
• Room Service
• Work Desk & Lamp

Bar and Lounge

Double Bedroom

Double Suite

Mill Park Hotel, Donegal

The spacious rooms at the Mill Park Hotel have flat-screen TVs, telephones and hairdryers. Some rooms have views over the Mill’s landscaped gardens. The Granary Restaurant offers fine cuisine, fish specials and a Sunday carvery. The Café Bar serves stone-baked pizzas, a grill menu and an extensive range of drinks. Donegal Golf Club overlooks Donegal Bay and is a 10-minute walk from the Mill. The Donegal Waterbus is a 5-minute walk away and includes seal spotting.

Mill Park Hotel

• Coffee Shop
• Disabled Facilities

Knockranny House Hotel, Westport

This Victorian-style property features public areas with fine antiques. La Fougère Restaurant specializes in seafood and local ingredients and has achieved awards for culinary excellence. Modern guest rooms provide everything for a comfortable stay and the hotel boasts state-of-the-art spa facilities. Member of Manor House Hotels Group. The hotel is located just outside Westport and set in secluded grounds, with great views of Westport, Croagh Patrick Mountain and Clew Bay. Hotel parking.

• Swimming Pool
• Slippers/Robes

Reception Area

Classic Room

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel, Limerick

Woodlands House Hotel in Limerick, is owned and managed by the Fitzgerald Family. This hotel in Adare features the Failte Ireland Award Winning, Revas Spa, one of the most popular Spa Hotels in Limerick.

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel

• Babysitting
• Soap/Hair Products

Fitzgerald Woodlands House Hotel treehouse

Woodlands Pool

Deluxe Room

Manor West Hotel, Tralee

  Manor West Hotel, located in the picturesque town of Tralee, seamlessly blends modern luxury with traditional Irish hospitality. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, this four-star hotel offers a sophisticated retreat. The hotel boasts elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed with a contemporary flair and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at the hotel's restaurant, where a diverse menu showcases locally sourced ingredients. With its convenient location near Tralee's vibrant town center and the stunning landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way, Manor West Hotel provides a perfect base for exploring the beauty and charm of Ireland's southwest region.

Herbert Park Hotel, Dublin

Overlooking the 48-acre Herbert Park, this hotel is 350 feet from the RDS and a 5-minute walk from the Aviva Stadium. This stylish, modern hotel has an award-winning restaurant and modern rooms. The air-conditioned rooms at the Herbert Park Hotel are decorated in light colors and feature large windows. They include a TV, a safe, and private bathrooms with hairdryers. There is a 24-hour room service menu. With views of the park, the Pavilion Restaurant serves modern international and Irish cuisine.

Herbert Park Hotel

• Complimentary Bottled Water

Restaurant Bar

See what people are saying about this trip

Paul joseph travers.

Thanks to CIE, my wife and i had the vacation of a lifetime. The scenery was spectacular and breathtaking as we journeyed the backroads to discover Ireland's cultural and natural treasures. The hotels provided first class hospitality and service. The gourmet meals were a elegant culinary experience. Frank Hamill, our entertaining and engaging bus driver and guide, was an encyclopedia of Irish history and geography who was always eager to share his knowledge. And the Guinness was better than advertised!

CIE Tours Customer

"fantastic" wild atlantic way.

Highly recommend the Wild Atlantic Wat tour

The trip was amazing in the views we saw and in all of the events we attended. The hotel and the food were outstanding. Sean Welsh was outstanding with the history and stories he told and in his friendliness with everyone on the tour.

Beth, Bud Sara and Jenny

Enchanting, emerald green ireland. fun, beautiful and educational for all..

A wonderful tour around the whole island. If you have the time, you should definitely do it.

Sandra L Schmidt

Best tour of ireland.

Good itinerary...complete circle of Ireland.

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The Inclusive Advantage

Get more without spending more. CIE Tours includes every experience and most meals so you won't be hit with hidden expenses.

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip: Our Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary on Ireland's West Coast

Expect imposing landscapes, breathtaking views and plenty of Irish charm on this incredibly scenic road trip from Muff to Kinsale on the Wild Atlantic Way. At 7 days long, this ultimate road trip takes in the entire west coast of Ireland, from the northernmost point to the most southerly point of the country.

This 7-day road trip along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is 1, 790 km long and has a drive time of 32 hours and 20 minutes. On this drive, you will visit Dunfanaghy, Enniscrone, Galway, Limerick, Dingle, Kenmare and Kinsale and admire coastal sights.

Your 7-day road trip on Wild Atlantic Way: the best day-by-day itinerary

What is the best 7-day road trip on the wild atlantic way.

Quaint villages, friendly welcomes, Irish music and plenty of fun await you on this road trip. If you like the outdoors, you will be bombarded by opportunities for walking, hiking, swimming, water sports, land sports and horse riding along the way.

For a more sedate experience, there will be plenty of views to admire and beaches to stroll along. This will be an unforgettable trip, jam-packed from start to finish.

If you want to stretch this out, you could easily spend a couple of extra days in Connemara, Achill Island or the Dingle Peninsula.

The average daily drive is 4 hours 30 minutes, and the longest drive will be the one from Enniscrone to Galway on day 3 at 5 hours and 50 minutes. If this road trip sounds like a bit of you, keep reading to find our ultimate 7-day itinerary including daily distances, places to stay and things to do along the way.

Day 1: Driving from Muff to Dunfanaghy

The first day's drive covers nearly 240 km and has a drive time of 4 hours 30 minutes, not accounting for any stops en route. This is a spectacular way to start this epic road trip of a lifetime, and an excellent introduction to the Irish coastline.

Road trip route from Muff to Dunfanaghy

Your unforgettable coastal road trip starts in Muff, Co. Donegal and heads along the north coast of Ireland. It's a bit of a curvy drive as you follow the coast to Malin Head, through the Fanad Peninsula and on to Dunfanaghy.

Along the way, you'll pass through the capital of Co. Donegal, Letterkenny, which is a good spot to pick up some supplies or grab a bit of lunch. As you drive along the coast, you'll pass by many beaches and viewpoints, which make great rest stops along the way.

Things to explore on the way to Dunfanaghy

Visit Malin Head, the northernmost tip of mainland Ireland, which also served as the backdrop to the Star Wars movies and the perfect place to visit for any sci-fi fan!

As well as stunning views and dramatic landscapes, there are two hiking trails here. Named Hells Hole and Devils Bridge, these trails promise breathtaking views and will bring you up close and personal with the Irish natural landscape.

Once named the second most beautiful beach in the world, Ballymastocker Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the Irish shoreline. You will get to admire long stretches of silky sand and a gorgeous dip in crystal-clear waters if you are visiting during the warmer months.

This beach is a hotspot for surfers, but if you aren't feeling quite adventurous, the white sandy beach, blue ocean, panoramic views and the surrounding rugged landscape make this a must-see on your road trip alone. Consider packing lunch to enjoy as you soak in the views and atmosphere here.

Where to stay in Dunfanaghy: make the most of the coast

Dunfanaghy is known for its charm as a typical Irish village. Overlooked by the Derryveagh Mountains and surrounded by beaches and shorelines, this village offers an activity to meet all tastes.

Visitors can play golf, go hiking, ride horses, enjoy water sports or take a stroll along one of the many surrounding beaches. If you fancy a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, the village has a number of Blue Flag beaches which are ideal for a swim.

Offering views of the sea, hills and countryside at every turn, the Shandon Hotel and Spa makes the most of its surroundings . An on-site restaurant and bar with open fires and live music ensure that you will experience excellent food and the fun of an Irish pub during your stay.

The hotel also has an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and luxury thermal spa, which are great for relaxing after a day's travel and activity. With a great location and free on-site parking, this is a great choice for a road trip.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Dunfanaghy to Enniscrone

3 hours and 50 minutes and 240 km make up the drive on day 2, which is a bit shorter than the first day. This route starts to take you south and out of Co. Donegal, into Co. Sligo. You'll also be passing from the Ulster province to the province of Connacht.

Road trip route from Dunfanaghy to Enniscrone

While this drive takes more of an inland route, the views and drive are still as captivating as the coastline. You'll stay on the coast until you get to Glengesh Viewing Point, which is a beautiful drive.

You'll continue inland until you approach Mullaghmore Head. From here, you follow the coast into Sligo Town and on to Enniscrone.

Things to explore on the way to Enniscrone

Prepare for some hairpin bends and narrow Irish roads as you take a short detour up to the Glengesh Viewing Point. The view from the top will be worth the extra kilometres though! The beautiful, peaceful Irish countryside is simply stunning here.

A very popular holiday destination for Irish and tourists alike, Mullaghmore is one of the best-known places in the west of Ireland. Derived from the Irish word that means "the great summit" this picturesque village is dotted with great eateries, luxurious lodging and amazing recreational activity opportunities such as surfing.

If you fancy getting off the mainland and exploring some of Ireland's islands, you can take a ferry from the pier in Mullaghmore to Inishmurray Island. Keep an eye out for Classiebawn Castle and Benbulben Mountain as you drive along.

Where to stay in Enniscrone: soak up the Seaweed

A popular seaside resort, Enniscrone offers a beautiful beach and a spectacular place to watch the sunset.

Why not visit the Kilcullen Seaweed Baths? Open since 1912, this family-run business offers traditional seaweed baths. Known for their high iodine content and therapeutic properties, seaweed baths are becoming increasingly popular for their restorative and rejuvenating properties.

After spending some time pampering yourself in the baths, you will be spoilt for choice of great accommodation options in Enniscrone. The modern Diamond Coast Hotel is a natural choice that overlooks 5 km of sandy beaches and an 18-hole golf course.

Newly built, this lovely hotel offers comfortable rooms finished to a high standard. If you'd like to enjoy water sports, the luxurious hotel is a short walk from the golden beaches. However, if you are not a fan of open waters, you will find a fantastic outdoor pool at your disposal during your stay.

An on-site restaurant and bar offer good food and a nice spot for an enjoyable evening. Location-wise, swimming, surfing hiking and walking are all on your doorstep here.

Day 3: Driving from Enniscrone to Galway

Day 3 will be your longest drive on this road trip. It is likely to be your longest day also as there are some incredible sights that you won't want to miss. Your drive time will be 5 hours and 50 minutes, covering 340 km, but it is likely that you will spend much longer out and about.

Road trip route from Enniscrone to Galway

Leaving Co. Sligo, you'll head through Co. Mayo and onto Co. Galway. Stick by the coast when leaving Enniscrone, heading west, then south to Achill Island. From here, head back to the mainland and drive to Westport, the capital of Mayo.

The next part of your drive takes you through Connemara National Park and on to Galway. Oh, and keep an eye out for sheep wandering around! They are known to stop traffic as they crowd the roads in Connemara.

Things to explore on the way to Galway

Achill Island is a favourite among Irish holidaymakers and tourists alike. It's easy to see why with its many beaches, Irish pubs and lovely landscape.

You can spend anything from a couple of hours to a couple of days exploring the Island and everything it has to offer. Keem beach is worth a visit if you can squeeze it into your day.

Arguably, one of the most incredible places on the Island of Ireland, Connemara is a must-see. Famous for the pony of the same name, Connemara is packed full of rugged stone landscapes, small villages and winding roads.

It is an Irish-speaking area, so you'll hear a lot of the locals speaking Irish here. Don't worry if you are not familiar with the language, they speak English too. If you are looking for a hike, consider stretching your legs on Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park.

Where to stay in Galway: a great Irish night out

Galway will be one of the biggest and most popular cities on this road trip. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of a small city with its abundance of cafes. restaurants and shops.

Galway is also known for its great nightlife, so you'll be sure to have an evening filled with fun, good food and friendly locals if you plant to head out and venture.

Just 200 metres from Eyres Square, The Galmont Hotel and Spa offers an excellent location to explore Galway city. An award-winning restaurant located on the premises, with spa and leisure facilities at hand, this hotel makes an excellent all-rounder.

With a second on-site restaurant and bar, you have freedom of choice as well as all the amenities you will need to enjoy your stay here. Onsite parking ensures your vehicle will be safe for the night.

Large, comfortable and modern rooms are tastefully decorated to create a luxurious feel and cosy atmosphere to relax in after a long day of driving or a night on the town!

Day 4: Driving from Galway to Limerick

A little shorter your drive on the previous day, day 4 should take you just under 5 hours to complete. Just 270 km separate the cities of Galway and Limerick. If you're looking to shorten this route, you can opt to not make the stop in Kilbaha and drive directly to Limerick instead.

Road trip route from Galway to Limerick

Leave Galway and travel around the bay, entering Co. Clare and the province of Munster. Your first waypoint will be The Cliffs of Moher, probably one of the most well-known attractions on the island.

Shortly after you'll pass Lahinch beach as you follow the coastline south to Kilbaha. Stay by the coast as you pass by Ennis and arrive in Limerick City.

Things to explore on the way to Limerick

A road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is not complete without a stopover at the famous Cliffs of Moher. An awesome and imposing landscape awaits with incredible cliffs, crashing sea waves and breathtaking views. Make sure you have your camera ready!

There are a number of walking trails and hikes around the area if you wish to stretch your legs.

Close to the Cliffs of Moher is Lahinch Beach, loved by avid surfers worldwide. A great spot for a refreshing dip, some water sports or a stroll along the beach, Lahinch makes for a nice stop along the way.

Make sure to visit the Bridges of Ross on your way to Kilbaha, a quaint fishing village positioned on the western end of the Loop Head Peninsula. Here, you will not want to miss a visit to the Loop Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse closes for the winter season, so check ahead of time whether you can visit.

Where to stay in Limerick: A lively city stopover

Another bustling spot along your route, Limerick city, is a great spot for an overnight stay. King John's Castle is not far outside the city centre and is a great example of a restored medieval castle.

Similarly to Galway, Limerick's abundance of restaurants and pubs gives you many options for a great night out. If you have extra time on your hands, we recommend sparing an extra night or two staying here.

Located in the heart of Limerick city, the George Limerick Hotel offers luxury interiors with modern and comfortable rooms. The hotel's fabulous restaurant and bar have something for every meal, with local produce sourced from artisan suppliers.

This cosmopolitan-style boutique hotel is within walking distance of the main attractions in Limerick city and offers private parking to all guests so that you can leave your car behind and easily explore the city on foot.

Day 5: Driving from Limerick to Dingle

At just 3 hours and 40 minutes, the drive from Limerick to Dingle is pretty short in comparison to the others. The 210 km takes in Tralee, Brandon Point and part of the Ring of Kerry.

Road trip route from Limerick to Dingle

From Limerick, you'll follow a more inland route as you head towards Dingle. Your first suggested stopover is Brandon Point and Brandon Mountain. Both offer fabulous views of the bay and the surrounding area.

If you don't feel like a mid-drive hike, you can always return tomorrow as it's very close to Dingle. From here, you'll drive around the mountain, through Dingle and on to Dunquin. You'll do a loop of the peninsula before returning to Dingle for the night.

Things to explore on the way to Dingle

Birdwatchers and hikers, Brandon Point is the perfect place for you to visit. Bradon Point is located at the foot of Mount Brandon, and is an excellent hiking spot. Enjoy the panoramic views before you ascend the mountain, and then enjoy even more beautiful views from the top.

Slea Head Drive is another winding drive along narrow single-lane roads that we absolutely recommend doing. You will be left in awe by its stunning scenery. Coumeenoole Beach is also located on this stretch and is good for a swim or a stroll.

If you're looking for a more strenuous walk, head up to Dunmore Head. This is another shooting location for Star Wars, which will be a treat to visit for any fans of the movie franchise.

From nearby Dunquin, you can sail across to the Blasket Islands, and get off the mainland for a while. As you drive along, keep an eye out for the beehive huts where prehistoric settlers once lived.

Where to stay in Dingle: a colourful port town

Dingle is a fishing port, with Mount Brandon overlooking it from the north. A major hub in the Dingle Peninsula, the town is the only way to get from east to west around the mountain.

Its colourful buildings, excellent food and charming hustle and bustle make Dingle a great option for an overnight stay. There are also plenty of things to do here, such as hopping on one of the sea safari tours to enjoy the rugged scenery of the area from a different perspective.

You can also visit the ancient ruins of the Gallarus Oratory to learn more about the fascinating history of Dingle which goes back hundreds of years. If history is not your thing, head to Dingle Oceanworld to learn about fascinating marine life instead.

If you're looking for a quaint Irish guest house with an Irish welcome in Dingle, stay at The Waterfront . With modern and well-equipped rooms, parking and an excellent location, this guest house offers a great place to stay.

An excellent breakfast is offered each morning and a sea view room can be requested when booking. Make sure to visit Kerry County Museum, which is a short drive from the guesthouse, before setting off on the next leg of your trip.

Day 6: Driving from Dingle to Kenmare

The sixth day will mean that you will drive from the Dingle to the beautiful Kenmare. This will not be a long drive and should take you just under 4 hours to drive the 210 km to Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Road trip route from Dingle to Kenmare

The coastal views on this drive will make up for the lack of them on Day 5. You'll continue around the Ring of Kerry, driving out to Valentia Island, on to Caherdaniel and then into Kenmare. Killarney national park is just a short hop from Kenmare if you fancy a walk or a cycle.

Things to explore on the way to Kenmare

As well as being an all-year-round surfing destination, the super long Inch Beach is great for a walk to blow away the cobwebs on your way to Kenmare. Bring a picnic and a flask for a beachside lunch or snack.

Located on Valentia Island, Knightstown is one of the few planned towns in Ireland and is built in a grid shape. This quaint town is a good starting spot to explore Valentia Island, or a good end point for something to eat after a day of exploring.

You can also visit Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs, the Valentia Island tetrapod footprints and St. Brendan's Well during your visit here.

Continuing on, make sure to make a stop and take in the majestic views of Kerry Cliffs en route. If you are a history buff, the Ballinskelligs Castle and Abbey are great places to explore.

Where to stay in Kenmare: experience truly luxurious Irish hospitality

Located on Kenmare Bay, Kenmare is another traditional Irish county town, which is the Wild Atlantic Way is so famous for, with winding streets lined with colourful buildings. Boasting charming shops, restaurants, arts and culture, Kenmare offers something for every palette.

Have you ever wanted to ride a horse but not sure where to start? Kenmare has multiple stables and equestrian centres offering a number of different rides and treks.

The Park Hotel Kenmare is one of the most famous hotels in all of Ireland - and with good reason. This 5-star luxury property will give you the celebrity-style treatment with its exquisite rooms and top-notch customer service.

If you want to spend your time relaxing at the hotel, you might be delighted to hear that this fantastic property houses its own 12-seat cinema, not something you come across in most hotels!

If you are an adventurer, the hotel offers deep sea diving tours, but also a 30 feet outdoor pool for those who would like a more tranquil dip. No matter what activity you choose, you will want to head to the full-service spa on-site afterwards to treat yourself after an exhilarating day.

You won't have to venture far for an upscale meal as the restaurant features a fantastic restaurant with a changing menu dependant on seasons that feature the freshest of the local products.

If you are looking to treat yourself to a special occasion lodging option on your road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way, Park Hotel Kenmare is it; it may cost more than its competitors but this once-in-a-lifetime experience will be worth it.

Day 7: Driving from Kenmare to Kinsale

The last day of this amazing road trip packs a punch like the previous days and brings with it a 280 km drive over 5 hours and 40 minutes. This drive includes a stop at Ireland's most south-westerly point and crosses into Co. Cork, Ireland's biggest county.

Road trip route from Kenmare to Kinsale

The route from Kenmare will stay inland until you reach Glengarriff, where it meets the coast again. Follow the coast around the tips of the country and you will come to Mizen Head. Head east from here, winding your way along the coast until you get to Kinsale.

Things to explore on the way to Kinsale

Mizen Head is Ireland's most southwestern point, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding cliffs, landscape and crashing waves make this a place that is hard to forget.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, go to visit Mizen Head Lighthouse, which is located across the land and is accessible via a 52-metre-long bridge.

Famous for its Clonakilty Black Pudding, this little town will be one of the stars of this road trip. Voted Best Town in Europe in 2017, the locals here have a reputation for being extremely friendly and welcoming.

The Friday farmers market is full of local produce including cheese, vegetables, coffee, baked goods and fish, so make sure to stock up if you are planning a home-cooked meal or a picnic when you arrive in Kinsale.

Where do stay once you reach Kinsale: End your trip in style

Kinsale is the official start or end point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Its town centre is full of brightly coloured buildings, great shopping and delicious places to eat. With year-round events, a harbour, water sports and many walking tours, there is something for everyone here.

There is no better way to end a road trip than in a spa hotel! Kinsale Hotel and Spa is located outside of the main town centre and has everything you need onsite.

Set in 90 acres of woodland, the location of this hotel is tranquil and picturesque. The onsite spa offers a range of treatments, while the onsite restaurant and bar serve international cuisine. The rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable, ensuring you have a great night's sleep after your week of exploring.

Things to see on a 7-day road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way

One thing is for sure, you will not be short of things to see and do on this road trip. As well as the items listed below, the Irish coastline is littered with viewing points, castle ruins and little villages which you can stop at along the way.

• Tory Island, Co. Donegal - The inhabitants on this remote island take immense pride in the preservation of their cultural heritage through music, song and dance. A must-see!
• Slieve League Cliffs, Co. Donegal - Experience Ireland's highest sea cliffs in Donegal. There is also a cafe, gift shop and guided tours on offer.
• Benbulben, Co. Sligo - This tabletop mountain is a great one to either climb or admire from the 5km walking track around the base.
• Clew Bay, Co. Mayo - It is said that Clew Bay has an island for every day of the year and is also said to be Ireland's best example of sunken drumlins.
• Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo - Ireland's Holy Mountain, Crough Patrick is a cone shaped peak made famous as the place where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days. Today, it remains an important site of pilgrimage for many.
• The Burren, Co. Clare - The Burren is a sight like no other in Ireland. A moon like formation of limestone, filled with crevices, caves, fossils and native flowers, it is not to be missed!
• Treaty City Brewery, Co. Limerick - Visit this working microbrewery to taste some artisan beers and learn how they are made.
• Connor Pass, Co. Kerry - A beautiful, scenic drive in Kerry, Connor Pass is the highest mountain road in Ireland.
• Dingle Cookery School, Co. Kerry - Head to this award-winning culinary school to learn how to cook fish, bake bread or take a traditional Irish cookery class.
• The Skellig Islands, Co. Kerry - Visit a UNESCO world heritage site, 27,000 pairs of gannets and a set from Star Wars by taking a boat out to the Skellig Islands.
• The Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork - With 100 islands to sail around, sunsets to watch and castles to explore, the Beara Peninsula has it all.
• Atlantic Sea Kayaking, Reem Pier Co. Cork - For an unforgettable kayaking experience, choose one of the night kayak tours to see the Atlantic after dark.

Best time to go on a 7-day road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland has a pretty steady year-round climate, and rarely sees extremes of weather. That being said, the west coast tends to experience more wind, rain and storms than the other parts of the country.

Spring or Autumn are the best times to do this road trip as the weather will be fine and there will be fewer tourists around. Ireland in the sunshine and heat is a spectacular place to be, but it usually brings with it crowds of Irish and tourists alike.

Traveling in winter

Winter on the west coast of Ireland is likely to be rainy, windy and changeable. In recent years, winter storms with strong gales and local flooding are becoming a more regular occurrence.

Average daily temperatures are between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius with a rare chance of snow. Prices will be cheaper at this time of year, and there will be fewer people around. However, some places and attractions may be closed, so be sure to check beforehand.

Traveling in summer

Average temperatures on the west coast are between 12 and 15 degrees Celsius, however in recent years, temperatures of 20 - 30 degrees Celsius are becoming more common.

Summer is a good time for a road trip as you have a higher chance of getting good weather. There will always be a chance of rain though!

The downside of traveling at this time of year is that it will be busy with Irish and international holidaymakers and accommodation prices will be a lot more expensive.

Traveling in spring or autumn

Spring or autumn are two of the best times to visit Ireland and the west coast. The weather tends to be a bit milder with average temperatures of 10 - 11 degrees Celsius across both seasons.

There are usually fewer people around and accommodation prices tend to be more reasonable.

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Exploring Ireland’s West Coast Via Whiskey Tours, Sheep Farms, and Sea Safaris

A passionate whiskey maker, a charismatic sheepdog trainer, and a blacksod bay captain are all part of the county’s heart and soul..

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Blacksod Sea Safaris’ boat Huntress , moored off the coast of North Inishkea Island, takes passengers on coastal cruising excursions alongside 2,200-foot cliffs and gray seal colonies.

Photo by Susan Portnoy

County Mayo, which lies on the Wild Atlantic Way , is one of Ireland’s most cinematic locales (and the setting for The Banshees of Inisherin ). This west coast rural setting is blessed with 2,158 square miles of rolling emerald pastures dotted with cotton-ball sheep, spongy peat bogs, windswept cliffs (there are usually sheep there, too), and secluded rocky beaches—plus peaceful coastal hamlets and inland villages lined with colorful Georgian architecture.

But Mayo’s true beauty lies in its warm and welcoming people, many of whom share their rich history and traditions with travelers. Who better to provide a greater understanding of the county’s past and present? These small, family-owned businesses near the towns of Westport, Belmullet, and Ballina bring Mayo’s spirit to life. The intimate experiences they offer are rooted in history and rendered through a lens uniquely their own. It’s only part of what makes them beloved by so many, and why for all places, you’ll want to make reservations well in advance. Below are recommendations for some family-run gems, including accommodations and tours—of whiskey and Blacksod Bay—starting in Westport and moving north to Belmullet and then Ballina.

A little over a three-hour drive from Dublin, on Ireland’s west coast, Westport is an ideal home base for many of County Mayo’s beloved attractions, including the 300-year-old Westport House estate and adventure park with ziplining, climbing walls, glamping, and over 400 acres to explore. The beach at Keem Bay on Achill Island, meanwhile, is lauded as one of the best in the world, and Clare Island is home to Clare Island Whiskey (see below), historical sites, and several eye-popping hikes.

The family of Catherine and James Powers, owners of Glen Keen Farm, has been here for eight generations.

Glen Keen Farm

With the birth of her son James Francis Powers IV, Catherine Powers’ family has lived in the area now known as Glen Keen Farm for eight generations. Thirty minutes from Westport, the 1,700-acre working sheep farm is a rugged patchwork of pastures, woodlands, bogs, and mountainous terrain.

Catherine and her husband, James, celebrate Irish culture with demonstrations of traditional dance, music, wool spinning, and turf-cutting together with local artisans. “When we built this business, it wasn’t just about supporting our family farm or family,” Catherine says. “It was about supporting a rural community because we lack enterprise and employment in this area.” One such community member is George Hughes, a charismatic 68-year-old sheepdog trainer who is responsible for Glen Keen’s three talented canines and wows visitors with their exceptional sheepherding skills.

Where Glen Keen really shines is on its “Heritage Walk,” a guided tour introducing the property’s tangible past, from antique farming equipment and 17th-century cabins to a pagan graveyard and ring fort dating back to the Bronze Age.

Carl O’Grady, founder of Clare Island Whiskey, accompanies visitors on island tours and tastings of the silky smooth spirit.

Clare Island Whiskey Tour

Located three miles off the west coast of the Emerald Isle is Clare Island , known for being the 16th-century home of the “Pirate Queen of Ireland,” Grace O’Malley. Reached by ferry, her well-preserved tower castle (picture a squat, rectangular silo) still stands sentry on a rocky headland above the bay. The ancient residence is one of the highlights of Carl O’Grady’s Clare Island Whiskey Tour . (He is a fourth-generation islander.)

Another highlight: the 12th-century Cistercian Abbey, adorned with medieval-era paintings sprinkled with mythical creatures. The half-day excursion “takes guests through a journey from the mid-1500s to current day, depicting the Irish Clan system, the famine, and more,” says the steely-eyed entrepreneur.

In addition to a light lunch, O’Grady hosts a tasting of his boutique whiskey brand, bearing the island’s name. The spirit comes in custom packaging, including a contoured bottle with a wave-like base, sitting in its own four-paneled wooden box imprinted with the brand’s mythology. “This isn’t just a whiskey, you know,” says the distiller. “It’s the essence of who I am. It’s what Clare Island is: the people, the place, the culture, the history, the folklore . . . everything is just wrapped up in this thing.”

The whiskey is in its third release and despite only maturing four years, it’s silky smooth. His not-so-secret secret? It’s aged on O’Grady’s beloved Dolphin , a 34-foot wooden boat moored in the harbor. For 30 years, the ship was the cornerstone of the family’s 131-year-old ferry service , which operates today and is the only means of reaching the island. The ferry for Clare Island leaves from Roonagh Pier, about 30 minutes from Westport. (Added bonus: Take your time exploring the island by booking O’Grady’s stylish seven-bedroom Bay View House, a short walk from the ferry terminal. Minimum two nights, maximum 24 people; from $861 .)

Where to stay

From its hillside perch, the privately owned Knockranny House Hotel overlooks the seaside village of Westport and includes sweeping views of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain, and the islands in Clew Bay. It has 97 spacious and elegant guest rooms and the Spa Salveo (meaning “to heal”), offering an extensive list of face and body treatments. At sunset, sip a cocktail on the outdoor terrace before dining on entrées like wild Irish venison with smoked black pudding at the award-winning La Fougère Restaurant. From $172

In and around Belmullet, North Mayo, you’ll find white-sand beaches, plenty of water sports (surfers take note), and some of the region’s most spectacular cliff hikes.

Blacksod Sea Safaris

As a young man growing up in Faulmore on North Mayo’s Mullet Peninsula, Michael “Mick” Keane always loved the sea and fishing with his brothers. That passion came in handy a few decades later when the pandemic disrupted what had become his successful contracting business. “When COVID happened, the construction business was hit hard,” says Keane, who took advantage of his free time by launching Blacksod Sea Safaris in 2021. “I always wanted to have my own boats and bring people out to the beautiful Inishkea Islands and show the beauty of Blacksod Bay,” he says. Keane now captains a fleet of three (the largest accommodates 12 passengers) for excursions, such as coastal cruising alongside 2,200-foot cliffs, wildlife viewing (a mix of marine life including a gray seal colony), or angling for mackerel or cod and other species.

The company’s half-day tour of the little-known Inishkea Islands is a fan favorite. After a 30-minute boat ride from the mainland, you’re free to wander the sandy beaches and dune grassland, deserted stone villages, an old Norwegian whaling station, and other historic structures that the seafaring communities abandoned nearly a century ago.

A tranquil 30-room, family-run hotel in Geesala, the Erris Coast Hotel features panoramic views of the north shore and is a mere 15 minutes from Belmullet. In addition to being dog-friendly, the secluded retreat is near several noteworthy sights, such as Carne Golf Links, rated #12 in Ireland, the historic Blacksod Lighthouse, and Downpatrick Head’s jaw-dropping coastal vistas. From $100.

Home to President Biden’s Irish kin, Ballina is the county’s largest town, with a population of about 10,500. Straddling the River Moy, the city boasts an array of historic landmarks, such as Moyne Abbey and Rosserk Friary . There are also plenty of thriving pubs, restaurants, and nightlife.

At Kilcullen’s Seaweed Baths, you begin with a brief steam sauna to open your pores, followed by a hot seawater and seaweed bath.

Kilcullen’s Bath House

For a truly immersive experience, nothing compares to a traditional Irish seaweed bath at Kilcullen’s Bathhouse on Killala Bay in Enniscrone, about 20 minutes north of Ballina. In a private room (couples’ rooms are also available), you begin with a brief steam sauna to open your pores, followed by a hot seawater and seaweed bath. A cold seawater shower to invigorate the senses completes the session.

While the effects of such baths are scientifically debatable, the high levels of iodine (a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) found in seaweed and seawater are believed to be good for “rheumatic and orthopedic problems,” explains owner Edward Kilcullen. The saltwater also keeps bathers afloat, relieving pressure on muscles and joints, while the alginate acts as a natural skin softener.

Kilcullen’s grandfather opened the baths in 1912. Edward and his wife, Christine, took over in 1989 (his son Caine harvests the seaweed) when 77 years of wear and tear had taken their toll. The couple stripped the structure to its Edwardian shell, saved and restored what they could, reproduced the rest, and added more baths and an atrium café. A few of the rooms are more time machine than spa, with the original ceramic tubs, tiles, steam boxes, and fixtures. “[The tubs] look old,” says Kilcullen, “but they’re spotlessly clean. . . . Modernization would have been the easy route to take, [but] we thought we’d spoil it.” Thankfully, he says, their customers agreed.

Join the locals for a pint at Rouse’s Bar, a licensed tavern since 1865.

Rouse’s Bar

In the heart of downtown Ballina, Rouse’s Bar is where the locals go for a pint. A licensed tavern since 1865, the Rouse family took on the lease in 1947, running it as a combination bar, grocery, and hardware store. When supermarkets became popular in 1955, they went the pub-only route. Since then, the mahogany-front bar has remained unchanged. Today, with a friendly handshake and an electric smile, second-generation owner Pat Rouse runs the show with his daughter Fiona. Pat grew up in the family biz—after he was born in a room upstairs—gathering glasses and doing other odd jobs as a child. As a young man, he tried banking. It wasn’t his cup of tea. “I wasn’t meeting people,” he says. “I’m a bit of a talker, and I like interacting with people. And I like to have fun.” So when his father died when Pat was 20, he went back to help with the pub, and he’s been there ever since.

Evenings at Rouse’s Bar are always lively, but Saturday nights especially are not to be missed. From 9:30 to midnight, the ever-popular “Trad Night” (translation: traditional Irish music session) features award-winning local musicians, and everyone is welcome to join in.

Where to stay: Enniscoe House

Originally built in 1740 just outside Ballina, Enniscoe House is a gorgeous family-owned Georgian country home on Lough Conn with soaring ceilings, three deluxe guest rooms, and three suites. Equally impressive is the property’s 160 acres of mature woodlands and grasslands and an ornamental garden restored to its 1905 glory. Also on the grounds is the North Mayo Heritage Center and museum, where guests tracing their genealogy to this region can access an estimated 1.2 million records containing everything from graveyard maps to ship manifests. Open April to October; bed-and-breakfast from $227

Exploring Ireland’s west coast: from Dingle to Donegal, Achill Island and the Cliffs of Moher

D INGLE, Ireland – The west coast of Ireland is the stuff of travel dreams – filled with soaring cliffs, bright green pastures and grazing sheep, glorious beaches, charming towns and ancient ruins. It’s worthy of a week all its own, if you have the time.

I suspected when I planned this itinerary that I was doing it too fast – covering too many kilometers in just four days, not leaving enough time to stop and smell the rhododendrons (which were in full bloom in County Mayo in late May, by the way).

Ireland’s tourism department created the Wild Atlantic Way in 2014, a driving route along the west coast that covers some 1,500 miles through nine counties. Well-placed signage along the route directs drivers to and from sights along the scenic path.

We didn’t cover it all, skipping some sections entirely and occasionally opting for faster highways to get us to our destinations quicker.

But we covered much of it, starting in Dingle, traveling north to the Cliffs of Moher, then driving through Galway to Clifden, biking out to Achill Island and ending our tour in Donegal. I wished I had an extra day in every location.

Ah well. It’s always better to want more than to stay too long.

And who knows — maybe I’ll be back. The new Aer Lingus flight, nonstop between Cleveland and Dublin, makes frequent trips to Ireland pretty tempting.

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is one of several scenic peninsulas along Ireland’s southwest coast. The Iveragh Peninsula, with its well-known Ring of Kerry scenic drive, is directly south and more popular. But I chose Dingle because it’s smaller, more manageable, and typically less crowded.

Dingle’s primary attraction is Slea Head Drive, a 24-mile loop route at the far west end of the peninsula that hugs the coastline most of the way. It’s dotted with ancient ruins and more contemporary sites, with dramatic cliffs, lush farmland and beautiful beaches.

The entire route was spectacular, striking and serene all at once. And though just 24 miles, it took us more than six hours to complete, as we stopped nearly a dozen times to check out interesting sites along the way.

Most of the route was uncrowded, although I imagine that will change as the summer tourist season heats up. The route is two-way, except for tour buses, which must travel clockwise. Most of the traffic flows that way too – in part, no doubt, to avoid getting trapped by one of those mega buses we saw maneuvering some very tight hairpin turns. The route is also popular with bicyclists, although it looked like too much of a workout for me, with lots of hills.

Among the stops:

* The Blasket Centre, on the mainland directly across from Great Blasket Island, the one-time home of as many as 175 residents. In 1953, the island was evacuated – too many people had voluntarily relocated, leaving the existing population too isolated and vulnerable. The island’s rich Irish-speaking culture is chronicled and celebrated at this small museum, built in 1994. Don’t miss it. Note: Separately, tours to the island are available from Dingle.

* Dunbeg Fort, a defensive structure dating back some 2,000 years or more. It’s been substantially eroded and rebuilt over the years, and it’s little wonder why – this fort is precariously perched on the cliffs, hundreds of feet above the crashing Atlantic.

* Gallarus Oratory, an elegantly constructed dry stone building – that is, built without mortar — which dates back as many as 1,300 years. The small structure, about 16 feet by 10 feet, was likely used as a small chapel.

* Irish Famine Cottages, a collection of small, spare structures built in the 19th century, and abandoned during the Great Famine, which hit this area of Ireland particularly hard.

And don’t miss a stop at Dunmore Head and Coumeenoole Beach – a gorgeous stretch of sand and the only place in Ireland I dared take my shoes off and walk barefoot in the water. Brrr!

The town of Dingle is the starting and ending point for the drive and a lovely place to spend a couple of nights. Tucked alongside a protective harbor, the charming town is home to dozens of restaurants and shops. It’s also a thriving fishing port, with a downtown marina lined with commercial boats.

I had my best meal in all of Ireland here at Out of the Blue , which offers a seafood-only menu written on a chalkboard, dictated by what the boats bring in. I also heard some of the best Irish music of my trip in Dingle, at O’Sullivan’s Courthouse Pub and Neligan’s.

And don’t miss Murphy’s Ice Cream, with two locations in town, featuring a tasty gin-flavored ice cream, and chocolate whiskey, among many others.

Where we stayed: We spent two nights at the quiet and comfortable O’Neill’s Bed and Breakfast , well-located on a side street in town, operated by Stephen O’Neill, who took over the business from his parents several years ago. At 110 euros per night, it was the most economical accommodation of my 9-night trip to Ireland and included a full Irish breakfast.

Note: There are two routes into Dingle, one along the southern coast of the peninsula and another along the northern coast. The northern route, along R560, cuts through the mountains via Conor Pass, a narrow, twisting mountain road that, after reaching its peak at about 1,500 feet, descends dramatically into Dingle. The roadway, which reduces to one lane in sections, is not for the faint of heart – but it is spectacular. Don’t miss it.

A final thought on Dingle: The afternoon we arrived, a large cruise ship was docked off the coast of Dingle – an increasingly common occurrence, according to O’Neill, who said there are four more ships scheduled to visit town this summer. There is no major pier here, so passengers are shuttled via tender to the mainland, where they descend on the small downtown for a few hours of shopping and sightseeing.

It will be interesting to see whether and how the cruise industry alters the small-town charm of Dingle and other Irish coastal communities. On the one hand, the economic impact of the visitors is certainly welcome, but the long-term effect the ships could have on the town may not be.

Cliffs of Moher

From Dingle, we drove north to the Cliffs of Moher, a scenic drive that included a 20-minute ferry across the Shannon estuary, connecting Tarbert and Killimer (23 euros; shannonferries.com ). The Cliffs were another hour-drive north.

Towering up to 700 feet above the ocean, the Cliffs stretch for nearly 9 miles along the west coast of Ireland south of Galway. It’s one of the country’s top sites for a reason, with dramatic views in every direction.

Access to what’s called the Cliffs of Moher Experience is via a central entryway that includes a visitors center built into the ground. Admission, including parking, is 10 euros per person during midday, cheaper in the morning or later afternoon.

You can also hike to the cliffs from the nearby towns of Doolin and Liscannor and avoid paying admission, although you won’t be able to access the visitors center.

The central cliffs area can get quite crowded, so come early or late if you can. My husband and I arrived at about 1 p.m., with the midday sun straight overhead, which tended to wash out our photographs.

Some of the viewing areas closest to the visitors center got clogged with people during our stay, but it was easy enough to escape the crowds by walking a bit farther along the coast.

We spent about two hours here, most of it walking along the coastal trail. And I would have stayed longer, but our next destination was calling.

A castle in Clifden

After stopping in Doolin for ice cream, we continued north toward Galway, motoring through an area known as the Burren (literally “rocky place”), a region so completely unexpected amid the green of Ireland. The area, approximately 200 square miles, features a stark landscape of rocky mountains carved from limestone. It was like driving on the moon.

The only unpleasant part of the trip came as we maneuvered through Galway, population 80,000, where we got caught in traffic and delayed by road construction. If I had to do it over again, I would have spent the night here.

Our destination was another 90 minutes northwest, in Clifden. We arrived at our hotel – the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel – just in time to hear owner Ronan Hughes recount the history of the building and the region and offer a complimentary champagne toast to some of the people who made it possible. (Read more about our castle stay here: Castle overnight in Ireland: What’s in a name? )

Clifden is in the heart of Ireland’s Connemara region, another starkly beautiful area of Ireland to explore, with jagged mountains, serene inland lakes and a dramatic coastline to explore.

We rose early to drive the Sky Road, a short, 10-mile loop that offers panoramic views of the ocean, islands and surrounding countryside. Then we took a short walk to check out the ruins of Clifden Castle, built by the same man, John D’Arcy, who founded the town and built Abbeyglen.

And here we encountered one more example of that famous Irish hospitality: The gentleman who owns the land that includes Clifden Castle came outside to tell us the property was private and to please not go inside the structure, because it wasn’t safe. And then he invited us along for an exterior tour of the space.

If I had another day here, I would have toured scenic Kylemore Abbey (built in 1868), hiked Connemara National Park and maybe taken a boat ride on Killany Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. But time was tight, so we continued our drive north to County Mayo.

Biking through County Mayo

For several decades at the turn of the 19th century, a railroad operated from Westport to Achill Island. In 2010, the rail line was turned into a level, paved path, creating what has to be one of the world’s most spectacular bikeways, the Great Western Greenway , which traverses 27 miles through scenic County Mayo.

We started our trip from Newport, skipping the first 7 miles of the greenway, from Westport to Newport, which I had read was the least scenic part of the route, as it parallels the roadway. The route from Newport was spectacular from start to finish – through farmland and forest, past pastures and lakes, with the Atlantic coast within eyesight through much of it.

We pedaled past horses and cows and sheep – and a handful of humans, too. I imagine it will get much busier as the summer progresses. We stopped for lunch in the tiny town of Mulranny, overlooking Clew Bay, then summoned the energy to finish the final 8 miles to Achill.

My only regret was that we didn’t opt for electric bikes because although this was mostly flat, 20 miles is a lot (for me), and I didn’t need to work that hard.

We did opt for the shuttle ride back, however.

The route ends at the bridge to Achill Island – which, at 57 square miles, is Ireland’s largest island, with cliffs and mountains and some of the country’s most spectacular beaches. It’s a sister city to Cleveland, which is why the group of Northeast Ohio government and business leaders who traveled to Ireland last month spent a night here.

I, however, continued my route north, to Donegal.

But first, I asked our shuttle driver, the owner of Greenway Bicycle Hire in Newport, if he wouldn’t mind driving us the few miles west to see the statue of Johnny Kilbane, the Achill native who found fame in Cleveland as a boxer in the early 1900s.

Though he had never heard of Kilbane, or the statue, he graciously agreed. After I thanked him, I told him I might not be the last Clevelander who makes such a request.

Last stop: Donegal

We ended our tour in the town of Donegal, in Ireland’s northernmost county (also Donegal). Unfortunately, we were here mostly to sleep, before heading to our next stop. Next time, for sure, I’ll allot at least a day or two to explore the rugged coastline in Ireland’s most remote region.

For now, though, our tour came to an end at the Reel Inn, a venue well-regarded for its traditional Irish music offerings.

The place was standing-room only when we entered, filled with the sounds of banjo and button accordion. I eventually secured a couple of seats at a table by the door, where we listened for hours to the lively soundtrack of Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast before returning to our hotel.

Then, the next morning, we were off – to Northern Ireland, to the Antrim Coast and Giant’s Causeway, yet another spectacular coastal region on an island that has so many of them.

Driving in Ireland: Narrow streets, insurance extras and staying on the left side of the road

En route from Dublin to Dingle: Rock of Cashel and Kilkenny Castle

48 hours in Dublin: New Aer Lingus flight from Cleveland makes for an easy international getaway

First flight on Aer Lingus: Go to sleep in Cleveland, wake up in Dublin

(Coming next month: Two days in Northern Ireland: Giant’s Causeway, Belfast and the Titanic museum.)

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