The Wild Atlantic Way touring route stretches for over 1,500 miles (2,500 km) along Ireland’s incredibly beautiful west coast, from the windswept magnificence of Malin Head in Donegal, in the far north, to the picturesque harbour town of Kinsale in County Cork. People can, and often do, spend months exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, but for those with a little less time on their hands, we’ve put together our highlights, which really shouldn’t be missed!

The famous Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way (courtesy Chaosheng Zhang)

Fanad Lighthouse, Co Donegal

Fanad Lighthouse (courtesy Fáilte Ireland)

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Wild Atlantic Way from the top of Fanad Lighthouse, voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. Standing between idyllic Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay in the far north of Ireland, Fanad Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the North Donegal coastline, and the new virtual reality experience there allows you to fully appreciate the drama of life in a lighthouse. Meet the keepers, explore the exhibition or stay in one of the cottages. 

Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs, Co Donegal

Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs (courtesy Fáilte Ireland)

Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs on the south west coast of County Donegal are amongst the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Truly awe-inspiring, the cliff face of Bunglas, for example, rises 600 metres (1,969 feet) above the raging ocean. The viewing point at the cliffs offers terrific views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay. Book a boat trip from nearby Teelin Harbour to the base of the majestic cliffs, swim with dolphins and, in May or June, watch out for basking sharks.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Co Sligo

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery (courtesy Rory O’Donnell)

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery is one of the most important megalithic sites in Europe, and one of the 'big four' sites of megalithic importance in Ireland, along with Carrowkeel, Loughcrew and Brú na Bóinne. Dating back almost 6,000 years, over 30 tombs have been discovered here by archaeologists. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the cemetery is accessible by foot. Explore the tombs and stop off at the restored cottage to see a small exhibition relating to the site.

Achill Island, Co Mayo

Keem Bay, Achill Island (courtesy Chaosheng Zhang)

Achill Island (Acaill) is one of the jewels in the crown of the Wild Atlantic Way. Reached by bridge from the equally lovely Corruan Peninsula, the island is best known for its pristine beaches, soaring sea cliffs, mountains, lakes and big skies. Keem Strand, in horse-shoe shaped Keem Bay at the western end of the island, has been named by Lonely Planet in their list of the best beaches in the world. From water sports to walking trails and cycling to kayaking, Achill has so much to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Sky Road, Connemara, Co Galway

Sky Road, Connemara (courtesy Dave Walsh)

One of Ireland's most spectacular routes, the Sky Road skirts the Connemara coastline for 16 km (10 miles). Offering incredible views, sublime scenery and romantic sunsets, this enchanting route provides wonderful vantage points for panoramic views of Clifden Bay. The route begins and ends in Clifden, the capital of Connemara, and the town also provides a perfect base for exploring nearby Connemara National Park and picture-perfect Kylemore Abbey.

Aran Islands, Co Galway

Relaxing on the Aran Islands (courtesy Gareth McCormack / garethmccormack.com

Famed for their wild landscapes, distinctive knitted jumpers and pretty cottages, the Irish-speaking Aran Islands, at the entrance to Galway Bay, never fail to impress. The three islands have maintained the culture and heritage of traditional Irish life, which fascinates the thousands of visitors who make the journey each year. Getting to the islands couldn’t be easier by ferry from Rossaveal, just outside Galway city, which departs daily all year round, or from Doolin in County Clare in the summer months. Don’t miss a traditional pony and trap tour when you visit!

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare

Mullaghmore Loop, The Burren (courtesy Bernice Naughton)

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher is a UNESCO Geopark, recognised for its very special landscape and its long history of settlement. At over 530 sq km (200 sq miles), the Geopark offers a diversity that is second to none. With its rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs, natural beauty is everywhere. Explore the distinctive cracked limestone pavements and admire the unusual rock formations; find megalithic tombs older than Egypt’s pyramids and discover a unique ecosystem of Arctic and Alpine flowers, which surprisingly grow alongside Mediterranean species.

Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

Dingle Marina, Dingle Peninsula (courtesy Jonathan Hession)

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of County Kerry and is a fabulous place to experience. The town of Dingle itself, with its bustling marina, narrow streets and traditional pubs, is the perfect place to start, but take time to discover magnificent Conor Pass, Ireland’s highest mountain pass, take in the dramatic views from Slea Head, try the area’s delicious seafood or visit long deserted cottages on the Blasket Islands.

Ring of Kerry, Co Kerry

Gap of Dunloe, Ring of Kerry (courtesy Fáilte Ireland)

This 179 km (11 mile) touring route around the Iveragh Peninsula, is not to be missed! Experience new delights at every turn, from lakes, rivers and waterfalls to grand houses and castles. Begin in Killarney and then head to picturesque Killarney National Park. Explore the park’s abundant wildlife and take a tour of Muckross House, a late 19th century mansion. Discover Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall and the Gap of Dunloe on your journey, visit colourful Kenmare and don’t miss fairytale Ross Castle.

Skellig Michael, Co Kerry

Skellig Michael (courtesy Tourism Ireland)

Iconic Skellig Michael, the extraordinary island that shot to fame thanks to the Star Wars sequel trilogy, is well worth a visit. One of the most spectacular early medieval monastic sites in the world, with its well-preserved monastery and remote hermitage, Skellig Michael is one of only two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland. Travel to the island by boat and climb the 1000-year-old stone stairway to see the distinctive stone beehive huts where monks lived and prayed centuries ago. Skellig Michael is also an internationally renowned site for breeding seabirds.

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made tour of the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, whether that’s a self-drive tour or with a private driver, please do contact our friendly team today.

With thanks to Discover Ireland.