thepinkginpassportThe Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland is one of the World’s best road trips. Spanning across the west coast of Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way offers incredible scenery from the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, colourful town of Dingle to Dog’s Bay a beach that looks like it could belong in Asia/the Caribbean.
Ring of Kerry
Where the Ring of Kerry passes the West Coast you’ll partly be on the Wild Atlantic Way including Sneem, Caherdaniel and Dingle.
Dingle
Dingle is a great spot to spend a few hours. Pay a visit to Foxy John’s, a hardware store turned pub only place I know where you can get a pint and a pack of nails. The original Murphy’s ice cream store is here with unique flavours such as brown bread as well as local dingle gin. While our sea safari was cancelled due to a swell I would love to return to get the chance to see dolphins and whales.
Cliffs of Moher, icon of Wild Atlantic Way
When thinking of iconic landscapes in the isle of Ireland I think of Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland and the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are also featured in the 6th Harry Potter movie but have been a popular spot for decades.
Loop Head
The lighthouse at Loop Head is not only cool to see but marks one of the most Western points of Ireland, with stunning cliff views. It’s also awe-inspiring to look out and realise the next bit of land is the United States.
Kilkee Pollock Holes
This popular swim spot is a great place to enjoy a swim rather than battle the wild waves of the Atlantic. Like with all swimming be mindful of the weather and tide timings so you’re not stranded.
Aran islands
You can’t take your car onto the island so I’d recommend hiring a bike or taking a van tour at Inishmore (Inis More) the biggest of the islands. We visited on a beautiful day and could swim in the Kilmurvey Beach where you also get views of the Twelve Bens in Connemara National Park. You can also purchase the famous Aran Island knitwear from the island too. If you’re cycling you can visit the wormhole for a swim, we didn’t have time for this/it wasn’t part of the van tour but there was more than enough for us to see already.
Doolin
Another colourful little town, this spot is close to Cliffs of Moher as well as getting the ferry to the Aran Islands so Defintely worth a visit.
Galway, the gateway city to the Wild Atlantic Way
If you’re planning to stay a few nights in a city in Ireland I would recommend Galway. The Latin Quarter had lots of great bars and restaurants, and not far from Claddagh Quay we listened to Trad music at The Crane Bar. We also got traditional Claddagh rings in the city, if you’re visiting for longer I believe there are also workshops to make your own.
Dog’s Bay, best beach on Wild Atlantic Way
While staying in Galway for a few nights we travelled up to Dog’s Bay which was the furthest North on the Wild Atlantic Way we went and an absolute highlight. It’s often voted Ireland’s best beach but we were equally impressed with Gurteen Bay which is on the other side of the sand tombolo Dog’s Bay is on.
Tips for car hire for your Wild Atlantic Way road trip
We found the smaller the car the better especially when on smaller roads. Take pictures of the car when you get it in case you are challenged on any scratches etc. Also, make note of petrol stops, we found petrol stations to be more in towns than on the main motorways. Other than that we found the roads to be in great condition and the drive was part of the fun on this epic road trip.
