The Wild Atlantic Way, a popular touring route in Ireland, is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. The success of this initiative, which was simply intended as a branding exercise, likely surpassed even the most optimistic predictions.
Fáilte Ireland’s astute mix of effective signage and strategic marketing contributed to the growth in tourism in the western seaboard over the past decade, with nearly two million more visitors in 2019 compared to 2013, the year before the Wild Atlantic Way was launched. As a result, €3 billion per annum is generated from tourism, a 58 per cent increase in the last 10 years. This has also led to the creation of approximately 35,000 additional jobs in the tourism sector in the region.
The route itself spans an impressive 2,500 kilometres of beautiful coastal roads, from Kinsale Harbour to Malin Head, offering plenty to explore. Whether it’s to make the whole journey or simply to enjoy a small part of it, the route is meticulously marked with official “signature” and “discovery” points.
The southern tip of the route is in Kinsale, a town beloved by food enthusiasts. Housed in the stylish Co Cork Town are some of the country’s finest cafes and restaurants. There are also waterfront accommodation options including Trident or Actons hotels, both of which offer excellent dining experiences.
For instance, the Trident’s Wharf Tavern, designed with the assistance of a local yacht designer, has an authentic nautical theme, and serves delicious locally-sourced food. On the other hand, Actons Hotel’s Sidney’s Bar and Garden Lounge boasts of a warm surrounding along with modern Irish cuisine. In addition, the town has a variety of restaurants like Fishy Fishy, Bastion and The Black Pig Winebar to choose from.
Apart from the rich food culture, Kinsale has a lot to offer for those interested in shopping and history. The town is filled with unique boutiques and stores that sell handmade jewellery, local artwork, and crafts. History enthusiasts can explore the 17th century Charles Fort, which provides a sweeping view of the town, or dive deeper into Kinsale’s maritime past at the Kinsale Regional Museum. Attractions like Desmond Castle and the International Museum of Wine narrate the fascinating past of the town’s wine trade and piracy.
Stroll through the winding roads and paths of Kinsale, a town full of picturesque trails such as the Scilly Walk that provides a breathtaking panorama of the harbour. You could also journey to the Old Head of Kinsale, a land parcel reaching 3km into the Atlantic Ocean. There, you can marvel at the stunning cliffs and sea views, drop by the Lusitania Museum commemorating the infamous sinking of the liner by a German submarine in 1915, or play a round at the spectacular Old Head Golf Links, a firm favourite amongst global golf enthusiasts.
Kinsale serves as an ideal starting point for traversing the Wild Atlantic Way. Start by venturing to the rough rocky precipices of Mizen Head, and enjoy a memorable cable car ride across the magnificent Dursey Sound to Dursey Island. Cobh and Youghal, towns steeped in heritage, can be reached with ease. If you prefer a city vibe, consider accommodations at the Kingsley Hotel, renowned for its superb spa facilities, or Fota Island Resort, conveniently located next to a wildlife park, both in Cork city centre.
As you continue your journey north, consider a stopover in Dingle for ceol agus caint (music and chat), and take in the spectacular rural beauty of the Slea Head drive. Seize the opportunity to visit the Blasket or Skellig Islands, the latter standing 11km off the Iveragh Peninsula, now widely linked with the ‘Star Wars’ franchise.
Choosing Killarney as your base is an excellent strategy to experience both the rugged mountainous terrain and the beautiful coastline of the Kingdom. The town offers ample dining choices for replenishing your energy reserves after an exciting day of exploration. Check out places like Tango Street Food, Quinlans’ seafood centric Mad Monk restaurant, Murphy Browne’s, Fiadh, or Lúna, a local favourite serving coffee, deli food, and wine.
For those who desire plush accommodations, The Brehon, located in the town centre, offers a fine balance of hotel and self-catering options alongside delectable dining offerings through its Danú restaurant and Brehon Bar. Additionally, a visit to the tranquil Anú Spa at The Brehon offers the perfect wind-down following an action-packed day of exploration.
Killarney Outlet Centre, Quills Woollen Market, Christy’s Irish Stores and Kerry Crafted Glass are rich shopping experiences worth checking out. For history appreciators, Ross Castle on the Lough Leane shore, Muckross House and Gardens, and Muckross Traditional Farms along the same route are unmissable sights.
As an entrance city to the Wild Atlantic Way, settling in Limerick is an ideal choice with convenient access to a selection of famous landmarks along the way and an array of superior lodging options.
Exciting adventures include the Shannon Estuary Way tour, a breathtaking drive displaying the union of the Shannon river and the Atlantic. This is a featured 200km circular driving route that connects the Wild Atlantic Way between Kerry and Clare, offering three counties on a single day trip and a medley of beautiful sights such as the popular fishing location, Bleach Lough, the stunning views from Ringmoylan Pier, and wildlife adventures at Stonehall Wildlife Park at Curraghchase.
With Adare Manor gearing up for the 2027 Ryder Cup, Limerick is a well-known respite for those interested in golf, easily commutable to Lahinch in Clare, or mountain biking at Ballyhoura Forest. Trips to Clare’s Cliffs of Moher or Ballyheigue beach in Kerry from the Limerick city are achievable within an hour and fifteen minutes.
In addition to being a dynamic spot bustling with over 25,000 students, it’s also highlighted for its unique energy. While enjoying the lively pubs, restaurants, and markets, one can also explore historical landmarks like the 13th-century King John’s Castle which houses an immersive exhibition, the Hunt Museum’s vast collection of artworks and artefacts, or exploring the International Rugby Experience.
Lastly, the Limerick Greenway, a scenic 40km off-road trail spanning from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale, offers the chance to soak up the local heritage, biodiversity and hospitality of the charming West Limerick countryside by bike.
As you journey towards the north, be sure to look for bottlenose dolphins gracing the entrance of the Shannon. Your path to Loop Head will take you here before you reach the Cliffs of Moher, which happens to be one of the most frequented attractions on the island. It’s no surprise that it has been deemed the most photogenic spot in Ireland.