10 of the best experiences along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
Abigail HealyHelp clients fill their hearts with Ireland’s treasures on the Wild Atlantic Way, a rugged coastline that offers the warmest of welcomes.
Stretching 2,500km, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is the longest defined coastal route in the world, beginning at Malin Head in County Donegal and meandering down the island’s west coast to Kinsale in County Cork. Here visitors will encounter breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, mouthwatering food and drink, lively music and culture, historic sights and outdoor adventures, all wrapped in a warm Irish welcome.
Next year sees Ireland celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way, making it an ideal time to visit. Help your clients plan their trip with these 10 suggestions to maximise on everything the coastal stretch has to offer.
1. Marvel at Malin Head
Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head in County Donegal, (pictured above) makes a spectacular viewpoint. Visitors can stand at the very edge of Europe on this remote peninsula and soak up epic coastal scenery, marine wildlife, thriving birdlife and historical curiosities. Star Wars fans can even stand in the very spot on which the Millennium Falcon perched in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
2. Take to the sea in County Donegal
Clients can explore the stunning coastline by sea kayak in County Donegal, where specialists including Sea Kayaking Donegal and Inish Adventures whisk intrepid types into the waves on kayaking taster sessions and trips exploring the county’s coastline and caves.
3. Surf’s up at Strandhill Beach
Crashing waves and spectacular scenery create a sweet spot for surfing in County Sligo. The National Surf Centre at Strandhill Beach is the first of its kind in Ireland and offers surf training and changing, shower and locker facilities that extend the season for dedicated fans of the sport. The centre is also home to three surf schools and shops selling surfing goods.
4. Stargaze at Mayo Dark Sky Park
Here in the wilderness of County Mayo, the night skies are some of the darkest and most pristine in the world. Transforming into Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park by night, Wild Nephin National Park offers a theatre for stargazers. On a clear night visitors can marvel at twinkling stars, planets, the Milky Way and even meteor showers – all with the naked eye.
5. Raise a glass at Micil Distillery
Ireland may be famous for its whiskey but at the family-run Micil Distillery in County Galway you can also try other traditional tipples including poitin, Ireland’s original spirit. Visitors can tour the distillery and sample its wares. Once in a merry mood they can continue their cultural experience with a traditional music session at Tig Choili, a pub in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter.
6. Hike Connemara National park
Enjoy full immersion in nature among the lofty heights of County Galway’s Connemara National Park. Home to mountains that make up part of the Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range, the park offers visitors opportunities to hike trails, climb mountains, explore bogs, grasslands and woodlands and breathe in the fresh Irish air.
7. Cruise below the Cliffs of Moher
One of Ireland’s most popular visitor attractions, the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare rise up more than 214m. Visitors can sail right below this point onboard a ferry from which they can appreciate the true scale of the natural phenomenon. They can also look out for seabirds and a sea cave featured in the movie Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
8. Tackle a rugby experience in Limerick
Sporting fans will want to tick off The International Rugby Experience in Limerick city. An interactive experience celebrating the game is split into six zones that take visitors on a journey from the sports’ grass roots through to the legends. A skills section allows families and friends to pitch themselves against each other and rugby pros.
9. Spot dolphins in Dingle
The magical moment a dolphin breaches the water and leaps through the waves will be remembered forever. Based in County Kerry, Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours takes visitors out in search of the playful creatures. It also offers excursions to spot wildlife such as seals, whales, sharks and sea birds while taking in the local scenery and history.
10. Tempt the taste buds in Kinsale
Over time Kinsale has evolved from a thriving fishing centre into a gourmet haven. Home to a myriad of high-end restaurants, foodies will delight in exploring its streets and Kinsale Food Tours helps them make the most of it all. Its Town Taster Series offers three options: the Kinsale Walking Food Tour; Foraging & Picnic Tours; and a Private Yacht Picnic Charter.
Further information
· For more information and itinerary inspiration visit trade.ireland.com and read more fact-packed features and news about the destination on the TTG Tourism Ireland travel agent hub.
The island of Ireland benefits from quick and easy access from Great Britain with plenty of air and sea routes to choose from. What’s more, the continuation of the Common Travel Area (CTA) means British and Irish citizens can travel between the two islands without a passport or visa restrictions, subject to ID requirements from their travel provider.
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Abigail Healy
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