If you’ve always imagined Ireland as a
mythical place with rolling hills and rugged mountains, a new tour route called
the Wild Atlantic Way will prove it. It’s a long distance drive that stretches
right down the west coast of Ireland. Over 1500 miles from Malin Head in County
Donegal in the North to Kinsale in County Cork in the South, taking in cliffs
and beaches, ancient sites, modern sports, the heartiest food and the best pint
of Guinness. Here are a couple of our picks along the coast for holidays in
Ireland.
Dungloe, County Donegal
Steeped in absolute natural beauty, Dungloe
in County Donegal is pretty close to heaven on earth. The intensely rugged
coastline is totally unspoilt. Walk the soft sands of Cloughglass Beach and
soak up the view over the wild Atlantic Ocean. Visit Mount Errigal only 30
minutes’ drive from Dungloe and a great choice for hiking and walking fans.
County Donegal : Photo Credit: mjmkeating |
Clifden, County Galway
Head down the coast via Sligo before you
hit County Galway. It’s good for foodies, for nature lovers or aspiring
musicians. There is something for everyone in Galway. Take in the Galway Food
Festival or the Clarinbridge Oyster Fest. One of our favourite things to do is
a visit to the beautiful Aran Islands, just off the coast. This isn’t the
island hopping you might be used to. Grab a rental bike and soak up gorgeous
views, amazing historic sites and lots of fun on the ‘Islands of Saints and
Scholars.’ Head into Galway City where you will find the perfect pint of
Guinness in a traditional pub like Tigh Neachtains. Galway City is home to some
of the best live traditional music too and Tigh Coili or Monroe’s have lively
trad nights most days of the week.