Wild Atlantic Way Route: Start to Finish

Wild Atlantic Way Route: Are you ready?

First, buckle up and prepare to embark on the Wild Atlantic Way Route — a breathtaking 1,600-mile (2,600 km) journey along Ireland’s dramatic west coast. Stretching from Cork in the south to Donegal in the north, passing through quaint villages, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Trust me, this is one adventure you’ll never forget.

Planning a trip? If so, you’re in luck! I’ve been lucky enough to explore this route, and I’ve packed all my tips, hidden gems, and must-see spots into our Ultimate Ireland & The Atlantic Way Road Trip Guide Book. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your journey. You can find it HERE.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker chasing epic landscapes or simply a lover of stunning views, this trip truly has it all. From the moment you hit the road, you’ll be captivated by the ever-changing scenery, the warmth of the locals, and the sense of freedom that comes with exploring Ireland’s wild west coast.

So, without further ado, here’s your ultimate 12-day itinerary to experience the very best of the Wild Atlantic Way Route! Let’s dive in and start planning your dream road trip…

Road Trip Wild Atlantic Way
Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip - Mizen Head

The South West – Cork & Kerry

Day 1: Crookhaven to Allihies
  • Drive Time: 2 hrs 49 mins
  • Accommodation: Allihies Camping
  • Highlights:
    • Start your journey by soaking up the charm of Crookhaven and Barleycove. Whilst you enjoy a walk along the golden sand (or a dip in the fresh Atlantic waves – we couldn’t resist, even in the rain), you’ll be surrounded by the scenic green hills.
    • Next, Explore the dramatic cliffs of Mizen Head and the coastal town of Bantry.
    • Visit the Dursey Island Cable Car — the only cable car in Ireland!
    •  Then, relax at Ballydonegan Beach and enjoy the colourful serenity of Allihies. We made a stop at O’Neills bar for a quick pint in the sunshine where there were plenty of outside benches (perfect if the weather is suitable on your visit).
Day 2: Allihies to Caherdaniel
  • Drive Time: 3 hrs
  • Accommodation: Wave Crest Caravan Park
  • Highlights:
    • Enjoy spectacular views at Beara Peninsula’s Healy Pass.
    • Discover Gleninchaquin Park and the quaint village of Kenmare.
    • Stroll on O’Carroll’s Cove with clear, turquoise waters and Caribbeanesque white sands.
    • Unwind at Derrynane Beach, this idyllic, dune-backed beach offers white sands, rocky coves (great for snorkelling!), with views over to Abbey Island. We were lucky to visit this epic beach on one of the hottest days of the year!
Day 3: Caherdaniel to Rossbeigh
  • Drive Time: 2 hrs 5 mins
  • Accommodation: Glenross Caravan & Camping Park
  • Highlights:
    • Ballinskelligs Beach and visit Skelligs Chocolate. The hot chocolate from the café is delicious, made using real chocolate, plus free parking.
    • Take a Skellig Island Boat Tour for an unforgettable marine adventure. our. We’d recommend arriving at least 30 mins before your boat tour to allow time to find parking.
    • Visit Portmagee and Rossbeigh Strand, If you fancy something different you can trot along the water’s edge on horseback with the Rossbeigh Beach Horse Riding Centre. 
Day 4: Rossbeigh to Dingle
  • Drive Time: 2 hrs 40 mins
  • Accommodation: Dingle Marina Off Grid
  • Highlights:
    • Delve into the vibrant town of Dingle.
    • Visit Killarney National Park, If you’re lucky, you might spot some red deer roaming the park! Also, Ross Castle, and Torc Waterfall.
    • Drive through the scenic Conor Pass. ( Which I’ve unofficially branded it as Ireland’s answer to the Bealach Na Ba Pass on the NC500 in Scotland).
Derrynane Beach
Derrynane Beach

The West – Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim & Fermanagh

Day 5: Dingle to Kilrush

  • Drive Time: 3 hrs
  • Accommodation: Kilrush Marina
  • Highlights:
    • Kick off your adventure with the epic Slea Head Drive (Without a doubt one of the highlights of my Wild Atlantic Way trip!) and visit Coumeenoole Beach.
    • Marvel at Dunquin Pier and take the Tarbert Ferry.
Day 6: Kilrush to Galway
  • Drive Time: 3 hrs
  • Accommodation: Salthill Caravan Camping
  • Highlights:
    • Witness the iconic Cliffs of Moher such an iconic Irish landmark, the area was also featured in one of the Harry Potter film. And don’t skip a visit to the charming village of Doolin.
    • Explore the rugged beauty of the Burren and Fanore Beach.
    • Wrap up your evening by diving into Galway’s vibrant culture and nightlife. Me, Jas & the dogs enjoyed soaking up the busy atmosphere in the city! (Probably one to avoid if you’re not a fan of crowds!)
Day 7: Galway to Clifden
  • Drive Time: 2 hrs
  • Accommodation: Clifden Eco Beach Camping
  • Highlights:
    • Discover the Quiet Man Bridge and Gurteen Bay ( I would easily put this in my top five beaches in Ireland!)
    • Uncover the tranquility of Mannin Bay and Clifden Sky Road, we suggest you follow the route in a clockwise direction as this allows for better views and easier access to parking spots. 
Day 8: Clifden to Achill Island
  • Drive Time: 3 hrs
  • Accommodation: Keel Camping
  • Highlights:
    • Visit Kylemore Abbey, we particularly enjoyed visiting Kylemore to watch the sheep dog demonstration, our collies were oblivious to the sheep. Not forgetting, Killary Harbour.
    • Experience Aasleagh Falls and Westport.
    • Relax on Keel Beach.
Day 9: Achill Island to Ballycastle
  • Drive Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
  • Accommodation: Off Grid Ballycastle or Belleek Park Camping
  • Highlights:
    • Discover Keem Beach and the white cliffs of Ashleam, you’ll want to drive slowly to take in the awesome ‘drone like’ views (we definitely did!).
    • Visit Grace O’Malley’s Towerhouse and Downpatrick Head, Home to the Dun Briste sea stack, one of Ireland’s most recognisable landmarks.

Why the Wild Atlantic Way Route?

Pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way Route! From rugged coastlines to charming villages, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime. To start, there’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over the Atlantic, sipping a hot cup of tea in a cosy seaside café, or hearing the waves crash against the cliffs as you stand in awe of Ireland’s raw beauty.

What’s more, the Wild Atlantic Way isn’t just a route — it’s an adventure. So, take your time, wander off the beaten path, and embrace the unexpected. In fact, some of my favorite moments happened spontaneously, like wild swim or finding the perfect spot for lunch with a view, and having the place to myself, what a privilege!

Still planning? If so, don’t worry — there’s so much more to discover! Head over to my YouTube channel, Robbie Roams, where I share tips and hidden gems for your Wild Atlantic Way Route must-see spots. From breathtaking beaches to epic coastal drives, I’ll help you plan the perfect trip.

In the end, the open road and salty breeze are calling. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make your Wild Atlantic Way road trip unforgettable, check out my full road trip video below!

IRELAND
ROAD TRIP GUIDEBOOK

Featuring incredible locations, practical tips and stress saving hacks to ensure your road trip is simply unforgettable...
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POSTED BY...
Robbie-Roams

Robbie Roams

Collie dog lover, keen traveler and travel guide writer. In 2022, I launched No Fuss Travel Guides with 'North Coast 500 - The Road Trip of a Lifetime' which became an Amazon best seller. I've since worked with tourism boards including Visit Wales and have been featured in The Guardian 'Best of Travel'.

Hopefully you find some value in my videos & blogs, if there's something you want to ask me, fire away.

Don't forget to follow me on Youtube, Instagram & Facebook for the latest updates.

Rob, Staffordshire, UK

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