As far as road trips go, you’d be hard pressed to find so much natural diversity, gorgeous views, and unique activities anywhere but the Wild Atlantic Way. Stretching for 2500 kilometres along the coast of Ireland, the trail enters nine different counties, each with their own incredible sights and attractions. From a galaxy far, far away, to ancient history, to bucket list-worthy events, here are six things on the Wild Atlantic Way you’ll have to see to believe.
1. A real-life sea monster
Are the Cliffs of Moher on your bucket list? If not, they should be. These gorgeous cliffs, located on County Clare, rise 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. One of the most popular tourist locations in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are a “signature point” on the Wild Atlantic Way.
But we’re focusing on what’s brewing below the cliffs.
Said to be the site of ancient Celtic gods transforming into foals and leaping into the afterlife, three kilometres from the shore at the Cliffs of Moher lives one of the biggest waves in the world. The waves can grow to up to twelve metres high, and weigh more than 400 tonnes! John McCarthy, the first person to surf Aileen in 2005, describes it as “one of the most terrifying waves in the world.” It’s an unforgettable and unique stop on an already-unforgettable road trip.
2. Luke Skywalker’s hideaway
Looking to get away from it all? Well, if the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal is good enough for Luke Skywalker, it’s good enough for us! Fans of The Last Jedi, 2017’s installment to the Star Wars universe, will recognize a number of sites from the planet Ahch-To, Luke’s hideaway planet. While you won’t find any Porgs, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views and craggy cliffs to explore in Ireland’s northernmost point.
3. A lighthouse at the end of the world
You’ll find the Sheep’s Head Way on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, after a 4.2-kilometre hike twisting through rough terrain. In this little peninsula, much of the population are native Irish speakers, and things move a little more slowly. You can treat yourself to fresh, homemade snacks at local bakeries, hike the Sheep’s Head Way, or just sit back and enjoy the view of the Atlantic crashing into the south coast of Bantry Bay. Hidden away in the trail lives the Sheep’s Head Lighthouse; a gorgeous white structure that seems to sit at the edge of the earth.
4. A 3,000-year-old grave
Knocknarea Mountain is known as the hill of the faeries, and, legend has it, their queen is buried here. The mountain is thought to be a Neolithic ritual site, and the massive cairn jutting out from the earth makes this site jaw-dropping enough as it is. However, a mixture of history and mythology make this a mysterious opportunity for exploration!
Legend has it that Queen Maeve, or “The Warrior Queen of Connacht,” discovered that if she possessed her husband’s valuable bull she would be wealthier than him. She raised an army and took it by force, and people have been telling stories about her ever since! Maeve is allegedly buried in the cairn at Knocknarea Mountain, spear in hand, but the grave has been undisturbed since Maeve entered it.
5. Incredible Beaches
While you may not consider Ireland to be a beach destination, no drive along this unique country’s coastline would be complete without at least one sandy stop! Inch Beach, in County Kerry, is a personal favourite. This Blue Flag Beach offers miles of golden sand, ancient cliffs, and beautiful, colourful houses dotting the shore. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the Atlantic, finding the perfect shot for your Instagram, or just trying to sit back and relax, the beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way never disappoint.
6. The Northern Lights
Think the Northern Lights are reserved for travellers in the Arctic Circle? Think again! The remoteness of parts of the Wild Atlantic Way allows for much less light pollution, and Ireland’s location between the 52nd and 55th latitudes means that lucky travellers in the spring and fall are sometimes treated to this dazzling natural light show!
While the lights are slightly more rare to see in Ireland, there are a few things you can do to give it your best shot.
- Pick a location as far away from the lights of major cities as possible
- Time your visit to the spring or winter, when the lights will be the most visible
- Face Northwest
- Keep in mind that the lights may not always appear above you! Depending on your location, they could also be beside or even behind you
Ireland’s coast is an incredible adventure – the culture, sights, and opportunities for unique experiences can be overwhelming in the best way! Following the Wild Atlantic Way allows for you to get the absolute most out of the country while forming your own special memories and discovering hidden gems you may not have found otherwise.
Have you travelled the Wild Atlantic Way? What was your favourite part?
