Wild Atlantic Way Series

We're huge fans of the Wild Atlantic Way - the tourist trail (2,750 km) on the west coast of Ireland that stretches from the north to south coasts. We've decided to feature our favourite spots along the Wild Atlantic Way route, 9 counties along the unforgettable route with amazing scenery and experiences. First up in our series is Kerry, Sligo and Donegal.

Kerry has incredible coastlines shaped by the Atlantic Ocean, the peninsula sits in the southwest region of Ireland and boasts the most striking landscape. Kerry is known for its scenic drives and cycles, surf, picturesque villages like Dingle, a world famous dolphin, mountain trails and national park. The Ring of Kerry is just one of these popular scenic driving route and takes in Killarney National Park. The park is the perfect place to spend the day and to see landmarks like Torc Waterfall and Lakes of Killarney. 

The points of note along the Wild Atlantic route in Kerry and Cork are the ruined cottages of Great Blasket Island, Rossbeigh Beach, Skellig Island, Dursey Island, Sheep's Head, Kinsale, Dingle and Mizen Head which is Ireland's southernmost point. For more on the wonders of Kerry see Kerry Tourism website. 

Sligo's coastlines form part of the Wild Atlantic Way and face the Atlantic Ocean. Not only does Sligo have this epic coastline, but it also has beautiful mountain ranges like Slieve Daeane and Killery Mountain to the southeast, Cope’s and Keelogyboy Mountains to the northeast, Knocknarea to the west and Benbulben to the north. So if outdoor adventure is your thing Sligo is the place to be; endless hikes and trails, swimming, horse riding, surf, kayaking, diving, kite and wind surfing, canoeing and cycle opportunities. 

If you're surfing head for Strandhill and stop into Shell's Cafe afterward for some grub, or try Streedagh Beach for epic views and epic surf on the right day. For the more advanced pro surfer check out Mullaghmore. Mullaghmore is an amazing spot for surfers, you can watch top international surfers ride some of Europe’s best waves here during the winter months. The famous surf spot, Prowlers, can reach up to 30m. 

Donegal is our final stop on the Wild Atlantic Way, and it's 100% a must do. Donegal's landscape makes it the perfect county for so many activities; climbing, biking, hiking and our favourite, surfing. It's top surf spots are Bundoran and Rossnowlagh, they both boast excellent surf schools, surf rentals, surf hostels, B&Bs and surf lodging, so if you want to get out in the water Donegal is a great place to base yourself. We've been out on lessons with Bundoran Surf Co. in Bundoran and rented from Fin Mc Cools Surf School in the past. Both companies are great options for rentals, surf school and even grab advice from staff, the locals will be able to advise where to go!  If you're keen to surf in Ireland check out our other post on surf spots around the country.