Secrets of The Wild Atlantic Way
Embark on a journey of wonder along the Wild Atlantic Way Secrets, liberating and rugged splendour of the World’s Longest Defined Coastal Touring Route.
This spectacular route spans seven of Ireland’s counties, taking in its wild natural beauty along the way. Discover Ireland stunning southwest coast with some of The Wild Atlantic Way’s Signature Discovery Points and Secrets. These are a few of our favourites:
1. Blaskets View, Co. Kerry
The Blasket Islands, small archipelagos that lie off the Dingle Peninsula are a gem to discover. This area which is renowned for its storytellers and traditional Irish culture was vacated of its last inhabitants in 1953. Nowadays, visitors can wander through An Blascaod Mór, or Great Blasket, and view ruined cottages and the land from which people lived. A well known wildlife stronghold, one can find dolphins, whales and birds off its shores, while back on the Peninsula, the Blasket Centre engages visitors with the history and literature of this mystical place.
2. The Ring of Kerry, Co. Kerry
The Ring of Kerry sweeps past The Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa’s doorstep. It is one of the top attractions in Ireland and its route travels part of The Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy famous sites such as the Gap of Dunloe, Torc Waterfall, Muchross House, Killarney National Park, Inisfallen Island, Skellig Michael, Derrynane Beach, the towns of Kenmare, Sneem and Portmagee to name but a few.
3. Bray Head, Co. Kerry
From Bray Head visitors can cast their eyes upon the Skellig Islands. Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved monastic settlement from the early Christian period. This ancient site boasts stone beehive huts, crosses and the church of St. Michael, and can be reached by climbing a one thousand year old staircase with over six hundred steps. Meanwhile, Small Skellig is a haven for wildlife, with over twenty seven thousand pairs of gannets calling this home – it is the world’s second largest colony of these sea birds.
4. Dursey Island, Co. Cork
Dursey Island, which lies off the coast of Co. Cork, is accessible by Ireland’s only cable car. This peaceful island which forms part of the Beara Way Walking Trail is an excellent place for viewing wildlife. Rare Siberian and American bird species are found on these shores, while whales and dolphins frequent the surrounding waters. The island houses a two hundred year old signal tower and the ruins of Kilmichael Church.
5. The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare
One of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions is the iconic Cliffs of Moher. These mammoth cliffs stretch for eight kilometres and at their highest point reach two hundred and fourteen metres. Many viewing platforms offer incredible views of the cliffs and its surrounds. Famously, The Cliffs of Moher form the backdrop for scenes in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Many beautiful villages can be visited along the way including Lahinch and Doolin.
To begin your Wild Atlantic Way journey, book now
