Free Wild Atlantic Way Online Guide Book

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The

t l a n t i c Way
Wild A online
guide
MALIN HEAD

FANAD HEAD

Free
SLIEVE LEAGUE Donegal Route

MULLAGHMORE HEAD

DOWNPATRICK HEAD

Guide KEEM STRAND

Mayo Route
Sligo & Leitrim Route

eBook
KILLARY HARBOUR

DERRIGIMLAGH BOG
Galway Route

CLIFFS OF MOHER

LOOP HEAD
Clare & Limerick Route

BLASKET’S VIEW
Kerry Route

BRAY HEAD Cork Route

DURSEY ISLAND
OLD HEAD OF
KINSALE
MIZEN HEAD

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com
Discover The Wild Atlantic Way
Ireland’s 2,500km coastal driving route known as the Wild Atlantic Way stretches from the north of
county Donegal to the southern tip of county Cork. These roads have always been favoured by locals
and tourists alike for generations even before they became to be known collectively as The Wild
Atlantic Way. The route offers truly spectacular Atlantic ocean vistas and places to visit. Over 150 of
these locations have been officially categorised as Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points with a further
15 highlighted as Signature Discovery Points of special merit.

Our website is laid out with pages for each county along the coastal route showing a map and list of
the Discovery Points in that county plus tours, activities, events, business listings and accommodation
links for that county. This accompanying eBook follows a similar layout and is designed to be a useful
reference when travelling, particularly if you find yourself without internet access.

Our intrepid travel blogger Kate will bring your her personal take from her day trips and mini breaks
along the route in Kate’s Road Trip Blog plus we post tourism developments and updates in our Latest
News Blog.

If you would like to suggest a special must-see sight for Kate to visit please get in touch – Also if you
have a business on The Wild Atlantic Way that you would like us to visit we would be delighted to do
so and will review it for this website.

By downloading this free guide book you have joined our email list to receive our newsletters. Your
privacy is important to us. We do not share or sell your contact information and there will always be
an unsubscribe link on our newsletters so you can unsubscribe at any time.

Many Thanks

The Wild Atlantic Way Online Guide Team

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 1
Contents

The Cork Route Page 3


Cork Signature Discovery Points Page 4
Cork Tours & Accomodation Page 5

The Kerry Route Page 6


Kerry Signature Discovery Points Page 7
Kerry Tours & Accomodation Page 8

The Clare & Limerick Route Page 9


Clare Signature Discovery Points Page 10
Clare & Limerick Tours & Accomodation Page 11

The Galway Route Page 12


Galway Signature Discovery Points Page 13
Galway Tours & Accomodation Page 14

The Mayo Route Page 15


Mayo Signature Discovery Points Page 16
Mayo Tours & Accomodation Page 17

The Sligo & Leitrim Route Page 18


Sligo Signature Discovery Points Page 19
Sligo Tours & Accomodation Page 20

The Donegal Route Page 21


Donegal Signature Discovery Points Page 22
Donegal Tours & Accomodation Page 23

Kate’s Road Trip Page 24

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 2
The Cork Route
County Cork is the southernmost section of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Perhaps you are planning to travel
the entire Wild Atlantic Way coastal route starting in Cork (or ending in Cork) or are just dropping by for a
day or two? However you choose to sample the delights of County Cork you will not be disappointed.

This stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline weaves through a sub-tropical landscape of inlets, islands
and Blue Flag beaches. The Discovery Points shown below are selected to help you plan your visit with the
Signature Discovery Points of Old Head of Kinsale, Mizen Head and Dursey Island offering truly special
experiences. They are marked with orange icons on our map of Cork Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points
below.

Take the opportunity to find your sea legs with a boat trip, kayaking, sailing, whale watching or a spot of
fishing. Work up an appetite with a bracing walk in the sea air and satisfy your hunger with wonderful local
artisan food. West Cork is famous for it’s great festivals and vibrant arts & crafts community so there is
always something interesting to do and see.
Read More on website

Map of Cork Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points


1. Old Head of Kinsale 10. Heir Island 19. Whiddy Island
2. Timoleague Abbey 11. Sherkin Island 20. Bantry Pier
3. Inchydoney Beach 12. Cape Clear Island 21. Garnish Island
4. Galley Head 13. Schull Harbour 22. Bere Island
5. Toe Head Bay 14. Mizen Head 23. Pontoon Pier
6. Lough Hyne 15. Barley Cove 24. Castletown Bearhaven Harbour
7. Inishbeg Island 16. Alter (Toormore Bay) 25. Dursey Island
8. Baltimore Harbour 17. Sheep's Head 26. Gour Viewpoint
9. Cunnamore Pier 18. Seefin Viewpoint 27. Kenmare River View
Click through to the website for more information online.

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 3
Cork Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ locations on Cork’s Wild Atlantic Way:

The Old Head of Kinsale is a deserving Wild The Old Head of Kinsale
Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point. The head-
land extends out into the Atlantic ocean for 3 km.
At the start of the headland is the Old Head Signal
Tower which was built during the Napoleonic era in
1805. These towers were an important line of
defence against French invasion.

This is also the nearest point to the site where the


RMS Lusitania sank in 1915 following attack by a
German U boat. The Signal Tower has been won-
derfully restored as a Panoramic Viewing Point, A
Lusitania Museum and Interpretative Centre. Work
is underway to complete a Lusitania Memorial
Garden to honor the almost 2000 souls lost on that
fateful day.
Read More on website

Mizen Head
Mizen Head in County Cork is Ireland’s most south-westerly
point and a Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point. The
views are fantastic, be prepared to be blown away! It gets a little
windy here too!

The Mizen Head Signal Station was built over 100 years ago to
warn shipping of the dangerous rocks that lie close to the shore-
line. There is also a maritime museum close to the Signal Station.

Read More on website

Dursey Island is a mere 6.5 km long and 1.5 km Dursey Island


wide and located off the south western tip of the
Beara Peninsula in Cork. It is accessed via Ireland’s
only cable car which crosses between the mainland
and the island on a cable 26m (80ft) above the sea.
It is the only cable car in Europe that operates over
seawater.

There are no shops, pubs or restaurants on the


island but the scenery, nature and wonderful ambi-
ance of the island more than makes up for this.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 4
Cork (continued)

Day Tours From Cork


Cork Day Tours – Bus Tours, Walking Tours or Entry Tick-
ets to Visitor Experiences in or around Cork and The Wild
Atlantic Way.

These day tours either depart by bus from Cork City, are
walking tours or are easily traveled to by own car from
Cork in 1 day eg: access ticket to Titanic Experience in
Cobh.

Visit Kinsale and West Cork or call in to the Jameson


Whiskey Distillery.

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Cork


Book a cosy country cottage in County Cork.

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Cork.

Browse & Book Online

Wild Atlantic Way Route Atlas


available to purchase from Amazon

This atlas splits up the route into 30 Fold-Out maps which are detailed yet
easy to read. The coastal roads are classified so that you are instantly
aware of any narrow sections and you can also see where the really scenic
stretches are located.

Each section is drivable in one day or less and there are useful distance
charts for towns and villages to help you plan your journey. All of the
official Discovery Points are clearly shown including the 15 iconic Signa-
ture Points.

Over 40 different categories of visitor information are shown to help you


locate numerous hidden gems and well-known attractions.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 5
The Kerry Route
County Kerry’s wonderful scenery and world class beaches have made it one of Ireland’s most popular
holiday destinations both for foreign visitors and for the Irish stay-at-home vacations. It is referred to by
locals as ‘The Kingdom’ because Kerry truly feels like a ‘world apart’.

Central to the county lies Killarney National Park, 10,000 hectares of forest trails and the MacGillycuddy
Reeks mountains with Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak.

Before The Wild Atlantic Way driving


route was conceived Kerry had it’s own
famous loop drives of The Ring of Kerry,
The Ring of Beara, The Dingle Peninsula
Loop and the smaller Skellig Ring loop. All
well worth exploring.

The Discovery Points shown below are


selected to help you plan your visit with
the Signature Discovery Points of Skellig
Michael and The Blasket Islands marked
with orange map markers on our map of
Kerry Wild Atlantic Way Discovery
Points below.
Read More on website

Kerry Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points


1. Kilmackillogue Viewpoint 10. Skellig's View, Bray Head 19. Conor Pass
2. Coomakesta Pass 11. Mountain Stage Viewpoint 20. Brandon Point
3. Ballinskelligs Bay 12. Rossbeigh Beach 21. Castlegregory Beach
4. Ballinskelligs Pier 13. Inch Beach 22. Great Samphire Island (Fenit)
5. Kerry Cliffs (Skelligs View) 14. Dingle Harbour 23. Banna Strand
6. Great Skellig (Skellig Michael) 15. The Blasket Islands 24. Ballyheigue Beach
7. Little Skellig Island 16. Dunquin Harbour 25. Ballybunion Beach
8. Portmagee Harbour 17. Blaskets View 26. Beale Strand
9. Geokaun, Valentia Island 18. Slea Head 27. Carrigafoyle Castle

Click through to the website for more information online.

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 6
Kerry Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ locations on Kerry’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Great Skellig (Skellig Michael)


Skellig Michael Island (or Great Skellig) is the larger of the two Skellig Islands and home to the ruined
remains of a Christian monastery dating between the 6th and 8th century. It was inhabited by monks until
the late 12th century and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

The monks lived in stone, beehive shaped huts and


led simple lives fishing, growing vegetables, praying
and studying. They deliberately sought the solitude
of the island to bring them closer to God.

The Star Wars Connection


The landscape is so ‘other-worldly’ it was chosen by
George Lucas as a set for part of the Star Wars
movie ‘The Force Awakens’.

Book a boat trip to Skellig Michael and climb the


618 steps to the top to experience this wondrous
place for yourself. Boats leave from Portmagee
Harbour.

Read More on website

The Blasket Islands


The Blasket Islands is a small archipelago
of 6 main islands plus many tiny smaller
islands lying about 5km off the Dingle
peninsula.

These islands are Ireland’s, and Europe’s,


most westerly point.

The islands are no longer inhabited, having


been abandoned in 1953 when years of
hardship and emigration meant the aging
remaining islanders could no longer
manage the difficult task of rowing their
traditional canoes (naomhoga) to the
mainland.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 7
Kerry (continued)

Day Tours From Kerry


Kerry Day Tours – Bus Tours, Walking, Boat or
Cycling Tours or Entry Tickets to Visitor Experienc-
es in or around County Kerry.

These tours either depart by bus from Killarney,


Dingle, Tralee or Kenmare, or are walking tours or
are tickets for experiences easily traveled to by
own car in 1 day or less.

Take a Tour on the world famous Ring of Kerry


Route, go Dolphin and Whale Watching from
Dingle or find out more about The Skellig Islands.

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Kerry


Book this apartment overlooking the sea in
Ballyheigue County Kerry.

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Kerry.

Browse & Book Online

Irish Aran Sweaters


available to purchase from Amazon

Ireland is famous for it’s aran sweaters and traditional cable


knitting.

Originally aran sweaters were knitted from heavy wool with a lot
of natural oils. It was the oil in the wool that made the sweater
somewhat waterproof and warm for the fisherman.

Those of us who remember the old fashioned aran sweaters of


our childhood days also recall the itchy, heavy wool. Nowadays
the wool is finer whilst still retaining the unique and intricate
cable stitching.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 8
The Clare & Limerick Route

There are 2 Signature Discovery Points in Clare, namely the famous Cliffs of Moher and Loop Head shown
with orange map markers in the map of Clare & Limerick Discovery Points below.

County Clare is famous for it’s region of karst landscape known as The Burren. This area manages to appear
both harsh and fragile at the same time. The rocky ground is home to many rare species of alpine plants.

County Clare is well known for it’s Traditional


music. Clare has many music festivals most
notably the Willie Clancy Summer School held
annually in Miltown Malbay, County Clare,
Ireland.

County Limerick’s Wild Atlantic Coastline is


short, but significant, comprising of much of the
southern shores of the Shannon estuary. Shan-
non airport, located just 15 miles (22 km) from
Limerick City, could be said to be the Interna-
tional gateway to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Read More on website

Clare & Limerick Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points

1. Foynes Island Viewpoint 7. Bridges of Ross 13. Cliffs of Moher


2. Killimer – Tarbert Ferry 8. Kilkee Cliffs 14. Doolin Port
3. Scattery Island 9. Doughmore Bay, Doonbeg 15. Fanore Beach
4. Cappagh Pier 10. Spanish Point 16. Murrooghtoohy
5. Carrigaholt Bay 11. Lahinch Beach 17. Ballyvaughan Pier
6. Loop Head 12. Clahane - Liscannor Bay View 18. Flaggy Shore

Click through to the website for more information online.

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 9
Clare & Limerick Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ locations on County Clare and County Limerick’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Loop Head
Loop Head is located the western tip of County Clare, a narrow peninsula of land pointing out to sea. This
finger of land would be an island if it were not for a mile of land connecting it to the rest of county Clare.
The coastline of Loop Head Peninsula boasts some of the most dramatic cliffs and spectacular views to be
found.

This is walking country. There are many excellent


prescribed routes to take including The Loop Head
Heritage Trail. You may be rewarded with a sighting
of bottlenose dolphins, basking sharks, seals,
whales and a great range of sea birds.

In 2010, Loop Head became a European Destina-


tion of Excellence in aquatic tourism. You can climb
to the top of Loop Head Lighthouse for wonderful
views from County Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher.

Read More on website

The Cliffs of Moher


The Cliffs of Moher is one of
Ireland’s most significant natural
wonders and a Signature Discovery
Point on The Wild Atlantic Way.

Up to one million visitors a year


come to the Cliffs of Moher to
admire the magnificent views it
offers. The cliffs stretch for 5 miles
along the coast and reach heights
of over 700 feet. The Cliffs of
Moher are some of the highest sea
cliffs in Europe.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 10
Clare & Limerick (continued)
Day Tours From Clare & Limerick
Bus Tours, Ferry or Boat Cruises in or around
Counties Clare and Limerick.

Visit the famous Cliffs of Moher, The Aran Islands


or take a trip from Limerick to see the Dingle Penin-
sula in neigbouring County Kerry.

These tours either depart from Doolin in Clare or


Limerick city.

Read More on website

Where to Stay in County Clare


Book this traditional thatched cottage near Doolin
in County Clare.

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast


Accommodation, Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest
Houses and Hotels in County Clare

Browse & Book Online

Exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way


Guide Book
available to purchase from Amazon

Whether looking for ideas for weekend adventures or visiting


from abroad you will find everything you need within this guide.

This book's focus is on the outdoors - on getting out into the


fresh air, the wind, the sun and the rain - and experiencing the
incredible natural beauty found everywhere along the coast.

It is full of spectacular photos, helpful maps and detailed informa-


tion on the west coast's best sights, from the most famous land-
marks to the hidden gems on this awe inspiring route.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 11
The Galway Route

County Galway is on the West coast of Ireland, in the province of Connacht. It’s many attractions include the
wild and rugged Connemara region, the Aran Islands – Inisheer, Inishmaan and Inishmore, wonderful vistas
over Galway Bay and the Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point of Derrigimlagh Bog. Derrigimlagh
Bog is marked with an orange marker in our Map of Galway Discovery Points below.

The county has many large Gaeltacht areas where Irish is widely spoken. The city of Galway is a vibrant hub
of arts, culture and music. It’s large University population ensure that there is an active night life.

Galway is known as as the City of


the Tribes and is an important
tourist centre and a good place
from which to access the scenic
areas of the county.

The seaside promenade of Salthill


is a popular spot with locals and
tourists.

Read More on website

Galway Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points

1. Inishmore Aran Islands 9. Connemara Airport 16. Bunowen Bay


2. Inishmaan Aran Islands 10. Rosaveal Harbour 17. Derrigimlagh Bog
3. Inisheer Aran Islands 11. Trá an Dóilín - Coral Strand 18. Sky Road
4. Traught Beach 12. Carrickalegaun Bridge 19. Omey Island
5. Rinville Park 13. Pearse’s Cottage 20. Inishbofin Island, Galway
6. Salthill Promenade (Teach an Phiarsaigh) 21. Cleggan Harbour
7. Silver Strand 14. Glinsk Pier 22. Crump Island View
8. Ceibh an Spideal 15. Gorteen Bay

Click through to the website for more information online.

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 12
Galway Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ location on County Galway’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Derrigimlagh Bog
Derrigimlagh Bog is one of the Signature Discovery Points of the Wild Atlantic Way. It is uniquely beautiful
area of blanket peat bog and lakes important not only for it’s rich and diverse willdlife and plantlife but also
as the scene of two significant events in international travel and communications history.

Marconi’s first transatlantic radio signal in 1907


Over 100 years ago an Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi established the world’s first permanent transat-
lantic radio station at Derrigimlagh. It was from here in October 1907 the first commercial transatlantic
message was transmitted to Glace Bay, Newfoundland, Canada. The station was an impressive collection of
buildings employing several hundred people who helped transmit news across the ocean from 1907 to
1922. It was destroyed by fire during the Irish War of Independence but the foundations of the buildings
and workers’ houses can still be seen.

Alock & Brown’s Crash Landing

Amazingly this same remote and isolated location was also the site of the crash landing of John Alcock and
Arthur Whitten Brown in 1919 on the first non-stop flight across the Atlantic. They took off from New-
foundland 16 hours earlier on the morning of the 15th June 1919. The spot is marked by a white memorial
shaped like an aeroplane wing.

There is a new walkway through the bog marked by interactive information points telling the fasincating
history of this area. Viewing through the binocular style information points one can see the existing land-
scape overlaid with images of the view as it was in the early 20th century.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 13
Galway (continued)

Day Tours From Galway


Galway Day Tours – Bus Tours, Walking, Boat or
Cycling Tours or Entry Tickets to Visitor Experienc-
es in or around County Galway.

Take a Tour to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey or


a sightseeing cruise on Killary Fjord .

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Galway


Fancy staying in BunkHouse Cottage on
Letterfrack Farm in Connemara, County Galway?

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Galway.

Browse & Book Online

Irish Aran Knitwear


available to purchase from Amazon

Ireland is famous for it’s aran sweaters and traditional cable


knitting.

From this Ladies Merino Wool Celtic Gilet Cardigan to men’s


sweaters and cardigans.

We have compiled a selection of Irish cable knit sweaters and


knitwear available to purchase from Amazon.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 14
The Mayo Route
County Mayo is located on the west coast of Ireland and is the third largest county in Ireland. It has over 300
miles of coastline, with inlets, bays, headlands and islands. Weave along this route at a leisurely pace,
find your own private spot and lose yourself for a while.
The Mayo Discovery Points are all well worth checking out but if you are pushed for time you should really
try to visit the 3 Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Points Downpatrick Head, Keem Strand
and Killary Harbour.

Read More on website

Mayo Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points


1. Killary Harbour 13. Cloghmore Pier 25. Falmore
2. Aasleagh Falls 14. Ashleam Bay 26. Elly Beach
3. Doo Lough Valley 15. Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail 27. Annagh Head
4. Silver Strand 16. Keem Strand 28. Doonamo Point
5. Carrownisky Strand 17. Keel Beach 29. Erris Head
6. Inishturk Island 18. Dugort Beach 30. Benwee Head
7. Clare Island 19. Inishbiggle Island 31. Ceide Fields
8. Roonagh Quay 20. Doran’s Point 32. Downpatrick Head
9. Old Head Beach 21. Doohoma Head 33. Lackan Strand
10. Croagh Patrick View 22. Claggan Island 34. Killala Quay
11. Dooghbeg 23. Inishkea South 35. Ballina Quay
12. Spanish Armada Viewpoint 24. Blacksod Harbour

Page 15
Mayo Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ location on County Mayo’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Downpatrick Head
Downpatrick Head is a Signature Discovery Point
on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way Route and deserv-
edly so. The headland and sea stack of Dún Briste
(the broken fort) is as beautiful, dramatic and
inspiring on wild and windy days as it is on calm and
sunny days. Do take care, particularly with young
children, and do not venture close to the cliff edge
as there are no safety barriers.

The sea stack is thought to have broken away from


the mainland in 1393. DownPatrick Head is located
between Ballycastle village and the discovery point
of Ceide Fields. Read More on website

Keem Strand
Keem Strand is an idyllic sheltered beach on
Achill Island and a Wild Atlantic Way Signature
Discovery Point.

It is popular spot for snorkeling with equipment


for hire locally.

Read More on website

Killary Harbour
Killary Harbour is in the heart of Connemara and is a
great example of a fjord (and one that every Irish
geography student remembers from their school
days!). It forms part of a natural border between the
counties of Galway and Mayo. From this point you can
see the Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Bens.

Nearby is the Green Road, a 9km route built in the


19th century that weaves it’s way to the east along the
side of the fjord toward Leenane, the location of Jim
Sheridan’s movie The Field starring Richard Harris,
Sean Bean, John Hurt, Brenda Fricker and Tom
Berenger.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 16
Mayo (continued)

Day Tours From Mayo


Mayo Day Tours include Hiking, Walking, and
Cycling Tours in or around County Mayo.

These tours include:

• Bangor Trail – Electric Bike Tour


• Half-Day Guided Cycle Tour in Connemara
• Croagh Patrick Cave and West Summit Trek
from Westport Area
• Patrick’s Causeway Bike Tour from Westport

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Mayo


Treat yourself to a luxury stay at a boutique
Georgian country house between Westport and
Castlebar.

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Mayo.

Browse & Book Online

Rick Steves Ireland 2018


available to purchase from Amazon

You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know
when traveling in Ireland.

With this guide, you can explore lively Dublin, quaint Kilkenny, and the
moss-draped ruins of the Ring of Kerry. Navigate meandering back
roads that lead to windswept crags on the dramatic Dingle Peninsula.

Rick's candid, humorous advice will guide you to good-value hotels and
restaurants. He'll help you plan where to go and what to see, depending
on the length of your trip. You'll get up-to-date recommendations on
what is worth your time and money. More than just reviews and direc-
tions, a Rick Steves guidebook is a tour guide in your pocket.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 17
The Sligo & Leitrim Route

There are 7 Discovery Points in Sligo including 1 Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point at Mul-
laghmore Head. We show all 7 Sligo Discovery Points in our map of Sligo below.

With so much on offer from it’s perhaps more dramatic neighbours, you might be tempted to completely
bypass County Leitrim which has only two and a half miles of Wild Atlantic Way coastline. This would be a
pity as ‘Lovely Leitrim’ has much to offer. Take a break from the high energy of the Atlantic and head inland
for while to cruise along the more tranquil canals, rivers and lakes of one of Ireland’s smallest counties.

Read More on website

Sligo & Leitrim Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points

1. Enniscrone (Inishcrone) Beach 4. Strandhill Beach 6. Streedagh Point


2. Easkey Beach 5. Rosses Point 7. Mullaghmore Head
3. Aughris Head Viewpoint

Click through to the website for more information online.

Page 18
Sligo Signature Discovery Point
The ‘must see’ location on County Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Mullaghmore Head
Mullaghmore Head in County Sligo is a very special place and a deserving Signature Wild Atlantic Way
Discovery Point. The village of Mullaghmore is a charming fishing village with a working harbour and a
beautiful sandy beach with great views of Benbulben.

Mullaghmore is a famous surfing destination with some of the highest waves in Europe. It is often the
venue for international surfing competitions. There is a life guard on duty during the summer months but
do check locally. Boat trips and fishing excursions are also available.

Do take the opportunity to walk around Mullaghmore Head. The photo opportunities are endless. Starting
at Mullaghmore village walk north away from the village with the Atlantic on your right hand side. Follow
the road all the way round Mullaghmore Head enjoying the views and watch out for sightings of wild birds
such as Fulmars, Oystercatchers, Manx Shearwaters and Gannets. As you walk around the headland you
will see the imposing sight of Classibawn Castle. This is an easy walk taking about 1 hour.

Read More on website

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 19
Sligo (continued)

Surf lesson and walking tour in Sligo


After an invigorating morning surfing lesson , join a
local surfer and historian and learn about the history
of Strandhill Beach and the Coolera peninsula.

Departing from Strandhill Beach, Strandhill, Sligo.

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Sligo


Maybe farmhouse Bed & Breakfast Accomodation
near Benbulben?
You can climb Benbulben, cycle the Horse Shoe or
surf the Prowlers.

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Sligo.

Browse & Book Online

Wild Atlantic Way: A Walking Guide


available to purchase from Amazon

Renowned walking-guide author Helen Fairbairn explores the


best walking routes of the region, recommending trips to unin-
habited islands, coastal mountains and much more. Routes vary
from two to six hours, and are illustrated with colour photos and
detailed maps.

Whatever your level of expertise, this comprehensive guide is all


you need to discover the real wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 20
The Donegal Route
It could well be said that Donegal puts the Wild into the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you are starting your
road trip here or ending your journey you will not be disappointed and our map of Donegal will show you the
way. Donegal has it all – windswept headlands, awesome Atlantic vistas, lakes, mountains and truly authen-
tic Irish villages and towns with great food, music and history. Much of the county, over one third, is Irish
speaking (Gaeltacht) but of course English is also spoken everywhere.

See our Map of Donegal Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points below plus the Ferry embarkation points.

These locations are all well worth


checking out but if you are pushed
for time you should really try to
visit the 3 Donegal Wild Atlantic
Way Signature Discovery Points
listed below:

- Malin Head, Co Donegal


- Fanad Head, Co Donegal
- Slieve League, Co Donegal

These are highlighted with orange


map markers on the map here.

Donegal Discovery Points & Ferry Embarkation Points Read More Online

1. Tullan Strand 14. Carrickfinn Beach 27. Fanad Head


2. Rossnowlagh Beach 15. Gola Island 28. Ballymastocker Strand
3. Murvagh Beach 16. Bunbeg Harbour 29. Manorcunningham Viewpoint
4. Mountcharles Pier 17. Cnoc Fola, Bloody Foreland 30. Inch Island
5. Fintragh Bay 18. Tory Island 31. Lisfanon Beach
6. Muckros Head 19. Inishbofin Island 32. Dunree Head
7. Slieve League 20. Magheraroarty Pier 33. Mamore Gap
8. Malinbeg 21. Horn Head 34. Pollan Bay
9. Glengesh Pass 22. Marble Hill 35. Malin Head
10. Narin / Portnoo Beach 23. Doecastle Viewpoint 36. Culdaff Beach
11. Arranmore Island 24. Rossguill Peninsula 37. Kinnagoe Bay
12. Inishfree Island 25. Island Roy 38. Magilligan Point View
13. Burtonport Harbour 26. Ballyhiernan Bay 39. Inishowen Head

Page 21
Donegal Signature Discovery Points
The ‘must see’ location on County Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way:

Slieve League
Slieve League (or Sliabh Liag in Irish meaning ‘Grey
Mountain’) in County Donegal, Ireland are among the
highest marine cliffs in Europe. There is a car park
with benches and picnic tables from which it is just a
few kilometres to the top of the cliffs, at 601 metres.
The views on the way up are impressive ensuring
Slieve League’s staus as a Signature Discovery Point
on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

There is also a visitor centre where you may learn


more of the history and culture of the area.

You can take boat trips around the cliffs from nearby
Teelin. Read More Online

Fanad Head
Fanad Head truly deserves to be a Signature Discovery Point on
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. It is on Donegals’ north coast
between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay. The road to Fanad from
Rathmullan will reward you with some of the most spectacular
views of the Inishowen
Peninsula, Portsalon, Ballymastocker Bay and of course the
Atlantic Ocean.

Fanad Lighthouse should not be missed and is a great photo


opportunity. Enjoy a tour at the lighthouse visitor centre or even
book self catering accommodation there!

The whole headland and surrounding area is perfect for walking,


watersports, picnicking or just to take the time out to contem-
plate the sheer beauty and majesty of nature. Read More

Malin Head
Malin Head is the most northerly point of the island of
Ireland and a name familiar to sailors and those who
listen to the weather and shipping forcasts. It is a Wild
Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point. From here,
on a fine day, you can glimpse the hills of Scotland.

It is a wild and awesome spot waiting to be explored


and perfect for walking, fishing and swimming. Take a
picnic and and soak up the wonderful vistas out to
Five Finger Strand, Inistrahull Island and the Tory
islands. Read More Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 22
Donegal (continued)
Slieve League Tour from Dublin
Discover the mountains of Slieve League, which are at a
height of 609m, almost three times as high as the Cliffs
of Moher!

Walk to the summit of the mountains to have a spectac-


ular view on the Atlantic, the Sligo
Mountains and Donegal Bay.

Departing from Dublin

Read More on website

Where to Stay in Donegal


How about an apartment set on the beachfront
in Coolmore, Rossnowlagh with local fishing and
surfing?

See our filtered search of Bed & Breakfast Accommodation,


Villas, Holiday Homes & Cottages, Guest Houses and Hotels
in County Donegal.

Browse & Book Online

Men’s Cable Knit Aran Cardigan


available to purchase from Amazon

• This Beautiful Aran Button Mens Sweater is made from 100%


Irish Merino Wool ensuring you Warmth and Softness.

• Made by the renowned West End Knitwear, Irelands biggest


knitwear manufacturer.

• This sweater is made using different traditional aran stitches


combined with more contemporary designs also with vintage
style brown aran buttons down the front.

• Promising outstanding quality with great comfort this


authentic Irish sweater will keep you snug, stylish and
fashionable all year round.

Browse & Buy Online

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com Page 23
Kate’s Road Trip

#KatesRoadTrip Blog is the personal take of our travel blogger Kate who will be
visiting each of the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points starting in Cork and working
her way up the coastline to Donegal.

You can catch up with Kate’s progress at :

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com/category/kates-road-trip

Please follow on Facebook and Twitter :-)

If you would like to suggest a special must-see sight for Kate to visit please get in
touch – Also if you have a business on The Wild Atlantic Way that you would like us
to visit we would be delighted to do so and will review it for our website.

You can also create a listing with links and photos for your business in our online
Business Directory at :

www.wildatlanticwayonline.com/location

Finally, we hope you will get to visit Ireland and enjoy all there is to offer on the
Wild Atlantic Way!

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