The Wild Atlantic Way, 10 Day Tour
Self Drive Tour or Luxury Chauffeured Tour
Immerse yourself in the poetic wilds of the west coast of Ireland. Encounter the diverse natural landscapes, the rich traditions and warmth of its people on the western edge of Ireland.
"Thank you for the great job you did arranging our trip to Ireland. Everything went wonderfully and the accommodations were the best.”
– Elizabeth Zechman
Call 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797 to talk to one of our destination experts or email us and start planning the perfect trip today.
Price: $1,499
Highlights
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for over 1,500 miles along Ireland’s western seaboard. From Donegal in the north to Cork in the south, through the stunning landscapes of Connemara, The Burren, Galway Bay and Kerry, it is the longest defined coastal route in the world. The Wild Atlantic Way can be experienced not just by car, but also by cycling, walking or sea - kayaking. Along the route there are 159 discovery points, and 15 signature experience discovery points, that reveal the rich culture and unique landscape of the wild west coast of Ireland.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
- Tour the city of Derry
- Visit Sliabh League Sea Cliffs & Donegal Castle
- Drive to Westport via Sligo & Yeats country.
- Explore Westport, Croagh Patrick & Keem Strand in County Mayo
- Visit Killary Harbour & Delphi valley
- Explore the landscape of Connemara, a Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) region
- Visit Galway city
- Tour the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the lunar-like Burren
- Visit the Aran Islands for a day of exploration and adventure.
- Explore the historic market town of Ennis & Bunratty Castle.
- Depart from Shannon airport
If you like this Itinerary you may also be interested in our 7 Day and 14 Day itineraries.
Included in This Tour
- 9 nights deluxe hotel accommodations with full breakfast daily.
- Self-Drive rental vehicle including unlimited mileage & CDW insurance. OR upgrade to the services of a Professional Driver Guide.
- Touring Map of Ireland & List of recommended pubs, restaurants and places of interest.
- Deluxe portfolio of travel Documents & Personalized Itinerary.
- 24/7 Concierge service in Ireland while travelling.
- Discount admissions booklet for area attractions.
Flight Information
- Arrive: Dublin (DUB) or Belfast (BFS)
- Depart: Shannon (SNN)
Take the hassle out of booking flights. Ask about our best available Economy Fares as well as our Preferred Business and First Class Offers. Our air department experts can help with competitive rates. Just let us know your preferred dates and U.S. Departure City. We will do the rest.
Meals
- Irish Breakfast Daily
Day 1 and 2: Arrive in Ireland. 2 nights stay in Derry.
Begin your Wild Atlantic Way experience by exploring the historic walled city of Derry. Take a guided walking tour, immersing you in tales from the past, while revealing the rich culture of Derry. Venture along the coast and visit The Wild Atlantic Way discovery point of Malin Head; the most northerly point in Ireland. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and magnificent beaches. Visit the next discovery point, Fanad head. Stay 2 nights at the Beech Hill Country House.
Day 3: See Sliabh League & Donegal Castle. Stay 1 night in Donegal.
Continuing your journey along the coast you will reach the quaint village of Dunfanaghy. A short walk or drive to the top of Horn Head, which overlooks the village and bay, offers stunning views. From here you will begin to drive south towards the next signature discovery point of Sliabh League; which are amongst the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Visit the remains of Donegal Castle which was once the stronghold of the O’Donnell’s. Stay 1 night at the Sandhouse Hotel hugging the beachfront at one Donegal’s most famous beaches at Rossnowlagh, and offering panoramic views of the bay.
Day 4: Drive to Westport via Sligo, Yeats country, stay 2 nights.
Today, drive south to Westport. On the way venture through County Sligo, Yeat’s Country, and visit Markree Castle, one of Ireland’s most authentic castles. Arrive in Westport, and check into the Knockranny House Hotel for a 2 night stay. The bustling town of Westport offers unique opportunities to climb the iconic Croagh Patrick Mountain or kayak on the sea. Westport is alive with traditional Irish music, and there is also a stunning array of restaurants to choose from. Feast on fresh oysters and Guinness.
Day 5: Explore Westport and Keem Strand.
Explore the Great Western Greenway, Ireland’s first off-road walking and cycling trail, which is 26 miles long and runs from Westport to Achill Island. From here, you can visit your next Wild Atlantic Way Signature experience at Keem Strand. Wander through this deserted village, one of the last places in Europe to be used as a ‘booley’, a place where people grazed their cattle on the mountainside in the summer. This evening, enjoy a stroll through Westport and soak up the welcoming culture and genuine Irish hospitality surrounding you.
Day 6: Visit Killary Harbour and Delphi valley. Drive to Connemara, Stay 1 night.
Today drive onwards to the ethereal Connemara region of the West. This moorland landscape has been described as one of the most scenic regions in Ireland. Your next Signature Discovery point is Killary Harbour. This inlet is famous as the start of the Killary Fjord, a glacial fjord that offers some of Ireland’s most awe-inspiring and dramatic scenery. As you continue your journey, stop in Clifden for lunch. This lively harbor town is dominated by the Twelve Bens Mountain range, with many shops, pubs and restaurants. Stay 1 night in Abbeyglen Castle.
Day 7: See Galway City. Tour the Burren and Cliffs of Moher. Stay Co. Clare 2 nights.
Drive to County Clare today. On the way make a stop in the vibrant City of Galway, renowned for its rich heritage, great traditional music, and fabulous eateries. Galway is a dynamic and vibrant city. From Galway visit the Burren, a lunar-like limestone landscape with ancient druidic altars and the most magnificent flora and fauna. Make sure you see the Birds of Prey Center, and visit the Ailwee Caves with its underground waterfalls. Explore the next discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way, the world famous Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs tower 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. They are a stunning sight to behold.The quaint nearby town of Lisdoonvarna is famous for its traditional match making festival, held once a year. Stay 2 nights at Sheedy’s Country House Hotel.
Day 8: Visit the Aran Islands for a day of exploration and adventure.
Today, take a ferry from Galway Bay to the Aran Islands. You can easily rent bikes on the islands. It’s a great way to explore the medieval castles, cliffs, prehistoric stone forts, sandy beaches, local crafts, pubs, and much more. Here you can experience life from a bygone era. The Aran Islands’ raw beauty and charm leaves visitors longing to return again and again.
Day 9: Explore the historic market town of Ennis and Bunratty Castle. Stay 1 night in Bunratty.
Stay 1 Night at Bunratty Manor. Explore the historic market town of Ennis. Ennis is world famous as the home of Traditional
Irish Music. This town brims with heritage, culture and good shopping, as well as great restaurants and pubs. Tour Bunratty Castle, shop at the Blarney Woollen Mills, and have lunch at Durty Nellies Pub. On your last night maybe you would like to go back in time and take part in the Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle?
Day 10: Depart Shannon Airport.
Drive to Shannon Airport, return your rental vehicle and prepare for your return flight home.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
Hotels
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden, Connemara
The Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is located on the aptly named Sky Road overlooking the quaint alpine like village of Clifden, Connemara. The Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is nestled in the romantic setting of the Twelve Bens with beautiful views overlooking Clifden Bay. The warm and friendly staff are always at hand to make your stay special, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience. The Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is located close to Connemara’s major attractions, including Kylemore Abbey, and The Connemara National Park.
Beech Hill Country House, Co. Derry
Beech Hill Derry offers guests a wide choice of extremely comfortable, cozy and well-appointed rooms. Whether in the hotel’s atmospheric Georgian house in Londonderry or our more modern wing, rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and contain everything you would expect to find in a hotel of this high standard. Rejuvenate yourself in this traditionally luxurious setting.
Bunratty Manor Hotel, County Clare
Knockranny House Hotel, Wesport
Awarded 'AA Hotel of the Year 2012-2013' Knockranny House Hotel & Spa in Westport,County Mayo is recognized as one of Ireland’s finest luxury 4 stardeluxe hotel and destination spa establishments. Open log fires and antique furniture combine with every modern comfort to provide visitors with the perfect hotel accommodation to truly relax in Westport, whilst enjoying the superb service, excellent cuisine and spa facilities that Knockranny House Hotel &Spa Salveo are renowned for.
Sheedy’s Country House, Lisdoonvarna
Sheedy's Country House Hotel and Restaurant is a small family owned and managed 4 star hotel and award winning restaurant, situated in the village of Lisdoonvarna, on the edge of The Burren. When you stay at Sheedy's Hotel Lisdoonvarna, you instantly feel like family guests of John and Martina's 300 year old family home. The family-run atmosphere is unmistakable, but the piece de resistance of this charming hotel is the gourmet cuisine;John's passion for great food has earned him numerous awards. John and Martina, together with their children Roisin and Matthew look forward to making you feel like a very special guest in their very special home!
The Sandhouse Hotel, Donegal
The 4 Star Sandhouse Hotel overlooking Rossnowlagh Beach on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, has welcomed many guests over the past 50 years. The views will take your breath away. In the recent past major development in the property has resulted in the addition of a New Marine Spa& an Award Winning Restaurant overlooking Donegal Bay. These new additions have married well into the luxurious old world feel of this Manor House Hotel.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Ireland
Passports & Visas
To enter the Republic or Northern Ireland, you need a valid passport. While e-passports are commonly used now, they are not a necessity to enter Ireland. UK citizens do not require a passport to enter Ireland, but carriers by air or sea require some form of identification with a photograph (usually either a passport or driving license with photo).
Citizens of the EEA member states (the 27 countries of the European Union EU, together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and many other countries including USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand do not require visas to gain entry to Republic or Northern Ireland.
What to Pack
Bring a sweater, even in summer; waterproofs to accompany all outdoor activities; sunglasses; comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. The weather is changeable so go for layers that you can put on or take off as the temperature changes.
Weather
February to April: Highest temperatures range from 46 to 54°F
May to July: Highest temperatures are between 64 and 68°F
August to October: Highest temperatures hit between 64 and 57°F.
Winter air temperatures inland normally reach 46°F, while the coldest months are January and February.
April & September are considered the most pleasant and temperate months.
Currency
In the Republic of Ireland, the official currency is the euro (€). One euro consists of 100 cent. In Northern Ireland, pound sterling is the local currency (£). One pound sterling consists of 100 pence.
Gratuities
Gratuities and tips are discretionary and are not usually included in a bill. The general custom is to give 10% to serving staff in restaurants. Cafes might have a collection box at the till and bar staff are not tipped but you are free to offer “have one for yourself”.
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance:
Republic of Ireland, Telephone: 112 or 999
Northern Ireland, Telephone: 999
Gadgets
Plugs in Ireland are three-pronged, the same as in the UK and the electricity supply is also 230v. Adapters are widely available, and it’s a good idea to bring a couple for your various gadgets.
Public Transportation
National Coaches
Republic of Ireland: Bus Eireann
Northern Ireland: Translink
Dublin Buses
Leap Visitor Card is a prepaid pass that allows you to travel on all Dublin Bus, Airlink 747 buses as well as the Luas Light Railway Tram and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) for up to 3 days.
Railways
Republic of Ireland: Irish Rail
Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Railways
The Dart (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) covers Dublin’s coast and city area from Howth and Malahide in north County Dublin via Dun Laoghaire in south County Dublin to Greystones in County Wicklow.
Luas light rail/tram service travels across the south and west of Dublin city including the city center areas.
Time Zone
Ireland functions on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). During the summer it becomes GMT+1, that’s Irish Standard Time (IST) in the Republic and British Summer Time (BST) in Northern Ireland.
For example, New York is Irish Time -5 hours & Los Angeles is Irish Time -8 hours.
Language
English is commonly used throughout Ireland although Irish is the official language and there are Irish speaking areas called the Gaeltacht where it is the predominant language.
Driving
You will need either a full valid national driving license or an international driving permit. Cars in Ireland drive on the left-hand side of the road and both driver and passengers are required to wear seat belts at all times by law. Signposts in Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas are written in Irish (Gaelic) so familiarise yourself with both English and Irish spellings before you set off for those parts. Northern Ireland uses miles per hour, while the Republic of Ireland uses kilometers for signage and speed limits.
Vaccinations
There are no vaccinations required to visit Ireland.
Testimonials
“Back from a great golf trip and thanks so much for your assistance. Hotels were outstanding and made for a wonderful relaxing trip.”
– Tim Dudich
“I wanted to let you know that our trip was one for the ages. We had more fun than I could have imagined.”
– Herb Bennett
“To say our group had an awesome time on our trip would be the understatement of the century.”
– John C. Granzow, CIMA
“I will have no hesitation in recommending your company for future use! I felt as if you and your company gave us top notch customer service and never batted an eye for what may have been odd questions – that type of service is hard to find. You really gave us personal service!”
– Leslie Wajda
“Trip was great – accommodations excellent.”
– Kathleen McCormack-Batterson
“This note is to praise Destinations Ireland and our driver, James Finn, who truly made our trip a pleasure!”
– Donna Long
“The trip was really great. You did a fabulous job of picking the properties. Scotland is beautiful! It was a great trip. You scored again! Can’t wait for our next adventure.”
– Libby McGriff
“I wanted to let you know that the accommodations were fabulous throughout our trip. We were completely blown away, what a magnificent find. The house is simply breathtaking. A word on the drivers. I could not have asked for more accommodating or entertaining gentleman to escort us around. They were full of information, great stories, and advice. Really, really just wonderful guys all around.”
– Susanne McNeill
“A masterful job in creating and arranging such a phenomenal trip…”
– P.J. Fitzgerald
“We had a “dream trip” and you/your organization were a large part it making it all happen. Everything went smoothly and was more than we ever imagined! We are already talking about a return trip in a few years! Have to save our money. 🙂 Thanks again for all you did for us.”
– Nancy Capocy
“I cannot express how much I appreciate you making all the arrangements with such short notice & I just wanted to say Thank you again for all your help.”
– Susan Sanford
“All I do is talk about the wonderful trip, sites and your company and how we couldn’t have been happier with all the arrangements and people who set this wonderful trip up. Again thank you!!!”
– Janet Jenrick
“We had a wonderful time in Ireland and I appreciate all the reservations you made and the guidance your gave us.”
– Monica Kobasic
“I wanted to thank you for arranging a great trip to Scotland. The Channings, Culloden House, and Roxburghe House were fantastic…the best of accommodations, food, and customer service”
– Trina Girimont
“I wanted to thank you and Destinations Ireland and Beyond. We had an amazing experience. We loved all the hotels that you set us up with. Thank you for being so insightful, quickly giving us a speed course of Ireland and helping us decide where to go and what to see. I would highly recommend Destinations Ireland and Beyond as the best travel agency!”
– Donna and Ira Spector
“A lot of beautiful memories. THANK YOU for all of your planning and attention to detail,”
– Kathy Ross
“I just wanted to send you a thank you for all you did to make our trip the best! It was beyond our expectations! We loved all of our accommodations. I can’t say that I have a favorite because it all was perfect. We were not ready to come home and all look forward to visiting Ireland again.”
– Peg Cozzolino
“I want to THANK ALL OF YOU FOR A WONDERFUL TRIP. Ronelle and I had a marvelous time.”
– P.J. “Paul” Nicholson
“Thank You! for all your help arranging a wonderful visit to Ireland.”
– Ron & Jennifer Spielman
“Tim and I had a wonderful trip to Ireland thanks to your wonderful suggestions and arrangements. Everything was just perfect. We truly had a wonderful trip and are grateful for your services.”
– Jenny Popp
“Thank you for the great job you did arranging our trip to Ireland. Everything went wonderfully and the accommodations were the best.”
– Elizabeth Zechman
Booking Enquiry for The Wild Atlantic Way, 10 Day Tour
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