Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

On the north coast of Donegal, golden sandy beaches and rolling farmland threaded by narrow roads set the scene in the secluded Fanad peninsula. Follow the Knockalla Coast Road and you’ll find yourself at Ballymastocker Bay. When you see it, you’ll understand why this was voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A visit to the iconic Fanad Lighthouse is also a must. Other than sightseeing, Fanad Head lends itself to outdoor activities like kayaking, golfing and fishing.

An adventurous trip awaits you here, at the end of the Beara Peninsula, as this place can only be reached by cable car. Once you make the journey, you can enjoy the many charms of Dursey Island, from sea life, ruins and standing stones to views of its lighthouse on Bull Rock. But the most impressive thing of all are the stunning sunsets, known as ‘Europe’s Last’.

A narrow road twists steeply up from Teelin to the dramatic Slieve League mountain and cliffs on the southwest coast of Donegal. The cliffs are some of the highest in Europe and are considerably higher than the more famous Cliffs of Moher. For the experienced walker, One Man’s pass will take you to Slieve League's summit. For the leisure visitor, there is a viewing platform from which you can see one of the finest views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay.

Mizen Head on the Mizen Peninsula is Ireland's mainland most southwesterly point. Breathtaking cliffs, beautiful views, lively sea life and educational experiences can all be found here. Head right away to the Visitor Centre, where you'll learn more about the history of this place, which is home to a signal station that housed Ireland's first radio beacon. Then, climb down the 99 steps that lead to a high arched suspension bridge connecting a rocky crag to the mainland, until you find yourself at the signal station, where another exciting exhibition awaits. Out on the horizon, you can spot the imposing Fastnet Lighthouse standing on a rock known as Ireland’s teardrop.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. These spectacular creations of nature stretch for 14km and reach 214 meters at their highest point. The views from the pathways and the viewing platforms along the cliffs or from the 19th century O'Brien's Tower are all magnificent. Allow at least two hours to really appreciate this place, an unmissable spot on your Wild Atlantic Way journey.

World-renowned for their ornithological, archaeological and cultural significance, the Skellig Islands lay out to sea and can be reached by visitors on a small boat from Portmagee, Ballinskelligs or Caherdaniel. Skellig Michael, or Great Skellig, is a mysterious and awe-inspiring place where tourists flock all year round. 1,300 years ago, early Christian monks built a hermitage here, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the coastal village of Portmagee you'll also find the Skelligs Experience Visitor Centre, where you can follow an audio-visual tour recreating the magic of the Skellig region and enjoy its history. At the near St. Finian’s Bay, a great pleasure awaits: Europe’s most westerly chocolate factory, Skelligs Chocolate - where you can enjoy a warm hot chocolate as the waves crash on the beach outside.