Wild Alantic Way
Wild Atlantic Way is a 2500km (1500 miles) driving route, stretching from Malin Head in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork along Ireland's western seaboard. It was launched in February 2014 by Junior Minister for Tourism Minister Michael Ring and it traverses the entire rugged and spectacular west coast of Ireland from Cork through counties Kerry, Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim to Donegal.
Stop off in Westport and explore the Great Western Greenway, Ireland’s longest off road walking and cycling route and a range of blue flag beaches which include Carrowmore, Old Head and Bertra.
In Mayo the Wild Atlantic Way is a 543km coastal drive and much of Mayo's spectacular natural scenery lies along it. There are thirty-one Discovery Points and two of them are indicated as Signature Points: Keem Strand, Achill Island and Downpatrick Head
Whether you arrive via the Great Western Greenway or across the Michael Davitt Bridge, Ireland’s largest island is simply unmissable, boasting 148 km2 of bogland, mountains and pristine beaches to explore. Be sure to get to know the locals; the population here is just 2,700.
2. DOWNPATRICK HEAD
A few miles north of Ballycastle, one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets waits to be explored. Perched at the edge of the land, the ruin of a church founded by St Patrick attracts visitors from around the world to atmospheric and unforgettable Downpatrick Head.
3. KEEL BEACH
A surfing hotspot, the beautiful shoreline at Keel is not only a Blue Flag beach, it’s also a conservation area boasting one of Europe’s most unique habitats.
This pristine strand attracts visitors year-round with its clean water and fantastic views of the Minaun Cliffs.
Heavenly Keem Bay on the west side of Achill Island is arguably one of the country’s prettiest coastal destinations
4. CÉIDE FIELDS
Witness the best of north Mayo at Céide Fields, the biggest stone age site in the world. This 1,500-hectare site dates back around 5,000 years and features stone walls, field systems, tombs and more, set among some of the most spectacular rock formations found anywhere.
5. WESTPORT
Whether sampling the craft beer from local Mescan Brewery, learning about pirate queen Gráinne O’Malley at beautiful Westport House, or simply ambling along the stone walls lining the River Carrowbeg, Westport is a treasure trove of fun and interesting things to see and do.
In northwest Mayo, 11,000 hectares of Atlantic blanket bog nestle up to the Nephin Beg mountain range, providing an unspoilt haven for a range of wild species, including otters, red grouse and Greenland white-fronted geese. It’s the perfect place to get back to nature.
Heavenly Keem Bay on the west side of Achill Island is arguably one of the country’s prettiest coastal destinations. Attractive and romantic year-round, it’s especially magnetic during the summer months, when swimmers, walkers and beach-lovers descend in droves.
8. CROAGH PATRICK
The holy mountain of Croagh Patrick has been an important Christian pilgrimage site in County Mayo for more than a thousand years. Even if you aren’t visiting for religious reasons, it’s still an impressive visitor attraction, offering amazing views from the summit.
9. CLARE ISLAND
The largest of the islands peppering Clew Bay, Clare Island is also one of the liveliest, so don’t let the population of around 160 locals fool you; here you’ll find festivals and events year-round, live music, and exciting heritage attractions set amid the stunning scenery.
10. ERRIS
Once voted the Best Place to Go Wild in Ireland by the Irish Times, the mountain-rippled barony of Erris is undoubtedly off the beaten track. From its white sand beaches frequented by surfers to the wide open countryside fringed by perfectly walkable cliffs, it’s a dream.
The Clew Bay Hotel in Westport is situated in a prime location on the Wild Atlantic Way.
For things to do on the Wild Atlantic Way
For events in Westport on the Wild Atlantic Way (our events Page)
Driving Route
Drive Route a
Drive Route b
Drive Route c
