Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.ie
The adventure of a lifetime awaits.
Ireland’s west coast is home to striking landscapes, breathtaking scenery and fascinating museums, so adventurers are guaranteed to find an abundance of sights to see and things to do.
Wind your way from Kinsale to Glenveagh National Park and enjoy the very best the West has to offer. From the northernmost tip of Donegal to the most southern spot in Co. Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way is waiting for you to discover it, and we’re on a mission to help you make the most out of your trip.
We’ve put together six attractions that will seriously level up your autumn break. From a diverse Donegal landscape to a cutting edge arts venue in Sligo, these highlights are well worth a visit. And the best part? They’re all completely free, so you can enjoy them without spending a dime.
So, bring your Wild Atlantic Way road trip to life this autumn with these six completely free attractions.
Kilbrittain Trails Coastal Walk, Co. Cork
With an idyllic location between the buzzy villages of Bandon, Kinsale and Clonakilty, this walking loop takes just one hour to complete, but offers incredibly autumnal views during this time of year.
The 3.7km route takes hikers through country roads, through the village of Kilbrittain and to the gates of the historic Kilbrittain Castle. From there, walkers can either continue along the village route along a variety of main roads, or they can head through the village park. Throughout this walk, you’ll take in views of peaceful countryside, the striking Kilbrittain Castle as well as Coolmain Bay on the south coast.
The Model – Home of the Niland Collection, Co. Sligo
Nestled in Sligo Town is The Model – Home of the Niland Collection, and it houses some of Ireland’s most cutting-edge contemporary art. The permanent collection includes works by Percy French, Rita Duffy and Patrick Hall.
This autumn, stop off at this exciting arts space, and check out the current exhibition, Michele Horrigan’s Stigma Damages, which runs until 23 November. This thought-provoking multimedia exhibition explores industry, and its impact on the environment. Round out your visit with coffee and something sweet from the nearby WB’s Coffee House, an independent coffee house in Sligo town.
The rugged Clare coast is stunning all year round, but it becomes particularly dramatic in the cooler months. Take it in with this 5km cliff walk near the town of Kilkee. Start your adventure with a caffeine kick from the Diamond Rocks Café, and then begin the trail by following the cliff walk. Keep your eyes peeled throughout this breathtaking walk for the shipwreck site of Intrinsic Bay.
Other sight-seeing highlights include Foonagh Bay, while Moveen Hill offers incredible vistas of the wild Atlantic Ocean.
Limerick Greenway
Take in the striking autumn foliage with a walk or cycle along the Limerick Greenway. This Greenway is built along the old Limerick to Tralee railway line, and with five entry points – Abbeyfeale, Templeglantine, Newcastle West, Ardagh and Rathkeale – you can customise your route.
Bring your own bike or simply ramble through this Greenway on foot. Some of our favourite sites along the way include Desmond Castle on the Ardagh to Newcastle West section, and the Cistercian Abbey site along the Abbeyfeale to the Kerry border section.
Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park is home to rugged, diverse landscapes, protected wildlife, unique biodiversity and plenty of breathtaking views. Embrace the crisp autumn air and explore the natural scenery here by embarking on one of the six walking trails that range in difficulty, from the easy 1km Garden Trail Loop to the more strenuous 8km Glen Walk.
Fancy exploring Glenveagh National Park by bike? No problem. Visitors are welcome to bring their own bike, but bike rentals are also available from Grass Routes Bike Hire.
Sea Swimming
From north to south, the Wild Atlantic Way boasts so many wonderful, pristine beaches, and whether you plan on taking a dip in the Atlantic or you just fancy spending some time by the water, taking in that fresh, crisp sea air and impressive views.
In Donegal, visit Narin-Portnoo, and stroll along its 2km of fine white sand, or enjoy a refreshing sea swim. A little further south, you’ll find Ross Beach in Killala, Co. Mayo and enjoy the golden sand, as well as views of Killala Round Tower and the Church of Ireland Cathedral. Down south, meanwhile, Allihies Beach in West Cork is well worth a visit. This quiet beach is a gem on the rugged Cork coast, and makes for an ideal sea swimming spot.
For more ideas on how to make the most of your short break in Ireland, visit discoverireland.ie.
From unmissable cycles to unforgettable water activities, there is plenty to do and discover in Ireland. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the very best of Ireland without breaking the bank.
So, what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to book a break.
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.
Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.
