Ireland is one of the most stunning countries in Europe, and it’s also a great place to travel. The Wild Atlantic Way is a coastal route that runs along the Irish Sea coast from County Donegal all the way down to Cork city.
It was named after the windswept ocean waters that surround this part of Ireland and its rugged cliffs, beaches and mountains make it perfect for hiking trails, cycling routes, sightseeing tours and more!
So, here are 9 unique things to do on the wild Atlantic way of Ireland!
1. Zipline in Westport!
Zip lining is one of the most unique things to do on the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll get an incredible view of Westport from up above, while also getting some exercise.
The zip line ride is short, but it’s a great way to see the town from a different perspective and make sure you don’t miss any important landmarks!
2. Attend the Galway races!
The Galway races are held every July, and they’re a fun day out for all. The annual horse races have been happening since 1869 and are one of the biggest festivals in Ireland.
During the three days of racing, there’s also plenty going on at local pubs and restaurants with food, drink and music – so you can even make it a long weekend!
If you’re not up for watching horses run around an oval track (or maybe you just want some other entertainment), there’s always traditional Irish music performances happening at pubs throughout Galway City during this time too!
3. Hike through Connemara National Park!
Connemara National Park is a rugged wilderness area in the west of Ireland. It’s home to many species of wildlife including red deer, golden eagles and seals, which can be seen on safari-style boat trips. It also contains some ancient monuments like tombs and stone circles.
The best way to explore this park is by hiking its trails! The Connemara National Park Trail reveals some of the park’s most beautiful scenery as it winds through forests, lakes and fields. You’ll also get an opportunity to see Connemara ponies roaming freely on these trails.
There are two paths: one for beginners (five miles) and another for more experienced hikers (eight miles).
4. Learn how to ride a horse in Dingle Peninsula!
If you are a horse lover, Dingle Peninsula is the place for you! This region has many stables where you can learn to ride a horse and go on trail rides. The horses used for riding are well trained and friendly, making them ideal for beginners.
They have also been well looked after by their owners and groomed so that they are in great condition. The terrain of Dingle Peninsula is perfect for this type of activity as it features lush green grasslands which make for soft landings when getting off your mount!
5. Visit the Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland!
The Giant’s Causeway is a series of thousands of hexagonal columns, which form the shape of a giant staircase. It was formed by volcanic activity and sits at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The name “Giant’s Causeway” originates from when Finn McCool (a giant in Irish mythology) built it using his feet as stepping stones to reach Scotland while fighting another giant.
The causeway is located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland on the coast between Portrush and Ballycastle. It’s one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions with an estimated 1 million visitors per year!
6. Explore Kilkenny Castle – Kilkenny!
It’s a must-do for any visitor to Ireland, and it’s only a short distance from the main road.
The castle was built during the 12th century by William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke in 1173. It’s known as one of Ireland’s most iconic medieval castles with its round towers which were once used as prisons and dungeons. There are also several impressive gates. The Castle is set within Kilkenny’s city walls and is an attraction on its own with beautiful gardens surrounding it which are free to tour!
7. Ride a train up into the mountains on the vintage rail carriages of the Waterford and Suir Valley Railway!
The Waterford and Suir Valley Railway (W&SVR) is a heritage railway line in Ireland that runs from Kilkenny to Dungarvan. It is the only narrow gauge railway left in Ireland, and it passes through many small villages along its route.
The train can be taken by foot passengers or cyclists to get up into the mountains and pass through towns such as Carrick-on-Suir, Clogheen, Tallow and Mallowmore/Kilworth before reaching Kilkenny again on its return journey.
The W&SVR offers a great way for sightseers to see some of Ireland’s finest countryside without having to drive or take a bus tour around it – you can relax on board while enjoying all of the stunning views, just like those who would have traveled this way in years past!
8. Climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain!
Ireland’s tallest mountain is Carrauntoohil, located in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks range. The route to the peak can be divided into four parts:
From “The Saddle” (the foot of the mountain), you will climb a series of steep scree slopes for about an hour before reaching “The Plateau”, where you can stop for lunch or a short rest before continuing onto your second climb. This takes approximately two hours to complete and rewards hikers with stunning views across both Kerry and Clare counties as well as inland towards Lakes Corrib and Mask.
Once at the summit plateau, another hour’s walk brings you to Ireland’s highest point – 1038 meters (3463 ft) above sea level! Here you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of Ireland’s most famous peaks including Mangerton Mountain (1076 meters), Shehy Mountain (1058 meters) and Croagh Patrick Mountain (979 meters).
9. Check out the heritage town of Glendalough, County Wicklow!
If you’re looking for a place that evokes the feeling of ancient Ireland, Glendalough is the place for you. The town was founded by St. Kevin in 598 AD and remained a monastic settlement until 1170. There are still many intact remains of this ancient settlement to explore as well as some beautiful lakeside scenery.
If you want to learn more about its history or simply enjoy some fresh air, Glendalough is definitely worth visiting!
Also, Read “Do you know what people in Ireland like to do for fun?”
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an adventure, look no further! The Wild Atlantic Way has something for everyone.
Whether it’s hiking through the mountains or sailing on a boat, there are many ways to enjoy this beautiful part of Ireland. So, what are you waiting for? Go explore!
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