Heading off on a journey along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way is a dream come true for many who seek rugged landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking coastal views. This quick 14-day itinerary will give you a quick and brief overview of some of the best stops along the Wild Atlantic Way road trip in Ireland. Taking you on an unforgettable road trip, starting in Derry and ending in Cork. Covering an approximate distance of 1,550km (965 miles), the Wild Atlantic Way offers a an incredible experience through the diverse regions of Ireland’s west coast.
To fully appreciate the beauty and charm of this iconic coastal route, we recommend breaking the journey down into sections. Although it is possible to drive the entire Wild Atlantic Way in a shorter time, you may miss out on the hidden gems and unique experiences that each region has to offer. By allowing yourself 14 days, you can fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, vibrant towns, and warm hospitality that define the Wild Atlantic Way.
Each day of this itinerary is meticulously planned to provide you with a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation. From exploring ancient castles to hiking along stunning cliffs, you’ll have ample opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Planning your trip to the Wild Atlantic Way
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Wild Atlantic Way 2-Week Itinerary
The Wild Atlantic Way is known as one of the best road trips in the world for good reason. There is so much beauty to see in this part of Ireland and in this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, we will discuss the best time to travel the Wild Atlantic Way as well as the sharing some of our favourite sights for a 2 week itinerary along the Wild Atlantic Way and all you need to do to prepare for your trip.
How to get to the Wild Atlantic Way
If you are starting your Wild Atlantic Way road trip in the north, you can fly into Derry Airport and hire a car or a campervan. If you are bringing your own vehicle, you can opt for a convenient ferry crossing from Scotland to Belfast or from Wales or England to Rosslare in the south of Ireland.
In order to reach the Wild Atlantic Way, there are mant ferry terminals you can arrive into from the UK.
Ferry terminals from the UK:
Fishguard to Rosslare Ferry.
Holyhead to Dublin Ferry.
Pembroke to Rosslare Ferry.
Cairnryan to Larne Ferry.
Cairnryan to Belfast Ferry.
Liverpool to Dublin Ferry.
Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry.
Douglas to Dublin Ferry.
If you are a member of the camping and caravanning club, look out for discounts on the ferry saving you up to £400 and flexible tickets!
Where to Stay on the Wild Atlantic Way
Day One – Donegal
Killybegs
Begin your journey in the picturesque town of Killybegs, where you can explore the bustling fishing harbour, which is the largest fishing port in the country and enjoy a delicious seafood meal. Killybegs is located in County Donegal.
Slieve League Cliffs
Head west to the majestic Slieve League Cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Glencolmcille Folk Village
Visit the historic Glencolmcille Folk Village, providing a glimpse into traditional Irish life.
Ardara
Finish your day in the charming village of Ardara, with its traditional Irish pubs and live music.
⬇️ Book your stay in Ardara ⬇️
Day Two – Country Donegal
Glenveagh National Park
Start your day at the stunning Glenveagh National Park, home to the beautiful Glenveagh Castle and Gardens. Enjoy a hike or a leisurely walk around the picturesque Lough Veagh.
Fanad Head Lighthouse
Continue to the dramatic Fanad Head Lighthouse, offering spectacular coastal views.
Rathmullan
Spend the night in the quaint town of Rathmullan, with its beautiful beach and charming accommodations.
⬇️ Book your stay in Rathmullan ⬇️
Day Three – County Sligo
Mullaghmore Beach
Begin your day at the beautiful Mullaghmore Beach, perfect for a morning stroll.
Benbulbin Mountain
Continue to the iconic Benbulbin Mountain, where you can hike the trails or simply admire the stunning landscape.
Strandhill
Visit the charming town of Strandhill, renowned for its surfing opportunities and seaweed baths.
Sligo town
Spend the night in Sligo town, exploring its vibrant arts and music scene.
⬇️ Book your stay in Sligo ⬇️
Day Four – County Mayo
Downpatrick Head
Start with a visit to the impressive Downpatrick Head, home to the dramatic sea stack, Dún Briste.
Ceide Fields
Next, venture to the Ceide Fields, an ancient Neolithic site with fascinating history.
Westport
Continue to the picturesque town of Westport, where you can explore its charming streets and sample local cuisine. Stay overnight in Westport, enjoying the lively atmosphere and traditional Irish music.
⬇️ Book your stay in Westport ⬇️
Day Five – County Mayo
Achill Island
Travel to the stunning Achill Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Explore the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Keem Bay and Keel Beach, and visit the dramatic sea cliffs at Croaghaun. Return to Westport for another night of lively Irish entertainment and hospitality.
⬇️ Book your stay in Achill Island ⬇️
Day Six – County Galway
Connemara National Park
Explore the stunning Connemara region, with its rugged landscapes, pristine lakes, and iconic Twelve Bens mountain range.
Roundstone
Visit the charming fishing village of Roundstone, known for its scenic harbour and traditional Irish crafts.
Clifden
Spend the night in the picturesque town of Clifden, with its vibrant atmosphere and historic streets.
⬇️ Book your stay in Clifden ⬇️
Day Seven – County Galway
Galway
Travel south to the vibrant city of Galway, where you’ll find a thriving arts scene, bustling streets, and colourful shops. Spend the day exploring the city, visiting landmarks such as the Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square. Enjoy a night out in Galway’s lively pubs and restaurants, with live music and traditional Irish dancing.
⬇️ Book your stay in Galway ⬇️
Day Eight – County Galway
Aran Islands
Visit the beautiful Aran Islands, a group of three islands located off the coast of Galway. Explore the largest island, Inishmore, and discover its ancient forts, such as Dún Aonghasa, and beautiful beaches. Return to Clifden for another night of Irish hospitality.
⬇️ Book your stay in Clifden ⬇️
Day Nine – County Clare
Cliffs of Moher
Begin your day at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, where you can walk along the cliff edge and take in the breathtaking views.
Doolin
Visit the charming village of Doolin, renowned for its traditional music and lively atmosphere. Explore the unique landscape of the Burren, a vast limestone plateau rich in geological and archaeological wonders.
Ennis
Spend the night in the picturesque town of Ennis, with its lively pubs and historic streets.
⬇️ Book your stay in Ennis ⬇️
Day Ten – County Limerick
Limerick
Travel to the historic city of Limerick, where you can visit the impressive King John’s Castle and the beautiful St. Mary’s Cathedral. Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, with its numerous galleries and museums, such as the Hunt Museum. Spend the night in Limerick, enjoying its lively pubs and restaurants.
⬇️ Book your stay in Limerick ⬇️
Day Eleven – County Kerry
Dingle Peninsula
Travel to the scenic Dingle Peninsula, where you can explore the charming town of Dingle and its bustling harbour. Drive the stunning Slea Head Drive, stopping at the ancient Gallarus Oratory and the Blasket Islands Visitor Center.
Killarney
Continue to the picturesque town of Killarney, where you can explore the stunning Killarney National Park and Muckross House. Stay overnight in Killarney, enjoying its vibrant nightlife and traditional Irish hospitality.
⬇️ Book your stay in Killarney ⬇️
Day Twelve – County Kerry
Ring of Kerry
Embark on a journey around the famous Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that showcases some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Visit the picturesque towns of Kenmare and Sneem, and explore the beautiful beaches at Derrynane and Rossbeigh. Return to Killarney for another night of lively entertainment.
Day Thirteen – County Kerry
Kenmare
Begin your day with a visit to the colourful town of Kenmare, known for its charming streets and artisan shops.
Beara Peninsula
Continue to the Beara Peninsula, where you can explore the scenic Healy Pass and the picturesque village of Eyeries. Spend the night in the charming coastal town of Bantry, with its historic Bantry House and beautiful gardens.
⬇️ Book your stay in Bantry ⬇️
ORDER DESTINATION ATLANTIC WAY TODAY
Plan your trip to the Wild Atlantic Way like never before and enjoy a road trip around the most scenic landscape in the world.
INCLUDING ⬇️
😍 All of the best sights (100+)
☕️ Where to eat and stay
🚐 Campervan facilities (water points and waste disposal)
✅ Sample itineraries
and so much more!
Day Fourteen – County Cork
Cork
Finish your journey in the bustling city of Cork, where you can visit the historic English Market, the impressive St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and the lively pubs and restaurants. Be sure to explore the picturesque town of Kinsale, renowned for its colorful streets and gourmet dining, before bidding farewell to the Wild Atlantic Way.
⬇️ Book your stay in Cork ⬇️
Before You Leave for the Wild Atlantic Way
Before you set off on your way to the Wild Atlantic Way, there are a number of things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what to pack, where to stay and what is the best insurance for your trip to Scotland. All of this is discussed in detail below.
How to Get to the Wild Atlantic Way
In order to reach the Wild Atlantic Way, there are mant ferry terminals you can arrive into from the UK.
Ferry terminals from the UK:
Fishguard to Rosslare Ferry.
Holyhead to Dublin Ferry.
Pembroke to Rosslare Ferry.
Cairnryan to Larne Ferry.
Cairnryan to Belfast Ferry.
Liverpool to Dublin Ferry.
Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry.
Douglas to Dublin Ferry.
Where to Stay on the Wild Atlantic Way
Explore the various charming accommodations along the Wild Atlantic Way and choose your ideal hotel with the map below for an unforgettable coastal adventure.
What to Pack for Your Trip to the Wild Atlantic Way
When it comes to packing for a trip to the Wild Atlantic Way there is one item of clothing that you are going to need all year round: a waterproof. It rains in Ireland on average 225 days a year on the Wild Atlantic Way, meaning that during your trip to the west of Ireland, you can expect rain at some point. Due to this, the number one item on your packing list is a good waterproof jacket.
Second to that, another item to not leave home without is a good pair of warm and, if possible, waterproof boots. A lot of the best sights on the Wild Atlantic Way can require a bit of walking to reach them and the conditions underfoot can become very muddy if it has been raining. You do not want to ruin a good pair of white trainers so pack some sturdy boots.
You will definitely need a hat and gloves during the winter months as the wind chill can be bitter.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you are no doubt going to see on the Wild Atlantic Way, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
You can read what else we keep in our camera bag over here.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Shure VP83 Condenser Shotgun Microphone
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 9 Black and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 2
Camera Bag – Lowepro Flipside 300 AW and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socket
What is the Best Travel Insurance for the Wild Atlantic Way
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, a quick read 2 week itinerary to the Wild Atlantic Way. If you are visiting this incredible country and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, let us know how it was!
Also, remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this amazing experience with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to maximise their experience completing this stunning road trip.
If you are planning an Ireland trip soon then check out our other Ireland content right here. Come and find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your stay and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.
Read Now:
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