Wild Atlantic Way

Day 1 – Arrival To Ireland

Once landed in Ireland and after collecting your rental car, make your way west to Galway (approx. 2.5 hours), a lively harbour city known for its colourful streets and traditional Irish culture.

Take today at leisure to settle in and explore at your own pace. Stroll through the Latin Quarter, wander along the Spanish Arch, or enjoy the atmosphere around Eyre Square.

In the evening, you might like to visit a traditional pub such as Tigh Neachtain for live music and a relaxed introduction to Irish hospitality.

Overnight: Sea Mist Spiddal Connemara, Galway (or equivalent)

Cróga Activities:

Kilbeggan Distillery – Step into one of Ireland’s oldest licensed distilleries, dating back to 1757, where the tradition of Irish whiskey-making is still very much alive. A guided tour takes you through the historic buildings, including the original waterwheel and traditional pot stills, offering insight into the craftsmanship behind the spirit. Visitors can enjoy a tasting session at the end of the tour, sampling Kilbeggan’s smooth, triple-distilled whiskey, and browse the small gift shop for exclusive bottles. It’s a relaxed and authentic introduction to Ireland’s rich distilling heritage, and an ideal first stop as you journey west.

Day 2 – Day Trip to Connemara

Today explore the wild beauty of Connemara, a region known for its rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and sweeping Atlantic coastline.

Begin your journey with a scenic drive through the countryside towards Clifden, often referred to as the capital of Connemara. From here, take in the spectacular views along the Sky Road, a circular route overlooking the coastline and offshore islands.

Continue on to Connemara National Park, where you can enjoy a range of walking trails suited to different abilities.

Return to Galway in the evening, where you can unwind with dinner in one of the city’s many excellent restaurants before enjoying traditional Irish music in a local pub.

Overnight: Sea Mist Spiddal Connemara, Galway (or equivalent)

Cróga Activities:

Kylemore Abbey – Set in the heart of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland’s most scenic landmarks, nestled beside a tranquil lake and surrounded by mountains. Originally built as a 19th-century castle, it later became a Benedictine monastery. Visitors can explore its elegant interiors, wander the Victorian Walled Garden, and enjoy peaceful walks, making it a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Day 3 – Aran Island Experience

After breakfast, make your way to the ferry port at Rossaveel, where you will board your morning ferry to the Aran Islands Ferries .

On arrival to Inis Mór, explore the island at your own pace by bicycle, minibus, or traditional pony and trap. Visit Dún Aonghasa, a dramatic cliffside fort with sweeping Atlantic views, and take in the island’s unique stone-wall landscape.

You may also wish to see the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist) and enjoy lunch in a local café or pub, soaking up the island’s relaxed atmosphere and traditional way of life.

In the afternoon, return to the harbour for your ferry back to the mainland, arriving in Galway in the early evening.

Once back in the city, you can relax with dinner and perhaps enjoy more traditional music to round off the day.

Overnight: Sea Mist Spiddal Connemara, Galway (or equivalent)

Day 4 – Cliffs of Moher

After breakfast, depart Galway and journey south through the Burren region in County Clare.

A highlight of today is a visit to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most spectacular natural attractions. Rising over 200 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and stretching for several kilometres along the coast, the cliffs offer truly breathtaking views. Take time to walk along the cliff paths and viewing platforms, where on a clear day you may see the Aran Islands in the distance, as well as the dramatic outlines of Galway Bay. The area is also home to a variety of seabirds, adding to the sense of wild, untouched beauty.

You may wish to visit the award-winning visitor centre, built into the hillside, which offers interactive exhibits on the region’s geology, wildlife, and history, or simply pause to take in the ever-changing light and powerful Atlantic waves below.

Overnight: Elmdale Ennis, Clare (or equivalent)

Day 5 – Journey to Kerry

Today travel south into County Kerry, known for its dramatic scenery and charming towns.

En route, consider stopping in Limerick or Bunratty.

Arrive in Killarney, a great base for exploring the region. Enjoy an evening walk through the town or nearby national park.

Overnight: Sneem Hotel Killarney (or equivalent)

Cróga Activities:

Bunratty Castle – One of Ireland’s most impressive and best preserved medieval castles, dating back to the 15th century. Fully restored, it allows visitors to explore its grand halls, narrow staircases, and historic interiors, giving a vivid sense of life in medieval Ireland. Adjacent to the castle, Bunratty Folk Park recreates a traditional Irish village with thatched cottages, shops, and farmhouses, offering an immersive glimpse into the country’s past and rural heritage.

Day 6 – Ring of Kerry

Today, embark on one of Ireland’s most iconic experiences as you journey along the famous Ring of Kerry.

This spectacular circular route takes you through ever-changing landscapes, from rugged coastline and sandy beaches to mountain passes and picturesque villages. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints such as Moll’s Gap and Ladies’ View, where panoramic vistas stretch across the Lakes of Killarney.

Take your time throughout the day, allowing for photo stops, short walks, and opportunities to explore local towns.

Overnight: Sneem Hotel Killarney (or equivalent)

Day 7 – Experiencing Cork

Travel east to Cork, often considered Ireland’s food capital.

You can the famous English Market, where you can browse local produce, artisan goods, and traditional Irish specialities. From there, visit St. Anne’s Church in Shandon, one of Cork’s most iconic landmarks, where you can even ring the famous bells and enjoy panoramic views over the city from the tower.

Take time to wander through Cork’s lively streets, crossing its many bridges and soaking up the atmosphere along the River Lee. You might explore the historic Huguenot Quarter, stroll down St. Patrick’s Street for shopping, or visit Fitzgerald Park, a peaceful riverside park home to the Cork Public Museum.

Overnight: Canamima House, Castlemartyr, Cork (or equivalent)

Day 8 – Corks Coastal Charm

Wander through Corks bustling streets, known for their excellent food scene and friendly charm. take a short drive to the nearby harbour town of Cobh, a colourful coastal destination steeped in maritime history.

Overnight: Canamima House, Castlemartyr, Cork (or equivalent)

Cróga Suggested Extra:

Titanic Experience Cobh – an immersive visitor attraction located in the original White Star Line ticket office, the very place where the final passengers boarded the Titanic in 1912. Through a guided tour, visitors retrace their journey, beginning with a personalised boarding card representing one of the 123 passengers who departed from Cobh. Using audio visual presentations, reconstructed cabins, and authentic artefacts, the experience brings their stories to life, from the excitement of departure to the tragedy that followed, offering a deeply personal insight into Titanic’s final port of call and Ireland’s connection to the story.

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Kinsale – A 40 minute drive from Cork, Kinsale is a picturesque harbour town renowned for its colourful buildings, rich maritime history, and exceptional food scene. Often referred to as Ireland’s “gourmet capital,” it’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood in one of its many award-winning restaurants. Stroll through its charming streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafés, or take a scenic walk along the waterfront. History lovers can visit Charles Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century star-shaped fortress overlooking the harbour, offering stunning coastal views. You can also explore Desmond Castle in the town centre.

Day 9 – Experiencing Kilkenny

Depart Cork and travel to Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval cities. Step inside to discover beautifully restored rooms and elegant gardens that bring centuries of history to life.

Wander through Kilkenny’s narrow, winding streets, alive with character, boutique shops, and cosy cafés, before visiting the Kilkenny Design Centre, home to some of Ireland’s finest crafts. History lovers can explore St Canice’s Cathedral and climb its round tower for panoramic views. In the evening, soak up the atmosphere in one of Kilkenny’s traditional pubs, often filled with live music and a warm, welcoming buzz.

Overnight: The Avalon Hotel Kilkenny (or equivalent)

Cróga Activities

Smithwick’s Experience – Located in the heart of Kilkenny, this interactive visitor experience celebrates one of Ireland’s oldest and most beloved ales. Through a mix of storytelling, multimedia exhibits, and sensory elements, visitors learn about the brewing process and the history of the Smithwick’s brand, which dates back to the 18th century. The tour concludes with a guided tasting, where you can sample the distinctive red ale and appreciate its unique flavour profile. It’s an engaging and enjoyable stop, even for those with a casual interest in beer.

Day 10 – Departure at Dublin Airport

This morning, travel to Dublin for your onward departure. Depending on your flight time, you may wish to allow a few hours to enjoy a final taste of Ireland.

In the city, you could take a short walking tour to see highlights such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the lively Temple Bar district, offering a glimpse into the capital’s rich history and culture.

If you prefer a more relaxed coastal setting, consider a short drive to Howth, a charming fishing village just outside the city. Here, you can enjoy a scenic cliff walk, take in views over Dublin Bay, or sit down to a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the harbour-side restaurants.

Afterwards, continue to Dublin Airport in time for your departure, bringing your Irish journey to a close.