Along the Wild Atlantic Way

Along the Wild Atlantic Way is a 12-day self-guided tour following a scenic section of Ireland's 2,500 km coastal route, from Ennis in County Clare to Clifden in Connemara. Expect sea-facing peninsulas, green valleys dotted with ruined castles and old stone walls, and pastures grazed by sheep.

From Ennis the route heads to Kilkee for two nights and a loop around Loop Head and its lighthouse, then along the coast to Lahinch and Doolin, with time to walk the Cliffs of Moher. The limestone Burren leads to Kinvara and Galway, followed by a ferry to Inis Mór for a night of island life and Gaelic culture.

Back on the mainland, the route crosses Connemara's bogs and lakes to Carna and Clifden, finishing with a choice of loops around the Sky Road and Roundstone. Nights are spent in small, family-run guesthouses and hotels.

Highlights:

• Kilkee cliffs and the Loop Head lighthouse
• Cliffs of Moher and Doolin
• The Burren, Poulnabrone Dolmen and the Burren Perfumery
• Dun Aengus and the Black Fort on Inis Mór
• Sky Road, Roundstone, Dogs Bay and Gurteen Bay
• Marconi's transatlantic radio site at Derrygimlagh

Surface and terrain:
Mostly quiet sealed backroads and country lanes through rolling countryside, coastal sections, the Burren's karst limestone and Connemara's blanket bog, with some steep climbs. Daily ascent is generally 200 - 500 m, reaching 676 m through the Burren. Occasional gravel paths.

Likely weather:
Mild, changeable Atlantic conditions, typically 10 - 19°C from April to October, warmest July and August. Showers are possible on any day, with strong coastal winds at times, particularly on exposed headlands and the Aran Islands.

Suitable for:
Fit riders with some touring experience, comfortable with consecutive days of 40 - 70 km on quiet public roads. Rated Medium by the operator; an e-bike upgrade makes the hillier days easier.

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