Running 1,600 miles from County Cork up to County Donegal, this route, launched 10 years ago, takes in the west coast’s spectacular scenery
n the edge of pretty Mannin Bay there’s a barrel sauna with a convex picture window overlooking the white sand and translucent Atlantic Ocean. It’s the perfect place to warm up after a morning kayaking around the indented shoreline, one that changes dramatically with the rise and fall of the tide. We stroll back tohotel, just steps away from the sea, passing the spa’s outdoor seaweed baths, hot tub and sheep grazing in the garden.
I’m on the west coast of Ireland exploring part of the Wild Atlantic Way, one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, it was dreamed up after the financial crisis in 2008 as a way to lure people to the area with a 1,600-mile route running from County Cork in the south-west to County Donegal in the north-west, weaving through nine counties and taking in some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery.
While the nightlife is an undeniable part of the allure of a trip here, it’s the landscapes that constantly wowmakes it easy to plan a trip on one or more of the route’s 14 stages, with interactive maps and suggested accommodation, activities, “discovery points” and tours along the way . I’m driving a section from Galway up to Donegal, covering about 720 miles in five days, staying somewhere different each night.
While the nightlife is an undeniable part of the allure of a trip here, it’s the landscapes that constantly wow. After leaving the city the next day, we drive through colourful, gallery-filled Clifden and are soon gawping at views of the coast and scattered islands from the panoramic Sky Road. Further on, in Connemara national park, we follow one of the marked trails across grassland, boulders and bog, with a backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range and far-reaching views across the ocean.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Kids on board: a family surfing trip to France’s wild Atlantic coastWith vast empty beaches, reliable waves and pine forests, the Gironde, near Bordeaux, is perfect for an exhilarating but relaxing holiday
Read more »
‘Sucks’: Wild Olympic village feature dividing athletesThe infamous eco-friendly cardboard beds from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have made a comeback at this year’s games in Paris, and some athletes are not happy.
Read more »
Broncos NRLW star headed to judiciary, takes second shot at Eels rival after wild brawlNRLW: Annetta Nu'uausala could be hit with a ban that rules her out of the entire NRLW season, following a controversial strike on Kennedy Cherrington.
Read more »
'Multiple casualties' after helicopter crash in Ireland's County WestmeathThe mayor said the news was incident was "shocking and tragic".
Read more »
Skeleton of baby under floor in County Durham was there for years, police sayForensic analysts examined skeleton of baby found under floorboards of house being renovated in Bishop Auckland
Read more »
Freo third on ladder after wild western derby winTempers threatened to boil over late in the third quarter when Reid took down Sam Switkowski off the ball. A wild melee ensuing that is sure to attract plenty of fines.
Read more »