Out at the very edge of Europe, the Wild Atlantic Way stretches for 2,500km (1,500 miles) along Ireland’s western seaboard. And it all starts in Co. Donegal where we will help you start at the very start of this coastal route stretching the entire way down south to Co. Cork.
Here the ocean’s force has carved a coast of wild, raw beauty. Huge Atlantic rollers crash and churn, shaping jagged ocean crags, archipelagos and inlets, sea loughs, surfing strands and the sheer granite walls of cliffs that are amongst some of the highest in Europe.
Right along this spectacular cycle route, you’re aware of the elemental power of the Atlantic Ocean, turning from grey to green to azure blue as great water fronts roll in and through.
Tiny roads hug the shoreline then switch back again above the Atlantic swell. Cloud-shadows race across sea and land, followed by shafts of sunlight. You’ll probably see a lifetime’s rainbows in just one trip.
You’ll want to stop often at the many small settlements and towns along the route. Every few miles there are places to stretch your legs and have a bite to eat. Maybe you’ll hunker down and stay a night or two to get to know the people and places and experience it on your bike.
You will hear the Irish language, the mother-tongue of the Gaeltacht region buried in the heart of West Donegal and the people will tell you “fáilte romhat isteach – you’re most welcome here.”
You could drive the entire route in one go – but you don’t have to. Instead start at the very start here in Co. Donegal and experience the western extremities – drawn in by the constant rhythm of the ocean’s roar and the consistent warmth of the people and find the Ireland you’ve always imagined.
For more information or download the WAW APP visit: www.wildatlanticway.com
A view of Glenveagh Castle from a nearby mountain in Glenveagh National Park in Donegal, Ireland
The world’s second most beautiful Lighthouse stands tall in Fanad, Co. Donegal
The world’s second most beautiful Lighthouse stands tall in Fanad, Co. Donegal
The white quartzite peak of Errigal, the highest mountain in Donegal, Ireland, stands majestically beside bog and moor land close to the calm waters of Lough Nacung on a cloudy day
The majestic Doe Castle, Creeslough, Co. Donegal, Ireland
The Atlantic Drive at Downings, Co. Donegal, Ireland
Portsalon, Donegal, where the golden sands of a deserted beach and the deep blue waters of Lough Swilly, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, bask in the sunshine on a hot summer day.
