10 ways to unlock adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way

An abundance of adrenaline is waiting for you on your next short break in this slice of Ireland's west coast.

With its striking mountain trails and its unparalleled coastline, the Wild Atlantic Way is nothing short of a paradise for the adventurous - and its northern stretch is the ideal spot to reach new heights.

On your next short break, feel the rush with a stand-up paddle boarding session in Mayo, unleash your inner surfer at a state-of-the-art facility in Sligo and experience Donegal's wilderness on horseback.

Indeed, the northern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way is packed with adrenaline-inducing activities in truly breath-taking surroundings. Here are our top ways to unlock adventure on your next getaway.

Go off-road in Strandhill

Once you've had your fill of adventure, head to the nearby Embassy Steakhouse in Sligo Town for a well-earned steak dinner.

Horse-ride across Bundoran

Donegal Equestrian Centre offers unique horse-riding treks for a variety of abilities across the shores of Bundoran. Meet your equine companion for the afternoon, pop on a helmet and saddle up for an unforgettable adventure.

Post-trek, take a stroll into the buzzy town of Bundoran and enjoy dinner with an ocean view at Madden's Bridge Bar & Restaurant where an array of seafood dishes await.

Go stand-up paddleboarding in Louisburgh

Afterwards, make the trip to the nearby town of Westport and finish your evening off with some local food, courtesy of The Towers Bar & Restaurant.

Cruise across Lough Gill

After your boat-ride, grab a hot drink, and a sandwich and a pastry at WB's Coffee House.

Choose your own adventure in Letterkenny

Once you've built up an appetite, check into Ripples Restaurant for a hearty feast.

Go on a sea safari in Achill

For dinner with a view afterwards, make a booking at Achill Cliff House Restaurant, which overlooks Keel Strand and the Cliffs of Minaun.

Surf the waves in Strandhill

Once back on dry land, head to the beachside restaurant Shell's Café for a restorative lunch and a warming cup of coffee.

Take a boat tour around the Inishowen Peninsula

Elevate adventure on your next getaway with Amazing Grace Yacht Charters in Donegal. Set sail on a yacht tour around the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula, discovering uninhabited islands while breathing in a healthy dose of ocean air. A resident pod of dolphins are no strangers to the tour, so keep an eye out for a glimpse of them throughout the excursion.

Great food awaits back on land – we recommend pizza at Farren's Bar - Ireland's most northerly pub.

Go trekking in Ballycroy

Make sure you pack your hiking shoes ahead of your next short break in Mayo because some truly great trails await. At Wild Nephin National Park, hikers can choose from a wide variety of walks - from the 10km Letterkeen Loop to the 2km coastal walk at Claggan.

Before you embark on your hike, fuel your adventures at the award-winning Ginger & Wild Café in the Ballycroy Visitor Centre.

Bounce on a floating waterpark in Buncrana

Once you've had your fill of fun, slow down and recover with a relaxed meal at Kealy's Seafood Bar.

So, what are you waiting for? Adventure is ready and waiting for you along the northern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way

Start planning your next short break at DiscoverIreland.ie

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