Five unforgettable experiences you can add to your next Wild Atlantic Way road trip

These fun add-ons deserve a spot on your getaway itinerary.

With its striking landscape, rugged coasts and vibrant character, there is always something new to discover along the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Cliff walks, cycle trails, dark sky parks, relics of times gone by - this part of the country makes it so easy for visitors to embrace the spirit of adventure.

As you plan your next getaway, add these five experiences to your itinerary to level-up your plans.

Kilbrittain Trails Coastal Walks, Co. Cork

With an idyllic location between the buzzy villages of Bandon, Kinsale and Clonakilty, this walking loop takes just one hour to complete, but offers incredible views throughout. The 3.7km route takes hikers through country roads, through the village of Kilbrittain and to the gates of the historic Kilbrittain Castle. 

From there, walkers can either continue along the village route along a variety of main roads, or they can head through the village park. Throughout this walk, you’ll take in views of peaceful countryside, the striking Kilbrittain Castle as well as Coolmain Bay on the south coast.

Kilkee Cliffs, Co. Clare

Co. Clare's rugged cliffs are famous the world over, and you can take them in for yourself with this 5km cliff walk near the town of Kilkee. Start your adventure with a caffeine kick from the Diamond Rocks Café, and then begin the trail by following the cliff walk. Keep your eyes peeled throughout this breathtaking walk for the shipwreck site of Intrinsic Bay.

Other sight-seeing highlights include Foonagh Bay, while Moveen Hill offers incredible vistas of the wild Atlantic Ocean.

Limerick Greenway, Co. Limerick

Take in the striking autumn foliage with a walk or cycle along the Limerick Greenway. This Greenway is built along the old Limerick to Tralee railway line, and with five entry points – Abbeyfeale, Templeglantine, Newcastle West, Ardagh and Rathkeale – you can customise your route.

Bring your own bike or simply ramble through this Greenway on foot. Some of our favourite sites along the way include Desmond Castle on the Ardagh to Newcastle West section, and the Cistercian Abbey site along the Abbeyfeale to the Kerry border section.

Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, Co. Kerry

Feast your eyes on the wonders of our galaxy during your next short break with a visit to the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve. This reserve has the honour of being the only Gold-Tiered Dark Sky reserve in the entire Northern Hemisphere, making it a prime destination for a spot of star-gazing on a clear night. Enter the reserve with a flask full of something warm, set up a blanket, look up and you will be mesmerised by a sky full of stars.

The Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve - and the surrounding areas - are also worth exploring during the day. Go swimming on Derrynane Beach and visit Derrynane House and Gardens - the home of Daniel O'Connell, the Liberator.

Hall of the Red Earl, Co. Galway

On your next Galway getaway, set some time aside to visit the Hall of the Red Earl, one of Galway's top visitor attractions. The hall dates all the way back to the 13th Century and has a strong connection to the Anglo-Norman De Burgo family, the city's founders, and was used to collect taxes, dispense justice, and host banquets. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about our country's past, you're bound to leave with a deeper grounding in this era.

The Hall of the Red Earl is also well-situated within the city. After your visit, take a stroll through the buzzy streets and snap a photo in front of Galway's famous Spanish Arch.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next short break to the Wild Atlantic Way today.

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