Put the wild in Wild Atlantic Way on your next short break

This autumn, we're embracing adventure on the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.

There's something about this time of year that makes us crave adventure. Perhaps it's the cooler weather that makes that hike extra enjoyable, or the fresh breeze that makes spending time by the sea even more refreshing.

This October, we're making the most of that crisp autumn weather by adding a healthy dose of adventure to our next short break along Ireland's south west coast. That's right, the Wild Atlantic Way is calling, and it's the ultimate autumn destination for adventure. Spend your days reaching new heights with a challenging climbing wall, take to the waves with a surfing lesson and embark on a whale-watching journey.

It's not just adventure you'll find in the south Wild Atlantic Way. This region boasts plenty of great bars and restaurants, so you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to cosying up after a day of adventure.

Here are some of our top spots along the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way to add adventure to your autumn break.

Hit the waves in Clare

Embrace the refreshing autumn weather with a spot of surfing at Aloha Surf School in Fanore. Pop your wet suit on, grab a board and take to the sea and enjoy that cool refreshing spray as you get to grips with the sport. Elsewhere on your next short break, stretch your legs with a hike around the nearby Caher Valley Loop, and enjoy a climbing lesson with Climb It in Doolin. For some tasty seafood, make a booking at Monk's Ballyvaughan Seafood Restaurant and Bar.

Embrace the wildlife in West Cork

For a truly memorable autumn experience, book an excursion with Atlantic Whale and Wildlife Tours. Climb aboard one of their vessels and you'll venture out to the ocean. As you tour, keep your eyes peeled for passing dolphins, whales, basking sharks and more. Once you've returned to land, you'll want to stretch those legs, so take a hike along the Kilbrittain Trails Castle Walk. After taking in the sights along this route, warm up at The Pier House, a cosy pub in Courtmacsherry.

Dive deep in Galway

Visit Galway on your next autumn break, and try something entirely different with the Atlantic Scuba Adventures. At this school, you can learn how to snorkel or scuba-dive under the guidance of Atlantic Scuba Adventures certified instructors. Once you've surfaced, enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation at the Oileánra Seaweed Baths and Sauna. For a tasty bite to eat during your Galwegian adventure, head to Coyne's Bar and Bistro for a casual, cosy bite.

Try something new in Tralee

During your next getaway in Tralee, set aside some time to visit Tralee Bay Wetlands Eco & Activity Park, where an abundance of adventure awaits. Take in the colours of autumn with a leisurely lakeside stroll, immerse yourself in nature with some pond dipping, climb the outdoor climbing wall and experience what it's like to run on water with water zorbing. After an afternoon of thrills, giggles and fun, you'll want something satisfying to eat, so head to the nearby Il Pomo Doro for a warming Mediterranean feast and a glass of wine.

Reach new heights in Limerick

Autumn is a gorgeous time of year to explore a new city, which is why Limerick is a great destination for your next getaway. Get your fill of adventure at UL Sport, which boasts stand-up paddle boarding facilities and Ireland's tallest indoor climbing wall. Once you've reached new heights here, enjoy exploring Limerick in the cool autumnal weather. Take it all in with a ramble along the Limerick Medieval Walking Trail and pop into the Milk Market for some tasty bites and a warming cup of coffee. This bustling, historic market dates all the way back to 1792, and today it boasts some wonderful stalls, selling everything from cake to soap to sausages.

Go wild in Goleen

On your autumn break to West Cork, fill up on all things wild with Goleen Harbour Adventures. Embrace that fresh autumn breeze on a coastal farm walk and with a stroll through the orchard, and then pick up the pace with a round of archery tag, a bike ride or a bracing sea swim. Afterwards, cosy up in The Heron's Cove where you can enjoy delicious seafood while taking in glorious views of the harbour as the night settles in.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for your next break along the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way today.

Plan your next short break at DiscoverIreland.ie

The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this autumn and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help us protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.