Wild Atlantic Lighthouse Trail

Begin your 'Wild Atlantic Lighthouse Trail' adventure in the charming town of Clifden, the 'Capital of Connemara'.

An essential loop offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, islands, and the rugged Connemara landscape. Perfect for an early morning ride.

Explore the historic Derrygimlagh Bog, famous as the landing site for Alcock and Brown's first transatlantic flight and home to Marconi's transatlantic wireless station. A landscape rich in history and nature.

Visit the stunning Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery nestled in a picturesque valley. Explore its historic rooms, Gothic church, and beautiful Victorian walled garden.

Stop at a viewpoint overlooking Killary Fjord, Ireland's only glacial fjord. The dramatic landscape with mountains plunging into the sea offers incredible photo opportunities.

Ride onto Achill Island to Dugort Pier, where a small charming lighthouse/beacon marks the harbor. Enjoy the views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic.

Start your day from Keel, ready to explore more of Achill and the Mullet Peninsula.

Ride the stunning road to Keem Bay, a secluded golden beach surrounded by cliffs. Often voted one of Ireland's best beaches, it's a true natural gem.

Visit the iconic Blacksod Lighthouse, strategically located at the tip of the Mullet Peninsula. Famous for its role in weather forecasting for D-Day, it offers dramatic coastal views.

Depart from Belmullet, heading east towards the ancient Céide Fields and the stunning Sligo coastline.

Explore the Céide Fields, the most extensive Neolithic site in the world, featuring an ancient Stone Age landscape preserved beneath a blanket of peat. The visitor centre offers insights and spectacular cliff views.

Witness the dramatic sea stack of Dún Briste at Downpatrick Head, a stunning natural wonder. This Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point offers incredible views and a blowhole.

Stop for lunch in Ballina, a bustling town on the River Moy, known for its salmon fishing.

Enjoy a ride along the vast sandy expanse of Enniscrone Beach, a popular spot known for its seaweed baths and surf school. A great place for a brief stretch and sea air.

Drive to Raghly Point for stunning views across Sligo Bay and a distant glimpse of the Raghly Point Lighthouse. The rugged coastline here is breathtaking.

Start your journey south from Sligo, heading into the heart of Connemara and The Burren.

Take a short detour to the Gleniff Horseshoe for stunning views of Benbulbin mountain, often described as Ireland's 'Table Mountain'. The loop road itself is a scenic wonder.

Ride through the beautiful Doolough Valley, a dramatic glacial valley, and stop for lunch in the charming village of Leenaun, nestled at the head of Killary Fjord.

Explore the fascinating Ailwee Cave with its underground rivers and stalactites, then enjoy a thrilling display at the Birds of Prey Centre, all set within the unique landscape of The Burren.

Ride to Black Head Lighthouse, one of the most dramatically located lighthouses on the Wild Atlantic Way, standing guard over the entrance to Galway Bay with views across to Connemara.

Begin your final day from Kinvara, heading north along Galway Bay back towards Clifden.

Visit Dunguaire Castle, a picturesque 16th-century tower house set on a rocky outcrop on the shore of Galway Bay. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.

Spend time exploring the vibrant streets of Galway City, enjoy lunch, and take a stroll along the promenade to view Mutton Island Lighthouse, standing proudly in Galway Bay.

A final scenic stop on the way back to Clifden, offering picturesque views of the Connemara coastline and islands. Reflect on your incredible journey.