Wild Atlantic Way

BEST Wild Atlantic Way Hikes in Ireland:

We get behind the wheel of one of our superior motorhomes and take a road trip along West Coast lan and discover the Wild Atlantic Way to explore magnificent hikes for walking enthusiasts.  With our fully equipped campervans and motorhomes, county to county we enjoyed all the perks of living life on the road, in the fast lane, slow lane, and mountain terrain!  After a day’s trekking, we kicked back and relaxed with our own panoramic views of Ireland’s west coast!

Here, we uncover the places we found the most spectacular, in our end-to-end drive along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Slaibh League (Slieve League) – Donegal

First stop Slaibh League (Slieve League), County Donegal.  A trip to Ireland would not be complete without a visit here.

One of the hidden gems along the wild. With the carpark just a short walking distance from the cliffs, we commenced our hike from here.  The trek offered spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.  It’s a dramatic, vast and unspoiled mountain with the walk proving steep in some parts.

The cliffs, coastline and rock formations all add to the beauty.  If you’re brave enough (which thankfully we were), challenge yourself to the full hike over One Man’s Pass.  The name says it all, but it certainly added to our sense of accomplishment. Do you think this is something you would attempt when planning a trip to Ireland?

You’ll definitely deserve a few refreshments after this hike.  Back in the comfort of our well-equipped motorhome, we rested before our next stop – Sligo.

Admission; Free
Height; 601m
Difficulty; Moderate
Time: Approx 3 hours

Sruth In Aghaidh An Aird  – The Devil’s Chimney – Sligo

This is a much simpler hike and perfect for kids. A short 30 minute uphill hike took us through a wooded area and on to view Ireland’s highest waterfall (150m high) which appeared to have no limits and stretch to the sky.

The waterfall flows off Ben Bulben mountain. It’s recommended to visit during high rainfall as it adds to the gush and roar. With the wind driving the waterfall back up into the sky, it made it appear like smoke – hence where it gets its name. When you turn around you see spectacular views of Glencar Lake. It’s a spectacular view to see along the Wild Atlantic.

A short 15 minute downhill trek took us back to our motorhome where we kicked off our hiking boots for some well-earned lunch and relaxation.

Admission; Free
Distance; 1.2km to the top.
Difficulty; Moderate
Time; 30 minute walk up to the waterfall/ 15 minutes down

Croagh Patrick – Mayo

Legs rested, it was time to tackle this beast. A popular one to add to your Wild Atlantic Ireland guide. We set off early in the morning to minimise the potential of fog. I vaguely remember completing this as an 8-year-old so my confidence levels were – let’s say – pretty high. If you haven’t been to Ireland yet, this is one of the gems along the Wild Atlantic Way to experience.

The terrain is rocky and there’s lots of loose rocks. Once at the top, the views of Clew Bay and Ireland’s west coast are breath-taking. Our massive sense of accomplishment was polished off just nicely with a cup of tea at the top before make your way back down.

After this walk – we really did appreciate all the little comforts of our motorhome. Spacious and cosy, it was just perfect.

Admission; Hourly rate carpark
Height; 764m
Difficulty; Difficult
Time; Approx 4 hours

The Doolough Famine Walk (Killary Fjord, Connemara) – Galway

We started this commemorative walk at Delphi and completed the 17.7km stretch (one way). Remember to arrange a return lift! Every year, people from across Ireland and visitors from America complete this walk in memory of the Doolough tragedy.

The narrow road walk covers Counties Galway and Mayo. It is a sad and very poignant journey whereby walkers remember all those who tragically died on their journey to be granted continuation of food relief during the Irish Famine.

After this walk, we really reflected on the simple things in life. The motorhome was just perfect for everything we wanted to achieve – a simple appreciation.

Admission; Free
Distance: 17.7km
Difficulty; Moderate
Time; 3.5 hours

Cliffs of Moher – Clare

In truth, this was the main reason for our journey to the Wild Atlantic Way. The Cliffs of Moher welcome approximately 1 million tourists every year and I yearned to know what exactly it was all about.

The entire coastal walk from Hag’s Head to Doolin is 18km. We completed the entire hike. The sound of waves crashing, smells of the ocean and amazing views made this trip to the cliffs a very spectacular one. On foot is a fantastic way to experience the cliffs.

With lots of lovely restaurants in Doolin, we decided it was steak night – to add some protein to the muscles after our hiking adventures.

Admission; Free
Distance: 18km
Height; 214m
Difficulty; Hard
Time; Approx 3.5 hours

Dingle Peninsula Hiking – Kerry

There are any number of hikes to choose from here – we choose to walk to along Dunmore head – Ireland’s westernmost point. The walk takes in views towards Slea Head and Blasket Island and offers a rich flavour of Irish farming culture with little stone walls perched along the way

Hiking holidays are popular along this mountainous landscape which stretches over 48km, taking you from the town of Tralee, along the southern shores to Dingle Bay, Inch Bay and then onto Dingle town, with such magnificent scenery along the route.

With so many options for hiking in Dingle Peninsula, this is another reason for us to make our way, and return to the Wild Atlantic Way in our luxurious motorhome. It is a great life experience to indulge in an Ireland road trip and travel the Wild Atlantic Way regardless of how the weather in Ireland may be.

Beara Way (Glengarriff) – Cork

Beara Way is a long circular trail that begins and ends at Glengarriff, County Cork

The signposted walk is a grand total of 196km and typically takes 9 days! The circuit takes in a combination of mountain and coastal views. We completed a diluted version that by no means disappointed and walked west towards Adrigole. Once there, we treated ourselves to hot food and a well-deserved cold drink before heading back to Glengarriff.

Admission; Free
Length; 196km
Difficulty; Moderate
Time; Typically 9 days (our a smaller stretch on a day trip)

We thoroughly enjoyed our county-to-county road trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The location of our hikes meant a home-from-home environment was essential – which we definitely got in our motorhome. It allowed us to immerse ourselves in the outdoor experience and provided a different view for us every morning. From hikes to coastal driving, this is a must do for adventure loving enthusiasts. The west of Ireland like the whole Island of Ireland is a picturesque dream come true for explorers.

If you are planning a fly-drive to Ireland and would love to participate in one, or indeed all of the hikes we completed, Causeway Campers offer collection points at;

Dublin Airport
Belfast City Airport
Belfast International Airport
Derry City Airport
Belfast Harbour
Port of Larne

To book a campervan or motorhome just click our booking page.
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Have we have missed one of your favourite hiking trails in Ireland?  Let us know at marketing@causewaycampers.com and start your trip today!