Current as of: May 8, 2024 - 22:43

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
  • Destination: Ireland
  • Programmes: Walking & Trekking
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 8 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: TEE

Trip Overview

Experience dramatic landscapes and Irish hospitality on the west coast of the Emerald Isle

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way runs the length of the west coast, with traditional villages, ancient monuments and never-forgotten scenery making it the ideal destination for a walking adventure. With our expert local guides bringing the history of this stunning location to life, we explore windswept cliffs, which are interspersed with captivating bays and beaches, plus Killarney National Park and the rugged beauty of Inishmore island.

At a Glance

  • Seven nights at three- and four-star hotels
  • Six days of guided walking
  • Altitude maximum: 1,765ft (535m); average: 889ft (271m)
  • Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
  • All transport by private minibus or boat
  • Moderate walks; good fitness levels recommended

Highlights

  • Walk the Cliffs of Moher and take a boat ride along the coast
  • Hike to the top of Torc Mountain in Killarney National Park
  • Experience the ancient oak forest and pristine beaches of the Ring of Kerry
  • Meet a seaweed forager and discover the secrets of the Derrynane Beach region
  • Hike Inishmore island and discover a seal sanctuary and the prehistoric fortress of Dun Aonghasa
  • Enjoy a brewery-distillery tour and tasting in Killarney

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.

A reasonable level of fitness is required. The terrain ranges from gravel/grassy tracks with some potentially muddy trails. There are areas of rocky and uneven sections so being confident in your footing is important. On days 5 and 6, there are areas of exposed cliff edges along the walks, so it is not suitable for individuals who suffer from vertigo.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 6

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Land Only

  • Start City: Dublin
  • End City: Doolin

Flight Inclusive

  • Start City: London
  • End City: London

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Dublin; afternoon walking tour

We meet at the group hotel in Dublin at 3pm and then enjoy a guided walking tour of the city highlights plus many areas that are often missed.

In the evening, the guide briefs the group on the week’s activities, before we enjoy a delicious evening meal in a local restaurant.

Our hotel is not far from the city centre, so those who wish can explore the capital after dinner. Dublin is famous for its nightlife and many of the bars have live traditional Irish music.

Accommodation: Ashling Hotel or The Hendrick Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2
Transfer to County Kerry, hike Torc Mountain in Killarney National Park

We drive south (3hr 30min) to the hiker-loved town of Killarney in County Kerry. It sits on the edge of Killarney National Park, which has three beautiful lakes and the highest mountain range in Ireland. A treat for those who love the outdoors.

Upon arrival in Killarney, we have time for lunch before a fabulous hike in the national park. Torc Mountain (1,755ft/535m) is steeped in history and mythology. As we hike to the summit, our guide brings those stories to life as we enjoy majestic views of the national park and the three lakes. Descending from the mountain, we pass the rushing Torc Waterfall before heading to the 19th-century estate house whose owners donated the land to enable the national park to be created in 1932. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the gardens before transferring to our Killarney accommodation.

Accommodation: Abbey Lodge (or similar)

Distance covered: 7mi (11km)

Ascent: 1,657ft (505m); Descent: 2,057ft (627m); Activity hours: 3hr 30min

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3
Walk the Ring of Kerry and learn the secrets of the coast with a specialist guide

Enjoy a scenic drive (1hr 30min) to the western tip of the Ring of Kerry and immerse in the idyllic landscapes around Derrynane National Park. Discover pristine beaches, lush woodlands, ancient abbey ruins and Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most prominent historic figures, who lived here.

During our hike, we meet a local seaweed forager who takes the group for a seashore walk and introduces us to the secrets of the Derrynane Beach region. Following our hike, we continue our scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry with a few stops along the way before returning to Killarney in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Abbey Lodge (or similar)

Distance covered: 6mi (9km)

Ascent: 689ft (210m); Descent: 1,243ft (379m); Activity hours: 3

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4
Take a boat ride through the three lakes of Killarney National Park and then hike the ancient woodlands

We take a magical boat ride (one hour) from the 15th-century Ross Castle, which sits on the shores of Lough Leane, through the three lakes of Killarney, providing a unique perspective of Killarney National Park. We depart the boat and hike through ancient woodlands to Galway’s Bridge, which spans the Galway River. From here, our hike takes us south, following an old route through the hills, which has been used for hundreds of years by people travelling on foot or driving animals to market. Enjoy views across the Beara Peninsula as we descend to the colourful heritage town of Kenmare.

We then transfer back to Killarney, stopping along the way at the Killarney Brewing & Distillery company for a tour and tasting. It is the largest independently owned brewery, distillery and visitor centre in Ireland and is enveloped by the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains and the Killarney lakes.

Accommodation: Abbey Lodge (or similar)

Distance covered: 7mi (11km)

Ascent: 1,247ft (380m); Descent: 994ft (303m); Activity hours: 4

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5
Transfer to County Clare; walk the Cliffs of Moher and take a boat ride along the coast

Our destination today is the majestic Cliffs of Moher. En route, we cross the Shannon, the longest river in Ireland, by ferry. Keep your eyes peeled for the dolphins that often play in the bow waves as the ferry makes the 15-minute journey from south to north.

After the ferry, we continue to the Cliffs of Moher (3hr 15min) for a relaxed hike on the path that winds from the highest point of the cliffs to the quaint village of Doolin.

Most people stand on the clifftops to look down but later this afternoon we see the Cliffs of Moher from a more impressive angle. Our boat trip provides a unique perspective on the most-visited natural site in Ireland, with towering cliffs and an array of seabirds to admire.

Upon finishing our cruise, we have a 15-minute walk to our accommodation in Doolin.

Accommodation: The Lodge Doolin (or similar)

Distance covered: 4mi (7km)

Ascent: 892ft (272m); Descent: 1,375ft (419m); Activity hours: 2

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6
Hike the largest of the Aran Islands: Inishmore

We walk to Doolin pier, where a one-hour ferry ride takes us to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. On reaching the island, a guide who grew up here joins us for a wonderful hike, on which we discover the glories of Inishmore. Following a lovely old trail, we are brought across limestone pavements to reach the fascinating coastal blowhole called Poll na bPeist (Serpents Lair). This natural tidal rock pool is a wonderful location to learn more about this ancient landscape.

We continue our hike to reach the stone fortress of Dun Aonghasa, which is magnificently located at the top of a sheer stone cliff. We then hike the northern shores of the island to reach a seal sanctuary. With time to enjoy this coastline and visit some of the older churches, we complete our hike back at the harbour.

We return to the mainland on the ferry in the late afternoon and walk to our accommodation in Doolin.

Accommodation: The Lodge Doolin (or similar)

Distance covered: 10mi (16km)

Ascent: 482ft (147m); Descent: 469ft (143m); Activity hours: 5

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7
Black Head trail hike

This morning, before our hike, we visit the ancient burial site of Poulnabrone Dolmen (transfer time: 30 minutes). Our guide explains how these pagan sites are intertwined with the Irish Christian history. We transfer (20 minutes) to the start of our walk, just south of Ballyvaughan village. From here, we follow a rural route – known locally as a green road – into the heart of the Black Head hills, with wonderful limestone pavements and stone walls all around. There are fantastic views over Galway Bay and the Aran Islands as we continue around Gleninagh Mountain. Finishing our walk in Fanore village, we are transported (20 minutes) back to our accommodation for our overnight and farewell dinner.

Accommodation: The Lodge Doolin (or similar)

Distance covered: 7mi (12km)

Ascent: 1,414ft (431m); Descent: 1,086ft (331m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8
End Doolin

Enjoy another delicious breakfast before starting your journey home. There is a group transfer back to Dublin, so if you wish to extend your stay in the capital please speak to your sales representative about booking extra nights.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation

A selection of unique hotels

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

We stay for seven nights in three- and four-star hotels, selected for their character, location and unique charm. The accommodations we usually use are listed below.

Dublin: Ashling Hotel or The Hendrick Hotel (night 1)

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Both are close to the River Liffey in the heart of the capital and within walking distance of the finest restaurants, cafes and bars in the city.

Killarney: Abbey Lodge (nights 2-4)

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

This quaint 15-room B&B provides a traditional warm welcome, while décor includes interesting antiques and art. It’s also ideally located for our adventures and just over a five-minute walk to the historic town centre of Killarney.

Doolin: The Lodge Doolin (nights 5-7)

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

This family-run property is the result of 20 years’ hard work from owners Niall and Deirdre, who transformed rustic limestone buildings into a welcoming retreat. The property is in a scenic spot, wrapped by the beautiful Irish countryside, and yet it’s only a five-minute walk into the village of Doolin.

Single supplement from 534 €

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, six picnic lunches and two dinners are included. Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten free and Dairy free diets can all be catered for on this trip but please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Transport

Transfers are by private minibus and a ferry on Day 5.

Weather & Seasonality

The dominant influence on Ireland’s climate is the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, Ireland does not suffer from the extremes of temperature experienced by many other countries at similar latitude. However, rain can fall at any time of year, especially on the west coast. In summer, average temperatures range from 15C (59F) to around 25C (77F). As the local people will tell you, this part of the world can experience every season in one day, so pack accordingly.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start point (August 2024): The Ashling Hotel, 10-13 Parkgate Street, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8, D08 P38N (+353 1677 2324)
Start point (September 2024): The Hendrick Smithfield, 6-11 Hendrick Street, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 A8N1 (+353 1482 6500)
Recommended arrival time: The group meets at 3pm at the hotel
Airport: Dublin Airport (DUB)

Getting to the start point

The start hotel is approximately 9mi (15km/30-minute drive) from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.

If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Return journey

There’s a group departure transfer to Dublin Airport (DUB) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. We recommend joining the transfer back to Dublin from Doolin as we are unable to arrange additional private transfers. Additional nights’ accommodation can be provided in Dublin if required (please speak to your sales representative to organise).

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Dublin
Location end: Doolin

What To Take

Essential Equipment

  • Traditional or lightweight walking boots with good ankle support and a strong sole
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket (preferably Gortex) and over trousers (over pants)
  • Warm two-season jacket or sweater/fleece
  • Large water containers or Thermos flask
  • Backpack (25/30 litres)
  • Sun hat, sunscreen and lip salve
  • Empty lunch box

We also advise using moisture-wicking clothing rather than cotton as it dries much more quickly and is more comfortable when hiking.

Optional Equipment

  • Walking poles (useful for ascents/descents)

Practical Information

Visa

Ireland

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter the Republic of Ireland. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Vaccinations and Health

Ireland

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies (bat lyssavirus). Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

Local Time

Ireland's time zone: Europe/Dublin (UTC +01:00)

Electricity

Ireland's electricity: Plug type G (three rectangular pins) – 230V, 50Hz

Walking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Money

Ireland's currency: Euro (EUR)

ATM Availability

ATMs are available in most towns.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

You need spending money for meals not included in the itinerary and all drinks. A beer is around €5 – €7.50 and a coffee around €3 – €4, with a average bottle of wine at dinner around €30 – €50. The average range for dinner is €40 – €60 for a 3 course meal.

Tipping

Although optional, a tip for the walking leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline, we recommend a contribution starting from €20 per person.

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

  • Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities. Our two additional expert guides on Inish Mor and Derrynane focus on protecting the natural environment and cultural sites along with ensuing that the local communities benefit directly from the visitors to their region.
  • This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

  • By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
  • We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
  • The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves and archaeological sites generates income, which is used to upkeep and develop these important sites.
  • We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
  • Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

  • Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
  • Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
  • Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

  • Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
  • Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.