The Best Things to See in West Ireland: 19 Spots for Your Next Road Trip

Our team have been exploring this stunning part of the Emerald Isle to uncover some of its most memorable sights and experiences. From dramatic coastal views and rolling green hills to tranquil lakes, ancient ruins, and mystical castles, the west of Ireland is full of destinations that are well worth a visit.

Whether you’re after peaceful scenery, rich history, or a mixture of both, there’s plenty to take in along the way. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite spots and team tips to help inspire your next adventure.

 

Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry

Situated in County Kerry in south west Ireland, Killarney National Park was established in 1932, making it Ireland’s first official national park. Killarney National Park is famous for its lakes, woodlands, estates, and beautiful hiking trails. We’d be thrilled to tell you about some of our best sightseeing recommendations below.

 

Ross Castle, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Originally built by the O’Donoghue Mór clan, Ross Castle sits strikingly on the edge of Lough Leane and is shrouded in legend. According to local folklore, the chieftain O’Donoghue vanished into the lake and rises every seven years on a white horse, bestowing good fortune on those who manage to catch a glimpse of him. The castle also famously became the last stronghold in Munster to fall to Oliver Cromwell’s forces in 1652, succumbing only when attacked by boat – just as legend had foretold. Today, visitors to Ross Castle can enjoy tranquil views of the lake from the castle walls and even enjoy a cruise on Lough Leane.

 

Muckross House, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Nestled beside Muckross Lake, this grand 19th-century Victorian mansion is a highlight for many visitors to Killarney National Park. Built for the affluent Herbert Family, the house is famed for its elegant architecture and its connection to Queen Victoria, who spent two nights here in 1861. Today, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved interiors and learn about life in the 19th century through guided tours and exhibitions. The surrounding gardens are a highlight, featuring a sunken garden, rock garden, and arboretum. For those looking to explore the estate in style, traditional jaunting cart tours are available from the house.

 

Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry

County Kerry is also home to the spectacular Dingle Peninsula. With its rugged coastline, mountain roads, and charming fishing villages, this region boasts some of the most varied scenery in Ireland and is not to be missed!

 

Dingle Town, Co. Kerry

Seafood lovers flock to Dingle every year to sample fresh crab, lobster, mussels, oysters, and a range of fish. The town of Dingle has no shortage of cosy pubs and restaurants that proudly serve this fantastic seafood, showcasing traditional Irish recipes alongside modern culinary techniques. Dingle is also a haven for craft enthusiasts, with a vibrant array of shops displaying handmade jewellery, art, woodwork, and ceramics. Boat trips depart regularly from Dingle harbour and allow visitors to explore Dingle Bay and its fascinating wildlife. Dolphins, puffins, and minke whales are frequently spotted in the area, and tour guides will fondly tell you stories about ‘Funghi’, the famous Dingle dolphin!

 

Inch Beach, Co. Kerry

Located along Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way route, Inch Beach is a stunning 3-mile stretch of sandy coastline in County Kerry. Film enthusiasts may recognise this location from its role in Ryan’s Daughter (1970). Nowadays, this beach is popular with surfers, swimmers, and photographers alike. With its quaint beachfront cafe, it’s a fantastic place to take a break and enjoy sweeping views of Dingle Bay and nearby mountain ranges.

 

Slea Head Drive & Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry

Ask any local in Dingle and they’ll be sure to recommend a trip along Slea Head Drive. One of Ireland’s most famous coastal routes, this stretch of road loops around the western edge of the Dingle Peninsula and offers dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The loop starts and ends in Dingle Town and highlights include Dunquin Head, views of the Blasket Islands, and Coumeenoole Beach.

Team Tip: We recommend exploring this route in a clockwise direction for the best driving experience.

 

Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare

Perhaps among the most breathtaking natural features in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see for anyone exploring County Clare. Stretching for a magnificent 8 miles, these cliffs reach heights of over 700 feet at their highest point and offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Formed over 300 million years ago, these cliffs are primarily composed of shale and sandstone. The Cliffs of Moher are home to a range of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. We recommend taking the time to explore the modern visitor centre, beautifully built into the hillside to preserve the natural surroundings. There are various exhibits to examine which offer in-depth information on the history, geology, and ecology of the area. Whether viewed from the cliff’s edge or along the winding coastal paths, the Cliffs of Moher remain a powerful symbol of Ireland’s raw natural beauty and the enduring allure of the Atlantic Ocean.

Team Tip: To beat the crowds, we recommend visiting the Cliffs of Moher earlier in the day.

 

Traditional Irish Music

No trip to Ireland would be complete without catching a live performance of traditional Irish music. Doolin, a small village in Co.Clare, is widely regarded as the capital of traditional Irish music.

Nestled near the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin has earned a global reputation for its vibrant musical heritage and nightly live sessions that echo through its cosy pubs. The village’s deep-rooted connection to traditional music dates back generations, with local musicians playing fiddles, flutes, tin whistles, and bodhráns in informal, spirited gatherings. Pubs like McDermott’s, Fitz’s, and McGann’s are famed for hosting these sessions, where both locals and visitors can join in or simply listen. The music here has been passed down through families and is still celebrated with pride, truly capturing the spirit of Ireland.

 

Dunguaire Castle, Co. Galway

Lying just a short walk from the picturesque village of Kinvarra, Dunguaire Castle in Co. Galway is often regarded as a hidden gem along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The 16th-century tower was built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan and perches beautifully on the shores of Galway Bay. Dunguaire Castle became a hub for Ireland’s literary revival in the 20th century, hosting writers such as W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.

 

Clifden Sky Road, Co. Connemara

The bohemian city of Galway is renowned for its lively atmosphere and excellent food scene. The city’s bustling Latin Quarter is known for its colourful shops, cafes, and street performers. If you’re looking for something a little more laid back, tranquillity can be found by the River Corrib, which runs through the heart of the city. Afterwards, why not take a stroll to Galway Cathedral and marvel at the impressive Renaissance-style architecture and stained glass windows?

Team Tip: If you can get a table, we highly recommend dining at Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, near Galway’s Spanish Arch. Located in an old stone building by the river, this restaurant expertly blends rustic charm with modern flair to create exceptional dishes. Be sure to book a table well in advance!

 

Kylemore Abbey, Co. Connemara

Offering a haven of history, beauty and serenity, Kylemore Abbey sits in the heart of Co. Connemara. This Victorian Abbey is rich with history, and visitors can enjoy the interactive experience learning about those who have lived and worked within the granite walls. For those who are more interested in nature, Kylemore’s 1,000-acre estate is home to one of the few woodlands in the county. In fact, Kylemore is derived from an old Irish translation of “Big Wood,” and claims to be home to the best walks in Galway.

Team Tip: Before leaving Kylemore behind, be sure to visit the Victorian Walled Garden. The Garden offers a taste of horticultural history, displaying only plants from the Victorian era, and houses Ireland’s longest herbaceous border.

 

Achill Island, Co. Mayo

One of the jewels of the Wild Atlantic Way has to be Achill Island. As Ireland’s largest island, Achill is a vision of unspoilt beauty. From golden beaches to sheer cliff faces, the views are spectacular. Famous for being featured heavily in the Banshees of Inisherin film, Achill Island is not as remote as you might think. Accessible by road bridge, this beautiful island is an easy addition to your Irish road trip.

Team Tip: If you are feeling brave and fancy a dip in the Atlantic, make your way over to Keem Bay. In 2022, Keem Beach, located on the west coast of the island, was named the best wild swimming spot in the UK and Ireland.

 

The Céide Fields, Co. Mayo

As you explore North County Mayo, take a step back in time to discover the oldest-known fossilised farmland in the world. Perched on the edge of a 110-metre-high sea cliff, the Céíde Fields combine Neolithic architecture with a unique ecosystem. As you explore the blanket bogland which covers the megalithic dwellings, keep an eye out for the wildlife that has made this ancient field system their home.

Team Tip: If you would like to enjoy the Atlantic Views without getting too close to the cliff edge, head to the visitor centre with its glass rooftop. This is the best place to take in the incredible panoramic views on a windy day.

 

Donegal Town & Donegal Castle, Co. Donegal

Donegal is a vibrant town packed with history and culture. Traditionally a market town, the town’s past is still evident in the markets that take place weekly in the Mill Court Mews, and the contemporary arts and crafts on show at the Donegal Craft Village. This makes Donegal the ideal place to buy some souvenirs to remember your West Coast of Ireland road trip. If you are looking for the top attraction in the town, look no further than Donegal Castle.

Team Tip: To top your day off in true Irish fashion, why not enjoy a drink at McCafferty’s Traditional Irish Bar? McCafferty’s believes that music provides the soul of an Irish bar, and hosts the best local musicians to offer live music every night.

 

Slieve League Cliffs, Co. Donegal

County Donegal in north-west Ireland certainly offers some incredibly natural attractions. Often, at the top of the list are the Slieve League Cliffs. Among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Slieve League rises over 600 metres above sea level. Park your car at the visitor centre to take in the sights and salty sea air as you enjoy the short walk up to the viewpoint. Standing here, enjoy the incredible panoramic views that surround you.

Team Tip: If you prefer to enjoy the sights from below, take advantage of one of the companies offering boat tours of the sea cliffs. Sliabh Liag Boat Tours depart from Teelin Pier to give visitors the ultimate sea cliff experience.

 

Glenveagh National Park, Co. Donegal

As you continue to travel around the county, make time to visit Glenveagh National Park in the Derryveagh Mountain Range. If you are keen to stretch your legs after some time on the road, Glenveagh’s walking trails will be the perfect fit. Ranging in distances from 1km to 8km, you can choose the walk that best fits you. If you’d prefer to explore indoors, head straight to Glenveagh Castle to discover the lavish interiors and fascinating history of this idyllic Castle.

Team Tip: There are so many beautiful sights to see in Glenveach. To see as much of the surrounding area as possible, why not hire a bike? GrassRoutes has electric and road bikes for hire in the Park itself.

 

Malin Head, Co. Donegal

To finish off your west coast of Ireland road trip, it is well worth a visit to Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head. Whilst renowned for its rugged coastline and unspoilt beauty, Malin Head also has a strong historical and cultural heritage. As you explore, look out for Banba’s Crown. This Napoleonic lookout tower is the most northerly building, and a wonderful viewpoint.

Team Tip: Malin Head offers incredible views! On a clear day, visitors may be able to glance at some Scottish islands. However, time your trip in line with the Aurora Borealis and visit after dark for the most spectacular Northern Lights views in Ireland.

 

Ready to Explore Ireland’s Wild West?

Whether you were inspired by the dramatic southern peninsulas, the charm and culture of the west coast of Ireland towns, or the remote beauty of County Donegal, Ireland’s west coast offers something for every traveller.

Our Wild Atlantic Way holidays explore each region in depth, allowing you the flexibility to enjoy a shorter trip focused on the sights that inspire you most. If you have the time, why not experience them all on our Complete Wild Atlantic Way Tour?

With our travel specialists’ knowledge and passion, we are here to create an itinerary that makes the best of your time in Ireland. From hand-picked accommodation to information on all the must-see stops along the way, we’ll ensure that you leave the Emerald Isle with unforgettable memories. Get in touch with our friendly team today.

Ella Gordon and Kate Brown