Overview

Self-Drive Holidays
20 Nights
  • Fully customisable itinerary
  • Prices from: £2590 per person
  • Best time to go: April - October
  • Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Highlights

Colourful Kinsale
Read more

The delightful town of Kinsale in County Cork is the start of the Wild Atlantic Way. Explore the narrow streets of this charming town and relax by the harbour. Take in the dramatic scenery of the Old Head of Kinsale overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park
Read more

Enjoy a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry, a popular tourist route located within Killarney National Park. The area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts – hike in Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range, take a short jaunt to Torc Waterfall, or cycle around the beautiful Killarney Lakes. 

Delightful Dingle
Read more

Relax in Dingle, a popular seaside town replete with charming craft shops, cosy cafes, and pubs galore. Walk along the harbour promenade and visit the statue of Dingle’s most famous resident, Fungie the dolphin.

The Cliffs of Moher
Read more

Visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher, a Signature Point along the Wild Atlantic Way and one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. Admire the magnificent views over the crashing Atlantic and explore the fascinating visitor centre.

Musical Galway
Read more

Unwind in the vibrant and compact city of Galway. Explore narrow lanes lined with bright-coloured shops and beautiful Galway Bay. Galway is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Irish music sessions, which can be heard in the many pubs dotted around the city.

Inishowen Peninsula
Read more

Hike along the cliffs in Malin Head, the most northerly point of the Irish mainland. Admire the wonderful landscape of rocky headlands, green hills and crashing waves. This is also one of the best places in Ireland to see the aurora borealis.

An Epic Self-Drive Tour of Ireland’s Wild West

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, a stunning driving route that spans the entire length of Ireland’s rugged west coast.

Beginning in County Cork, this memorable adventure winds through eight diverse counties, showcasing an array of dramatic landscapes. Experience everything from awe-inspiring clifftops to charming, colourful villages as you explore one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes.

Read more

Begin your self-drive tour in the colourful town of Kinsale, and follow the dramatic coastline with spectacular scenic points such as the Old Head of Kinsale and Mizen Head, to the historic harbour town of Bantry. Take a day trip to the Beara peninsula and follow the Ring of Beara, a coastal scenic road with endless photo stops. Here, you could visit Dursey Island, which is connected to the mainland by Ireland’s only cable car.

The Wild Atlantic Way continues northwest, towards the bustling town of Killarney. Discover Killarney National Park and travel along the many charming coastal towns and villages that make up the Ring of Kerry. Continue on towards the magical Dingle Peninsula and relax in the pretty harbour town of Dingle. Take in magnificent views as you drive around the scenic Slea Head Drive, discovering ancient archaeological sites or the wild and uninhibited Blasket Islands.

You will then follow the stunning coastline north towards Galway, with its colourful streets and lively atmosphere. Make sure to stop at the magnificent Cliffs of Moher and the delightful village of Doolin. Your journey continues north towards Westport, a picturesque Georgian town and the ideal base to explore the dazzling Bay Coast, with its crystal clear waters and impressive bays.

Next, you will visit the literary town of Sligo, followed by County Donegal, with the opportunity to visit the striking Sliabh Liag Cliffs, some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The striking Inishowen Peninsula marks the end of your Wild Atlantic Way adventure.

Suggested Itinerary

The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists.

We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you.

Day 1: Arrive in Kinsale
Read more

Arrive in the pretty and colourful harbour town of Kinsale, located a short distance from the city of Cork. Kinsale is the start or endpoint of the Wild Atlantic Way and it is a popular destination known for its picturesque narrow streets, cosy pubs and restaurants, and sheltered harbour.
Overnight – Kinsale

Day 2: Kinsale to Bantry
Read more

Enjoy the dramatic West Cork coastline with its rugged cliffs and sparkling shoreline, as you travel west towards Bantry. Make sure to take your time and visit the many interesting sights along the way, including the magical Drombeg Stone Circle, the pretty harbour town of Schull and spectacular Mizen Head, one of the signature points of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Overnight – Bantry Bay

Day 3: Day trip to Beara Peninsula
Read more

Today, you could relax in the historic harbour town of Bantry and discover Bantry House and Garden. Alternatively, you could travel to the wonderful Beara Peninsula, surrounded by the Miskish and Caha mountains. Walk part of the Beara Way, take a trip to Dursey Island by cable car, or enjoy the peaceful villages and parishes dotted around the peninsula.
Overnight – Bantry Bay

Day 4: Bantry to Killarney
Read more

Leave West Cork behind and enter Country Kerry. Make your way to Kenmare and follow the impossibly beautiful Moll’s Gap mountain pass, with its stunning views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains. Continue across Killarney National Park towards bustling Killarney, the ideal base for exploring the Ring of Kerry.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 5: Ring of Kerry Sightseeing
Read more

A full day to explore Killarney National Park. Visit the beautiful Muckross Estate with its historic house and pretty gardens, take a hike up to the nearby Torc Waterfall, or enjoy a leisurely walk around the famous lakes of Killarney.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 6: Ring of Kerry Sightseeing
Read more

Drive around the magnificent Ring of Kerry and visit the quaint towns and villages along the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula. You could also travel to Portmagee and enjoy a boat trip to the striking Skellig Islands, recently featured in the latest Star Wars films.
Overnight – Killarney

Day 7: Killarney to Dingle
Read more

Make your way to the wonderfully picturesque town of Dingle. This popular seaside town is a great place to roam around and explore the many independent shops and cosy pubs.
Overnight – Dingle

Day 8: Dingle Peninsula Sightseeing
Read more

This magical corner of Ireland is full of historic gems, peaceful beaches, and exciting mountain passes. Drive around the circular Slea Head Drive, which offers incredible views over the wild Atlantic Ocean. You could also arrange a boat trip from Dunquin to the remote Blasket Islands, a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Overnight – Dingle

Day 9: Dingle to Doolin
Read more

Travel from Dingle to Doolin – the gateway to the Aran Islands. Doolin is a picturesque village on the rugged west coast of county Clare, with breathtaking scenic walks and stunning sea cliff panoramic views.
Overnight – Doolin

Day 10: Loop Head Sightseeing
Read more

Explore the area surrounding Doolin and Kilkee and travel south on the Loop Head Peninsula. The Loop Head Drive Route is part of the Wild Atlantic Way and follows the spectacular rugged coastline to Loop Head Lighthouse. Enjoy breathtaking cliff walks and keep your eye out for a number of rare birds, whales, dolphins and seals.
Overnight – Doolin

Day 11: Doolin to Galway
Read more

This morning, you could take a boat trip from Doolin and enjoy the spectacular sight of the Cliffs of Moher from the sea. Or continue your journey north to Galway following the dramatic coastline, making sure to stop en-route to visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.

Finally arrive in Galway, with its picturesque cobblestone streets and old-fashioned pubs.
Overnight – Galway

Day 12: Galway Sightseeing
Read more

Friendly, compact and dotted with colourful pubs and delicious seafood restaurants, Galway is one of Ireland’s most charming cities. Hop on an included City Sightseeing Bus Tour and learn about the city’s history. In the evening, relax and enjoy a local tipple, while taking in the wonderful views of the River Corrib and Galway Bay.
Overnight – Galway

Day 13: Galway to Westport
Read more

Continue to follow the Wild Atlantic Way northwest through Clifden, a lively town full of shops, pubs and restaurants, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range. You will also pass Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord.

Your destination is the picturesque town of Westport, known as the Riviera of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Overnight – Westport

Day 14: Bay Coast Sightseeing
Read more

Enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings of Westport, including magnificent Keem Bay, Clew Bay, and Achill Island – the main filming location for The Banshees of Inisherin.

Cycle along the Great Western Greenway, hike Croagh Patrick, or relax in Westport itself. Stroll along the beautiful tree-lined promenade on the banks of the Carrowbeg River and visit historic Westport House.
Overnight – Westport

Day 15: Westport to Sligo
Read more

Your next destination is Sligo, a town known for its rich cultural and artistic heritage which is nestled amongst impressive natural landscapes. In Sligo, you will find an abundance of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops.
Overnight – Sligo

Day 16: County Sligo Sightseeing
Read more

Take a walk along the river in Sligo and visit Sligo Abbey, which remains well-preserved to this day. Outside the town, there are fantastic places to visit, such as the distinctive rock formation at Benbulben, Ireland’s largest Megalithic cemetery at Carrowmore, and the many sweeping beaches in the area.
Overnight – Sligo

Day 17: Sligo to Donegal
Read more

From Sligo, it is a short drive into County Donegal, where your destination is Donegal Town. Take a detour via Glencar Waterfall, or explore Mullaghmore Head which is home to Classiebawn Castle, several beaches, and expansive ocean views.
Overnight – Donegal Town

Day 18: Slieve League Coast Sightseeing
Read more

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast past sweeping Fintragh Bay and dramatic Muckross Head. Explore the magnificent Sliabh Liag Cliffs, the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe. There is a wide variety of activities in the area, including spectacular hikes, exciting boat trips and guided bus and walking tours, all offering panoramic views across Donegal Bay.
Overnight – Donegal Town

Day 19: Donegal to Lough Swilly
Read more

Today you will venture further north into stunning County Donegal to your destination of Lough Swilly, located west of the Inishowen Peninsula. This is the last overnight stop of your journey on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Overnight – Lough Swilly

Day 20: North County Donegal Sightseeing
Read more

On the Inishowen Peninsula, you can hike along the cliffs in Malin Head, the most northerly point of the Irish mainland. Or head west towards the Fanad and Rosguill Peninsulas, where there are spectacular views of Ballymastocker Bay and the lighthouse at Fanad Head. Further inland is Glenveagh National Park, where you can explore beautiful Glenveagh Castle on the shores of Lough Veagh and walk around its idyllic gardens.
Overnight – Lough Swilly

Day 21: Depart Lough Swilly
Read more

Today you may wish to further explore County Donegal and the surrounding area before your Irish escape comes to an end.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

  • Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 20 nights including traditional Irish breakfast
  • Comprehensive information pack and local visitor information
  • Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
  • Map of Ireland with our recommended driving route
  • 21 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
  • Tickets for the Galway City Sightseeing Tour
  • 24-hour emergency contact number
  • Full financial protection

Your holiday doesn't include:

  • Travel insurance
  • Flights
  • Lunches and evening meals

Accommodation & Prices

Special Places to Stay Special Places to Stay
Special Places to Stay Special Places to Stay
Premium Premium
Premium Premium
Standard Standard

We know that, after a busy day of sightseeing, an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. That’s why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay.

Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients.

Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry.

Category
Accommodation type
Price per person
Standard
4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels
From £2590

A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation.

Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Irish experience.

Premium
Boutique Guest Houses and 4* Hotels
From £3610

Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners.

It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels.

Special Places to Stay
Exceptional Hotels and luxury Resorts
Please enquire

From award-winning luxury Hotels to unique country retreats, all of which offer exceptional accommodation with superb facilities and outstanding service.

These are truly magical places and amongst the best Ireland has to offer. The perfect choice when you would like somewhere really special which can be a treat for the night or for your entire holiday.

Car Hire

Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money.

If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car.

All our packages include:

  • Collision Damage Waiver
  • Super Damage Excess Waiver
  • Third Party Insurance
  • Theft Waiver
  • Tax
Economy
Vauxhall Corsa or similar
  • Good for 2 people
  • Maximum of 4 passengers
  • 2 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Compact
Ford Focus or similar
  • Good for 2 – 4 people
  • Maximum of 5 passengers
  • 2 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Intermediate
Volkswagen Passat or similar
  • Good for up to 4 people
  • Maximum of 5 passengers
  • 3 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission
Fullsize
VW Sharan or similar
  • Good for 5 people
  • Maximum of 7 passengers
  • 3 – 4 large suitcases
  • Manual or automatic transmission

Make an enquiry

Complete Wild Atlantic Way Tour

Need something more tailored?
Contact us via email:
enquiries@absoluteescapes.com

Back to top