Wild Atlantic Way: 7 Spots You Can't Miss from Galway
Galway is your gateway to some of Ireland's most stunning coastal drives. The Wild Atlantic Way from Galway puts you right in the heart of Ireland's rugged west coast, where every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view. Sitting along the famed 2,500-kilometre coastal route, the City of Tribes gives you easy access to some of the best scenery in the country. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, charming villages and landscapes that’ll genuinely take your breath away.
1. Salthill Promenade
You can start close to home. The Salthill Prom stretches about three kilometres along Galway Bay and offers those gorgeous coastal views without even leaving the city. You can take a stroll, grab an ice cream, and if you're feeling brave, join the locals for a dip at the famous Blackrock diving tower. It's become a bit of a rite of passage, so just don't forget your swimming togs.
2. The Aran Islands
The archipelago of Aran Islands consists of Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer, all steeped in history and Irish culture. A short ferry ride from Rossaveal brings you to these time-capsule islands where Gaeilge (Irish) is still the primary language and ancient stone forts cling to cliff edges.
Dún Aonghasa on Inishmore is unmissable. It is a prehistoric fort perched dramatically on a cliff face with nothing but Atlantic air between you and America.
3. Connemara
Wild, windswept, and utterly unforgettable. That's Connemara in three words. As you meander through some of the country’s most dramatic scenery, this vast landscape of mountains, bogs, and hidden beaches feels like stepping into another world.
Considered as two of the finest beaches in Galway, Gurteen Bay and Dog's Bay offer picturesque Atlantic views and white sandy beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day. The area also holds fascinating history, including the site of the first transatlantic flight landing at Derrigimlagh Bog.
If you’re looking for hikes around Galway, Connemara National Park offers trails that wind through mountains and bogs with sweeping panoramic views. The climb up Diamond Hill is particularly rewarding on a clear day.
4. Clifden and Sky Road
Known affectionately as the capital of Connemara, Clifden town charms with its colourful shopfronts and traditional pubs, but the real showstopper is the Sky Road loop. This panoramic route spans just over 16 kilometres, showcasing breathtaking views of Clifden Bay and the Atlantic. You'll probably stop for photos more than you plan to.
From Clifden, you can also consider taking a short drive to the magnificent Kylemore Abbey, a castle-turned-Benedictine monastery and iconic visitor attraction set in 1,000 acres of mountainside in Connemara.
5. Killary Harbour
Killary Harbour is one of only three glacial fjords in Ireland, nestled between magnificent mountains. The sheer walls of the fjord rising from the water create a scene that belongs in Norway, not Ireland. A boat tour here gives you the full dramatic effect.
6. Spiddal
Just over a 30-minute drive from Galway city brings you to Spiddal, an Irish-speaking village that offers an authentic taste of Gaeltacht culture and makes for a memorable day trip from Galway. Its charming craft village is a treasure trove of handmade pottery, jewellery, and traditional Irish crafts. Stop for a coffee, browse the artisan workshops, and maybe pick up a unique souvenir that actually means something.
7. The Cliffs of Moher
Although these majestic cliffs are in County Clare, they're close enough to Galway to warrant a day trip. The cliffs' distinctive scalloped silhouettes stand as Ireland's most recognised coastal landmark. They're popular for good reason, so arriving early lets you beat the crowds and experience the scale of the cliffs.
Wild Atlantic Way Tours from Galway
If you'd rather leave the driving to someone else, plenty of tour operators such as Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, Lally Tours, and Galway Tour Company run these tours from Galway. These range from half-day trips to the Cliffs of Moher to full-day trip adventures covering Connemara and beyond. It’s a great way to enjoy the scenery while learning interesting stories from local guides.
Where to Stay in Galway
Finding the right accommodation is essential for your Wild Atlantic Way adventure. Maldron hotels in Galway offer two excellent options perfectly positioned for exploring the route. Maldron Hotel Sandy Road sits just a 15-minute walk from Galway city centre, putting you within easy reach of Eyre Square, Shop Street, and all the Galway nightlife you could want — traditional music sessions, cosy pubs, and vibrant bars are all on your doorstep. It is also the perfect base if you are looking for the best things to do in Galway.
Alternatively, Maldron Hotel Oranmore, located just a 20-minute drive outside the city, also serves as an ideal base for those prioritising Wild Atlantic Way exploration from Galway. The family-friendly property features a dedicated swimming pool — perfect after hiking or exploring Galway beaches like Salthill — and its Grain & Grill bar serves a wide range of delicious lunch and dinner options with an impressive selection of drinks of your choice.
FAQs: Wild Atlantic Way from Galway
Galway is centrally located along the Wild Atlantic Way route, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the coastal trail.
Absolutely! The route showcases Ireland's most dramatic coastal scenery, including cliffs, beaches, mountains, and charming villages that you won't find anywhere else.
The Wild Atlantic Way stretches from Malin Head in County Donegal (Ireland's northernmost point) to Kinsale in County Cork, covering approximately 2,500 kilometres of coastline.
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