Wild Atlantic Way – Standout Sights on Ireland’s West Coast

At Galway Tour Company, we like to pack a punch in each of our full and half-day coach tours. For travellers eager for a quick escape, there is plenty to observe along Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way.

Alternatively, if you have plenty of time on your hands to experience the thrills and attractions on our tiny island, our all-inclusive luxury tour range is a great way to do so.

For this post we have assembled some of the day/half-day tour highlights to help you make an informed decision about which tour is right for you.

Galway Bay

We are truly blessed to have the rugged landscape and views of Galway Bay so close to home. One of the most beautiful coastlines in Ireland, come rain, hail or shine, there is never a bad moment to take a photo or enjoy a coffee along this part of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Half day Cliffs Tours incl. Doolin Village | Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

Connemara

We take the scenic route around Lough Nafooey to show you the stark beauty and hidden valleys of Connemara. Its beauty is world-famous and the Killary Fjord and the quaint village of Leenane offer ample opportunity to take plenty of photos before continuing onward to Kylemore Abbey for lunch and more sightseeing.

Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey

Cong

Cong Abbey – an Augustinian Abbey dating back to the early 12th century, is first on the radar, offering exceptional photo opportunities. Entering Cong Village – famous for being the primary filming location for the 1950s classic movie, ‘The Quiet Man’ – there is ample time to get lost in the forest of Cong Woods. This charming village offers stunning views of Lough Corrib – the largest lake in Ireland.

Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey

Doolin

A beautiful, picturesque small fishing village where you can stop and have a pint (or tipple of your choice!). 

Ferries depart from here to Inis Oirr – the smallest of the Aran Islands.

The Aran Islands & The Cliffs Cruise

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are made up of three islands, Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr (Inisheer). The islands are situated off the coast of Galway Bay. All three Islands provide a glimpse into the traditional Irish living of our ancestors. Residents on the island are traditional Irish speakers. You will find authentic Irish cottages, both lived in and some ruins along many small windy roads that are outlined with dry stone walls, unique to Ireland.

The island’s distinctive charm makes the islands a perfect tonic to the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Aran Islands & The Cliffs Cruise

The Burren

The Burren is home to 75% of Ireland’s native flora and is the location of numerous ancient monuments  including the Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb, the 5,800-year-old Poulnabrone Dolmen and Ballyalban Fairy Fort – home of little men with green hats and orange beards. 

The Burren’s unique landscape is one of the highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Half day Cliffs Tours incl. Doolin Village | Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

Cliffs of Moher

Crowned Ireland’s No.1 Tourist Attraction on the West Coast. A tour of the Cliffs of Moher is a must for anyone travelling in Ireland. Moviegoers will recognise the features having recently appeared in ‘Harry Potter’s Half-Blood Prince’, and the movie classic ‘The Princess Bride’. 

A walk along the edge of Ireland lets you take in the beautiful, rugged coastline and Atlantic ocean views. Some of the most recognisable postcard photos from Ireland feature the famous cliffs.

Half day Cliffs Tours incl. Doolin Village | Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

There is much more to see than what we have listed in this post. Untold stories and ancient history that unlocks much of the character of the surroundings. 

We encourage you to look at each tour to learn more about the itinerary and the many sights packed within our full and half day coach excursions.

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