There’s something magical about the west coast of Ireland in autumn. The summer crowds have eased, the air turns crisp, and nature puts on its boldest wardrobe. If you’re thinking of visiting, here are 10 delights you’ll experience on the Wild Atlantic Way between Galway, Connemara, The Burren, Kylemore Abbey, Cong, the Aran Islands, and the Cliffs of Moher in October (or autumn more broadly).
Strap in for beauty, character, and maybe a sheep with an especially fluffy coat.
Autumn Colours at Kylemore Abbey & Walled Gardens
In October the trees around Kylemore Abbey blaze with gold, orange, copper, and sometimes deep red hues. The Victorian Walled Garden, surrounded by woodlands planted by Mitchell Henry, becomes a riot of colour.
Heather, Moor Grass & Bog Life in Connemara
While summer is known for its endless greens, autumn in Connemara brings golden grasses, purples fading into bronze, and the moorland light that turns bogs into glowing landscapes. Watch for purple moor grass, and rare plants like roseroot or starry saxifrage high up in the hills.
Sheep & Ponies, Extra Fluff Bonus
Connemara ponies and black‑face mountain sheep look particularly handsome in autumn: their coats grow thicker, and there’s something ruggedly majestic about them framed against misty moors or autumn skies. Warning – you may need to make room for an Aran sweater purchase in your take-home luggage.
Birdsong, Migration & Coastal Wildlife
Birds of prey, seabirds, shorebirds – October brings changes. Migratory species pass through, gannets dive off cliffs, and coastal birds follow schooling fish. Along cliff edges and on remote islands like the Arans, the bird‑watching is quieter but richer.
Wildflowers’ Last Hurrah
Yes, even in autumn there are blooms. Look out for common knapweed lingering into October, devil’s-bit scabious, fireweed and other wildflowers along roadsides, meadows and hedgerows. These provide late colour contrasts against fading greens and brown earth.
Storm‑Wrecked Skies & Moody Light
Nothing beats the dramatic skies of an Irish autumn: brooding clouds, sun‑breaks, shafts of light across water, and occasional rainbows after a downpour. The Cliffs of Moher, for example, are jaw‑dropping when seen under a shifting sky. Plus, without the summer haze, views are sharper. (Pro tip from the Galway Tour Company team that’s been there, done it, and got the rain-soaked t-shirt – bring a rain‑jacket!)
Fewer Tourists, More Authenticity
By October, the tour buses thin out. Trails are less crowded. Cafés and pubs are cosier. Local life – music sessions, crafts, stories – seem more deeply rooted when you’re not elbow‑to‑elbow with tourists. Want to hear Irish being spoken? Want a chat with a local guide? Autumn delivers.
Halloween & Samhain Traditions in the Aran Islands
As the harvest ends, the islands embrace Halloween (or Samhain) in ways that go beyond the pumpkin carving. Traditional markets, superstitions, storytelling, and local festivals combine with the rugged island setting for a hauntingly good time. If you’re here in late October, the Aran islands give a flavour of Ireland’s ancient roots.
Sunset & Sunrise Scenes with Golden Light
Shorter days mean more dramatic light at dawn and dusk. Imagine catching sunrise over Galway Bay, sunset behind the Cliffs, or golden bands over vistas in The Burren. Ideal for photographers, romantics, or anyone who likes their coffee with a side of gorgeous sky.
Wild Atlantic Storms & Atlantic Breath
Autumn is when the ocean reminds you of its power: wind whipping in from the Atlantic, waves crashing on cliffs, the call of the sea loud in your ears. Along coastal walks, ferry rides (weather permitting), and cliff‑tops, that Atlantic energy makes you feel alive.
Why These Moments Matter – & Why You Should Visit
At Galway Tour Company, we love autumn because these ten experiences are what make the Wild Atlantic Way more than just scenery. They are what stays in your memory. The cooler weather means fewer crowds, and more real interactions. You get to see the “real” west of Ireland – its nature, its legends, and its soul.
Tips for Enjoying Autumn on the Wild Atlantic Way
- Dress in layers: wind, rain, sun – often in the same hour. Better to have a coat and not need it, than need it…you get the point.
- Check the weather conditions. Ferry schedules can be affected by bad weather. If you have any concerns, call or email our offices to confirm conditions are suitable ahead of your trip.
- Bring a good camera (or phone) – the sights are worth sharing with jealous mates back home.
- Support local businesses: cafés, pubs, craft shops – many are family‑run and appreciate visitors in off‑peak.
So if you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, or looking to return with new eyes, autumn is one of the best times to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. Let us at Galway Tour Company take you where the colours change, the stories linger, and every moment feels like discovering something special.
Come for the views. Stay for the golden light (and maybe a pony or two).
Check out our range of tours here.
