If you’re thinking of taking a scenic tour to mark the 10th anniversary of the iconic coastal path, here are some gorgeous places to stay along the way
Donegal
Lough Eske Castle
Nestled amidst the breath-taking beauty of Donegal, Lough Eske Castle offers a haven of tranquillity and opulence like no other in the northwest of Ireland. Located at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains, it is perfect for an adventure-filled escape or a rejuvenating retreat, thanks to the award-winning Cara Organic Spa. It’s also close to Sliabh Liag – the ultimate sea-cliff experience and a signature spot on the Wild Atlantic Way. Whatever your preference, you’ll have no trouble enjoying yourself to the max at this incredible five-star hotel.
Redcastle Oceanfront Golf and Spa Hotel
Families can experience an unforgettable family adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way at this elegant and historic hotel. It’s also a beautiful location to enjoy the wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way. From a peaceful coastal walk to adventure-filled activities and more challenging outdoor pursuits, you’ll get to try out a host of exciting endeavours the length and breadth of the Inishowen peninsula when you stay here.
Leitrim
Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens
If you’ve never been to Leitrim, this is one of the top luxury castle hotels to stay in to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. From award-winning food with locally-sourced menus to breathtaking scenery, historical sites and walled gardens, this place has it all. And if you want to experience the castle without staying in the bedrooms or suites, there are beautiful self catering cottages available that are ideal for larger group accommodation.
Drumhierny Woodland Estate
For a truly unique experience, stay in Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway. Situated a stone’s throw from the River Shannon and Shannon Blueway, the picturesque estate has so much to offer and lots of activities for you to enjoy. This is the perfect rural haven for families, explorers and adventurers who want to disconnect and experience a truly slower pace of life. It’s also pet-friendly with several cabins equipped with a dog bed and blanket.
Sligo
Sligo Park Hotel
Did you know that Sligo was voted the second most romantic place to visit in Ireland in a study conducted earlier this year? If you’ve only ever driven through it, this is your sign to stop and explore a while. And where better than the Sligo Park Hotel, in the heart of Yeats country, just a three-minute drive from Sligo town. It is set in quiet parkland and surrounded by some of the most scenic countryside in Ireland, ranging from the majestic Benbulben to the Wild Atlantic Way.
Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa
Just five minutes from the town centre and even less from a world of stunning walks, championship links golf courses and a host of celebrated surfing spots, this is an ideal place to base yourself to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. And no matter where your room is your guaranteed a beautiful view as it’s situated overlooking the Bay of Sligo, with stunning views of Rosses Point to one side and Knocknarea Mountain on the other, There’s also a gym, pool, sauna and excellent bar food if the weather isn’t playing ball!
Galway
The Galmont Hotel and Spa
Explore all the culture, craic and captivating scenery Galway has to offer from this beautiful hotel, located in the heart of the city! There is so much to see and do in this brilliant city that you’ll be thrilled to chill out in the blissful spa and pool area once you’re done. In the morning, enjoy delicious, fresh breakfasts overlooking the stunning Lough Atalia from the comfort of Marina’s Restaurant before heading out for another day of sight-seeing.
Galway Bay Hotel
Once you arrive at this location, you will have reached the midpoint of the Wild Atlantic Way. The Galway Bay Hotel is situated right on the famous Salthill promenade offering great accommodation, fine and casual dining options, a leisure centre and spa beauty rooms. It’s also only five minutes from Galway’s bustling city centre so you’re really getting the best of both worlds.
Mayo
Ice House Hotel
What better way to enjoy the beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way than from a seaweed bath overlooking the breath-taking surrounds of the River Moy? Of course, if you’re feeling a bit more active, you can try biking, surfing, cruising, golfing, paddle boarding or take a guided tour of Mayo’s ancient Neolithic history. There really is something for everyone if you decide to base yourself here for a few days.
The Wyatt Hotel
If you want to get a real feel for the town of Westport, Wyatt is a charming 3-star boutique hotel located right in the centre with a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Just a stone’s throw away from many of Mayo’s top attractions, such as Croagh Patrick, the Great Western Greenway and stunning beaches, it’s also worth noting that it also offers a number of dog-friendly bedrooms in an isolated area of the property.
Clare
Key73 Holland House
If you’re exploring the Wild Atlantic Way on a girls trip, significant birthday or large family vacation, why not rent one of these stunning Key73 properties so everyone can be in one place? Managed by Michelle Mulcair and Michelle Nestor, they are luxury homes that will provide a gorgeous base for your activities. Holland Place is a newly refurbished house located in the village of Liscannor, steps away from award winning seafood restaurants and traditional pubs. A great location to explore the beautiful Cliffs of Moher, Doolin village, Lahinch beach and golf course.
Falls Hotel and Spa
The Banner County has something for everybody and basing yourself at the Falls Hotel and Spa means you are very well placed to experience them all. It is only a short drive to a plethora of activities and attractions like the Burren Geopark, Aillwee Caves, kite-surfing in Lahinch or you can drive 15 mins to Doolin and do a boat trip to the Aran Islands. If you want to stay around the hotel, you can do fishing on the grounds or sea angling nearby. There’s also an outdoor hot tub overlooking the river for maximum relaxation.
Limerick
The Mustard Seed Country House
Located ten minutes from the village of Adare, The Mustard Seed is easily accessible and a lovely drive through the countryside from all major routes. Surrounded by greenery, this has real ‘escape-to-the-country’ vibes and is ideal if you want to get away from it all in truly exquisite surroundings. The restaurant is legendary with superb food and warm hospitality and it’s pet-friendly so you can bring your 4-legged buddy for long walks in the fresh air.
Castletroy Park Hotel and Suites
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve seen a good chunk of the famous Wild Atlantic Way – but there’s plenty more still to come! Castletroy Park Hotel is the ideal place to stay to visit all that Limerick has to offer including landmarks such as King Johns Castle, Thomond Park and the Milk Market. Located close to Limerick city, just minutes off the M7 Dublin motorway, the hotel is adjacent to the University of Limerick and offers an excellent starting place to explore Lough Derg and the surrounding coastline.
Kerry
The Park Hotel
Overlooking Kenmare Bay, this glorious hotel dates back to 1897 and is the perfect blend of heritage and luxury. And if you’ve never been to Kenmare, trust us, you are missing out. Just a three-minute stroll from the hotel there are a variety of boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafés to explore. So, for lovers of antiques, cashmere, delicious local food, traditional pubs and music it is all on your doorstep. Although there’s also the draw of the hotel to consider! With charming rooms to relax in, open fires, SAMAS Spa, a 25m lap pool, private cinema, croquet, falconry, walks, cycling and golf on offer, you may never want to leave.
The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens
For another luxurious stay, this time close to the iconic town of Killarney, try the beautifully serene Dunloe Hotel and Gardens. Located in the heart of the stunning Kerry countryside overlooking the iconic Gap of Dunloe, this hotel promises a true 5-star experience in the tranquil surrounds of its own 64-acre estate. As well as offering a complimentary shuttle to Killarney town centre, guests are invited to enjoy onsite leisure activities including horse riding on Haflinger ponies, fishing on the River Laune, indoor swimming and indoor tennis to name but a few.
Cork
Celtic Ross Hotel
Rosscarbery is the perfect base from which to explore the southern stretch of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and the Celtic Ross Hotel is the place to rest your head before you do it. The family-owned Celtic Ross Hotel has a cosy, welcoming atmosphere that is ideal for a family holiday, a reunion with friends or a solo getaway. Depending on what your goal is, the wonderful team will assist you in exploring the area like a local, experiencing the best that destination West Cork has to offer. And while you’re there, make sure you sample the incredible food from the hotel’s new head chef, Brett Ladds, who ran the house and catered for President Nelson Mandela and his guests from 1994-1996.
Inchydoney Lodge & Spa
If you want to wake up practically on the beach, look no further than a room at Inchydoney Lodge and Spa, just outside the colourful heritage town of Clonakilty in West Cork. From whale-watching, kayaking and outdoor yoga to sumptuous dining and restorative seawater therapies, you’ll think you’re living in a dream. If you can tear yourself away to discover the beauty of the local area, you really won’t find a better spot to complete your tour of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
