County Clare

The west is any nature lover’s dream with hiking paths running along a wild and wooly rugged and plenty of protected space inside the boundaries of its natural parks. The Cliffs of Moher are unmissable; stretching for 8km from Doolin to Hag’s Head in County Clare, the iconic fingers of rock stretch out into the water below, see them from the water to see the full nature of their majesty. On a clear day (cross your fingers!), you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the Twelve Bens and the Maum Turk mountains from the highest point.

The west coast encompasses the middle section of the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal road that runs from Donegal in the north all the way down to the small town of Kinsale, a distance that totals 2,600 km . It is undoubtedly one of the world’s most scenic drives that takes in soaring cliffs, secluded bays and charming towns and villages.

The stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way here has become a mecca for surfers – beginners and old hats. Here local bands play traditional music year-round and not just for the tourist’s benefit making for a lively truly local experience.