The Wild Atlantic Way
Mizen Head, West Cork
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way on the outer edge of Europe stretches along the west coast of Ireland. It begins on the Inishowen Peninsula in Co. Donegal and goes through the counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry, finishing in Kinsale, County Cork. The route which is over 1600 miles (2600 km) long and hosts many natural wonders created by the harsh beauty of the Wild Atlantic Ocean.
The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular destinations on the Wild Atlantic Way. Reaching just over 700ft tall at their highest point, these impressive cliffs have been featured in many films including The Princess Bride and Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. There are also many lesser known locations which are equally, if not more impressive, including the best kept secret of the Wild Atlantic Way, Slieve League. Slieve League are the northern cousins of the Cliffs of Moher, and reach nearly three times the height. Located in Co. Donegal, Slieve League is not for the feint of heart. From the viewpoint, one can take “One Man’s Pass,” a trail along the ridge of the cliffs spanning nearly 6 miles and boasting a nearly 2,000 ft elevation change.
Cliffs aren’t the only thing that the Wild Atlantic way has to offer. The Aillwee caves and Doolin Cave are both along the Wild Atlanitc. Within the Aillwee caves, a skull from a European Brown bear was discovered which has been radiocarbon dated to the early Mesolithic era and is over 10,400 years old. The Doolin cave is home to Europe’s largest Stlagmite, reaching 23 feet in length and weighing over 10 tons. The bridges of Ross are another lesser known formation on the Wild Atlantic way. Once three stone bridges, created by the natural erosion of the sea. Today only one remains, however, there is speculation that a second one is currently forming, causing the trail to be modified to allow travel around the new formation.
Mizen Head is a must stop for those looking for a spectacular scene in West Cork where it is known for its dramatic cliffside scenery, iconic bridge and crashing waves beneath. Shush!! May be on the itinerary for the May retreat!
Whether you are looking for a breathtaking scenic hike or just a relaxing afternoon picnic, the Wild Atlantic way hosts almost 200 official scenic locations to stop as well as hundreds of lesser known locations and activities. There is something for everyone on this amazing journey.