Discovery the thrills and hills of the Wild Atlantic Way

1,600 miles, 14 stages and 9 counties. It can only be one thing and that’s the Wild Atlantic Way.

The tourist trail is perfect for everyone. From those who love to be out and about to those who just want to take in some breathtaking views. It’s got everything.

So where does it start and end? Good question! It begins on the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal and goes through the counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry, finishing in Kinsale, in our own lovely Cork.

According to the team at thewildatlanticway.com, the Atlantic with its unrestrained and untameable tides and storms has continuously been moulding the west coast of Ireland.

They said: “With a constant meeting of water and land, a deeply indented and wild terrain has emerged with towering cliffs, spellbinding bays and beaches, mystical islands, always changing and never reaching the end.

“In the isolation or perhaps expressed in a different way living near and with the Atlantic at your doorstep has ensured that old traditions and the Irish language have been preserved. A trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is also an encounter with the past.”

There’s 180 of what are called Discovery Points to guide you on your way. These are marked with a distinctive Wild Atlantic Way signpost.

If you’re time strapped and just want to get a taste of the very best views and historical sites, Discover Island has 15 Signature Points along the route.

First up is Malin Head in Donegal. This is renowned for its dramatic landscape and beautiful beaches. A circuit of Malin Head, Discover Island said, brings you around the coast to Banba’s Crown where a derelict building known as the Tower, was once used as a signal station connecting America and Europe. From Banba's Crown, view Inishtrahull Island and its majestic lighthouse to the north east.

Staying in Donegal, the next Discovery Point is Fanad Head where visitors can enjoy the beach at Ballymastocker Bay. This is the perfect spot to take your shoes off and feel the sand between your toes.

We’re not finished with Donegal just yet. Another Discovery Point is Sliabh Liag (Slieve League). This is where you will find some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.

County Sligo is the next stop for the fourth Discovery Point. It’s at Mullaghmore Head (psst, don’t forget your surfboard here!).

The fifth Discovery Point is Downpatrick Head in Mayo. Named after St Patrick, it still shows remnants apparently left behind by the famous man.

The sixth is also in Mayo and that’s at Keem Bay, which great place to find a bit of peace and quiet on your travels.

Hello Galway! Visit the next Discovery Points in the county of the Tribesmen. These are at Killary Harbour and Derrigimlagh.

Next up is the well-known Cliffs of Moher in Clare which attracts people from all over the globe. Then find some panoramic cliff views, seaside villages and a lighthouse at Loop Head.

Kerry is calling. The Blasket Islands and the Skellig Islands host another two Discovery Points.

Last but not least, it’s our own Rebel County. Cork has Dursey Island, Mizen Head and the Old Head of Kinsale to explore.