Discover the Wild Atlantic Way with Bus Éireann
Holidaymakers can savour the splendour of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way hassle free and with significant savings using Bus Éireann’s Expressway, rural, and city services.
Bus Éireann are the only public bus company that provides customers with a choice of frequent services along the West, South-West and North-West coastal routes. Many of these services are featured as recommended itineraries in a helpful new Wild Atlantic Way customer information guide, which can be found at our travel centres.
The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s first long-distance scenic driving route, connecting the stunning views and pretty towns that the western seaboard of Ireland has to offer. These stretch from the tip of Donegal’s rugged coast to Kinsale in County Cork. Customers can travel with Bus Éireann on this epic journey along 2,500km of Ireland’s western seaboard.
With spectacular views of the coast, tranquil surroundings and natural amenities, this breath-taking route is not to be missed. While travelling with us, customers can sit back, relax and embrace the unspoilt landscape and overwhelming views of Ireland’s western seaboard without distractions, or worrying about directions.
Customers who want to experience a hop on/hop off travelling adventure can buy our Open Road ticket, which allows them to create their own itinerary/adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. Ticket prices start from €57 for 3 days of unlimited travel out of six consecutive days, across our nationwide network of services.
Customers can extend the Open Road Hop on/Hop off Bus Pass by purchasing extra “stamps” for only €16.00 per day.
There are many beautiful places to visit along the Wild Atlantic Way, but here are some highlights:
- Route 490 in Donegal includes the Slieve League Sea Cliffs, which are Ireland’s highest sea cliffs at 600m (1968 feet). This route also continues on to the Glencolmcille Folk Village, situated in the Gaeltacht area of South West Donegal. Here people will see the social life of Ireland during the 17th-19th century.
- Route 64/480 towards Mullaghmore Head is where surfing records are broken, so if you’re a surfer this stop is not to be missed.
- Route 445 to Downpatrick Head remains a pilgrimage site due to its namesake – Saint Patrick. Ruins mark the site where Ireland’s patron saint is said to have founded a church. Mass is held here every year on the last Sunday in July.
- Route 440 travels towards Keem Strand on Achill Island. Following the island signposts you come across to Keem Bay, which gazes out onto to the Atlantic Ocean. Mayo is known for its Blue Flag Beaches so if you’re into swimming and relaxing, this is the place for you.
- Route 350 travels to the Cliffs of Moher. These County Clare goliaths rise above the ocean at Hag’s Head and continue on for eight kilometres, reaching a height of 214m (702 feet). These famous cliffs have featured in films such as The Princess Bride and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood prince.
- Route 276 to Blasket Sound is where the film Ryan’s Daughter was shot. Don’t miss a walk along Coumeenole Beach, with its little rock pools, tiny caves and surging blue Atlantic Ocean. The views of the deserted Blasket Islands are great from the beach.
- Route 226/226A towards Old Head of Kinsale has many strings to its bow, with all the fresh produce in the local restaurants, the rich history of Charles Fort and the excellent fishing charters available. To the west of the town is another of Kinsale’s treasures, waiting to be discovered: The Old Head of Kinsale. People will be blown away by the spectacular coastal walks, with ruined forts, lighthouses and tales of shipwrecks, there’s plenty to discover.
Bus Éireann provides the most comprehensive network of services for people travelling around the Wild Atlantic Way. We offer various direct routes from a wide range of locations, as well as connecting services from around the country via our national network.
“Visitors from both Ireland and abroad can sit back, relax and enjoy visiting some of Ireland’s hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way with Bus Éireann,” said Rory Leahy, Regional Manager, North-West, Bus Éireann.
Friday, 18th July, 2014