Walking Tours Wander the Wild Atlantic Way - Donegal & Connemara
PRICE FROM
€1,799.00
DURATION
9 days
DIFFICULTY
PRICE FROM
€1,799.00
DURATION
9 days
DIFFICULTY
Wander the Wild Atlantic Way - Donegal & Connemara
Embark on a journey through some of Ireland's most breathtaking landscapes, as you explore the rugged coastlines and tranquil countryside of Donegal and Connemara. This walking tour along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the west of Ireland. Through the philosophy of slow travel, you'll take your time to savor each moment, walking at a leisurely pace to fully connect with the stunning environment around you.
Tour Highlights
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Discover Sleave Legues - the Cliffs that are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe
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Hike to Donegals best hidden secret the village of Port
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Climb Irelands holy mountain Croig Padraig
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Walk the haunting Famine Trail along spectacular Killary Fjord.
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Explore an authentic Island
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Relax with true Donegal & Connemara hospitality in charming, family-run hotels & guesthouses.
Why choose this tour
Discover two of the most iconic parts of the Wild Atlantic Coast in Donegal & Connemara.
Off the beaten track hikes will bring you to remote places where you can escape the bustle of every days life.
Itinerary
Wander the Wild Atlantic Way - Donegal & Connemara
Wander the Wild Atlantic Way - Donegal & Connemara
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Donegal - Sleeve Leagues - Glencolmcille - Port
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Croig Padraig- Killary Fjord - Inishbofin island
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Hand-picked, stunning walking routes to explore at your own pace.
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Average 7-15 km (4-10 miles) a day.
The village of Carrick is nestled at the foot of Sliabh Liag. It will be the base for the Donegal part
of your hiking adventure. If you arrive early we can meet you and give you all the information you
need. We can also suggest options for short hikes in the area. Later you can relax in one of the
local pubs, where you might be lucky enough to stumble upon one of the legendary traditional
music “sessions”.
Distance:
Distance: 12.5 km / Altitude gain: Approx 220 metres. / Terrain: Narrow paved roads, unpaved roads.
In the morning transfer to stunningly beautiful Muckross Head. It would be difficult to find a better
place to appreciate the sheer beauty and variety at the Irish seashore. Spend a bit of time taking in
your surroundings near and far. From Muckross follow the narrow coastal road to the village of
Kilcar, a centre for traditional weaving. Continue over the hills along narrow roads and tracks back
to the Village of Carrick.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
Distance: Up to 12 km / Altitude gain: Approx 580 metres ( full loop). / Terrain: Mountain paths and open mountain. Proper hiking boots and clothing essential.
One of the most iconic hikes in all of Ireland. The Sliabh Liag Cliffs need no introduction. There
are few more spectacular locations along the Wild Atlantic Way. Choose from hiking the full loop,
suitable for experienced hikers, via the viewing point at Bunglass and returning via the Pilgrim
Path, or a shorter and easier out and back option along the cliffs.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
16 km / Altitude Gain: Approx 490 metres / Terrain: Open grass and boglands, paved and unpaved roads. Proper hiking boots and clothing essential
A day in which to savour the rarely visited but incredibly beautiful walk from the village of
Glencolmcille to the deserted fishing hamlet of Port. Experience the exhilaration of hiking along
the wild and rugged coast with only grazing sheep for company. Loop back to Glencolmcille where
you can explore the many stone age, bronze age and early-Christian sites for which the valley is
famous.
Meals included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast before being picked up at your accommodation for the transfer to Connemara.
Stop for a coffee at picturesque Drumcliffe where poet WB Yeats chose to be buried. Enjoy a
coffee and the surroundings of the church yard – built on the site of an ancient monastery. Continue
to Westport. Enjoy another night full of music and Irish hospitality in one of Irelands most livable towns.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
7 km (4 miles) / Altitude Gain: 764m (2500ft) | 4-5 hours walking / Terrain: Rocky pathways, some climbs
After a hearty Irish breakfast, we’ll bring you to the start point of today’s hike at Murrisk on the shores of Clew Bay in Co. Mayo. Croagh Patrick is a place of ancient history and archaeological heritage. This dazzling quartzite pyramid has a small chapel at its peak in honour of Ireland’s fifth-century patron saint,
St Patrick, who is said to have fasted on its summit for forty days.
It is a challenging climb, but the views will make it worth the effort. No walking trip in Ireland would be complete without reaching its impressive peak. A real highlight! When you return, we’ll be waiting to transfer you to your next destination, our home town, the pretty village of Leenane where you’ll stay tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
15 km (9 miles) / Altitude Gain: 80m (260ft) | 3-4 hours walking / Terrain: Rocky pathways, sheep trails
This morning’s hike follows the Famine Trail along the edge of Killary Fjord which was built as a relief project during the Great Famine of the 1840s. As you hike along the path through abandoned villages, you can’t help but sense the history and lives of all those who have walked this way before you. With spectacular views over the fjord and surrounding coastline and majestic mountains rising either side, this is a true escape.
At the end of the trail, you can choose to visit Tom’s Sheep Farm or we’ll bring you back to Leenane where you can board the Connemara Lady catamaran for a cruise along the fjord out to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with commentary on the fascinating history, landscape and people of this dramatic area. The trip is often honoured by the company of leaping dolphins.
You’ll spend a second night in Leenane, where we suggest a cold pint of Guinness in an authentic west of Ireland pub is just the thing to end the day!
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
Connemara National Park: 7 km (4 miles) / Altitude Gain : 400m (1310ft) | 2-3 hours walking / Terrain: Good path, some climbs
This morning’s walk is in the beautiful National Park of Connemara. It’s a relatively easy but highly rewarding walk, with stunningly beautiful views over Kylemore Abbey and lake, to the Renvyle Peninsula and out to the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk to the west and northwest, and the Maamturk mountains and Ben Choona mountain range to the south.
After your walk we’ll bring you to the fishing village of Cleggan to catch the ferry to Inishbofin Island ('Inis Bo Finne' - Island of the White Cow) where you’ll stay for two nights. Forty minutes by ferry, this small island is layered in history and a world apart from the mainland. As you sail around the tower and signal light into the harbour, look out for the 16th century ruined barracks used as a prison for Catholic priests from all over Ireland after the English Statute of 1585 declared them guilty of high treason.
This ancient island has been the home of fishermen, farmers, monks, soldiers and adventurers for over 6,000 years. Today it has a population of only 200 people who will warmly welcome you during your stay and allow fascinating insight into traditional island life. After you’ve settled into your accommodation, you might even find yourself drawn into a cosy pub by the sound of traditional Irish music!
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
6-15 km (4-9 miles) / Altitude Gain: Elevation 60-180m (195-260 ft) | 1-5 hours walking / Terrain: Small roads, cross country path with some muddy parts – good shoes required!
Today you’ll have the whole day to explore beautiful Inishbofin and discover some of its secrets. You’ll have a choice of walking routes - there are several looped walks around the island with stunning views of the island's beautiful coastal cliffs, coves, harbour and beaches. Meandering laneways and old stone walls all contribute to the feeling of stepping back in time. You can explore the remains of ancient celtic forts and early Christian monasteries or visit a ‘blowhole’, a geological marvel carved by the sea.
You’ll spend the last night of your walking tour in this very special place soaking up its magic and mystery.
Meals included: Breakfast
After your breakfast today you’ll take the ferry back to Cleggan, where you can catch a connecting bus to Galway City. It’s the end of your tour and time for your onward journey, bringing your unforgettable memories of Ireland with you. Slan go fóill! – we’ll see you again soon.
Meals included: Breakfast
The village of Carrick is nestled at the foot of Sliabh Liag. It will be the base for the Donegal part
of your hiking adventure. If you arrive early we can meet you and give you all the information you
need. We can also suggest options for short hikes in the area. Later you can relax in one of the
local pubs, where you might be lucky enough to stumble upon one of the legendary traditional
music “sessions”.
Distance:
Distance: 12.5 km / Altitude gain: Approx 220 metres. / Terrain: Narrow paved roads, unpaved roads.
In the morning transfer to stunningly beautiful Muckross Head. It would be difficult to find a better
place to appreciate the sheer beauty and variety at the Irish seashore. Spend a bit of time taking in
your surroundings near and far. From Muckross follow the narrow coastal road to the village of
Kilcar, a centre for traditional weaving. Continue over the hills along narrow roads and tracks back
to the Village of Carrick.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
Distance: Up to 12 km / Altitude gain: Approx 580 metres ( full loop). / Terrain: Mountain paths and open mountain. Proper hiking boots and clothing essential.
One of the most iconic hikes in all of Ireland. The Sliabh Liag Cliffs need no introduction. There
are few more spectacular locations along the Wild Atlantic Way. Choose from hiking the full loop,
suitable for experienced hikers, via the viewing point at Bunglass and returning via the Pilgrim
Path, or a shorter and easier out and back option along the cliffs.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
16 km / Altitude Gain: Approx 490 metres / Terrain: Open grass and boglands, paved and unpaved roads. Proper hiking boots and clothing essential
A day in which to savour the rarely visited but incredibly beautiful walk from the village of
Glencolmcille to the deserted fishing hamlet of Port. Experience the exhilaration of hiking along
the wild and rugged coast with only grazing sheep for company. Loop back to Glencolmcille where
you can explore the many stone age, bronze age and early-Christian sites for which the valley is
famous.
Meals included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast before being picked up at your accommodation for the transfer to Connemara.
Stop for a coffee at picturesque Drumcliffe where poet WB Yeats chose to be buried. Enjoy a
coffee and the surroundings of the church yard – built on the site of an ancient monastery. Continue
to Westport. Enjoy another night full of music and Irish hospitality in one of Irelands most livable towns.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
7 km (4 miles) / Altitude Gain: 764m (2500ft) | 4-5 hours walking / Terrain: Rocky pathways, some climbs
After a hearty Irish breakfast, we’ll bring you to the start point of today’s hike at Murrisk on the shores of Clew Bay in Co. Mayo. Croagh Patrick is a place of ancient history and archaeological heritage. This dazzling quartzite pyramid has a small chapel at its peak in honour of Ireland’s fifth-century patron saint,
St Patrick, who is said to have fasted on its summit for forty days.
It is a challenging climb, but the views will make it worth the effort. No walking trip in Ireland would be complete without reaching its impressive peak. A real highlight! When you return, we’ll be waiting to transfer you to your next destination, our home town, the pretty village of Leenane where you’ll stay tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
15 km (9 miles) / Altitude Gain: 80m (260ft) | 3-4 hours walking / Terrain: Rocky pathways, sheep trails
This morning’s hike follows the Famine Trail along the edge of Killary Fjord which was built as a relief project during the Great Famine of the 1840s. As you hike along the path through abandoned villages, you can’t help but sense the history and lives of all those who have walked this way before you. With spectacular views over the fjord and surrounding coastline and majestic mountains rising either side, this is a true escape.
At the end of the trail, you can choose to visit Tom’s Sheep Farm or we’ll bring you back to Leenane where you can board the Connemara Lady catamaran for a cruise along the fjord out to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with commentary on the fascinating history, landscape and people of this dramatic area. The trip is often honoured by the company of leaping dolphins.
You’ll spend a second night in Leenane, where we suggest a cold pint of Guinness in an authentic west of Ireland pub is just the thing to end the day!
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
Connemara National Park: 7 km (4 miles) / Altitude Gain : 400m (1310ft) | 2-3 hours walking / Terrain: Good path, some climbs
This morning’s walk is in the beautiful National Park of Connemara. It’s a relatively easy but highly rewarding walk, with stunningly beautiful views over Kylemore Abbey and lake, to the Renvyle Peninsula and out to the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk to the west and northwest, and the Maamturk mountains and Ben Choona mountain range to the south.
After your walk we’ll bring you to the fishing village of Cleggan to catch the ferry to Inishbofin Island ('Inis Bo Finne' - Island of the White Cow) where you’ll stay for two nights. Forty minutes by ferry, this small island is layered in history and a world apart from the mainland. As you sail around the tower and signal light into the harbour, look out for the 16th century ruined barracks used as a prison for Catholic priests from all over Ireland after the English Statute of 1585 declared them guilty of high treason.
This ancient island has been the home of fishermen, farmers, monks, soldiers and adventurers for over 6,000 years. Today it has a population of only 200 people who will warmly welcome you during your stay and allow fascinating insight into traditional island life. After you’ve settled into your accommodation, you might even find yourself drawn into a cosy pub by the sound of traditional Irish music!
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance:
6-15 km (4-9 miles) / Altitude Gain: Elevation 60-180m (195-260 ft) | 1-5 hours walking / Terrain: Small roads, cross country path with some muddy parts – good shoes required!
Today you’ll have the whole day to explore beautiful Inishbofin and discover some of its secrets. You’ll have a choice of walking routes - there are several looped walks around the island with stunning views of the island's beautiful coastal cliffs, coves, harbour and beaches. Meandering laneways and old stone walls all contribute to the feeling of stepping back in time. You can explore the remains of ancient celtic forts and early Christian monasteries or visit a ‘blowhole’, a geological marvel carved by the sea.
You’ll spend the last night of your walking tour in this very special place soaking up its magic and mystery.
Meals included: Breakfast
After your breakfast today you’ll take the ferry back to Cleggan, where you can catch a connecting bus to Galway City. It’s the end of your tour and time for your onward journey, bringing your unforgettable memories of Ireland with you. Slan go fóill! – we’ll see you again soon.
Meals included: Breakfast
Our favourite on this tour
Inishbofin Island is a very special place. This ancient island has been inhabited since as far back as 8000–4000 BC! Today it’s home to about 200 people who will warmly welcome you and give you a fascinating insight into traditional island life.
Our Reviews
See what our guests have to say about travelling in Ireland with Connemara Adventure Tours.
About your tour
Tour
Essentials
Duration: 10 days.
Start day: Any Day. March to November.
Start/end location: This tour starts in Carrick, Co. Donegal & finishes in Cleggan, Co. Galway.
How to get here
Difficulty level: Easy
This tour consists of easier walking routes, although there may be some uneven ground and gentle hills. Longer & shorter route options are available most days.
DIFFICULTY
What's
included
Accommodation: You’ll relax each night in a private en-suite room in comfortable 3* hotels, B&B & guesthouses.
Meals: Breakfast is included each morning.
Transfers: Private transfer from Carrick, Co. Donegal to Westport, Co. Mayo on Day 5.
Luggage transfers: Our local team will transfer your luggage to your next accommodation every day, leaving you free to explore at your ease.
Find out more about What to Bring
Roadmap for Discovery App: Your bespoke tour app with itinerary, routes and lots of local insider info ready to download before you arrive.
Find out more
Add-on
experiences
Add these amazing experiences on to your tour
- Visit the spectacular Aran Islands, the world-famous Cliffs of Moher & Galway City.
- Visit the Burren National Park.
- Dublin City Experience - 1 night in Dublin + whiskey tasting tour.
- Private transfer to & from the tour start/end point.
Customer
service
Our dedicated local team will be on hand for advice and help throughout your stay.
- Add a personalised meet & greet (+ €125 per booking).
Customise your tour
Everything you could
wish for & more
Make this tour into your own truly Irish experience with
a Tailor-Made Tour. All our tours can be customised. You can add extras, lengthen or shorten your tour to suit your needs or schedule.
Visit a remote, ancient island, follow in St Patrick’s footsteps, taste the finest Irish whiskey. The options are endless!
Get in touch with our Ireland travel experts and we’ll build the trip of a lifetime just for you.
Customise your tour
