Explore the Winter Beauty Along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

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Galley Head Lighthouse, Rosscarbery, Co Cork

Ireland is beautiful in the winter season, especially along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way.  Here is a selection of travel ideas for visitors to Ireland in the winter months, from December to March 2024. 


Starry Nights and Northern Lights
Lonely Planet named the Wild Atlantic Way as one of the top five places in the world to star gaze. With little light pollution, on a clear winter’s night thousands of stars are visible to the naked eye. Go north to Donegal for a chance to see the northern lights or drop into Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve or Mayo International Dark Sky Park and enjoy a guided tour of the night sky.




Fishing Lessons, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, Co Galway

Country Pursuits
A stay in a country house combines elegance and comfort with the chance to try your hand at a few new outdoor pursuits. At Rockhill House
, County Donegal, winter experiences include deer stalking, rut walks and wild game shooting. And at stunning Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in County Galway, the fishing season gets underway in February with excellent river and lake fishing opportunities in the grounds of the 700-acre estate.


Photo Finish
The rugged beauty of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way acquires a special character under winter’s brooding skies when the low sun creates dramatic shadow-filled landscapes making it a gift for photographers. Those wanting to get the most out of their camera should book a workshop with award-winning photographer Kieran Hayes who is based in West Cork.

Big Wave Surfing
It may be cold but dedicated surfers will still be on their boards enjoying the Atlantic waves that reach their peak in winter. Mullaghmore, County Sligo, is a top spot to ride the big waves or to watch the experts do it. There are lots of other beaches nearby which are suitable for beginners and intermediates.

Lighthouse Living
Watching the crashing Atlantic waves from the safety and warmth of a lightkeeper’s cottage is an experience to be savored. Along the Wild Atlantic Way there are a number of lighthouse accommodations including Loop Head in County Clare and Galley Head in County Cork where you can drink in stunning sea views.



Great Western Greenway, Co Mayo

Hikes and Bikes
An empty beach or a windswept cliff make great places for winter walks that will reconnect you with nature. Take advantage of off-peak rates to book a stay in a cosy cottage in Connemara and explore this unspoilt region. Or get on your bike and pedal the Great Western Greenway, voted one of the top three cycle trails in the world by the New York Times.

The Drive of your Life
If you prefer to stay out of the winter weather, you can still enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way by taking to the road to drive the 2,500km coastal road. Along the way there will be plenty of reasons to stop – to snap a jaw-dropping view, explore a picturesque village, relax in a music-filled pub or delve into history at heritage sites.

www.ireland.com


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