The Wild Atlantic Way: Romancing Ireland’s Atlantic Coast
There is powerful energy where ocean meets land. The same dynamic forces of water and wind that summon us to sea are also at work sculpting the coastline into rugged fractals. The elements assert their influence on landscape and lifestyle, inspiring ways to briefly escape terra firma, skimming about in boats for fun, adventure, and survival.
And so it is, along the 2,500 kilometers of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a dramatic coastal route route embracing nature, history, and civilization, shaped by the sea. Navis recently enjoyed the opportunity to drive a segment of the route, discovering Ireland’s secrets as we took a closer look at its rich tapestry of ancient ruins, maritime traditions, and abundant resources supplying sport, inspiration, and hospitality.
The experience introduced surprising revelations, like the growing surf culture attracted to huge tubes delivered by the Atlantic Ocean, and the Cruinniu na mbad festival celebrating the country’s history of sailing dating back to 7000 BC. An incredible population of craftsmen, from wool and whiskey, to literature and architecture, showed us Ireland’s true strength, holding onto the past with one hand while launching the future with the other. Craftsmen like yacht designer Rob Doyle, and hoteliers like those at the Park Hotel Kenmore and Dublin’s Kilmary Club added generous human perspective to the tour. We invite you to share our experience here, focusing on a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Auld Sod: North to South
Divided into specific regions, the natural beauty unique to each one allows a personal side to the route from the aspect of choice. From the dramatic, untouched wilds of the Northern Headlands and the thundering Surf Coast, to the central Bay Coast and Cliff Coast, and the welcoming Southern Peninsula and Haven Coast, the route wanders from remote areas, to the contented pace of charming villages, towns, and cities.
Just four years into its existence, the route seems relatively undiscovered. Well marked and positioned signage easily substitutes for GPS, permitting natural wayfinding while scanning the countryside and horizon as opposed to the small screen. The mobile Wild Atlantic Way app, however, provides a wealth of information including secrets shared by locals. It is a valuable tool, guiding visitors to 15 Signature Discovery Points and 160 additional points of interest.
Meandering around peninsulas with seaside cliffs, dropping dramatically to serene beaches that quickly transformed to mountainous vistas or lively villages, Ireland maintained an endearing charm. Nowhere was that more apparent than when we stopped at castle ruins to explore their historic whispers in solitude. No tour guide. No entry fee. Simply an experience, rich in suggestion of an earlier era.
The rugged terrain along parts of the route is best navigated with sturdy transportation worthy of the task. Fortunate to be supported by Audi, Navis was provided a new 2017 Q7 for this trip, a powerful, comfortable ride spacious enough to easily carry our large group in comfort and style.
