Itinerary
Welcome to West Clare, a stunning area that boasts rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and charming towns with plenty to see and do. From breathtaking natural beauty to fascinating history and culture, West Clare has something for everyone. In this itinerary, we will take you on a journey through the great sights and experiences that this area has to offer. So get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!
Tour Vandeleur Walled Garden
Walk, explore, and relax in the enchanted Vandeleur Walled Garden, one of County Clare’s most beautiful botanical tributes to Ireland’s rich natural history. Thriving behind old stone walls, this charming medley of plants, mazes, and water features provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Enjoy the interpretative experience in the stable block, discover local prints in the gift shop, or browse the unique plants for sale – there’s something for everyone!
Book a tour here.
Enjoy Lunch at The Woodland Bistro
Why not treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Woodland Bistro during your visit to the garden? With a menu that’s full of fantastic choices, you’re sure to find the perfect option for you. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches, refreshing beverages, and homemade goods. From the savory sandwiches to the delectable desserts, every dish is crafted with care and precision, using only the finest ingredients available. Enjoy!
Find out more here.
Discover Dolphins from Kilrush Marina
Dolphin Discovery in Kilrush offers visitors an exciting and unique wildlife adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way. Travel along the majestic Shannon Estuary, home to Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins, to enjoy close encounters with the dolphins in their natural environment!
The trip, which takes 2-2.5 hours, is also an ideal way to enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful Shannon Estuary. Find out more here.
Explore historic sites with Scattery Island Tours
Once home to the Shannon River pilots, Scattery Island offers a wonderful visitor experience for both young and old. Located within the tranquil waters of the Shannon Esturary, it is a truly unique experience on the renowned Wild Atlantic Way.
Visitors can bask in the unspoilt natural beauty of the uninhabited island and explore its fascinating historical sites, which include a round tower, five churches, a cathedral, a Napoleonic artillery battery, and a lighthouse. Find out more here.
Relax on Kilkee Beach
Kilkee Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its natural amenities, unique climate, and bathing areas. This International Blue Flag beach is regarded as one of the best and safest bathing locations on the Irish west coast.
It is also a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, with surfing and kayaking lessons, and coasteering available during the summer months. It even attracts scuba divers from around the world to enjoy the ample marine life and clear waters, with the reefs considered to be some of the best areas for diving in the world. Find out more here.
Dine at Myles Creek Bar, Restaurant
Myles Creek is a family-owned and operated bar and restaurant in the heart of Kilkee. They constantly strive to give customers the very best experience whilst visiting Kilkee. Opening at 9am, they serve delicious food throughout the whole day, with lunch from noon and evening dining until 9pm.
They also offer a wide range of wines and spirits. During the summer, they even have live music for you to enjoy as you relax after your meal. Find out more here.
View the Route
You can view the route on Google Maps here.
Download the Itinerary
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Crossing the Shannon your journey? Why not skip the road with Shannon Ferries?
Shannon Ferry Group run 2 roll-on, roll-off, car ferries between Killimer in Co. Clare and Tarbert in Co. Kerry on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
From early morning as the mist descends the Shannon Estuary to the Wild Atlantic Sea, to the setting of the sun in the late of the evening. Shannon Ferries will take you and your vehicle on this memorable 20 minute journey across the estuary linking the iconic tourist destinations of the Banner County of Clare to the Kingdom of Kerry.
This is a lovely experience for visitors who would like a short break in their journey to relax as they sail across the majestic Shannon Estuary. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the dolphins, which in the summer, can sometimes swim so near the ferry, as if just to entertain you.
As the only vehicle ferry trip on the main spine of the Wild Atlantic Way, this invigorating journey allows you experience the rugged nature of land and sea as you breath in the fresh salty sea air that encapsulates Irelands Wild Atlantic Way.
Now it’s even easier and much better value when you purchase your ticket online at www.shannonferries.com
Vandeleur Walled Garden Visitors can save 15% when they book online with the promo code: SHANNONFERRIES2024