Cycling on the Wild Atlantic Way, between Clifden and Westport

After a hearty Irish breakfast, your first day of cycling will take you from Clifden along the Sky Road, offering stunning views of the Atlantic coast. You'll pass through the traditional fishing village of Cleggan, then continue on to Letterfrack, home to Connemara National Park. Take a break and enjoy a walking route with several loops offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the distant islands, or have a coffee while learning more about this ancient Irish landscape at the charming visitor center.

Your itinerary ends today on the Renvyle Peninsula, where you will spend the night. This wild peninsula, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, is full of archaeological sites, historical ruins, and white sand beaches just waiting to be explored.

Your route today, from the Renvyle Peninsula, follows a winding coastal road along the edge of the deep green Atlantic Ocean, past white sand beaches and through the pretty village of Tullycross with its traditional thatched cottages.

As you continue your journey, a breathtaking panorama of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord, will appear around a bend. Your destination is the tiny village of Leenane, nestled at the foot of the Maamturks Mountains, at the head of the fjord. Here, you can choose to board the Connemara Lady catamaran for a cruise along the fjord to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with commentary on the fascinating history, landscape, and people of this region. The trip is often graced by the sight of dolphins leaping in the water!

You'll be spending the night here in Leenane. Despite its small size, it always has a lively and friendly atmosphere in the village's two pubs and with a selection of restaurants serving excellent dishes made with local ingredients. Take the opportunity to enjoy a cold Guinness in one of the traditional pubs of our hometown!

Today's route takes you from Leenane along the shores of Killary Fjord to the beautiful Delphi Valley – once densely populated, now sparsely populated and empty. You'll reach Doolough Valley (Valley of the Dark and Deep Lake). At the northern end of the valley, just off the road, is a poignant memorial to the victims of the Great Famine, which devastated this region.

Your route then follows the winding road to Louisburgh. This picturesque 18th-century coastal village offers one of the most panoramic views in Ireland, with mountains to the east and south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and north. Stop at the visitor centre to learn about the life and times of the legendary Pirate Queen, Grace O'Malley.

Follow the coastal road again along the island-dotted shores of Clew Bay, with the sacred mountain of Croagh Patrick as a backdrop. Along the way, stop to visit the 14th-century Murrisk Abbey. You'll then arrive in the historic town of Westport, where you'll spend the night. This vibrant town is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity and has been voted "Best Place to Live in Ireland." Spend the evening exploring the many restaurants and pubs, and don't forget to catch a live performance of traditional Irish music on the last night of your trip.

After breakfast, your tour concludes and it's time to continue your journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Ireland. Slán go fóill! – we hope to see you again soon.