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2nd October 2025
12:49pm BST
Sarah McKenna
Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.ie
Ireland’s northwest coast is home to some of the world’s most incredible wild beaches, breathtaking scenery and rugged cliffs. Moody and remote, this stretch of Ireland has a wild beauty that really has to be seen to be believed.
Whether you’re planning a road trip along this iconic route or a getaway to one of its many bustling towns, we’re on a mission to make your next trip even more enjoyable. Get the absolute most out of your break by including stops at some of our favourite spots to relax, refuel and enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner.
From seafood in Mayo to cosy snugs in Sligo, the northern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way is a food-lover's haven.
On your next trip, check out some of our top culinary selections to awaken those taste buds.
Westport in Co. Mayo is home to the stunning Westport House, the beautiful Great Western Greenway and ahead of your next getaway, we've got a recommendation to make your next short break even more delicious.
At the Tavern Bar and Restaurant, you can enjoy oysters, mussels, crab and salmon, caught freshly off the Wild Atlantic Coast, or traditional Irish dishes like beef and Guinness casserole. There's also a selection of vegetarian options and plenty to suit younger diners as well.
When it comes to filling your short break to Sligo with activities, you're spoiled for choice. You can surf up a storm on Strandhill, or hike the breath-taking Ben Bulben Loop. When the evening rolls around however, little beats a cosy pub with a roaring fire as a spot to rest those weary legs.
The Snug Bar in Sligo Town may be the county's smallest pub, but its character is anything but. After a long day exploring the very best of Sligo, pop into The Snug Bar, soak up its atmosphere and join in on the lively sessions.
Donegal is home to breathtaking beaches, sprawling national parks and picturesque towns loaded with charm. Between coastal walks along Fanad Head and hikes in Ards Forest Park, schedule in a trip to Letterkenny where a Michelin-recommended restaurant awaits you.
Chefs at The Lemon Tree use fresh, local ingredients in their cooking to deliver their contemporary Irish offering. Menu highlights include mushroom arancini, pan-fried monkfish and slow-cooked pork belly – the perfect meal to warm up with after taking in all of that crisp Donegal air.
On your next short break to Sligo Town, you will find no shortage of activities with which to fill your day. Check out The Model, Home of the Niland Collection - a cutting-edge contemporary art gallery - enjoy a peaceful walk in the town's Secret Gardens, and for an unforgettable foodie experience, we've got the perfect recommendation.
At the Sligo Oyster Experience, you can get a glimpse behind the curtain with a farm tour. Here, you'll learn from the farmers themselves before finishing up with an oyster tasting session with breath-taking views as your backdrop. For a more casual oyster experience, pop into WB's Coffee House where you can taste natural or baked oysters.
Work up a serious appetite on your next short break to Mayo with a cycle along Clew Bay, a few rounds in Westport Golf Club and a thrilling sky-high adventure in Westport Estate.
All that activity, naturally, calls for a sweet treat, and Krēm Gelateria & Cafe promises to hit that spot. This family business focuses on local ingredients, and you can taste the difference in the wide range of gelato flavours on offer here.
From the striking 15th century Donegal Castle to the award-winning Donegal Railway Heritage Centre, Donegal Town is steeped in history, and it's all waiting for you to explore on your next short break.
Between taking in Norman architecture and some fascinating railway history, make a booking at the Olde Castle Bar to keep the historical vibes going strong. This traditional Irish bar has been welcoming guests since the 1700s and, since 2007, it has been operating as a family gastropub, specialising in both seafood and traditional Irish cooking.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next short break to the Wild Atlantic Way today.
Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.ie
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this autumn and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.
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