Seaweed baths, sheep dogs and shellfish tours – 9 enriching experiences along the Wild Atlantic Way

Make your next getaway to the northern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way even more memorable with these unique activities.

When it comes to mixing things up on your next getaway in Ireland, it's hard to beat the northern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.

This region is packed with one-of-a-kind experiences – from seafood tours and folk villages to a military museum.

Enrich your next short break with centuries-old heritage spots, hands-on food experiences and cultural gems that are off the beaten track.

To set you up for a journey of discovery, we've highlighted some of our top picks in Ireland's north-west.

Solas Visitor Centre, Co. Mayo

The Solas Visitor Centre invites you to unearth this region's rich Gaeltacht heritage through immersive exhibits across three galleries. This centre - which is surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty - takes visitors on a journey, from early Christian settlers to World War II.

After taking in the exhibits, pop by the gift shop, which stocks a range of crafts from the Gaeltacht. The café, meanwhile, is also on hand with tasty treats and great coffee.

Atlantic Sheepdogs, Co. Sligo

At Atlantic Sheepdogs, Martin Feeney, an expert trainer, invites visitors to discover the integral role sheepdogs play on Irish farms. Watch in wonder as his dogs herd sheep around in a lively demonstration set against the backdrop of the magnificent Benbulben Mountain.

Afterwards, a delicious carvery lunch awaits in the nearby Henry's Bar & Restaurant - the perfect meal to fuel the rest of your day.

Céide Fields Neolithic Site and Visitor Centre, Co. Mayo

North Mayo is home to the world's most extensive Stone Age monument in the world - and you can see it for yourself at Céide Fields Neolithic Site and Visitor Centre. Step inside this architectural marvel and bear witness to the stone walls and tombs which date back 5,000 years.

For an unforgettable dining experience afterwards, make a booking at the Stella Maris Country House Hotel Restaurant, where delicious food and sweeping ocean views await.

Voya Seaweed Baths, Co. Sligo

Treat yourself to an indulgent relaxation session on your next getaway with a visit to Voya Seaweed Baths in Strandhill. Submerge yourself in Voya's Victorian cast iron baths and feel the nourishing effects of the organic hand-harvested seaweed.

Self-care days call for equally indulgent meals, and we recommend the nearby Venue Bar Steak & Seafood Restaurant for a post-bath dinner.

Glencolmcille Folk Village, Co. Donegal

This hillside village is home to six small museum cottages, each representing a different era of Irish history. With a reconstructed school house, a fisherman's dwelling and a pub-grocer, you're bound to leave with a deeper connection to those that came before us.

After your visit, swing by The Rusty Mackerel Pub for a bite to eat, live music and, if you're lucky, some Irish dancing from the staff.

Croagh Patrick Seafoods , Co. Mayo

Short breaks are the ideal time to delve deep into Ireland's food scene, and Croagh Patrick Seafoods & Tours is the perfect entry-point. On a fully guided tour across the stunning Clew Bay, you'll hear the history and tradition behind one family's seafood business - and you will even get to taste a Clew Bay oyster fresh from the bay.

Complete the experience afterwards with a full seafood dinner at the Helm Bar and Restaurant in Westport.

The Model: Home of the Niland Collection, Co. Sligo

No getaway is complete without a generous dose of culture, which is why this cutting-edge contemporary art gallery deserves a spot on your short break's itinerary. With summer fast-approaching, there are plenty of exhibitions running at The Model including Jack Butler Yeats; The Dreaming Road, Julianknxx; Chorus in Rememory of Flight, and Marianne Keating; No Irish Need Apply. In July, the gallery will host a solo exhibition by Mairead O'hEocha - one to plan ahead for this summer.

After taking in the art, head next door to Gourmet Parlour for a homemade lunch and a sweet treat.

Fort Dunree Military Museum, Co. Donegal

The infamous Fort Dunree was first built in 1798 following the arrest of Wolfe Tone, but today it is home to a state-of-the-art military museum. Feed your curiosity by checking out its impressive collection of memorabilia and artefacts in the museum's fascinating underground bunkers.

Finish your day off with a hearty meal made with locally-sourced ingredients at The Drift Inn in Buncrana.

Magee of Donegal, Co. Donegal

Unearth a slice of fashion history on your next getaway with a mini-spree at Magee of Donegal. This luxury lifestyle brand dates all the way back to 1866, and today it's a major shopping destination in the charming Donegal Town. As well as getting some shopping in, you can take a peek behind the curtain and see a skilled hand-weaver at work.

After browsing Magee's huge selection of knitwear, grab some goodies from the artisan food market. For a bigger bite to eat, head to the Weaver's Loft Bistro for breakfast, brunch or lunch.

So, what are you waiting for? Some of Ireland's most unique attractions and activities are waiting for you along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Start planning your next short break at DiscoverIreland.ie

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