I found the perfect autumn road trip—with castles, hidden beaches and wildlife

If you're looking to embark on a beautiful, scenic road trip this autumn, look no further, the Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect route

Something about changing seasons always sparks a desire for a road trip adventure for me. The first hint of autumn in the air – when the summer crowds thin and the leaves slowly shift to fiery reds and golden yellows – feels like the perfect time to pack up and set out on the open road.

Brisk winds pick up, the air grows crisp, and the horizon, once hazy with heat, becomes sharp and clear. It’s a season that calls for an epic road trip without the summer crowds.

And there may be no better place to answer that call than along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

This 1,600-mile coastal route, running from the southern reaches of Cork to the northern tip of Donegal, is not just a drive; it’s an unforgettable journey into the wild, rugged beauty of Ireland’s western coastline.

As the Wild Atlantic Way marks its 10-year anniversary this year, it remains a testament to the country’s natural wonders – from towering cliffs to tiny, music-filled villages.

Autumn, in particular, transforms the journey into something special: fewer tourists, deeper colours, and wildlife thriving in their natural rhythms.

Speaking on the Travel Goals Podcast, Irish TV Presenter and Content creator Jamie Flannery said of the Wild Atlantic Way, "It's a phenomenal coastal drive that's all the way along the west coast of Ireland, the spectacular views, the rugged coastline, and also the amazing towns that you'll visit throughout travelling all the way along the west coast of Ireland is amazing.

"There are so many highlights on this super long road, and you can drive the entire route or explore the smaller sections and peninsulas, depending on your time and budget."

As a travel journalist and podcaster, I wanted to explore part of the route so that I can help you plan your dream road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Here are my top recommendations.

Cork

Our road trip adventure began in Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city with a warm, welcoming, small-town feel.

It’s known for its rich history, festivals and exciting foodie scene that focuses on fresh, local ingredients served up by independent ventures.

Here, traditional Irish pubs, contemporary restaurants and a historic market offer a wide array of delicious dishes, from seafood and stews to artisanal cheeses and handmade chocolates.

The best local produce can be found in the English market.

As Europe's oldest trading covered food market, The English Market has a solid reputation for showcasing local and international produce from independent vendors, including cheese, meats, seasonal vegetables, spices and pastries.

This foodie paradise also houses several stalls where you can grab sandwiches, cakes, freshly brewed coffee and hot sausages cooked on a griddle.

Before you hit the coastal roads, spend some time exploring Blarney Castle.

While it’s famous for the Blarney Stone (which you hang upside down to kiss), the real charm lies in wandering through the castle’s expansive grounds. Autumn brings out the best in the castle’s vast gardens, where the paths are blanketed with fiery leaves and ancient trees glow in the softer light of the season.

Once you've stretched your legs, it’s time to drive towards Fota Island, where you can visit the Fota Wildlife Park. This isn't your typical zoo—it’s an open wildlife park where animals roam semi-freely in large, natural habitats.

As autumn sets in, the park takes on a serene atmosphere, and the cooler weather makes it an ideal time to spot some of the park’s iconic residents, from giraffes to red pandas.

Killarney and Killarney National Park

From Cork, head to Killarney, where you’ll find one of Ireland’s most scenic national parks – Killarney National Park.

It's especially captivating in autumn, with its sprawling woodlands and reflective lakes transformed by the season.

The Muckross House and Gardens offer a lovely pit stop—while the estate is grand, the surrounding landscape steals the show at this time of year.

If you time your visit right, you might catch the red deer rut, a wildlife spectacle and a dream for nature photographers.

These are the last surviving indigenous herd of red deer in Ireland and have been here since Neolithic times. All other red deer herds in the country are descended from re-introduced stock.

This annual autumn event sees the park’s resident stags battle for dominance in a dramatic display of nature. The echoing sound of clashing antlers through the misty woods is an unforgettable autumn experience in Killarney.

For hikers, there’s no better place than Torc Mountain. The climb is manageable and rewards you with panoramic views over the park, where autumn colours stretch as far as the eye can see. If you prefer a more relaxed outing, take a scenic boat trip around the lakes, surrounded by trees in full autumn glory.

The Ring of Kerry

Leaving Killarney, follow the Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile loop offering rugged coastal views, charming villages, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. While the Ring of Kerry can be crowded in summer, autumn is quieter, giving you more space to enjoy the coastal landscapes.

As you continue along the Ring of Kerry, take a slight detour onto the Skellig Ring to visit the Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí). Often overlooked in favour of their more famous cousins, the Cliffs of Moher, the Kerry Cliffs are every bit as dramatic—and arguably more peaceful, especially in autumn.

Rising 300 meters (about 1,000 feet) above the Atlantic, they offer epic views of the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island on a clear day.

The cliffs are a masterpiece of natural beauty. Centuries of crashing waves have carved their jagged edges, leaving a sheer drop into the wild Atlantic below. In autumn, the sight is even more spectacular, with the soft light of the season casting a golden glow over the cliffs and ocean. The sea birds still circle; if you’re lucky, you might spot seals and dolphins in the choppy waters below.

Visiting the Kerry Cliffs is easy—a small entry fee goes towards maintaining the site. There’s parking nearby, and a short walk from the entrance brings you to the viewing platforms, which offer sweeping, unobstructed views that feel worlds away from the busier tourist spots.

Dingle Peninsula

Next, go to the Dingle Peninsula, one of the most scenic parts of Ireland’s coastline and famous for being one of the filming locations for Star Wars - The Last Jedi.

Dingle is a perfect place to slow down and enjoy local culture. This bohemian and artistic town is renowned for its coastal adventures and lively pubs, where you can experience world-class traditional Irish music.

Venture along the Dingle peninsular, and you'll find an astonishing 6,000 years of history set against the backdrop of the wild Kerry coastline. Here, the raging waves of the Atlantic crash against dramatic cliffs under expansive, moody skies.

Love wildlife? Head out on a boat trip off the southwest coast of Ireland, and you might be lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins.

The whale watching season typically runs from April to October, with the best chances of spotting humpback whales from mid-June to mid-October. During this period, these majestic creatures can potentially be seen lunge feeding and tail fluking, particularly in the waters northwest of the Blasket Islands.

Family-owned Dingle Sea Safari offers thrilling Rib Experiences to spot whales and other marine life. You can bounce along the swell to see the Blasket Islands, the world-famous Slea Head scenery, rock formations, seals, caves, and puffins.

Dingle is renowned for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene (trad), integral to its strong cultural identity. At night, the town's busy pubs come alive with the sounds of fiddles, tin whistles, bodhráns, and accordions, offering visitors an authentic taste of Irish heritage.

Traditional music sessions are nightly, providing a musical experience that locals and tourists cherish. One of the most famous spots for live traditional music is The Dingle Pub. Located in the heart of the town, this lively venue offers music sessions every night of the week.

O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub is another must-visit for music enthusiasts. Known for its genuine and intimate sessions, this pub prides itself on preserving the heritage of traditional Irish music.

The Cliffs of Moher

A highlight of any trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher are especially dramatic in autumn.

The cliffs of mower experience one of Ireland's most visited natural attractions and a highlight of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, rising out of the sea to a height of over 700 feet, or 215 meters at O'Brien's tower, and running along the coast of County Clare for almost 14 kilometres.

You can see on a clear day up to five counties, the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the 12 pins, the Maum Turk mountains and the Connemara loop.

Outside of the busy summer season, the paths are often quieter, and the cooler air adds a freshness to the experience. While summer views are usually obscured by mist, autumn brings clearer skies, making the cliffs’ sheer drop into the Atlantic even more striking.

Take the Cliff Walk from Doolin to Liscannor, a coastal trail that hugs the edge of the cliffs, offering unbeatable views without the summer crowds. For an alternative perspective, hop on a boat tour to see the cliffs from the sea. The towering limestone faces are even more imposing from the water.

Galway

Finish your autumn road trip in Galway, a city known for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and love for the arts. Even in autumn, Galway’s streets buzz with energy.

Wander through Shop Street, where musicians perform, and local markets offer everything from handmade crafts to seasonal food.

Visit the Spanish Arch, one of the city’s historic landmarks, or stroll along the Salthill Promenade, where the autumn skies stretch over Galway Bay.

The historic city’s lively streets take on a different atmosphere as the autumn days grow shorter and Halloween approaches.

If you're looking for a way to embrace the season’s eerie charm, consider joining a Ghost and Dark History Tour of Galway with Experience Galway.

This creepy walking tour dives into the city’s spookier side, perfect for the crisp autumn evenings when the air feels more mysterious.

As the sun sets and shadows lengthen, you’ll be guided through the narrow medieval streets, uncovering the darker chapters of Galway’s past. The tour weaves together stories of restless spirits, tragic tales, and the unsolved mysteries that haunt the city.

From the grisly history of Lynch’s Castle—where a father executed his own son for murder—to the eerie legends surrounding The Spanish Arch, Galway’s rich history comes to life in a completely different light.

If you're visiting in late October, don’t miss the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival, a celebration of Ireland’s fresh produce at its best this time of year.

What You Need to Know for a Road Trip Along the Wild Atlantic Way

Before you hit the open road and explore the Wild Atlantic Way, here are a few essentials to help you plan your journey:

Getting There: Ferry or Flights

By Ferry: If you're driving from the UK, taking the ferry is a great way to bring your car. Irish Ferries operates routes from Holyhead to Dublin and Pembroke to Rosslare, with modern vessels offering comfortable amenities and plenty of space for your vehicle. Once you land in Ireland, it’s just a few hours' drive to the start of the Wild Atlantic Way in Cork or Kinsale. Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times, and remember that ferry schedules may vary in the off-season.

By Air: If you prefer to fly, you can arrive in Ireland via Cork, Shannon, or Dublin Airport. Cork and Shannon are the most convenient for starting your journey along the Wild Atlantic Way. Both airports offer a range of car rental options from well-known providers like Hertz, Enterprise, and Europcar. Booking ahead online is recommended to secure the best rates and ensure availability, especially if you want an automatic vehicle, as manuals are more common in Ireland.

Renting a Car

For those flying in, renting a car is essential for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. Ensure your rental includes unlimited mileage and insurance, as this can make a big difference when covering the long stretches of Ireland’s coastline. Most rental companies require a valid driver’s license and a credit card. If coming from outside the EU, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid issues.

When picking up your car, it’s worth asking for a GPS or ensuring you have a reliable navigation app, as many parts of the Wild Atlantic Way take you through rural areas with limited cell service. Also, make sure you’re comfortable driving on the left-hand side of the road, the standard in Ireland.

Navigating the Wild Atlantic Way

Once you're on the road, finding your way is easy. The Wild Atlantic Way is well-marked with its distinctive blue signs featuring a white wave symbol. These signs are positioned along the entire route, guiding you from town to town and highlighting scenic points and attractions along the way.

Many roads along the Wild Atlantic Way are narrow and winding, so take your time and be prepared for occasional one-lane roads, especially on the smaller peninsulas like Dingle or Skellig Ring.

Locals are used to this kind of driving, so don’t be surprised if you have to pull over for oncoming traffic. And remember, the beauty of a road trip in Ireland is about the journey itself—don’t hesitate to stop at scenic lay-bys for a break and a chance to soak in the views.

Key Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Fuel up: Ireland’s more remote areas may not have petrol stations for long stretches, so fuel up whenever you’re in a town.
• Weather: Autumn weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers and cooler temperatures, so pack warm clothes and waterproof gear.
• Driving etiquette: Be prepared to drive slower in rural areas and always be courteous when passing local farmers and cyclists.
• Tolls: If you’re driving from Dublin, note that some motorways (like the M50) have tolls, which can be paid online.
• Podcast: listen to this episode of the Travel Goals to learn more about road-tripping on the Wild Atlantic Way.