Ireland has many qualities to offer the discerning visitor, but it has never claimed to be a destination for sun worshipers. Notwithstanding tales of having four seasons in one day, in reality Ireland actually has a mild climate many countries would die for. The country rarely suffers weather that is either too hot or too cold. It’ does not experience tornadoes, arctic conditions or hurricanes. Snow plows are not seen on Irish roads. It does get regular quantities of ‘soft’ rain, nothing torrential. And it often has a grey sky.

The Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland’s west coast has become a widely known scenic route of circa 1600 miles. The west coast of Ireland is the wettest part of the country. But did you know that this route boasts some of the finest beaches to be found on the continent of Europe?. And on a fine summers day in Ireland, with temperatures in the region of 25 centigrade there is no better place to be. The sound of the Atlantic waves, the lack of large crowds, the cleanliness of the environment and the stunning scenery all combine to make those beaches a very special experience.

Over a number of years touring with visitors along the Wild Atlantic Way, the writer has had an opportunity to experience many of the beaches on this route. Recently I was asked to compile a list of my favorites. This was not something I had considered in detail before. The list I compiled are all beeches I certainly found striking when there. Of course the list is not exhaustive and it is subjective. Without question many other beaches deserve to be on the list. But these are my personal favorites and I hope it will give some guidance to any visitors thinking of spending time on the Wild Atlantic Way. Here we go –