Eugene Maher of Shannon Ferries | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 26

• Part of the National Route Network
• Not easily seen on popular mapping software
• Take a break from driving and make it an event
• Open 364 days

 

• Now in fourth year of existence as a brand initiative
• An initiative to get locals and tourists to explore the west of Ireland
• Highlights all the hidden gems and attractions worthy of visiting
• Although in its infancy, has had much success in bringing locals and tourists together for a unique experience of sights, sounds, and tastes
• Bringing benefits to businesses along the route, strengthening the western region of Ireland
• Allows you to see places and sights full of culture, heritage, and history you wouldn’t know to seek out for yourself.

 

The Wild Atlantic Way takes you off the primary route onto the side roads and hidden gems including Loop Head. A place as wild, rustic, and as unspoiled a landscape that doesn’t exist anywhere else in its pristine state.

• Non-commercialized, unspoiled, and eco-friendly destination
• An example of the Wild Atlantic Way’s effort to move away from ‘marquis’ destinations and open up the raw, unspoiled areas to visitors
• Educates visitors that exploration is ok, seek out the cultural Ireland not widely known

 

• Runs every day of the year except Christmas Day
• High season (May – September) two ferries running, one ferry the remainder of the year
• Inland ferry service not terribly affected by weather
• Follow the signs for the ferry from Clare or Kerry
• Purchase tickets in advance at ShannonFerries.com.

• Inishowen Peninsula and Donegal – great place for golfers
• The lighthouses of Loop Head – offers walkers and explorers peace and serenity
• Dunmore East in Waterford – beautiful old-world fishing village with pubs, restaurant, and fabulous beach

31:45
Closing remarks: