Romance IS IN THE AIR

Let the windswept locations of the Wild Atlantic Way capture your heart

So many of us are so caught up in the distractions of everyday living, work, family, chores and technology that is always on, that we rarely spend quality time with our other halves.

Nothing will reconnect you more than heading off on a coastal journey along the rugged, untamed landscape and sandy beaches of the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s not clichéd romance, it’s real and the shared adventure will bring you closer together.

It’s here you can get away from all the distractions of everyday living, feel carefree and nourish your partnership. Let the fresh sea air mess your hair, and the muddy roads scuff your boots. Roam rugged roads together, take in the clean air on a coastal cliff walk, or discover untouched scenery off the beaten track on a walking trail. In return you’ll leave feeling fully refreshed, invigorated and enjoying a feeling of closeness through shared experiences.

Start by exploring one of the iconic, must-see Signature Discovery points, http://www.wildatlanticway.com/ Signature Discovery Points scattered across the coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way. These glorious edge-of-the-world vistas encompass everything that’s magical about this region.

Breathe in the salty air, and watch the powerful waves’ crash against the rocks and notice the different weather systems come and go and the swirling gulls overhead. It is here at these remote locations that you get a really intimate experience of the wild landscape and seascapes of the Wild Atlantic Way.

By immersing yourself in these natural surroundings and switching off fully from the daily routine, you develop a deeper connection with this region that helps renew the soul. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a spectacular selfie against this amazing background.

“Watch and become spellbound as the sky is illuminated with thousands of glistening stars, clusters and even the odd shooting star, all visible to the naked eye. ” ...

Clew Bay Mayo

Image Fearghus Foyle

Downpatrick Head in Co. Mayo

Jutting out into the ocean and rising almost 40 m above the waves, one of these Signature Discovery Points, Downpatrick Head, provides heartstopping, unparalleled views of the Atlantic, including the unique collection of islands known as the Staggs of Broadhaven. This is the perfect place to head off on an invigorating coastal walk. Relish the breathtaking views of the nearby Dún Briste sea stack, with its different coloured layers of rock and nesting seabirds and embrace that feeling that you are the only two people on the edge of this windswept world,

Loop Head Lighthouse Co. Clare’s

Loop Head’s remote lighthouse is wonderfully evocative. The adjoining light-keeper’s house, which is available to rent, is just the place to channel your inner Alicia Vikander - or Michael Fassbender - if you’ve been inspired by the romantic weepie, The Light Between Oceans, which tells the story of a lighthouse keeper and his wife.

Loop Head Lighthouse, Co.Clare

Image Tourism Ireland

Fanad in Co. Donegal

For another lighthouse experience, head to Fanad in Co. Donegal, where you can escape to your own snug romantic cottage at Fanad lighthouse, which been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.

In the evening, snuggle up with your loved one in front of a turf fire and you might even see the Aurora Borealis in the Northern skies for a truly memorable break.

Fanad Head Donegal

Image Fearghus Foyle

Keem Strand on Mayo’s Achill Island

How about a walk, hand-in-hand, on the vast expanse of a Blue Flag beach on Achill Island? This is a beautiful, tranquil spot for a walk with its sheltered, rural beach surrounded by cliffs.

Croagh Patrick

Image Tourism Ireland

Great Western Greenway

Further afield in Mayo, escape the bustle of urban life on the Great Western Greenway, the longest off-road cycling and walking trail in Ireland which is completely traffic free. Savour the peace and quiet as you travel through the idyllic countryside and be captivated by the view of the spectacular Nephin Beg mountain range and across Clew Bay to Croagh Patrick. Afterwards, enjoy a feast for two at one of the many pubs and restaurants dotted around the area.

Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve

The kaleidoscope of colour that makes up a Wild Atlantic Way sunset is followed by a breathtaking night sky at Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve. This unique area in Kerry is almost completely devoid of light pollution and allows star-gazers to admire the wonders of the universe and to experience the night sky like our ancient ancestors would have known it. Watch and become spellbound as the sky is illuminated with thousands of glistening stars, clusters and even the odd shooting star, all visible to the naked eye. The spectacular beauty and romance of the star-filled sky will stay with both of you long after this trip.

Cosy pubs and romantic restaurants

There are countless spots along the coast for cosy pubs, open fires and glorious food to create the ideal environment for romance and for switching off from the busy world. Whatever you and your loved one choose to do on the Wild Atlantic Way, you’re bound to emerge refreshed, revitalised and, hopefully, even more connected.

Cork Couple

image Brian Morrison