Planning a trip to Atlantic Highlands
The Wild Atlantic Way
Intended to be Ireland’s answer to the Pacific Coast Highway in the U.S., the Wild Atlantic way is a new, 2,500km (1,550 mile) marked road trail, stretching the entire length of the west coast. The trail, which runs from Malin Head in the north all the way to Cork in the south, can be a handy way of navigating to some of the main sights, especially in more rural and isolated areas. Look for brown road signs with a thick white squiggle in a blue box (like two W’s linked together). More information, including a full list of the points of interest covered, can be found at www.wildatlanticway.com.
Visitor Information
Contact the North West Tourism Office, Aras Reddan, Temple Street, Sligo (www.irelandnorthwest.ie); the Letterkenny Tourist Office, Derry Road, Letterkenny (074/912-1160); or the Donegal Discover Ireland Centre, Quay Street, Donegal (www.donegaltown.ie; 074/972-1148).
Getting There
Bus Éireann (tel. 074/912-1309; www.buseireann.ie) operates daily bus service to Ardara and Glenties from Donegal Town.The best way to get to and around Donegal's Atlantic Highlands is by car, starting on the main N56 route, but don't expect a freeway -- at times the N56 is so narrow, it's difficult for two cars to pass. Signs are infrequent and occasionally in Gaelic, so pay close attention when you pass them. It's easy to miss a turn if you're lulled into complacency.
For flight information check the Donegal Town guide.
