We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Sustainable, affordable, doable: exploring the Wild Atlantic Way without a car

Integrated bus routes can take you from Cork’s Haven Coast all the way to Donegal.

SUMMER IS A time for adventure, and there are few adventures in Ireland quite like the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Encompassing some of the most beautiful and exciting experiences in Europe, including the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and Connemara, the Wild Atlantic Way is a journey to take anyone’s breath away. It’s also never been easier to do it without a car.

The integrated Transport for Ireland (TFI) public transport network, connecting some of the most scenic and popular holiday destinations in Ireland allows visitors to explore the Wild Atlantic Way without the hassle of bringing, or renting a car.

There are many advantages to leaving your car at home in the driveway while you explore some of Europe’s most exhilarating natural beauty spots.

Dingle - Route 277 Dingle, Co Kerry

First and foremost, you can sit back, relax and focus on immersing yourself in your surroundings rather than worrying about petrol or charging stations, possibly unfamiliar roads, or getting lost or delayed. 

Second of all, the comprehensive network of TFI bus routes all along the Wild Atlantic Way means there’s no need to stress when figuring out where you need to go and how to get there. There’s a route for you wherever you’re going; all you need to do is hop on a bus. By choosing public transport, you’re also doing your bit to safeguard Ireland’s natural beauty by making a more sustainable transport choice.

Thanks to the many TFI bus routes introduced as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, the Wild Atlantic Way can now be explored by all — even if you don’t drive, or would simply rather enjoy the spectacular cliff views, rolling green hills, and golden seaside sunsets without having to think about all the stresses that come with being responsible for your car. 

Since January 2022, the Plan has delivered over 150 new or enhanced bus services throughout rural Ireland.

default Co Kerry

On the Transport for Ireland website, you can explore a Wild Atlantic Way interactive map which you can use to discover the many transport options that are available.

For example, if you are in the Southern Peninsula area enjoying some time in Dingle, you can look up the map to see which services are available to take you to your next stop on the Wild Atlantic Way.

TFI-Local-Link-Overview-Map-Final-May25-V2-1 (1)

Currently, there are 17 TFI bus routes that operate through the Southern Peninsula, empowering you to head in any direction you wish — whether that’s up through Clare towards Galway, Mayo and beyond, or further east along Cork’s south coast. 

TFI also has you covered when it comes to planning your route, which you can do by using the TFI Live app.

It’s never been easier to travel car-free. So what are you waiting for? 

 

 

You can download the TFI Live App here. For the cheapest fares, be sure to use your TFI Leap Card and save up to 30% compared to a cash single fare.

Plan your next car-free Wild Atlantic Way adventure with TFI now.

 

Close