Starting points · Shannon
Arriving via Shannon? You're already on it.
Flights, mostly transatlantic and UK
The best gateway in Ireland for a Wild Atlantic Way trip, and most people don't know it exists. Shannon sits a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Doolin and the ferry to the Aran Islands. The further you fly to Shannon, the less driving you do at the other end. If your itinerary is flexible, fly here.
The drive
45 minutes to the Cliffs. 1 hour to Doolin. 3 hours to Dingle.
Route: N18 / N67 along the Clare coast — slow road, fast scenery.
Pick up the car and head straight to Lahinch or Doolin for night one. You're on the WAW within an hour of clearing customs. No motorway grind, no wasted day.
Sleep here night one
Cliffs of Moher & Doolin
An hour from the terminal. Cliffs in the late afternoon when the day-trippers have left, then Doolin for trad music and a B&B. The dream first night.
Open the Cliffs of Moher & Doolin guide
Then where
The next 48 hours
Honestly
Shannon is the smartest WAW gateway of the five. If you're booking flights and your dates are flexible, fly here even if it costs a bit more — you'll save it back in fuel and accommodation versus driving from Dublin.
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