The West coast of Ireland, on the very edge of the European continent, has for millennia withstood the Atlantic Ocean and because of its temperate influence is a remarkably unique part of Ireland ? rugged and desolate in parts ? lush and verdant in others. The Atlantic coastline is a mix of small sandy coves, breath taking cliffs, picturesque harbors, long stretches of beach and poetic bays.

Over the centuries the Norse, Norman, French and Spanish have landed on these shores leaving behind their influence. This cornucopia of cultures has blended to create a thoroughly artistic and hospitable populace that continues to exert their influence on the culture of the rest of the country.

The region has had a significant role in the annals of Irish literature - John Millington Synge took the advice of W.B. Yeats and lived for a time on the Aran Islands and Yeats himself is buried in the shadow of Ben Bulben, County Sligo.

The West then is an enchanting place filled with wonderfully atmospheric towns and villages, long stretches of stunning coastline, soaring sea cliffs, and craggy countryside that boasts a uniquely desolate beauty and a vibrant cultural heritage rich in tradition.

Encompassing the counties of Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the West gets under your skin like no other place in the world, offering an unparalleled experience to all who visit.

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