A Motorbike Ride from Shannon to Waterville: Discover the Wild Atlantic Way
Via Sixmilebridge, Rathkeale, Castleisland, Lough Caragh, Cahersiveen and the Kerry Cliffs

The morning in Shannon can start fresh and promising. As you start your engine, you can feel the excitement of a day of adventure.
Today's route takes you along the most beautiful parts of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, through picturesque villages, past glittering lakes and impressive cliffs. You know this ride is going to be one of the most memorable.

The first few miles take you to Sixmilebridge, a charming village on the edge of County Clare. The road there is quiet, surrounded by green fields and small farms. A short distance further you pass the small village of Cratloe in County Clare and on your left Cratloe Wood, a state forest on the slopes of Woodcock Hill. It is believed that the beams of the roof in Westminster Hall came from Cratloe Wood.
Cratloe Wood, takes its name from the Irish for 'Land of Sallow Trees'. Next to the small village of Cratloe lies Cratloe Woods, originally oak forests from prehistoric times. In the ninth century this was a McNamara area and was invaded by warriors from the kingdom of Aileach in Ulster. These men took timber from Cratloe to build the roof of the royal palace of Aileach in Ulster.
There are pleasant woodland walks, a playground and picnic tables for a relaxing day out with the family.

Then you follow the N18 and N21 towards Rathkeale, a town deeply rooted in Irish history. The roads become wider and the landscape opens up to vast meadows. In Rathkeale you notice the peace of the countryside, with old buildings and friendly locals. Your engine hums contentedly on the N21 and when you have passed the town of Abbeyfeale you can stop at a petrol station. Here you can have a cup of coffee in the shop next to the petrol station or stretch your legs.

After about 20 kilometres of beautiful back roads you will pass through Castleisland, a town often referred to as the gateway to County Kerry. The road starts to get more winding, and the mountains in the distance are getting closer. The High Street is lively, with cosy shops and pubs. You feel the energy of Kerry and know that the best part of your journey is yet to come.

Via the towns of Tralee and Blennerville you will pass the Tralee Nature Reserve, also known as the Tralee Bay Wetlands Eco & Activity Park, which is located in Tralee, County Kerry, on the canal and at the mouth of Tralee Bay. This beautiful nature reserve offers wonderful lakeside walks and wild gardens for all to enjoy.
This natural landscape, with its special nature reserves, will enrich your holiday and you will look at the world around you with greater awe and appreciation. Whether it is the simplicity and beauty of the cry of the Curlew or the lifelong love affair of swans, you will be captivated.

After about 30 kilometers it is possible to have a bite to eat. On the right side there is a nice restaurant, “Sammy's”. You can have a nice meal or a quick bite to eat and then continue the route.

The R561 takes you via the towns of Milltown and Killorglin past Lough Caragh. A Mirror of Tranquility From Castleisland the road turns into the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland's most beautiful routes. You reach Lough Caragh, an enchanting lake surrounded by mountains and forests. The water is so still that it seems as if the sky and mountains are reflected in it.
You can stop here on the side of the road and breathe in the fresh air. This is why you drive: the peace, the nature and the sense of freedom that only the open road can provide.

You decide to take a short detour to the remains of Ballycarbery Castle, a ruined castle overlooking the sea. It is a magical place, where time seems to stand still.

The route takes you further to Cahersiveen, also known as the Soul of Kerry. It is a lively town with a rich history. Along the way you pass rolling hills and narrow roads with stone walls. Cahersiveen feels like a mix of old and new, with its historic sights and modern cafes.

Via Valentia Island you follow the road to the Kerry Cliffs, one of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way. The road becomes narrower and more challenging, with sharp bends and steep inclines, but the views make it all worthwhile.

At the Kerry Cliffs, park your bike and walk to the lookout. The cliffs rise high above the Atlantic Ocean, with waves crashing against the rocks far below. The wind blows hard, and you can feel the power of nature in every breath.
This moment is unforgettable.

The last few kilometres take you to Waterville, a charming seaside village loved by Charlie Chaplin. As the sun slowly sinks into the ocean, you drive through the village and feel the relaxed atmosphere.

You park your bike at a small pub on the waterfront and order a well-earned meal. With a pint of Guinness in hand, you look out over the ocean, while you think back on the highlights of the day. This ride was more than a trip from A to B; it was a journey through the heart of Ireland, full of nature, history and freedom.