Clockwise or counterclockwise?

Hello everyone,
We're planning a 3-week fly-drive to Ireland this year, potentially during the last week of August and first two weeks of September. We're flexible though, so this may change (if there are compelling reasons to do so).
After some research online, we've crafted an itinerary along Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, Galway and back to Dublin, of course with various highlights to visit on the way. This would be the clockwise route, but we could also do it counterclockwise.
Are there any reasons for doing it either the one or the other way?
Many thanks in advance,
Fred

Hi Fred,

Wonderful to see you've found your way to our Community. :) 

There isn't a huge difference going either clockwise or anti-clockwise. The scenery will be lovely either which way you go! A thing I would keep in mind and which might lead you to a decision is you'll be driving on the left-side lane, so clockwise means you'll be driving next to the ocean, anti-clockwise next to the rocks. Will you be taking in the Ring of Kerry as well? Tour buses will be driving this tour in a counter-clockwise direction, so you'll be either driving behind them or encountering several along your way.

You can find some more advice in this similar thread Silvia started. Some other travellers might share their experiences and opinions on how to tackle the Wild Atlantic Way best here as well!

On the route between Galway and Dublin are a couple of scenic stops which I can heartily recommend, if your itinerary allows it.

Have you found some nice campsites to stay at yet?

Know you can always write your message in Dutch as well, if you prefer.

Groeten,
Joris

Hi Joris,
Thanks a lot for your quick reply, appreciated. Yes, that helps to take a decision, we'll take your considerations into account.
The Ring of Kerry is definitely on our list, with start and finish in Killarney. I guess we shall do that one counterclockwise then. :-)
Thanks also for the links, that input will assist us to plan in more detail. By the way, we won't be camping....some nice B&Bs and little hotels are on our radar though.
Nogmaals dank en nog een fijne avond!
Cheers,
Fred

Hi Fred,

How are you? Welcome to the community! How exciting you are coming to Ireland.

We are a small-group tour company which do tours of Ireland ranging from 6-12 days and we do both routes similar to your route. Both directions start with a really good motorway. If you are going to be in the passenger seat tell your driver to go clockwise but if you are a driver go anticlockwise as you will have the best view 😂😂 . There is never really a huge difference. Your trip will still be full of spectacular views either way. 

If you wanted to have a look at our itineraries on our website to get some ideas for your trip that's no problem we are happy to help. We have full itineraries posted so our guests can see exactly what they will be 

Here is a link https://vagabondtoursofireland.com/

We hope you have an amazing trip to Ireland.

The Vagabond Team 

Hi Fred.

Glad I could be of help! :)

Killarney is a great starting point for the Ring of Kerry, with a beautiful National Park to boot. If your itinerary is flexible and you're still looking for some places to add, I can definitely recommend a round trip of the other Southern Peninsulas as well. There's the Beara Peninsula, for example, a favourite of many and less travelled than the Ring of Kerry. Or head on over to the tip of Mizen Head, cross the bridge and find yourself standing on the edge of Ireland.

For some visuals on what to expect, have a look at this wee video below.


Opting for B&B's and little hotels is definitely a great choice and an excellent opportunity to get into touch with the locals. No better way to experience the 'Irish friendly' up close and personal! :)

Mvg,
Joris

Hi Joris and The Vagabond Team,
Thanks (again) for your input and feedback. I've been working over the last for weeks on our itinerary and everything is now settled - places are booked and detailed plans are made. Will be a busy trip, but we're very much looking forward to it. Hope the weather will cooperate! :-) Cheers!
Fred