If you’ve been on this site for a while, you know that we love the West of Ireland. When we say that, what we mean is the west coast, what is now also known as the Wild Atlantic Way. This would be the counties that border on the ocean, all the way from Donegal down to West Cork.
To us, this part of Ireland is more than just a place, it is our home and it is an experience. Picture this: rolling green hills, rugged cliffs that kiss the Atlantic, charming villages steeped in history and an air of magic that seems to linger in every nook and cranny. That’s the romantic West of Ireland to us. Have you ever asked yourself ‘Where or what is West of Ireland?’ That can be a tricky question as it depends on one’s point of view. Geography, especially when combined with politics, can be confusing. So, let’s put a finger on the map.
Back to Basics – Where Is Ireland on the Map
Ireland is a relatively oval-shaped island located in the North Atlantic Ocean to the northwest of continental Europe. Its nearest neighbours are Great Britain to its east, France to its south-east and Spain directly south. To the west of Ireland then, on the other side of the Atlantic, is Canada.
I like to think of the island not as an oval but, more imaginatively, as a teddy bear. See for yourself. Zoom slightly out of the map and tell me you don’t see the profile of a teddy! When you zoom out a little more, Britain, to Ireland’s east, looks like a witch sitting on a broom grabbing for the teddy bear. The teddy has his back towards the witch and is facing westward. He’s extending his paws towards Canada. Note the teddy bear’s paws, we will get back to them later. It looks as if the teddy is trying to get away from his evil witch neighbour. Who knew?
British Isles Vs British Islands – Know The Difference
The cluster of islands in this part of the ocean is geographically known as the British Isles. The island of Ireland is part of the British Isles archipelago but not part of the British Islands. These are two distinctive terms – one geographical, the other political.
Geography or not, the use of ‘British Isles’ is somewhat controversial in Ireland. It is not officially recognised by the Irish government and instead the terms ‘Britain and Ireland’ or ‘Atlantic Archipelago’ are used. Fun fact: The Channel Islands, off the north coast of France, are not part of the British Isles but are part of the British Islands. Confusing much?
Island of Ireland – Political And Geographical Boundaries
The island of Ireland is divided politically into two states: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The latter, in the North-East of the island, is part of the UK – full name The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city.
There are four historic provinces on the island: Leinster, Munster, Connacht and Ulster. Most of the province of Ulster lies in Northern Ireland, but three of its nine counties are in the Republic. As a result, the province of Ulster spans two states. The other three provinces (Leinster, Munster, Connacht) all lie in Ireland. This is where we live and write this blog from. Ireland became a Republic, a state fully independent from Britain, in 1949.
But let’s get back to geography. The whole island is divided into eight geographical regions. Northern Ireland, the part connected to the UK, is its own region. The remaining seven regions in the Republic of Ireland are Midland East, Dublin, South East, Cork-Kerry, Shannon, West and North West.
The West of Ireland As Geographical Regions
Remember the teddy bear from above? When we refer to the West of Ireland, we mean these regions:
- North West – teddy’s face,
- West – teddy’s front paws,
- Shannon – his belly and
- Cork-Kerry – his hind paws.
Each of the eight regions on the island is then consists of counties. The counties along the Atlantic are from the North: Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Kerry and Cork. We also bring Limerick into the fold as it is on the sprawling Shannon estuary. Special mention to the lovely County Leitrim that briefly touches the Atlantic shore as well, sandwiched between counties Donegal and Sligo.
What Is West of Ireland?
A correct answer could be the Atlantic Ocean and Canada 😊. While Ireland’s West as a geographical region consists of counties Galway, Roscommon and Mayo, we like to think of the West as the whole of the Atlantic shore. The whole area has been successfully branded as the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors come here for stunning cliffs, rugged shores and the vast expanse of the ocean. But for us, it’s not just the geographical boundaries that define this landscape; it’s the essence of the place itself. It’s where the land itself seems to whisper tales of old.
Donegal And Sligo
On the very North-West tip of Ireland, Donegal and Sligo are somewhat secluded and totally majestic. A truly mesmerizing part of the world. Rugged land, mountainous terrain and quiet crystal-clear sandy beaches. Rich history, deep culture and Croaghaun cliffs, the highest in Ireland and third highest in Europe (after Hornelen in Norway and Cape Enniberg on Faroe Islands).
Mayo And Galway
Counties Mayo and Galway captivate with their picturesque patchworks of mountains, lakes and bogs. From the stunning Achill Island where craggy coastlines meet tranquil beaches, to the vibrant town of Westport, brimming with music and arts. Galway City is often referred to as the beating heart of the West. This bright city dances to the tunes of traditional Irish music. It spills over with colourful streets and its cultural scene is both lively and authentic.
Aran Islands off the coast of Galway add to the region’s natural beauty. These three little gems in the Atlantic are a short ferry ride away, each with its own unique charm. Stepping onto the islands is like stepping back in time. Traditional Irish culture thrives here and the landscapes are simply breathtaking.
Connemara in County Galway also deserves a special mention, Oscar Wilde described it as a “savage beauty”. We agree. We love Connemara for the smell of turf fires on a crisp evening and the genuine warmth of a welcoming smile from a local. There’s a pub in Roundstone with the best pint of Guinness in the world.
Clare
Before we moved to the west coast, we had not travelled much to County Clare. Now we love discovering its rugged coastline, hiking trails leading to hidden coves and secret beaches, traditional music and quaint villages such as Doolin. Not forgetting to mention the tourist magnet, the majestic Cliffs of Moher, towering over the Atlantic. The county is home to the fascinating Burren National Park, where limestone pavements create a surreal landscape, dotted with rare flora and ancient dolmen stones. Our favourite spot in the county is the serene Bridges of Ross.
Kerry And Cork
Windswept counties Kerry and Cork are full of mountains and clear lakes, white shores and impressive cliffs, grazing cows and woolly sheep. Here you find fascinating wildlife, Killarney National Park, unspoilt beaches and scenic hill-walking trails. Places like Beara Peninsula at the very edge of West Cork are full of picturesque villages steeped in rich heritage. Here you can taste the freshest seafood straight from the Atlantic and the best of hearty stews.
Let The Magic Of The West Of Ireland Capture You
From the lively pubs of Clare and Kerry, where fiddles and bodhráns fill the air, to the ancient Gaelic language still spoken in some pockets of Connemara, the West holds onto its rich cultural heritage. We love to explore hidden gems tucked away from the tourist trails, to stumble upon a secluded beach where it feels like you’re the only people for miles and to experience Ireland’s raw and untamed beauty.
The warmth and hospitality of the western Irish is legendary. It is like a warm embrace. Whether you’re sharing stories over a pint in a cozy pub or getting tips on the best spots to explore, their friendliness makes every adventure special. So, if you’re seeking an adventure that goes beyond sightseeing, if you’re yearning for a place where nature whispers and history beckons, then head West. Let the West of Ireland weave its magic around you, and you’ll find yourself falling in love with every sunset, every winding road and every thundering wave crashing against the shore.