Plan an Eco-Friendly Trip Around the Wild Atlantic Way
Image Above: Wild Atlantic Way, Co Cork
Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is a stunning coastal route that spans over 2,500 kilometers, showcasing the country's rugged beauty and breathtaking landscapes. If you're planning a trip along this magnificent coastline, why not make it an eco-friendly adventure?
With a tangible passion for improving the climate and preserving the natural beauty of this amazing land, Ireland is the perfect choice for an eco-friendly stay. The Irish government aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 51% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels, with an additional goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Meanwhile, renewable energy sources are being rolled out across the board, with Ireland's wind energy capacity among the highest in Europe.
No matter if you want to get closer to nature or enjoy a luxurious stay in opulent surroundings, there’s no better choice for a sustainable and environmentally friendly stay than in an Original Irish Hotel.
Casey's of Baltimore, Co Cork - Fabulous Food, Sustainably Sourced
Situated in the charming village of Baltimore, Casey's is a culinary delight that also prioritises sustainability. The menu at Casey's is filled with locally sourced ingredients, with low "Menu Miles" ensuring that the environmental impact of transportation is minimised.
The hotel’s very own mussel farm provides delectable fresh mussels and lobster, and locally caught fish is a highlight of their menu. Moreover, Casey's boasts a beer brewery underneath the hotel, adding to the local and sustainable ethos. They even make their own bread, jam, and chutney for the ultimate in locally-produced flavours. For those travelling in electric vehicles, there is an electric car charging port conveniently located outside the front of the hotel.
In the village, the Baltimore Sea Safari offers boat tours giving you the chance to view majestic whales, dolphins and other sea life in their natural habitat.
Above image: Casey's of Baltimore, Co Cork
Randles Hotel, Co Kerry - Stay With Eco-Friendly Pioneers
Located in Killarney, Randles Hotel is committed to sustainable practices and reducing its energy consumption. The hotel provides e-charging points for electric cars, encouraging guests to explore the Wild Atlantic Way using eco-friendly transportation. Randles Hotel has made impressive changes to the way it operates over the last couple of years, including a complete refit of their swimming pool boiler house from gas to heat pumps.
Not only that, but the entire hotel has recently been converted to LED lighting, and they have also installed 35 KW solar PV panels. Furthermore, the conversion of domestic hot water boilers from gas to heat pumps and the implementation of an energy monitoring system in 2022 further demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
Above image: Randles Hotel, Co Kerry
Fitzgerald's Woodlands, Co Limerick - Discover an Eco-Friendly Treehouse
Hidden in the enchanting town of Adare, Fitzgerald's Woodlands is dedicated to sustainable practices and environmental conservation. The hotel boasts solar and sustainability initiatives, utilising solar panels to harness clean energy and reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, they have an organic garden where fresh produce is grown, ensuring that guests enjoy the highest quality ingredients from a sustainable source.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands is proud to partner with The Native Irish Honey Bee Society in establishing a conservation area for the native Irish honey bee. The Fitzgerald family recognises the vital role that bees play in our ecosystem and is dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and biodiversity on their grounds.
Recently voted Ireland’s best outdoor dining venue, their incredible Treehouse is an outdoor dining experience in the heart of nature offering the very best local delights and sustainable coffee. The hotel also has a mini pet farm, nature and bug hunt along a 1.2km walking trail, offering the perfect chance to immerse your little ones in the natural world.
Image above: Fitzgerald's Woodlands Hotel, Co Limerick
Hylands Burren, Co Clare - Leave No Trace, Create Amazing Memories
As a member of Burren Eco Tourism, Hylands Burren is committed to providing an eco-friendly experience for visitors. Located near the captivating Burren region, this hotel offers a unique eco-trail experience.
The Management and Staff of Hylands Burren Hotel endorse the “Leave No Trace" principles to visitors, and can advise on minimising the effects of fires and proper disposal of waste. The hotel aims to reduce energy and water consumption, carefully monitoring their waste disposal and purchasing much of their kitchen produce from excellent local food suppliers.
The Burren Food Trail and Food Experience showcases the best of local, sustainable, and organic food. From farm-to-table dining to traditional food preparation techniques, guests can savour delicious meals while supporting the preservation of this fragile ecosystem.
Image above: Hylands Burren Hotel, Co Clare
Clew Bay Hotel, Co Mayo - A Stunning Eco-Friendly Stay
Winner of the gold medal for Ireland’s Three Star Hotel of the Year and silver for Ireland's Sustainability/Leading Green Hotel at the Gold Medal Awards 2023, Clew Bay Hotel in Westport is a shining example of eco-friendly hospitality. The hotel is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and has implemented numerous initiatives to achieve this goal including recycling waste from hotel guests and installing solar panels on the roof, generating free green energy for the entire property.
Clew Bay Hotel also utilises a heat and energy management system called Heatboss to optimise heat and gas distribution throughout the establishment. Additionally, the hotel provides plenty of electric car charging ports at the car park behind the premises, encouraging sustainable transportation options. Immerse yourself in nature’s revitalisation with a sea swim amidst the pristine, crystal-clear waters of Clew Bay. Let the surge of adrenaline course through your veins as you bravely dive into the invigorating embrace of the Atlantic Ocean before embarking on a guided walking tour to discover the intriguing history and captivating folklore of the surrounding area.
Image above: Clew Bay, Co Mayo
Sandhouse Hotel, Co Donegal - Find Marine Tranquility
Located in Rossnowlagh, County Donegal, Sandhouse Hotel is another eco-friendly gem along the Wild Atlantic Way. With its breathtaking beachfront location and panoramic views of Donegal Bay, this hotel offers a luxurious getaway with none of the carbon footprint.
Once you arrive your breath will be stolen away by the fantastic views overlooking miles of secluded, sandy beaches bordering this former fishing lodge. After you check in to your fabulously appointed sea view room, why not visit the Marine Spa for a dose of eco-friendly relaxation? Here, you’ll submerge your body into a bath of organic hand harvested Atlantic seaweed to experience all the relaxation nature has to offer.
Just a short fifteen-minute minute drive from the hotel, Donegal offers a fairytale experience with a charming harbour, serene beaches and stoic stone ruins. Surfing is the most popular activity at nearby Rossnowlagh beach, and the frequent boat trips allow you to watch for wildlife and experience the majesty this area is renowned for.
Image above: Sandhouse Hotel, Co Donegal
Arnolds Hotel, Co Donegal - A Haven for Wildlife
Nestled in the picturesque Donegal village of Dunfanaghy, Arnolds Hotel offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sustainability. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the mesmerising Horn Head peninsula, this family-run hotel is committed to minimising its environmental impact.
The family-run hotel invites you to dine in-house and sample some of the finest local produce from land and sea, caught sustainably and cooked deliciously for their day and evening menus. Arnou Cafe is open daily for breakfast and lunch before transforming into a hugely popular Gourmet Burger Bar at night.
Arnolds provides the perfect base to explore nearby Glenveagh National Park, a haven for wildlife conservation spanning over 16,000 hectares of diverse habitats including mountains, lakes and bogs, providing a sanctuary for numerous native species. The park’s dedicated conservationists work to promote the preservation of the area’s biodiversity, offering a refuge for wildlife such as red deer, golden eagles, and otters.
Image above: Dunfanaghy Beach, Co Donegal
Embarking on an eco-friendly trip along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way allows you to experience the beauty of this breathtaking coastline while minimising your impact on the environment. By choosing accommodations and dining options that prioritise sustainability, you can contribute to the preservation of these natural wonders for future generations to enjoy. Plan your eco-friendly adventure today and leave only footprints behind as you explore Ireland's magnificent Wild Atlantic Way.
Above image: Glenveagh National Park, Co Donegal
ABOUT ORIGINAL IRISH HOTELS
Original Irish Hotels are a collection of unique, owner-run hotels, located in Ireland’s most outstanding destinations. Open the door to the magic of unmissable moments with Ireland’s leading collection of independent hotels.
Our 55 hotels are dotted around the entire island of Ireland in must-see locations, from the Wild Atlantic Way, to Ireland’s Ancient East, the Causeway Coast, Dublin and the treasured heartland of Ireland’s midlands and lakelands.
Irrespective of where our hotels are, Original Irish Hotels pride themselves in hosting a unique and truly memorable experience for our guests, and soon to be friends. The collection is made up of a range of traditional and boutique hotels, castles, manor and country houses, all run by locals, ensuring a unique experience every time.
Above image: Wild Atlantic Way, Co Galway