Sky Road: Atlantic Arcs and Connemara Coastlines
The Sky Road, an iconic loop west of Clifden in County Galway, Republic of Ireland, is an absolute must-ride for any motorbike tour venturing into Connemara. This exhilarating 16-kilometre (10-mile) circular route offers some of the most dramatic and breathtaking coastal scenery on the Wild Atlantic Way, truly living up to its name as it seems to touch the sky above the roaring Atlantic.
As you embark on the Sky Road, you’ll find it splits into a “lower” and “upper” route. For the most spectacular panoramic vistas, take the Upper Sky Road, which climbs to over 500 feet, providing unparalleled views of Clifden Bay, its many islands (like Inishturk and Turbot), and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. There are dedicated viewing points along the way where you can safely pull over, soak in the incredible scenery, and capture those postcard-perfect photos. The winding, elevated road itself is a joy to navigate on two wheels, offering exhilarating curves with a constant backdrop of wild, rugged beauty.
Keep an eye out for the ruins of Clifden Castle, the former Gothic mansion of Clifden’s founder, John D’Arcy, which can be seen overlooking the sea. The Sky Road culminates at Eyrephort Beach, a secluded white sandy cove perfect for a peaceful moment before looping back towards Clifden.
While the Sky Road itself is a scenic drive without direct dining facilities, it starts and ends in Clifden, the vibrant “capital of Connemara.” Clifden boasts a fantastic array of pubs and restaurants to refuel. For exceptional fresh seafood, consider Guys Seafood Bar or Mitchell’s Restaurant. You’ll also find numerous lively pubs, such as Lowry’s Irish Music and Whiskey Bar, offering traditional music and hearty pub grub. The Sky Road offers an unforgettable sensory experience, combining thrilling riding with some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal landscapes, making it an essential highlight on your Irish motorbike adventure.
Sky Road: Atlantic Arcs and Connemara Coastlines
The Sky Road, an iconic loop west of Clifden in County Galway, Republic of Ireland, is an absolute must-ride for any motorbike tour venturing into Connemara. This exhilarating 16-kilometre (10-mile) circular route offers some of the most dramatic and breathtaking coastal scenery on the Wild Atlantic Way, truly living up to its name as it seems to touch the sky above the roaring Atlantic.
As you embark on the Sky Road, you’ll find it splits into a “lower” and “upper” route. For the most spectacular panoramic vistas, take the Upper Sky Road, which climbs to over 500 feet, providing unparalleled views of Clifden Bay, its many islands (like Inishturk and Turbot), and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. There are dedicated viewing points along the way where you can safely pull over, soak in the incredible scenery, and capture those postcard-perfect photos. The winding, elevated road itself is a joy to navigate on two wheels, offering exhilarating curves with a constant backdrop of wild, rugged beauty.
Keep an eye out for the ruins of Clifden Castle, the former Gothic mansion of Clifden’s founder, John D’Arcy, which can be seen overlooking the sea. The Sky Road culminates at Eyrephort Beach, a secluded white sandy cove perfect for a peaceful moment before looping back towards Clifden.
While the Sky Road itself is a scenic drive without direct dining facilities, it starts and ends in Clifden, the vibrant “capital of Connemara.” Clifden boasts a fantastic array of pubs and restaurants to refuel. For exceptional fresh seafood, consider Guys Seafood Bar or Mitchell’s Restaurant. You’ll also find numerous lively pubs, such as Lowry’s Irish Music and Whiskey Bar, offering traditional music and hearty pub grub. The Sky Road offers an unforgettable sensory experience, combining thrilling riding with some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal landscapes, making it an essential highlight on your Irish motorbike adventure.