Achill Island

Achill Island is just 26 kilometres from Ballycroy National Park, but seems like a different world altogether. It is the largest island off the coast of Ireland and is connected to the mainland by a swing bridge. The island is home to no less than five Blue Flag beaches (which meet stringent international standards of water quality, safety and environmental management). So you can go surfing, sailing, canoeing or diving here, or just lie on the sandy beach and take in the sun! Or go cycling on the designated 42-kilometre long Great Western Greenway, an off-road trail that runs from Achill Island to nearby Westport, taking you along some quiet country lanes, pristine beaches and spectacular cliffs. You can also go walking along this trail, which passes through the towns of Newport and Mulranny, and runs along the coast of Clew Bay. For history buffs, a visit to the Deserted Village is a must. The village lies at the base of Slievemore Mountain and comprises ruins of 80 houses, which were abandoned in the 1840s during the great famine. The stone houses were built without any mortar and consisted of just one room. The remoteness of the location and the desolate ruins give rise to an almost eerie atmosphere. Mulranny Park Hotel is a good base to explore Achill Island, Ballycroy National Park and Ceide Fields.