Achill Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

With its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Achill Island is a hidden gem in the Mayo region of Ireland. Located off the west coast of the Republic of Ireland, this island paradise offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.

Achill Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, boasting a diverse range of landscapes that will leave visitors in awe. From towering cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to rolling hills and vast expanses of untouched wilderness, the island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and biking trails crisscross the island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery and the opportunity to explore its hidden gems.

One of the island's most iconic landmarks is Keem Bay, a secluded beach nestled between towering cliffs. This picturesque spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, surfing is a popular activity on the island, with waves suitable for all skill levels.

Achill Island is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a treasure trove of history and culture. The island is home to numerous archaeological sites, including ancient stone forts and megalithic tombs, which provide a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's rich past. The Achill Archaeological Field School offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the island's history.

The island is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with many artists and writers finding inspiration in its raw beauty. The Achill Heinrich Böll Association hosts regular exhibitions and cultural events, showcasing the work of local and international artists.

When it comes to accommodation and dining options, Achill Island caters to all tastes and budgets. From cozy B&Bs and self-catering cottages to luxury hotels and traditional Irish pubs, there is something to suit every traveler. Local restaurants serve up a wide range of delicious dishes, with fresh seafood being a particular highlight.

Alternative names: Area: 57.14 mi²Maximum elevation: 2257 ftTotal islands: 3Archipelago: AchillCoordinates: 53°57'45"N, 10°1'6"W

Location

MayoIreland

ContactAdd

Social media

Add

Achill Island Top Attractions

Achill Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

Achill Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Carrickkildavnet Castle, Slievemore, Achill Henge, Croaghaun. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Forts and castles • Vernacular architecture
Carrickkildavnet Castle
Carrickkildavnet Castle is a tower house and National Monument located in Achill Island, Ireland.
Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Slievemore
Slievemore is the second highest peak on Achill Island after Croaghaun, in County Mayo, Ireland. Its elevation is 671 m.
Monuments and statues
Achill Henge
Achill-henge is a concrete structure on Achill Island off the northwest coast of County Mayo, Ireland. The term henge is used colloquially only and does not indicate genuine structural or cultural similarity to prehistoric monuments found in Ireland.

Day trips

Achill Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Achill Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kylemore Abbey (Letterfrack), Museum of Country Life (Castlebar), Ashford Castle (Cong).

$kylemore abbey letterfrack$ 28 milesS
Historical place, Monastery, Gothic Revival architecture
Kylemore Abbey, Letterfrack
Nestled in the heart of the Connemara countryside in County Galway, Ireland, Kylemore Abbey is a stunning example of romantic architecture and the resilience of spiritual devotion. This historic monastery, situated on the edge of a serene lake, is surrounded by lush...
33 milesE
Specialty museum, History museum, Museum
Museum of Country Life, Castlebar
Nestled in the lush landscape of County Mayo, the Museum of Country Life is a cultural gem located just outside the bustling town of Castlebar, Ireland. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Irish rural life from the 1850s to the 1950s, an era...
42 milesSE
Forts and castles, Gothic Revival architecture
Ashford Castle, Cong
Ashford Castle is a medieval and Victorian castle that has been expanded over the centuries and turned into a five star luxury hotel near Cong on the Mayo-Galway border, on the Galway side of Lough Corrib in Ireland. It is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World organisation and was previously owned by the Guinness family.
22 milesSE
Museum
Clew Bay Heritage Centre, Westport
Clew Bay Heritage Centre is a local history museum in Westport, County Mayo, Ireland. Located in the west of the town, on the pier, it illustrates the social history and heritage of the Clew Bay area and Westport.
46 milesE
History museum, Museum
Knock Shrine, Knock
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Knock, commonly referred to as Knock Shrine, is a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site and national shrine in the village of Knock, County Mayo, Ireland, where locals claimed to have seen an apparition in 1879 of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint John the Evangelist, angels, and Jesus Christ.