Achill Island - A Small Paradise On The East Coast Of Ireland

One of Weekend Ireland's favourite Islands

I have many fond memories of Achill Island from my childhood. From the long scenic drive, the Dubliner's playing in the car to the fish farms in Co. Mayo that always ensured me we were close to our destination. If you're travelling from Dublin, Achill Island is the end of the road, but what a beautiful and welcoming end it is!

Achill is a scenic paradise, filled with mountains, sheep freely walking around, and golden sandy beaches. There are few places on the East Coast of Ireland that will allow you to basque in the coastal beauty this small island has to offer. For a weekend trip Achill is a great choice.The journey is kinda long being over 3 hours, but its totally worth it. When you cross the short road bridge onto the island you're greeted with small shops and bars where you can stop off and have one of the cheapest pints of Guinness you will find in Ireland. I paid €4.20! Trust me you will thoroughly enjoy the pint after the long drive.

The island has many delights to offer you. You can drive the main road to the very end at Keem bay, which will bring you right through the middle of the Island itself. The main town, Keel has the most bars and shops along with the longest beach in Achill. There is a golf course where plenty of sheep put avid golfers off their gold swing. There is a lake for water activities like Kayaking and Windsurfing. Close by, is the Equestrian Centre where you pick up a horse that you can take down to the beach and have a nice trot with a friendly local guide.

In addition to the above, the Beehive Cafe is a nice spot that fills up around lunch time with locals and tourists looking for good food and a gift shop. There are also, a few lively bars on Achill Island that play traditional Irish music on most nights. With that said what are you waiting for? Get organising your trip to Achill Island today, so you too can enjoy the scenery, cheap pints, good food, great activities and an even better atmosphere.