Achill Island - General Information

Achill Island, the largest island off the coast of Ireland, is bridge-linked to the Curraun Peninsula at Achill Sound. The beauty of its wild mountains, undulating open moorland and dramatic cliff scenery is unequaled anywhere. Achill has always attracted artists and writers who were drawn to the island by its unique beauty and old world character. Most of Achill's beautiful beaches carry the European 'Blue flag', confirming their excellent quality.

Activities on Achill Island are numerous - go hill walking, swimming and cycling; enjoy water sports, diving and fishing, and play a round of golf or Pitch & Putt.

There are five excellent trout lakes in Achill as well as shore fishing for the keen angler. Boats can be hired locally for deep sea fishing.

There are facilities and tuition on Achill Island for Surfing, Diving, Canoeing and Windsurfing.
There is a 9-hole golf links at Keel and a Pitch & Putt course at The Valley House.

Achill has a great reputation for its summer festivals and events:
Seafood Festival, Hill Walking Festival, Scoil Acla, Yawl Racing Festival, Painting Schools, Archeological Summer School and Coláiste Acla (Irish Language Summer School).

How to Get Here

Achill is linked by a bridge at Achill Sound to the mainland. Road access to Achill Island is via Westport or Castlebar, County Mayo. It is approximately 50 minutes drive to the town of Westport and about 1 hour from Castlebar. Driving from Dublin you would take the N4 to Longford, then the N5 through to Strokestown, Charlestown, and on to Castlebar. Take the road to Newport, go through Mulranny village and onto the R319 to Achill Island.

From Galway, take the N84 to Headford, on to Ballinrobe and to Castlebar. Take the Newport road, go through Mulranny village and the R319 takes you to Achill.

From Northern Ireland, head for Sligo, then take the N17 to Tubbercurry. At Charlestown, take the N5 to Castlebar. Take the Newport road, on to Mulranny and the R319 to Achill.

Achill, Mayo & Travel Links