Welcome to Cara's travel blog, where we embark on an enchanting journey to one of Ireland's hidden gems – Achill Island. Tucked away on the rugged coast of the Wild Atlantic Way, Achill Island is a haven of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we'll guide you through a meticulously crafted 7-day itinerary, designed to immerse you in the essence of this magical island. From the moment you pick up your motorhome in Newcastle West, to the serene drives along the coast, every day promises a new adventure. We also have some great food suggestions and some reading for along the way. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Achill Island offers something for everyone. So, buckle up, and let's dive into this unforgettable journey!
Itinerary - Achill Island
Day 1:
Pick up your motorhome in Newcastle West from our rental office at Cara Motorhomes.
Head to Achill Island (approximately 3 hours)
Explore the island, take a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, and visit the Keem Bay, a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters.
Campsite suggestion: Achill Head Caravan and Camping Park, which is located just a short drive from Keem Bay and has amenities such as showers, toilets, and a playground.
Day 2:
Visit the Deserted Village, a ghost village with the ruins of houses and a church.
Take a hike to the top of Croaghaun, the island's highest mountain, for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding area.
Visit the Achill Island Heritage Centre, a museum that showcases the history and culture of the island.
Campsite suggestion: Keel Camping
Day 3:
Visit the Slievemore Deserted Village, an abandoned village that was once home to a thriving community.
Take a walk along the Dooagh strand, a beautiful beach with miles of sand dunes.
Visit the Kildavnet Castle, a 16th century castle that was built by the O'Malley clan.
Day 4:
Visit the Achill Outdoor Education and Training Centre, a center that offers activities such as surfing, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Take a drive along the Valley of the Saints, a beautiful valley with a series of standing stones that date back to the Bronze Age.
Visit the St. Thomas's Church, a 19th century church that was built by the island's residents.
Day 5:
Visit the Achill Island Sea Safari, a boat tour that takes you around the island to see the wildlife and the island's history.
Visit the Achill Island Pottery, a pottery studio that creates beautiful pottery pieces.
Take a walk along Keel Beach, a beautiful beach with miles of sand dunes.
Day 6:
Visit the St. Patrick's Church, a 19th century church that was built by the island's residents.
Take a drive along the Atlantic Drive, a scenic drive that takes you along the coast of the island.
Visit the Achill Island Visitor Centre, a visitor center that has information about the island and its history.
Campsite suggestion: Achill Head Caravan and Camping Park
Day 7:
Head back to Newcastle West and return your motorhome. Thank you for choosing our company and we hope you had a memorable trip to Achill Island Cafes and Restaurants:
The Beehive Café: Nestled in Keel, this cozy spot is perfect for a relaxing lunch. Known for their fresh, locally sourced ingredients, they offer a variety of dishes including delicious seafood chowders and homemade baked goods.
Gielty’s Bar and Restaurant: Located in Dooagh, Gielty’s is a family-run establishment well-regarded for its traditional Irish fare. Their evening menu often features local lamb and seafood.
The Chalet Restaurant: Highly recommended for its seafood, The Chalet in Keel offers stunning views along with a menu rich in locally caught fish and shellfish.
An Canteen: A quaint eatery in Achill Sound, known for its hearty breakfasts and lunches. Don't miss their traditional Irish breakfast.
Traditional Dishes to Try:
Seafood: Being an island, Achill is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood. Look for dishes featuring local catch like mackerel, salmon, or the famous Achill Island oysters.
Irish Stew: While in Achill, trying a traditional Irish stew, especially one made with local lamb, is a must. It’s hearty, comforting, and deeply flavorful.
Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake that is often served as a side. It's a simple yet delicious representation of Irish cuisine.
Soda Bread: No meal in Ireland is complete without a slice of homemade soda bread. It's often served alongside main courses or enjoyed with butter and jam for breakfast.
Beverages:
Irish Whiskey and Beers: Ireland is famous for its whiskey and beers. Local pubs on Achill Island are the best places to sample these, including options from local breweries.
Poitín: Traditionally a strong Irish spirit, modern versions are available in some local pubs and are worth a try for the adventurous drinker.
Tea: Irish people love their tea, and it's a staple in every café. Enjoying a hot cup of tea, especially after a day of exploring, is a comforting experience.#
Tips for Culinary Experiences:
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Often, the best dining spots are those favored by locals. Don’t hesitate to ask for personal recommendations.
Seafood Season: If you're visiting during the summer, that’s the perfect time for fresh seafood. Check with restaurants for their seasonal specialties.
Farmers Markets: If your visit coincides with a local farmer’s market, it’s a great opportunity to taste local produce and artisanal products.
Books:
"The House on an Irish Hillside" by Felicity Hayes-McCoy: This memoir captures the author’s experience of falling in love with, and eventually moving to, the Dingle Peninsula. While it's not specifically about Achill Island, it beautifully conveys the essence of living in a remote Irish community.
"Achill Island: An Archaeological Guide to Corraun and Achill" by Theresa McDonald: A fantastic resource for those interested in the archaeology and history of Achill Island. It's packed with information about the various historical sites you might visit.
"The Colony: The Harrowing True Story of the Exiles of Molokai" by John Tayman: This book, while focusing on the leper colony of Molokai in Hawaii, is relevant because of its connection to Father Damien, who was deeply involved in the history of the Achill Mission Colony.
"No Man's Land: The Place of the Woman Writer in the Twentieth Century, Volume 1: The War of the Words" by Sandra M. Gilbert and Susan Gubar: This includes a discussion on Eva O'Flaherty, a notable figure in Achill's history, and provides context to women’s roles in literature and society, with connections to Achill Island.
Articles:
“The Deserted Village at Slievemore”, published on various travel and history blogs, offers an in-depth look at the history and the mystery surrounding this iconic site on Achill Island.
Feature Articles in "The Mayo News": Local newspapers like "The Mayo News" often have articles about current events and historical pieces about Achill Island.
“Achill Island’s Haunted History” on history and travel blogs: These types of articles delve into the local legends and ghost stories of the island, perfect for those interested in the more mystical side of Achill.
Travel Blogs and Personal Accounts: Look for blogs and personal travel accounts that detail personal experiences, hidden gems, and travel tips about Achill Island. These often provide a more intimate and practical perspective than traditional guides. As our 7-day adventure on Achill Island draws to a close, we find ourselves enriched with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Ireland's captivating beauty. From the serene vistas of Keem Bay to the historical whispers of the Deserted Village, each day on Achill Island has been a testament to the island's diverse allure. The exhilarating hikes, the scenic drives, and the cultural insights have not only connected us with the heart of Achill but also with a sense of inner peace and wonder. As we drive back to Newcastle West to return our trusty motorhome, we carry with us not just souvenirs, but experiences that will linger in our hearts forever. We hope this blog inspires you to embark on your own journey to Achill Island, where every turn on the road is a new story waiting to be told. Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey, and may your travels be just as fulfilling and inspiring!
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