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Ireland
Ireland County Mayo Family Self Drive Holiday
A one week trip exploring County Mayo and Achill Island
Highlights
Experience the famous warm Irish welcome and culture
Fully guided first day, setting you up for a great week of self guided adventure
Hire car included all week so you can explore at your own pace – we’ll make suggestions, of course!
This Ireland County Mayo Family Self Drive Holiday starts by spending time in the north of the county, based in friendly Ballina. Our local guide will show you around on your first full day, setting you up for a great week here in the west.
We have included a hire car from airport to airport, so that you can get around independently. You’ll then have time to explore at your own pace – there’s so much to do in and around the town itself and Ballina is well placed to explore west along the north coast, and north into County Sligo.
Next you’ll journey to Achill Island for two nights in this amazing place. The island is blessed with many beautiful beaches – it’s a great place to unwind. For the adventurous and experienced, Achill has two mountains to climb, for unrivalled views some 688m above the Atlantic.
At the end you have two nights in colourful, friendly Westport, to explore the town, Clew Bay and the coast beyond at the end of your Ireland self drive holiday.
Day 1
On arrival at Knock airport your hire car will be ready for you – this is yours until you depart.
Your first port of call is 40 minutes away on the mouth of the River Moy – Ballina, the salmon capital of Ireland. Here your host for your first three nights will welcome you with tea and some homemade treats.
There’s plenty to do in the area around your accommodation – visit Belleek Castle and take a Castle Tour tour or a walk through the lush green woods; stroll around Ballina town and watch the salmon jump; or just relax on the patio of your accommodation and enjoy the tranquillity.
There are plenty of choices for eating out in Ballina including a pub and restaurant just 100 metres from your accommodation, where you can enjoy a wide range of local and international dishes.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 2
For your first day you’ve the full North Mayo guided experience with our local guide.
This morning you’ll set off cycling with your guide, starting out along the River Moy and exploring Belleek woods, then to Mayo’s Monasteries of the Moy and the historic port town of Killala.
You’ll then jump in the transport to continue along the Wild Atlantic Way, along the golden beach of Lacken Strand to the cliffs and impressive sea stack at Downpatrick Head. Here’s where you’ll have lunch (included) – a delicious picnic with local produce with perhaps a drop of poitin (moonshine) whilst overlooking the wild Atlantic ocean.
If you’re worried we haven’t yet mentioned cake, don’t be! Later on, back at your accommodation, you’ll have a baking lesson in Marjorie’s kitchen where you’ll learn how to prepare a selection of savoury and sweet treats.
The best part is, at the end of this fun and interactive 90 minutes you’ll get to enjoy the results of your work, of course washed down with a cup of tea.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 3
You have a free day to relax and enjoy Ireland at your own pace.
You might like to drive north to Strandhill, just outside Sligo town. From here you can climb 327m Knocknarea for impressive views over Sligo and the coast. It’s a safe hike suitable for all ages. The summit cairn is a huge, ancient and unexcavated passage tomb.
Afterwards you might like to take a walk on Strandhill beach and enjoy a delicious lunch in Shells café. Here there’s option to kayak, stand-up-paddle or surf!
On your coastal drive back along Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way, you might like to stop off at Rosie’s pottery in Easkey or continue onto the beach town of Enniscrone. Here you can stroll on the long golden beach, enjoy a game of pitch and putt – and there is also a children’s playground and indoor pool with slides. For the adults, you might like to treat yourself to a seaweed bath.
There are plenty of option for eating out once back in Ballina.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 4
Today your adventure takes you west, as you’ll travel to beautiful Achill Island (50 miles). Take the scenic Lough road past the Loughs of Conn, Cullin, Levally and Beltra, arriving at Achill Sound and the road bridge to the island.
Hillwalkers will be drawn to the summits of Slievemore and Croaghaun. These steep hills are a different proposition to Knocknarea, rising directly from sea level to over 650m in height and containing plenty of untracked rough ground.
If this sounds like your sort of thing then today you might like to head for Doogort Beach and steeply ascend Slievemore via the eastern ridge, bounding the south side of the rocky corrie. As for any UK mountain ascent, be sure to wear and carry suitable clothing and equipment!
If this doesn’t sound like your sort of thing then the beaches of Doogort and Keel have more than enough beauty and interest to occupy your day.
Accommodation on this day: Pure Magic Lodge
Day 5
You have a free day to relax and explore Achill Island at your own pace.
Today I’d head west to Keem Bay, with it’s picture-perfect sandy beach. Keem features in Ireland’s ‘Blue Way’ trail, a series of locations which are especially good for watersports. Keem is named as a particularly good place to snorkel and when you see the crystal clear waters, you’ll find it hard to disagree.
The tidal flows aren’t strong here, and the south (right hand side looking out) side of the bay is where’s particularly recommended to snorkel. Heading out from the beach, the sea floor slopes away, gradually turning from sand to rock and you’ll soon see that a swim here is in the company of the local marine life!
Away from the shore is Achill’s second main peak – Croaghaun. Perhaps steeper even than Slievemore, there are several possible approaches to the summit. If you’re ready, willing and able to make the effort then you’ll be rewarded with unsurpassed views of the steep cliffs, stretching from the summit at 688m to the waves far below. Again, as for any UK mountain ascent, be sure to wear and carry suitable clothing and equipment.
If you’d like to stretch your legs but aren’t keen on reaching Croaghaun, it’s very much worth the walk to the more modest summit of Benmore overlooking the southern cliffs, still impressive with their 300m of vertical extent. From Benmore you win amazing views of the sweep of cliffs extending west to Achill Head.
Accommodation on this day: Pure Magic Lodge
Day 6
Perhaps start the day with a short stroll on the beach and get your feet wet.
You’ll travel back to the mainland today and tour Clew Bay with it’s three hundred and sixty five – yes, 365! – islands. Stop off in Newport for refreshment on the way, before arriving in Westport town.
The towns of the west of Ireland retain their character, unspoiled by the commercialism that has changed so many UK towns. The streets are lined with the colourful shop fronts of locally-owned businesses and the town centres feel alive.
Arrive early so that you can stroll around the town and soak in the friendly atmosphere. You’ll soon see why Westport has been voted the best place to live in Ireland for the past 5 years!
Accommodation on this day: Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Day 7
You are just a 5 minute walk into the centre of Westport town where you can browse around the shops and stop off in one of the quaint coffee shops.
You’ve plenty of options for activities today, such as taking a tour of Westport House or exploring the grounds. For children there’s swan boat rides, climbing frames and a pirate adventure park.
There’s also the option to go horse riding, rent a bike, climb Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick or spend an afternoon on the water kayaking, Stand Up Paddling or surfing.
In the evening, you can choose from one of the many renowned restaurants and take a wander into the lively pubs to listen to traditional music and perhaps enjoy the local craft beer or whiskey.
Accommodation on this day: Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Day 8
It’s time to enjoy your final Irish breakfast and do some last minute shopping before leaving for Knock airport, a short 40 minute drive away.
Walking
The perfect way to explore Ireland's unspoilt scenery from gentle strolls on isolated golden sand beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way to the more challenging ascents of Achill island's two 650m peaks, there are walks to suit everyone.
Cycling
County Mayo's back roads are wonderfully quiet and picturesque - your only hazard might be a few sheep! You'll be able to cycle the Great Western Greenway (a disused railway line), cross beautiful Ballycroy National Park and explore Achill Island. Daily routes are 40-50km so there's always plenty of time for stopping to admire the scenery.
Baking
You'll get to spend time in your guide's 'Mam's' friendly kitchen where she'll have you baking scones, traditional Guinness soda bread and Irish potato cakes. Don't worry because you'll get to eat them all afterwards washed down with a nice cuppa.
Whiskey tasting
Take part in our guide's very special Whiskey appreciation session and you'll soon work out which Whiskeys you like and why.
Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast is a couple and family-friendly guesthouse in the beautiful town of Westport in County Mayo. As the name suggests, the guest house is elevated above the centre of town, giving fantastic views across the town to Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. Particularly well sited for cycling tours as it’s only minutes from the Greenway – a safe cycling route from town to Achill Island, 42km away.
Pure Magic Lodge
Pure Magic Lodge is situated on Achill Island overlooking Keel Lake. The accommodation is simple, with all the essentials you need – but you don’t travel to Achill to stay in your room! Here at the Lodge you are minutes from the idyllic beaches of Dugort to the north and Keel to the south, and are on the lower slopes of the 671m peak of Slievemore.
Include bike hire in your holiday to make the most of Achill Island, as the quiet lanes and trails provide great routes to explore the diverse beauty.
Brigown Bed & Breakfast
A warm welcome is assured at Brigown Bed & Breakfast. Your host Marjorie is a household name in Ireland when it comes to cooking and will ensure you feel at home here in her charming guesthouse on the banks of the river Moy in Ballina. Breakfast is particularly good here – a great chance to sample Marjorie’s culinary skills!
The Quay is a short walk away for food and drink, and you’re not far from the centre of town. The garden is a great place to sit and relax to watch the river and the world go by.
What’s the currency in Ireland?
The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (€) and has been since Ireland withdrew legal tender status for the Irish Pound in 2002. Ireland was one of the first countries to adopt the Euro, in 1999.
What’s the craic?
If you’re having a good time with others in Ireland, you’re almost certainly having a good craic (pronounced the same as the English word ‘crack’). Craic is a Gaelic word that’s hard to precisely define in English. Essentially it’s ‘fun’ but there’s definitely a social element to the definition. Generally, craic is a noun and it can be used in the singular or plural: ‘Yeah, we had some great craic today’. ‘Today was a good craic’.
Craic can’t be purchased, unless you’re in the middle of a serious misunderstanding.
You’re guaranteed to have a good craic on our holidays in Ireland!
What is the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way is a road route along the length of the Atlantic west coast of Ireland, stretching from Londonderry in the North to Kinsale in the South. The Wild Atlantic Way was launched in 2014 by the Irish Tourist Board to raise awareness of and showcase the stunningly beautiful, diverse and lesser-populated Atlantic west coast of Ireland.The full signposted route is some 2,500Km long and passes through nine counties. It’s subdivided into six zones: The Northern Headlands, The Surf Coast, The Bay Coast, The Cliff Coast, The Southern Peninsulas and The Haven Coast.
For our Ireland holidays, we’re focusing on County Mayo and County Sligo, bounded by The Surf Coast and The Bay Coast sections of the Wild Atlantic Way.
How do you pour the perfect pint of Guinness?
You’ll have the chance to learn from a local if you’re on some of our guided days out in our Ireland holidays. But here are the steps to pouring a perfect pint of the Black Stuff.Step one – the glass is important. Choose a slightly ‘tulip’ shaped glass with a Guinness logo. As well as looking the part, the logo provides a visual aid…
Step two – you’ll need to hold your Guinness glass at a 45 degree angle whilst the Guinness logo is facing downwards.
Step three – here’s where the logo is helpful – pull the Guinness tap towards you and position your glass so that the stream hits in the area of the harp logo. The angle works it’s magic here as it discourages the Guinness stream from bouncing and creating large air bubbles.
Step four – watch for the liquid level and as it reaches the bottom of the harp, slowly return the glass to the upright position. Once the Guinness reaches the top of the harp, smoothly and slowly close the tap to stop pouring.
Step five – place the glass down for the magic phase, the ‘surge and settle’, as tiny bubbles form the iconic creamy head. If you’ve done it right then once the liquid is settled the wording ‘Guinness’ on the logo should be framed in black liquid, whilst the head should be between the bottom and the top of the harp.
Step six – hold the glass again under the pouring tap and push the tap away from you to slowly raise the head to the top of the glass. The perfect head should be about 20mm in height.
Step seven – drink and savour! If you need more practice, simply pour another ;).
Where are the tallest cliffs in Ireland?
The most well-known cliffs in Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher which run for some 14Km along the coast of County Clare. They’re certainly impressive with their vertical drop of 214m and they’ve become famous due to the visitor’s centre developed in the 1990s and opened in 2007. Between one and two million people visit every year. However, these cliffs are dwarfed by the tallest Ireland has to offer…The cliffs of Slieve League in County Donegal fall steeply from the summit of 601m to the ocean far below. Slieve League can be accessed by a short walk from the road. The drop is not as sheer as Moher but the cliffs are nearly three times as high! They’re still not the winner though… Slieve League is notable due to it’s accessibility however the real winner of the title is further south and west in County Mayo.
The tallest cliffs in Ireland are the sea cliffs of the remote mountain of Croaghaun on Achill Island which rise an incredible 688m from sea to summit. This makes them the highest not only in Ireland but also in all of the British Isles. They’re proudly also the third highest in all of Europe. To view the cliffs from Croaghaun summit requires commitment and fitness – and plenty of British hill walking experience or a guided hill walking day.
There’s a chance to see the cliffs of Croaghaun on our holidays in Ireland that include time on Achill Island.
Is Ireland in the UK?
By area, the Republic of Ireland is roughly 85% of the island of Ireland, the remaining 15% being Northern Ireland. The United Kingdom is a unitary sovereign state currently comprising Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland and England. So no, the Republic of Ireland is not in the UK. But yes, Northern Ireland is in the UK. You may find this confusing but confusion’s been the least of it since the creation of Northern Ireland via the Partition Act of 1922.Where is Ireland?
The Republic of Ireland is part of the British Isles, an archipelago of over six thousand islands large and small lying off the coast of continental Europe, bounded to the west by the Atlantic Ocean and to the east by the North Sea. The two largest of these islands are Great Britain (comprising England, Scotland and Wales) and the island of Ireland (comprising the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland).How do I get to Ireland from the UK?
For UK travellers, the good news is that there are daily flights from many UK airports straight to County Mayo, arriving at Knock airport. There are also daily flights to other Irish airports including Dublin and Belfast making a through-trip possible on your Irish holiday.How do I get to Ireland from the US and Canada?
From the USA and Canada, direct flights go from many international airports to Dublin – from New York, Chicago, Orlando, Toronto, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, Baltimore.How do I get to Ireland from continental Europe?
Very many continental European airports offer direct flights to Dublin.
Dublin airport is very well connected and so we can organise your holiday in Ireland to include flights from anywhere in the world.Highlights
Experience the famous warm Irish welcome and culture
Fully guided first day, setting you up for a great week of self guided adventure
Hire car included all week so you can explore at your own pace – we’ll make suggestions, of course!
This Ireland County Mayo Family Self Drive Holiday starts by spending time in the north of the county, based in friendly Ballina. Our local guide will show you around on your first full day, setting you up for a great week here in the west.
We have included a hire car from airport to airport, so that you can get around independently. You’ll then have time to explore at your own pace – there’s so much to do in and around the town itself and Ballina is well placed to explore west along the north coast, and north into County Sligo.
Next you’ll journey to Achill Island for two nights in this amazing place. The island is blessed with many beautiful beaches – it’s a great place to unwind. For the adventurous and experienced, Achill has two mountains to climb, for unrivalled views some 688m above the Atlantic.
At the end you have two nights in colourful, friendly Westport, to explore the town, Clew Bay and the coast beyond at the end of your Ireland self drive holiday.
Day 1
On arrival at Knock airport your hire car will be ready for you – this is yours until you depart.
Your first port of call is 40 minutes away on the mouth of the River Moy – Ballina, the salmon capital of Ireland. Here your host for your first three nights will welcome you with tea and some homemade treats.
There’s plenty to do in the area around your accommodation – visit Belleek Castle and take a Castle Tour tour or a walk through the lush green woods; stroll around Ballina town and watch the salmon jump; or just relax on the patio of your accommodation and enjoy the tranquillity.
There are plenty of choices for eating out in Ballina including a pub and restaurant just 100 metres from your accommodation, where you can enjoy a wide range of local and international dishes.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 2
For your first day you’ve the full North Mayo guided experience with our local guide.
This morning you’ll set off cycling with your guide, starting out along the River Moy and exploring Belleek woods, then to Mayo’s Monasteries of the Moy and the historic port town of Killala.
You’ll then jump in the transport to continue along the Wild Atlantic Way, along the golden beach of Lacken Strand to the cliffs and impressive sea stack at Downpatrick Head. Here’s where you’ll have lunch (included) – a delicious picnic with local produce with perhaps a drop of poitin (moonshine) whilst overlooking the wild Atlantic ocean.
If you’re worried we haven’t yet mentioned cake, don’t be! Later on, back at your accommodation, you’ll have a baking lesson in Marjorie’s kitchen where you’ll learn how to prepare a selection of savoury and sweet treats.
The best part is, at the end of this fun and interactive 90 minutes you’ll get to enjoy the results of your work, of course washed down with a cup of tea.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 3
You have a free day to relax and enjoy Ireland at your own pace.
You might like to drive north to Strandhill, just outside Sligo town. From here you can climb 327m Knocknarea for impressive views over Sligo and the coast. It’s a safe hike suitable for all ages. The summit cairn is a huge, ancient and unexcavated passage tomb.
Afterwards you might like to take a walk on Strandhill beach and enjoy a delicious lunch in Shells café. Here there’s option to kayak, stand-up-paddle or surf!
On your coastal drive back along Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way, you might like to stop off at Rosie’s pottery in Easkey or continue onto the beach town of Enniscrone. Here you can stroll on the long golden beach, enjoy a game of pitch and putt – and there is also a children’s playground and indoor pool with slides. For the adults, you might like to treat yourself to a seaweed bath.
There are plenty of option for eating out once back in Ballina.
Accommodation on this day: Brigown Bed & Breakfast
Day 4
Today your adventure takes you west, as you’ll travel to beautiful Achill Island (50 miles). Take the scenic Lough road past the Loughs of Conn, Cullin, Levally and Beltra, arriving at Achill Sound and the road bridge to the island.
Hillwalkers will be drawn to the summits of Slievemore and Croaghaun. These steep hills are a different proposition to Knocknarea, rising directly from sea level to over 650m in height and containing plenty of untracked rough ground.
If this sounds like your sort of thing then today you might like to head for Doogort Beach and steeply ascend Slievemore via the eastern ridge, bounding the south side of the rocky corrie. As for any UK mountain ascent, be sure to wear and carry suitable clothing and equipment!
If this doesn’t sound like your sort of thing then the beaches of Doogort and Keel have more than enough beauty and interest to occupy your day.
Accommodation on this day: Pure Magic Lodge
Day 5
You have a free day to relax and explore Achill Island at your own pace.
Today I’d head west to Keem Bay, with it’s picture-perfect sandy beach. Keem features in Ireland’s ‘Blue Way’ trail, a series of locations which are especially good for watersports. Keem is named as a particularly good place to snorkel and when you see the crystal clear waters, you’ll find it hard to disagree.
The tidal flows aren’t strong here, and the south (right hand side looking out) side of the bay is where’s particularly recommended to snorkel. Heading out from the beach, the sea floor slopes away, gradually turning from sand to rock and you’ll soon see that a swim here is in the company of the local marine life!
Away from the shore is Achill’s second main peak – Croaghaun. Perhaps steeper even than Slievemore, there are several possible approaches to the summit. If you’re ready, willing and able to make the effort then you’ll be rewarded with unsurpassed views of the steep cliffs, stretching from the summit at 688m to the waves far below. Again, as for any UK mountain ascent, be sure to wear and carry suitable clothing and equipment.
If you’d like to stretch your legs but aren’t keen on reaching Croaghaun, it’s very much worth the walk to the more modest summit of Benmore overlooking the southern cliffs, still impressive with their 300m of vertical extent. From Benmore you win amazing views of the sweep of cliffs extending west to Achill Head.
Accommodation on this day: Pure Magic Lodge
Day 6
Perhaps start the day with a short stroll on the beach and get your feet wet.
You’ll travel back to the mainland today and tour Clew Bay with it’s three hundred and sixty five – yes, 365! – islands. Stop off in Newport for refreshment on the way, before arriving in Westport town.
The towns of the west of Ireland retain their character, unspoiled by the commercialism that has changed so many UK towns. The streets are lined with the colourful shop fronts of locally-owned businesses and the town centres feel alive.
Arrive early so that you can stroll around the town and soak in the friendly atmosphere. You’ll soon see why Westport has been voted the best place to live in Ireland for the past 5 years!
Accommodation on this day: Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Day 7
You are just a 5 minute walk into the centre of Westport town where you can browse around the shops and stop off in one of the quaint coffee shops.
You’ve plenty of options for activities today, such as taking a tour of Westport House or exploring the grounds. For children there’s swan boat rides, climbing frames and a pirate adventure park.
There’s also the option to go horse riding, rent a bike, climb Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick or spend an afternoon on the water kayaking, Stand Up Paddling or surfing.
In the evening, you can choose from one of the many renowned restaurants and take a wander into the lively pubs to listen to traditional music and perhaps enjoy the local craft beer or whiskey.
Accommodation on this day: Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Day 8
It’s time to enjoy your final Irish breakfast and do some last minute shopping before leaving for Knock airport, a short 40 minute drive away.
Walking
The perfect way to explore Ireland's unspoilt scenery from gentle strolls on isolated golden sand beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way to the more challenging ascents of Achill island's two 650m peaks, there are walks to suit everyone.
Cycling
County Mayo's back roads are wonderfully quiet and picturesque - your only hazard might be a few sheep! You'll be able to cycle the Great Western Greenway (a disused railway line), cross beautiful Ballycroy National Park and explore Achill Island. Daily routes are 40-50km so there's always plenty of time for stopping to admire the scenery.
Baking
You'll get to spend time in your guide's 'Mam's' friendly kitchen where she'll have you baking scones, traditional Guinness soda bread and Irish potato cakes. Don't worry because you'll get to eat them all afterwards washed down with a nice cuppa.
Whiskey tasting
Take part in our guide's very special Whiskey appreciation session and you'll soon work out which Whiskeys you like and why.
Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast
Westport Heights Bed and Breakfast is a couple and family-friendly guesthouse in the beautiful town of Westport in County Mayo. As the name suggests, the guest house is elevated above the centre of town, giving fantastic views across the town to Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. Particularly well sited for cycling tours as it’s only minutes from the Greenway – a safe cycling route from town to Achill Island, 42km away.
Pure Magic Lodge
Pure Magic Lodge is situated on Achill Island overlooking Keel Lake. The accommodation is simple, with all the essentials you need – but you don’t travel to Achill to stay in your room! Here at the Lodge you are minutes from the idyllic beaches of Dugort to the north and Keel to the south, and are on the lower slopes of the 671m peak of Slievemore.
Include bike hire in your holiday to make the most of Achill Island, as the quiet lanes and trails provide great routes to explore the diverse beauty.
Brigown Bed & Breakfast
A warm welcome is assured at Brigown Bed & Breakfast. Your host Marjorie is a household name in Ireland when it comes to cooking and will ensure you feel at home here in her charming guesthouse on the banks of the river Moy in Ballina. Breakfast is particularly good here – a great chance to sample Marjorie’s culinary skills!
The Quay is a short walk away for food and drink, and you’re not far from the centre of town. The garden is a great place to sit and relax to watch the river and the world go by.
What’s the currency in Ireland?
The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (€) and has been since Ireland withdrew legal tender status for the Irish Pound in 2002. Ireland was one of the first countries to adopt the Euro, in 1999.
What’s the craic?
If you’re having a good time with others in Ireland, you’re almost certainly having a good craic (pronounced the same as the English word ‘crack’). Craic is a Gaelic word that’s hard to precisely define in English. Essentially it’s ‘fun’ but there’s definitely a social element to the definition. Generally, craic is a noun and it can be used in the singular or plural: ‘Yeah, we had some great craic today’. ‘Today was a good craic’.
Craic can’t be purchased, unless you’re in the middle of a serious misunderstanding.
You’re guaranteed to have a good craic on our holidays in Ireland!
What is the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way is a road route along the length of the Atlantic west coast of Ireland, stretching from Londonderry in the North to Kinsale in the South. The Wild Atlantic Way was launched in 2014 by the Irish Tourist Board to raise awareness of and showcase the stunningly beautiful, diverse and lesser-populated Atlantic west coast of Ireland.The full signposted route is some 2,500Km long and passes through nine counties. It’s subdivided into six zones: The Northern Headlands, The Surf Coast, The Bay Coast, The Cliff Coast, The Southern Peninsulas and The Haven Coast.
For our Ireland holidays, we’re focusing on County Mayo and County Sligo, bounded by The Surf Coast and The Bay Coast sections of the Wild Atlantic Way.
How do you pour the perfect pint of Guinness?
You’ll have the chance to learn from a local if you’re on some of our guided days out in our Ireland holidays. But here are the steps to pouring a perfect pint of the Black Stuff.Step one – the glass is important. Choose a slightly ‘tulip’ shaped glass with a Guinness logo. As well as looking the part, the logo provides a visual aid…
Step two – you’ll need to hold your Guinness glass at a 45 degree angle whilst the Guinness logo is facing downwards.
Step three – here’s where the logo is helpful – pull the Guinness tap towards you and position your glass so that the stream hits in the area of the harp logo. The angle works it’s magic here as it discourages the Guinness stream from bouncing and creating large air bubbles.
Step four – watch for the liquid level and as it reaches the bottom of the harp, slowly return the glass to the upright position. Once the Guinness reaches the top of the harp, smoothly and slowly close the tap to stop pouring.
Step five – place the glass down for the magic phase, the ‘surge and settle’, as tiny bubbles form the iconic creamy head. If you’ve done it right then once the liquid is settled the wording ‘Guinness’ on the logo should be framed in black liquid, whilst the head should be between the bottom and the top of the harp.
Step six – hold the glass again under the pouring tap and push the tap away from you to slowly raise the head to the top of the glass. The perfect head should be about 20mm in height.
Step seven – drink and savour! If you need more practice, simply pour another ;).
Where are the tallest cliffs in Ireland?
The most well-known cliffs in Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher which run for some 14Km along the coast of County Clare. They’re certainly impressive with their vertical drop of 214m and they’ve become famous due to the visitor’s centre developed in the 1990s and opened in 2007. Between one and two million people visit every year. However, these cliffs are dwarfed by the tallest Ireland has to offer…The cliffs of Slieve League in County Donegal fall steeply from the summit of 601m to the ocean far below. Slieve League can be accessed by a short walk from the road. The drop is not as sheer as Moher but the cliffs are nearly three times as high! They’re still not the winner though… Slieve League is notable due to it’s accessibility however the real winner of the title is further south and west in County Mayo.
The tallest cliffs in Ireland are the sea cliffs of the remote mountain of Croaghaun on Achill Island which rise an incredible 688m from sea to summit. This makes them the highest not only in Ireland but also in all of the British Isles. They’re proudly also the third highest in all of Europe. To view the cliffs from Croaghaun summit requires commitment and fitness – and plenty of British hill walking experience or a guided hill walking day.
There’s a chance to see the cliffs of Croaghaun on our holidays in Ireland that include time on Achill Island.
Is Ireland in the UK?
By area, the Republic of Ireland is roughly 85% of the island of Ireland, the remaining 15% being Northern Ireland. The United Kingdom is a unitary sovereign state currently comprising Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland and England. So no, the Republic of Ireland is not in the UK. But yes, Northern Ireland is in the UK. You may find this confusing but confusion’s been the least of it since the creation of Northern Ireland via the Partition Act of 1922.Where is Ireland?
The Republic of Ireland is part of the British Isles, an archipelago of over six thousand islands large and small lying off the coast of continental Europe, bounded to the west by the Atlantic Ocean and to the east by the North Sea. The two largest of these islands are Great Britain (comprising England, Scotland and Wales) and the island of Ireland (comprising the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland).How do I get to Ireland from the UK?
For UK travellers, the good news is that there are daily flights from many UK airports straight to County Mayo, arriving at Knock airport. There are also daily flights to other Irish airports including Dublin and Belfast making a through-trip possible on your Irish holiday.How do I get to Ireland from the US and Canada?
From the USA and Canada, direct flights go from many international airports to Dublin – from New York, Chicago, Orlando, Toronto, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, Baltimore.How do I get to Ireland from continental Europe?
Very many continental European airports offer direct flights to Dublin.
Dublin airport is very well connected and so we can organise your holiday in Ireland to include flights from anywhere in the world.
