Achill’s Famous Atlantic Drive
The Achill Island Day Tour will bring you along the stunning Atlantic drive, highlighting some of Achill’s breathtaking coastal locations.
Not to be confused with the Wild Atlantic Way, the Atlantic Drive was designed to showcase Achill’s shores, as well as those of the neighbouring Corraun peninsula.
The route begins in Westport , where we’ll join it on our journey from Galway. It continues on through the town of Newport and the village of Mulranny before finally reaching our destination of Achill.
Once on the island, we’ll explore many of the Atlantic Drive’s key stops and highlights.
Explore Achill’s Atlantic Coastline
As we travel, you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world as you encounter the island’s wild and dramatic seaboard.
From golden strands to majestic cliff faces, there’s something new to see around every winding corner. Prepare to be awestruck as you soak up the unique atmosphere of one of Ireland’s most unspoiled landscapes.
Locations on the Atlantic Drive
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see:
- The seaside village of Dooega - home to one of Achill’s stunning Blue Flag beaches
- Achill Island lifeboat station - a valuable asset to this coastal community
- Grace O’Malley’s Castle / Kildavnet Tower - the former stronghold of Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s pirate queen
- Ashleam Bay/Portnahally Bay - famous for its eye-catching white cliffs
- The Minaun Heights - known for their panoramic views of the island and beyond
- Clare Island and Achill Beg - visible from Achill on a clear day
- Promontory forts - evidence of structures dating from the Iron Age
And much, much more.
The Barony of Erris
The Barony (ancient county subdivision) of Erris lies to the north and east of Achill Island. The area takes up much of north-west Mayo and is well-known for its cliffs, beaches and blanket bogs. Its main towns are Bangor Erris and Belmullet.
Erris is visible from many parts of the Atlantic Drive, especially from the village of Doogort. From there, on a clear day, you can enjoy views of the Mullet Peninsula and Blacksod Bay.
Blacksod Lighthouse is located at the tip of the Mullet Peninsula. Briefly the home of a post office, it’s now used as a base for search and rescue operations.
The Atlantic Drive on Screen
Many of the Atlantic Drive’s locations featured in the Oscar-nominated “Banshees of Inisherin”. The film starred Brendan Gleeson, Colin Farrell and, of course, Jenny the Donkey. Meanwhile, Achill itself played a starring role, providing a stunning backdrop to the poignant storyline.
