Leisure activities:

Achill Island, off the coast of Co Mayo, is Ireland's largest Island and is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

At 147 square km (57 square mi) and only 20 feet from the mainland, this mass of bogs and wild heather is is a unique holiday destination. A short causeway leads from the mainland to Achill Sound, the first village on the island.

The main road runs through rhododendron plantations to Keel, which has a 3km beach with spectacular cathedral-like rock formations in the cliffs at its east end.

"Heaven on earth in good weather, when its splendid scenery can be fully appreciated, Achill Island is a destination you'll probably want to head for"

There is a surprise around every corner as you traverse the scenic byway along the Achill coast known as "The Atlantic Drive" especially between Dooega and Dereens where the scenery of cliffs is spectacular. Scenic vistas abound and provide staggering views in all types of light and weather.

On the northwest tip of the island, amazing views can be had from over the tall cliffs at Saddlehead. The seaside hamlet of Keel has a 3km beach with cathedral-like rock formations at the east end. Carrickildownet Castle in Kildownet, which belonged to Grace O'Malley, is a worthwhile stop and can be seen on Atlantic Drive, the road that circumnavigates the island and is a popular driving tour.

Megalithic tombs, holy wells, early Christian settlements and deserted villages can all be found on Achill Island. Climb Mt. Slievemore near Dugort to see ancient remains left by 19th century Catholic missionaries. On the way down, stop in Dugort to visit the cabin where Nobel Prize Winner Heinrich Böll wrote "Irish Diary" in the 1950s.

Anglers travel to Achill annually between April and July for shark fishing