Achill Island and Clew Bay

This section of the Wild Atlantic Way leads through "Pirate country" along the shores of the pirate queen Granuaile, also known as Grace O'Malley. There are two tower houses of the legendary buccaneer along the route: Carraigahowley Castle (also known as Rockfleet Castle) and Kildavnet Castle on Achill Island.

Achill Island - Ireland's largest island - is accessible from the mainland by a bridge at Achill Sound. The island boasts mountains, lakes, wild bogs, extensive sandy beaches, picturesque villages and the highest cliffs in Ireland. The Atlantic Drive leads directly along the rugged south-west coast of Achill, offering impressive views over the coast and nearby Clew Bay.

The journey to Westport continues along Clew Bay. It is said to have 365 islands in this bay - one for every day of the year. No wonder the pirate queen set out on her raids from this tangled archipelago.

The signature discovery point of this section is Keem Bay, which is beautifully nestled between steep slopes in the west of Achill Island. Even from a distance, the horseshoe-shaped bay magically attracts everyone's attention. Keem Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland and is a tiny paradise where azure blue water meets golden sand and time seems to stand still.