Islands & Highlands is an introduction to an Ireland not readily accessible by package tour taking in a trip to Achill Island, connected to the mainland by bridge and its wild Atlantic coast, the 18th century yet cosmopolitan musical pubs of Westport and Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Croagh Patrick. This 3 day, 2 night tour starts from either Knock or Galway airport.

This tour brings you the best of the Northwest and includes a visit to Ireland’s largest island, Achill, a magical place to do a spot of hill-walking and imbibe life before visiting the musical scene in Westport. Clear heads may be few, but by the time we reach the top of Ireland’s Holy Mountain, we can at least hope for clear views of the stunning island-pocked Clew Bay.

Highlights:

Hillwalking on Achill Island
Unlike many other popular hillwalking destinations in the West of Ireland where access to land can be restricted, the countryside in Achill is in common ownership and Ireland’s largest offshore island offers stunning views 1,000 feet above sea level.

Croagh Patrick
Ireland’s “Holy Mountain”, or “The Reek” as it is referred locally has been a location of uninterrupted pilgrimage for over 5,000 years. St. Patrick is reputed to have fasted on the summit for 40 days/40 nights (this is an optional tour!) and rid Ireland of snakes from here.

Matt Molloy's Pub
Managed by Chieftain’s member Matt Molloy, the magnet of this pub is the atmosphere. The sense of intimacy vital for the music to flourish is ideal as the pub has a labyrinth amount of nooks and crannies, from where a pint and a tune can be equally enjoyed. Step inside!

McHale's Pub
Johnny McHale’s in Castlebar is one of the oldest pubs in town with one of the loyalist clientele. And when you taste the Guinness, I’m sure you’ll agree.