I had gloves on my gloves. My hands were cupped firmly over my ears and my head was turned down as if I could challenge the wind. It was winning with gusts of 50pmh. The air seemed frozen as it whipped over my chapped lips and rosy cheeks. My hat blocked most of my view leaving me only to see collections of hail along moss covered stones. The contrast of bright green on grey limestone seemed so unearthly, like something from the imagination of an old storyteller. The Burren is so “other-worldly”.
There I found myself hopping through an endless field of confusing limestone to the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a megalithic portal tomb dating over five-thousand years old. Just as fast as I arrived to the curious monument, the wind stopped, the hail was gone, and the clouds parted to unveil a temperamental blue sky. The Irish say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” This couldn’t hold more truth along the boundless bends, cliffs and summits of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Island Co Mayo
Standing at the ruins of the Deserted Village, my eyes were met with a seemingly endless ocean broken only by the massive, craggy cliffs of Achill Island’s edge. I was surrounded, swallowed by treeless mountain ridges covered in blanket bog and scattered with mindful sheep and ancient stones. Hammering winds froze my lips and carried the scent of burning turf from the village fireplaces. This is when I realized that Achill Island may be Ireland’s best kept secret.
The Feel of It – Achill Island is teeming with folklore and fairytales and has become a hub for archaeologists, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Frozen in time, this island’s unscathed nature coast whispers echoes of legends past through tiny native villages and lofty mountain peaks.
Terrain and Activities – Mountains, bogs, cliffs, trails, caves, and beaches provide a range of opportunities for biking, hiking, swimming, surfing, and exploring. Park at Keem Bay and hike over Croaghaun to see the largest sea cliffs in all of Europe. Even larger than the Cliffs of Moher.
The Fairytale Report- Visit Grace O’Malley the Pirate Queen’s castle, Kildvnet Tower. Achill Island is home to ancient ring forts, holy wells, standing stones and tombs. It is said in Irish legend that these are the places where the fairies roam.
From a Local- “There’s no T.V., no radio, and no internet at Lynott’s Pub, just good music, friends and pints.” Lynott Pub may be the most “Irish” pub I have ever been in.
More pieces of the “Wild Atlantic Way” are coming courtesy of Christa Thompson, The Fairytale Traveler.
