Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo, Ireland

The area around Keel, in the centre of Achill Island, offers an unrivalled array of outdoor activities. The 3km long Blue Flag beach is one of the best surfing locations in Ireland, and several local providers offer surf board and wetsuit hire as well as surfing lessons at Keel strand. The beach is also popular for other watersports including sea kayaking, boogie-boarding, windsurfing and sailboarding. Inland from the beach is a large, shallow, freshwater lake that is ideal for windsurfers, canoeists and kayakers of all abilities. The beach and lake offer fishing and angling opportunities, while the harbour nearby at Purteen is home to a number of fishing charter boats.

Horseriding and surfing at Keel Strand, Achill Island

Distances

Distance of attractions from Achill Cottages:

Achill Sound village
Shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes, cashpoint (ATM). 3 mins drive. 10 mins walk

Great Western Greenway
Award-winning off-road track for cyclists and walkers, following the old Achill-Westport railway line. 5 mins drive. 15 mins walk. 10 mins cycle.

Keem Bay
Blue Flag beach in spectacular setting. 15-20 mins drive

Keel
3km long Blue Flag beach, freshwater lake, Minaun cliffs. Surfing & other activities available. 10-15 mins drive

Deserted Village
Haunting reminder of times past. 15-20 mins drive

Kildavnet
Granuaille's castle, historic church & cemetery, small harbour on the Atlantic Drive. 5-10 mins drive

Dugort
Two Blue Flag beaches and a historic village. 15-20 mins drive

Dooega
Blue Flag beach in picturesque fishing village on the Atlantic Drive. 15-20 mins drive

Mulranny
Blue Flag beach, golf links, pubs and restaurants. 12-18 mins drive

House of Prayer
3 mins drive. 10 mins walk