A recent ranking of Europe’s top coastal destinations by The World’s 50 Best Beaches highlights the beauty of Keem Beach on Achill Island, County Mayo. Described as a location with “raw natural beauty,” Keem Beach offers a unique blend of tropical vibes amidst the rugged Irish landscape. The beach features strikingly blue waters reminiscent of tropical locales and is known for its horseshoe-shaped bay, surrounded by towering cliffs and scenic hills that create a tranquil swimming environment during the summer.
Keem Beach boasts soft, almost white sands, with a gentle stream flowing from the lush green cliffs into the clear sea. While somewhat secluded, the journey to the beach offers breathtaking views of the coastline along winding country roads. Achill Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge, is home to Keem Beach and also hosts some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, providing opportunities to witness bottlenose dolphins and basking sharks in the waters below.
Visitors to Achill Island can explore the popular Croaghaun cliffs through various hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging steep ascents from Keem Beach. The cliffs, soaring to 687 meters, offer expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean from their summits. Nearby attractions include the Deserted Village at Slievemore, a haunting collection of abandoned stone cottages that once formed a vibrant community but now stand as silent remnants of a bygone era. The village’s history dates back thousands of years, but a series of tragedies, including famine, led to its eventual abandonment.
Keem Beach and other scenic spots on the island have served as filming locations, including the set of the 2022 film “The Banshees of Inisherin,” featuring actors Barry Keoghan and Colin Farrell. Notable locations in the film include Lough Acorrymore, a tranquil lake surrounded by glacial cliffs.
Located a two-hour drive from Ireland West Airport Knock, Keem Beach is easily accessible, with flights to the UK through Aer Lingus and Ryanair. Travelers can reach London in just 90 minutes, with Ryanair offering one-way fares starting at £14.99.
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