Another day, another island to explore for the Parker family. Well, not quite. Achill Island in north-west Mayo is firmly attached to the mainland of Ireland by a short bridge spanning the waters of Achill Sound. For decades, tourists have flocked to Achill Island and followed the well-signposted Atlantic Drive route around this spectacular outpost. Natural displays of wild flowers and heather compete with clifftop views of the roaring North Atlantic to be the highlight of an unforgettable sight-seeing journey. It’s too difficult to pick a winner. There are dozens of stunning candidates.

                                        The famous Atlantic Drive of Achill Island …

     … where sheep keep you company, and cause the occasional traffic jam

                One of many unspoilt beaches on Achill, this one at Doogort Bay

The windswept farmhouse home of some typical hardy Achill Islanders near Keel

Heading back inland, the relative tranquility of Lough Cullin at Pontoon, North Mayo