We're finishing a western Ireland vacation with 6 nights in Co. Mayo/Achill Island area and are looking for b&b recommendations, areas of best scenery and walks. Not a lot of info out there on this area so any input is appreciated.
Have you tried this web site: irelandexpert.com
We spent 3 days and 2 nights in Westport. We climbed Croagh Patrick, and that was a do-able walk, about 4-5 hours round trip. Also did a day trip to Achill Island, wished we could have visited there longer. The deserted village on Achill was very interesting, dozens of vacant stone famine dwellings. Of course the cliffs on the west edge of the island are ranked with the Cliffs of Mohr,and Slieve League, which are the tallest in all Europe. The drive southwest of Croagh Patrick took us to Doo Louch Valley and a roadside famine memorial, and on to Aasleagh Falls. We had an above average B&B; Abbey Court in Westport. It's location is grand, due to being an easy 10 minute walk to downtown. Maurice and Kay were excellent hosts, and I am giving high praise for this B&B. Enjoy! Dan
If you get a chance to stay a few nights in Achill, you will appreciate it's solitude and beauty. You will not run out of places to walk there! We normally do day trips from Westport...but stayed a week in a holiday home many years ago and it was a very relaxing visit. Link to a few places - http://www.mayo-ireland.ie/Mayo/Towns/Achill/Achill.htm
I always recommend The Boulevard Guesthouse on South Mall(located 2 blocks from Bridge Street) http://www.boulevard-guesthouse.com/. Excellent location, clean rooms and nice owners. A little further out, going towards Croagh Patrick, there are tons of B&B's. A few I would recommend are http://www.quaywestport.com/ and Boffin Lodge http://mayobedandbreakfasts.ebookireland.com/GUGAS07983-boffin-lodge.htm
Enjoy your visit!