County Mayo Day 3

Last day of our weekend in Mayo... we drove to Achill Island, Ireland's largest island.  So many breathtaking sights, and five amazing "blue flag" beaches (basically means they have a high rating).  We were able to see four of the five blue flag beaches on the island.  One of the beaches, Keem beach, must be accessed by driving along the edge of a mountain, with crazy views of the ocean below.  Totally amazing, I've never seen such amazing views of the ocean leading to such a beautiful beach!  The first two beaches we stopped at were the Golden Strand and the Silver Strand beach, as well as lunch at a great little place called "The Cottage".  And after the crummy weather the day before, we were thrilled to experience Achill Island on a day with such great weather!!!

The Golden Strand Beach on Achill Island.  There was hardly anyone on it!  Just us and the sheep.  ;)

Good thing we brought their wellies!

Love these two!

Jellyfish that got washed up on shore.  There were a ton of them everywhere.

There was a larger pool of water that formed a little stream in the sand leading to the ocean. 

Lina and Isandro would find little sticks and call them boats, watching them float down the river. :)

These sheep are just livin' the life!!

Lunch at "The Cottage" 

Isandro excited to choose a yummy dessert.

The Cottage

Silver Strand Beach

The Deserted Village

Rows of old stone cottages... amazing.

Just a few rain drops, that only lasted about five minutes.

Graveyard next to the deserted village.  What a lovely view!

 Below are some pictures of our drive leading to Keem Beach, which I also read is one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world!  Not surprising, as the drive was amazing, and as you get closer, you slowly see the beach come into view.  Really breathtaking!

You can see the tiny line where the road curves around the mountain.  

Our last stop on Achill Island was Keel Beach.  Huge strand for the kids to run around and play.  Yes they soaked their pants, but that's what an extra change of clothes is for, right? :)

There were still a few stops in County Mayo that we didn't have time for, so I'll just have to plan another trip back!  Overall we had a really great weekend... I love exploring this country!