The Travel Guide
The Book of Travel guides were published almost yearly and generally followed a pattern of containing a paragraph or two on most locations in the UK, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, Africa and Russia, along with travel tips, maps, illustrations, helpful contacts and advertisements.
For information about the book “The Queen” Newspaper Book of Travel: 1907 see the separate article below
Achill: 1907 entry
This island is reached by the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland and via Westport. From Achill Sound the railway company’s long cards drive (eight and a half mile) to Dugort (Slievemore Hotel). The cliff scenery is exceptionally fine, and the climate bracing.
Achill: 21st Century edition
In a journey that seems to transcend time itself, Achill Island emerges as a gem off the west coast of Ireland, accessible in a manner that harks back to the early 20th century, albeit with modern transportation methods. While the Midland Great Western Railway that once connected the mainland to Achill Sound is no longer in operation, the spirit of adventure it evoked continues with current travel options, including road access and bus services from Westport. The scenic drive to Dugort, under the shadow of the majestic Slievemore Mountain, remains as captivating as ever, promising vistas of untamed beauty and the serene ambiance of a bygone era.
Achill Island’s cliff scenery, praised for its exceptional finesse, stands unchanged. The towering cliffs offer dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean, where the play of light and shadow over the water and landscape captivates artists and photographers alike. The island’s climate, described as bracing, perfectly complements the rugged beauty of its coastline, with fresh Atlantic breezes invigorating the soul.
Although the Slievemore Hotel, once a beacon for visitors in 1907, has since faded into history, Achill Island now boasts a variety of accommodation options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, all offering warm Irish hospitality. These establishments serve as perfect bases from which to explore the island’s natural wonders, including its pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and the spectacularly deserted village at the foot of Slievemore Mountain.
The essence of Achill, with its blend of natural beauty and the haunting allure of its historical sites, remains timeless. Visitors today can still experience the island’s unique charm, whether by walking its rugged trails, cycling its winding roads, or simply soaking in the views that have captivated travellers for more than a century.
In revisiting Achill Island with the guidance of a 1907 travel narrative, one finds an enduring destination where the essence of Ireland’s wild Atlantic way is preserved. Achill invites modern explorers to discover its timeless beauty, a journey not just through space but through time itself.
For more information about Achill Island, visit Love Achill or Achill Tourism.
