The Colony Tour: A Walk Through Achill's History
Uncover Achill Island's hidden history on a guided walking tour through the ruins of a 19th-century Protestant mission.
Explore the ruins of the 19th-century Achill Mission in Dugort with Kevin Toolis, a BAFTA-winning writer and Achill Islander, on a two-hour walking tour that unveils a unique chapter of Irish history. Discover the story of religious conflict, famine, and cultural struggle against the backdrop of Achill Island's stunning landscape.
A brief summary to Book Achill's Number 1 Walking Tour Attraction - The Colony Tour
- Achill Island, Beach, Co. Mayo, F28 NY97, IE
- +353860713973
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 11 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven ground.
- Bring rain gear or an umbrella, as the weather on Achill Island can be unpredictable.
- Book your tour online in advance, especially during peak season.
- Arrive early to secure parking at the Dugort Beach car park.
Getting There
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Walking
The Colony Tour starts at the Dugort Beach car park, directly outside the Strand Hotel in Dugort. From the car park, the tour proceeds on foot through the ruins of the Achill Mission. The terrain is gentle to moderate, but good footwear is recommended. The tour covers approximately one mile.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take Bus Éireann route 450 from Westport to Achill. Alight at Dugort. From the bus stop, walk towards Dugort Beach and the Strand Hotel; the car park where the tour begins is located there. A single fare from Westport to Achill is approximately €10.
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Driving
If driving from Achill Sound, follow the R319 towards Dugort. Continue past the villages of Keel and Dookinella. Upon entering Dugort, look for signs for the Strand Hotel and Dugort Beach. The tour begins at the car park directly outside the hotel. Parking is usually available. Parking is free.
Discover more about Book Achill's Number 1 Walking Tour Attraction - The Colony Tour
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slievemore
2.3 km
Hike to the summit of Slievemore on Achill Island for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history.
Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant
5.5 km
Experience coastal bliss at Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring Achill Island.
Achill West Coast House
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Achill Island Property
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Achill Island Secret Beach
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Teach Cruachan B&B
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Achill Maritime History Trail Point No. 10
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Achill Cottages
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Achill Island Hotel
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Achill Sound Hotel & Connaughton's Bar
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Anvil House
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Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)
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White Cliffs of Ashleam
12.8 km
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Granuaile Loop Walk
13.4 km
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Achillbeg
17.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Golden Strand
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Achillislandalpacas
2.4 km
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Megalithic Tomb
2.7 km
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Valley Loop Walk
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Woodland Faerie Trail
3.5 km
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Bunacurry Viewpoint
3.9 km
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Slievemore Deserted Village
3.9 km
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The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre
4.9 km
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Western Light Art Gallery
5.2 km
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Achill Heritage Centre
5.5 km
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Dooniver Beach
5.6 km
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Keel beach
5.6 km
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Achill Island
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Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth
6.1 km
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Minaun Heights
6.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Strand Hotel Dugort Achill Co Mayo
0.3 km
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Mastersons Bar and Restaurant
1.9 km
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Pure Magic Achill Lodge
2.7 km
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The Valley House Hostel and Bar
3.6 km
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The Cross
4.0 km
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Ár Bia Mara
5.6 km
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The Islander - Megs
5.7 km
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The Currach
5.7 km
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The Amethyst Bar
5.9 km
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5.9 km
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BERVIE GUESTHOUSE
6.0 km
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Joyce's Guesthouse
6.0 km
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Lynott's Pub
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Achill Head Hotel
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Blásta at Ted's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Fox Press
0.4 km
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Achill Island Sea Salt
4.7 km
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Achill Island Distillery
5.4 km
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Calveys Butchers Achill
5.6 km
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The Top Drawer and Pantry
5.6 km
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Barretts XL
5.7 km
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Nicholson's Gala
5.7 km
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Beehive Crafts and Gifts
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Achill Island Pottery
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The Fish Shop
6.4 km
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Boreen Gallery
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Achill Crafty Ladies
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Blásta Bikes
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Achill island kitchen @ Dooagh shop
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Achill Island flowers
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lounge Bar
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The Basking Shark Bar
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The Compass Bar
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Blouser's Pub
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The Jester Bar
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Mac Brides Bar
40.5 km
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Morans Pub
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Cosy Joe's
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Danny's
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The Old Grainstore Westport
40.6 km
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McGing's Bar
40.6 km
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The Brewery
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Walsh's
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Petie Joes Bar
40.6 km
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