Photos

The first section of the Atlantic Drive begins at Mulranny, close to the junction between the main N59 road and the R319 that leads to Achill. Approaching from the Mulranny side of this junction, the exit for the Atlantic Drive appears on the left hand side, prior to the larger junction. It is signposted 'Currane'.

The first point of interest should be visible on the left hand side within a few hundred metres of joining the Atlantic Drive. You should be able to see (tide permitting) the golden strand at Mulranny, a Blue Flag beach. As you turn the corner and leave the scattered cottages behind, the water to your left is Clew Bay. You are following the north side of this Bay, which is reputed to hold some 365 islands. On the south side of Clew Bay is a series of mountains including the distinctive pyramid-shape of Croagh Patrick (764m). At the mouth of Clew Bay, visible directly ahead of you, is Clare Island. Inland to your right is the Curraun Peninsula and its characteristic red rock should be visible in places along the roadside.