Rachel's Irish Adventures
Rachel's Irish Adventures
Rachel's Irish Adventures
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Embark on an Irish Adventure with Rachel along Ireland’s beautiful Wild Atlantic Way, and she’ll bring you a fun-packed journey to experience, discover and taste your way through the hidden gems of the West of Ireland. Whether you are looking to rent an electric bike, hike along the Wild Atlantic Way, take part in a private Whiskey Appreciation Session or learn to bake in an Irish home, we will put together the perfect tailor-made adventure to ensure you have the Irish experience of a lifetime.
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5.0
87 reviews
Excellent
86
Very good
1
Average
0
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0
Terrible
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Rory W
County Dublin, Ireland5 contributions
Aug 2021
This is the second time we have done a customized cycling vacation with Rachel’s Irish Adventures.
For this year’s adventure (2021), Rachel organized a customized 4 day cycling vacation for myself and 2 friends around Mayo, staying in different towns and with customized routes based on her local knowledge and our criteria.
We absolutely loved it. The scenery in Mayo is breathtaking and we had some amazing weather which made the countryside even more beautiful and the cycling even more enjoyable.
Our itinerary was: Ballina to Belmullet, Belmullet to Westport (via Blacksod), Achill Island Loop, South Mayo Loop. Each day was around 120km (longest was 145km) and elevation was around 1200m (highest was 1500m). The routes were amazing, staying mostly off main roads and including side roads that only a local would know. We were treated to awe inspiring views numerous times each day.
Similar to last year, Rachel stayed close each day and was never more than 20 minutes away. There were multiple stops with picnics provided, rescues when one of us got a little lost and emergency bike repairs when a front crank snapped in two. In any other scenario, the mechanical issue would have lost us at least a day, but a loaner bike was made available while the local bike shop prioritized fixing our broken bike (Rachel knows everyone in Mayo !). Also like last year, Rachel moved our gear from hotel to hotel, so we just needed to bring water and a couple of spare tubes.
The hotels in Ballina, Belmullet and Westport were good, the best being the Talbot in Belmullet. The food in Mayo was better than last year (in Donegal) with the best restaurants in Westport (An Port Mor). Rachel organized all the reservations and organized all the lunch stops.
I don’t think we could have asked for much more from Rachel for our trip and we’d highly recommend Rachel’s Irish Adventures. You won’t regret it.
For this year’s adventure (2021), Rachel organized a customized 4 day cycling vacation for myself and 2 friends around Mayo, staying in different towns and with customized routes based on her local knowledge and our criteria.
We absolutely loved it. The scenery in Mayo is breathtaking and we had some amazing weather which made the countryside even more beautiful and the cycling even more enjoyable.
Our itinerary was: Ballina to Belmullet, Belmullet to Westport (via Blacksod), Achill Island Loop, South Mayo Loop. Each day was around 120km (longest was 145km) and elevation was around 1200m (highest was 1500m). The routes were amazing, staying mostly off main roads and including side roads that only a local would know. We were treated to awe inspiring views numerous times each day.
Similar to last year, Rachel stayed close each day and was never more than 20 minutes away. There were multiple stops with picnics provided, rescues when one of us got a little lost and emergency bike repairs when a front crank snapped in two. In any other scenario, the mechanical issue would have lost us at least a day, but a loaner bike was made available while the local bike shop prioritized fixing our broken bike (Rachel knows everyone in Mayo !). Also like last year, Rachel moved our gear from hotel to hotel, so we just needed to bring water and a couple of spare tubes.
The hotels in Ballina, Belmullet and Westport were good, the best being the Talbot in Belmullet. The food in Mayo was better than last year (in Donegal) with the best restaurants in Westport (An Port Mor). Rachel organized all the reservations and organized all the lunch stops.
I don’t think we could have asked for much more from Rachel for our trip and we’d highly recommend Rachel’s Irish Adventures. You won’t regret it.
Written 31 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Rory,
A big thanks for your super kind and detailed review. And thank you for choosing Rachel's Irish Adventures for a second year. It was so much fun once again to share this cycling experience with the three of you. I'm delighted you enjoyed the experience. I feel like I have made 3 great friends, you were such fun and you all have such positive energy. So next time, west Cork? Keep up the training and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.
Written 3 September 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mary C
Cork, Ireland2 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
We booked a 2 day tailor made hiking adventure for over 60s ladies and Rachel delivered the most enjoyable experience. 2 spectacular hikes with amazing views of the Mayo and Sligo Coast. We were totally spoiled with good food and accommodation at her Mom’s B&B,
And picnics on the beach each day.
And picnics on the beach each day.
Written 17 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was amazing to hike and explore with you ladies! Thank you for coming on tour with me and I hope to see you again for another adventure to discover more of the great Irish outdoors.
Written 24 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
maggiestapleton
New York City, NY4 contributions
Apr 2023
I can't recommend Rachel's Irish Adventures enough. I experienced a week-long biking/hiking tour of County Mayo as part of a collaboration between YogaSlackers and Rachel's Irish Adventures with a group of about 14 people. Rachel is an incredible tour guide, and has the kindest soul and a terrific sense of humor. She tailored the itinerary to adapt to our group perfectly and we saw some of the most remote and unique parts of Ireland that I never would have known to find on my own. Book a tour NOW! :)
Written 2 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Doyle Family
1 contribution
Jun 2023
We spent 11 days with Rachel Nolan traveling up the Wild Atlantic Way and the Northern Ireland before returning to Dublin. We worked with Rachel 14 months prior to our trip date, indicated what we wanted to see, experience and do. She and her support team put together our itinerary for our once in a lifetime family vacation that absolutely exceeded all expectations. The best part was that when issues came up, (for example, hotel boiler went out so we had to move hotels) it was seamless for us and all seemed part of the trip. She took experiences that we indicated we wanted and made them even better. Instead of experiencing the sea cliffs at busy bus-filled tourist spots, we hiked trails along the Wild Atlantic Way that were breathtaking, awesome, inspirational…you get the idea…AND we would see no more than 4-10 people while we were on the trails. Rachel was part of our vacation, not our guide. She was motivational, adaptable, and passionate throughout the trip. And the best part, she was able to read our body language (truly empathetic) and would adjust on the fly with our itinerary. Our sons had another 10 days planned in Europe before returning to Dublin to fly home 10 days after we (mom and dad) flew home. She worked with them in planning their return to Dublin and where to stay. This will not be the last time our family works with her as we plan future vacations in Ireland and Europe. We have already identified friends of our that would be interested in the same type of Irish adventures that we experienced and made clear that if they ever go to Ireland they need to work with Rachel. As stated earlier, Rachel and this trip exceeded our expectations and the money we spent was worth every penny. We did not pay too much for the experience we had, if anything, she could have charged us more! TOP CLASS, Rachel!
Written 10 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CarolO68
Tipperary, Ireland40 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
We hired an electric bike and an hybrid bike for my husband and I from Rachel. My maiden voyage using an electric bike! Rachel was most helpful in every respect from getting me used to using it to advice on the best route to take for us and our 3 kids aged 12,15 and 8.Loved the trip around Belleek and highly recommend Jack Fenn's courtyard restaurant at the castle. Food is devine! Will def do another trip using Rachel's service.Ballina has lots to offer between the coast nearby with Enniscrone, SUP on the Moy trips like this and lovely places to eat dotted around the town. Rachel's bikes are immaculate and the route ticked all our needs. Thanks so much! See you soon!
Written 26 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A big thank you for your kind review, it means a lot to us. The electric bikes really are such fun & i’m happy you got to try it out here in Ballina. Great to hear you enjoyed the other activities in the area & yes, I agree, the food in Jack Fenn’s is top class. We hope to see you and your family for another adventure🚴🏻♀️
Written 1 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MackB
2 contributions
May 2023
Amazing trip with Rachel! I would recommend her every time. She took us on multiple hikes which were once in a lifetime hikes, biking to see castles, cuddled some sheep, did a whiskey tasting (which for someone who isn't as fond of whiskey I still had a great time), and baking class. She makes you feel right at home in her country and gives you all the tips on where we should go to eat/drink. We went swimming three different times and though it was cold - what a great experience swimming in Ireland! As we drove around with her she answered all of our questions and we got to know her (she is pretty awesome) - so we also didn't have to attempt to drive on the other side of the road. Overall, don't hesitate to book a trip with her. You will experience Ireland in a way that will make you feel like Ireland is your home.
Written 6 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was so much fun to spend the week with the 6 of you. I absolutely loved getting to know you all and sharing so many amazing moments while exploring the west of Ireland. Thank you for your kind review. I look forward to keeping in touch and meeting you again in Ireland or some other part of the world. And please keep sending on your baking pictures, my Mam (Marjorie) is really enjoying the updates:)
Written 21 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kristin M
New11 contributions
Aug 2022
My parents and I just returned from an amazing 10-day trip to Ireland, led by the fun, fearless, and phenomenal Rachel of Rachel's Irish Adventures. Rachel created a bespoke tour of Ireland based on what we wanted to do and see, which included meeting with the heritage center in County Roscommon to learn about my father's Irish ancestors. Rachel ended up taking us to the tiny town where our ancestors were from and we found the actual house where my father's great great grandparents lived -- it was an incredible experience and something I fear we could not have done without Rachel.
Our itinerary included spots that were off the beaten tourist path, which created such a unique and special experience. One of my favorite parts was our picnic on Keem Beach, right next to a few sheep friends.
No one should plan a trip to Ireland without Rachel. She started out as our tour guide and ended as our friend.
Our itinerary included spots that were off the beaten tourist path, which created such a unique and special experience. One of my favorite parts was our picnic on Keem Beach, right next to a few sheep friends.
No one should plan a trip to Ireland without Rachel. She started out as our tour guide and ended as our friend.
Written 6 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A big thank you for your lovely review. It was such fun to show you and your parents around my favourite places in county Mayo and Galway. And what a moving experience to find out so many details about your ancestors in County Roscommon- so moving.. it also gave me an opportunity to explore a few more hidden back roads in Roscommon. You are a very special family and your parents are just amazing!
Keep in touch
Rachel
Written 10 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Patricia F
Dublin, Ireland9 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
Rachel guided us around north Mayo for the day. First stop was the musical bridge. After which we drove out to start the carrowteige hike, approximately 15km coastal hike with stunning views. We finished with a lovely picnic at the beach. On route back to Ballina we stopped to view some local attractions. My favourite was the sea stacks which were stunning. We had a lovely day despite the wet start. Thanks Rachel!
Written 4 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Patricia for your lovely review. It was so much fun to spend the day with you all and thank you for choosing Rachel's Irish Adventures to show you some of the stunning sights of North Mayo. I look forward to meeting you all again.
Cheers!
Rachel
Written 3 September 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Grant W
Green Bay, Wisconsin, Usa8 contributions
Jul 2022
Rachel was a fantastic guide, she took our itinerary and crafted it into a well balanced adventure with beaches, castles, abbeys, food, drink and wonderful accommodations. Her dining suggestions were spot on and we never had a bad meal. She is a fun, easy to get along with person who we will remember with friendship. Her many contacts and knowledge made our 30th anniversary trip one we will never forget.
Written 25 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review. It was such a pleasure to share this Ireland adventure with you both. The term 'Come as strangers, leave as friends' definitely sums it up for me🐑 Keep exploring and best of luck with your retirement preparations.
I look forward to following your future adventures🤸
Written 26 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maddie D
1 contribution
Jun 2022 • Family
The term “tour guide” simply does not do Rachel justice. I’d rather label her as an Adventure Leader or Curator of Extraordinary Irish Experiences. Rachel unlocked so many magical places and opportunities for our group of 8 that we never would’ve found on our own. She struck the perfect balance between “go with the flow” and making sure we stuck to our schedule to maximize each day. My mom even shed a tear saying goodbye to Rachel on the last day. You can’t put a price on that! 100/10 would recommend Rachel to anyone looking for an authentic tour of Ireland filled with good craic!
Written 6 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Rachel, I am bringing a group to a home near Westport in County Mayo. There will probably be eight of us and I wanted to arrange a day tour to some Standing stones and some special sightseeing of the area. We will be there in May and could be with you one of the days between the 24th and 29th. Do you have an idea what we might be able to do and are you available?
Written 26 February 2019
Rachel's Irish Adventures
Ballina, Ireland
Hi there!
Thanks for getting in touch and yes we would be delighted to bring you on a cultural adventure in Mayo. Where will you stay in Westport, would you like a full day tour with lunch included and are there other points of interest you would like to explore? Are you interested in other activities or a baking and whiskey tasting experience? Once I have a little more information, we can create a bespoke experience for your group.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Cheers!
Rachel
Written 28 February 2019
Hello Rachel, our group of five will be in county mayo on Sunday and was wondering if you do any tours to Cliffs of Moher?thank you for your time please let me know thank you Louis
Written 13 June 2018
A Tripadvisor member
Hi Louis,
I'm so sorry that i am just seeing this message now, 5 months too late. I hope you enjoyed your Irish adventures an perhaps we will have the occasion to share an Irish experience on another occasion. The easiest way to keep in touch with me is through email.
Have a great day,
Rachel
Written 9 November 2018
amandamcelhatton446
Ballina, Ireland
Hi racheal I would love to to visit u and get out door but one question where about are u and how much for one person thank u
Written 7 January 2018
A Tripadvisor member
Hi there,
I'm so sorry that I'm just seeing this message now and I hope you enjoyed your Irish adventures. Hopefully I will have the opportunity to share an Irish experience with you on another occasion.
Cheers!
Rachel
Written 9 November 2018
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