Dugort Beach (Silverstrand, Pollawaddy Strand)

This lovely little stretch of fine sand is located within the Special Conservation Area (SAC) on Achill Island. Perhaps the most notable feature about Dugort (Doogort) beach is the enormous peak of Slievemore which towers over the western end of the beach, dwarfing the cottages in front. The mountain also does a good job of sheltering the beach at Dugort from the Atlantic breezes. 

To the rear of the beach is the typical low-lying flat grassland or machair which is found across Achill. This is is of particular ecological interest and is rich in flora and fauna.

On New Year’s Day Dugort beach holds its annual first dip of the year with hardy (read mad) locals and visitors taking a plunge into the frigid January waters.