Two of our beaches coast into Top 40 list

TWO Irish beaches have been named among the top 40 in Europe alongside idyllic locations in Greece, France and Spain.

Travel writers for The Guardian selected Glassilaun beach in Co. Galway and Ballybunion beach in Co. Kerry to be a part of the 2022 list.

The writers said that dozens of white-sand beaches in the Connemara region could ‘rival those of the Caribbean, if the weather would only cooperate more frequently’.

They added that Glassilaun beach, located in the north-west of Co. Galway, has a view that is ‘extraordinary’.

‘Spectacular Glassilaun overlooks the mouth of Killary harbour, one of Ireland’s few fjords,’ the newspaper said.

‘The view is extraordinary, with Achill, Inishturk and Clare Island hovering to the north and Mweelrea – the highest mountain in Connacht province – in the foreground.’

When it comes to Ballybunion, the writers said the north Kerry resort has ‘four beautiful beaches’ which ‘draw a huge crowd on sunny summer days’.

‘Those brave enough can search for the rope to guide them down to the deserted Nuns beach, with its caves and Virgin Rock sea arch,’ they added.

There was a tie between Greece and France for the most beaches represented in the top 40 with seven apiece. Spain had six beaches on the list with Portugal and Italy tied at five, while Croatia had three on the list.