The development of holiday homes on Achill Island has saddened many long-time Achill fans, but now more people can enjoy this wonderful corner of Ireland. Not having been to Achill pre-development time I cannot compare the present with the past, but where else in Ireland can you enjoy four blue-flag beaches and some of the best walking in the world? There is a wide variety of self-catering accommodation to choose from, including Beach Cottages, located at Keel. Bookings: 098-43325.
Lisheen Castle, near Thurles, has been transformed from a ruin into a comfortable, beautifully furnished, centrallyheated retreat, by Michael and Joan Everard. It is available for rent from £1,000 to £2,000 per week, depending on the time of the year. The castle has five double bedrooms, making it a great place for a family group or friends to rent. Details from 0504-45194 or view the website at www.lisheencastle.com
Four Grand Prix Teams, McLaren, Williams, Jaguar and Jordan will be taking part in the eighth Goodwood Festival of Speed from June 23rd to 25th. The Grand Prix teams will challenge the record for Goodwood Hill set last year by Nick Heidfeld. The festival will also include the Red Arrows flying display team and a sale of cars that includes a 1907 Napier T21 and a pioneer performance car with 7,723 cc engine. Details from Britain Travel Centre, 18/19 College Green, Dublin 2. Tel: 01-670 8000 or www.goodwood.co.uk
South America is underdeveloped when it comes to tourism. This November, Viscount Montgomery, who has been involved in rebuilding links between Britain and Argentina, is guest lecturer on a tour around Argentina. Beginning in Buenos Aires, the tour includes a trip to Patagonia and a helicopter flight over the sub-tropical jungles bordering Igazu Falls, one of the wonders of the world. Details of this, and other unusual trips (including a trip to the Himalayan Kingdoms, next spring), from Art Study Tours, South Hill, Whixley, York, YO26 8AT, England. Tel: 00441423-330533.
Tinakilly House in Rathnew, Wicklow has brought out its Summer Savouries selection again this year. You can choose from a 48-hour, 48-hole golf break, a Romantic Rendezvous, which includes champagne and strawberry breakfast in bed, or the Secret Garden, an introduction to the gems of the garden of Ireland. Or just go to Tinakilly to enjoy the surroundings and to get away from it all. Overnight breaks include dinner and breakfast and cost from £110 per person sharing.
The phone number for Destinations Worldwide, which specialises in long-haul fares for Australia and New Zealand and were mentioned here two weeks ago, should have read 01-8556677.
Joan Scales can be contacted at jscales@irish-times.ie