Wild Atlantic Ireland

The west coast of Ireland offers beauty and charm, spectacular landscapes, ever-changing light, wildlife and drama. And a warm welcome is guaranteed by its delightful people.

As autumn rolls in so do the mists and the moody landscapes.  So why not join us for a short break and experience the colours of Ireland for yourself.

As well as expert tuition and guiding from founder of Travel Photographer of the Year, Chris Coe, we’ll be joined by hugely experienced guide, the Irish musician Olcan Masterson. Olcan has lived in this part of Ireland for many years, and Chris photographs calendars, guide books and coffee table books of Ireland, so between them they know all the best places to go and things to see, whether that’s on or off the beaten track. You’ll also have plenty of fun and also learn a great deal about the places and people you encounter as you get under the skin of this very special place.

We’ll take in some spectacular locations from Achill Island and Nephin Beg, north of Westport, to Connemara in County Galway further south. There is also a ‘Dark Skies’ park area in the Claggan near Ballycroy.

We’ll be based in Westport, a lively town known for its music, on the edge of Clews Bay and below Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick. As part of the trip we’ll be offering an optional extra boat trip into Clews Bay and its many islands to see the seals and other wildlife and birdlife.

Time is essential in exploring this part of Ireland and Chris and Olcan’s intimate knowledge of it means you’ll discover the hidden gems as well as the big landscapes. As an additional treat we’ll take in the some Irish pubs and traditional music sessions, which you can just enjoy or photograph as well.

Ireland is a country of vivid colours and colourful characters, with Westport being one of its most vibrant and charming towns. There are photographic opportunities at every turn and, based in Westport, you’ll be able to step out of your hotel at any time and photograph whatever catches your eye.

Price: £1,900 per person

Included in the price

• Pick up and drop off at Ireland West airport
• Accommodation (B&B) and local transportation
• Tuition  and professional guide

Not included in the price

• Flight/other transport to the country
• Visas (if applicable)
• Meals not covered by your hotel B&B
• Alcohol
• Snacks
• Boat trip in Clews Bay (optional extra)

What to bring

Gear

• Cameras with tripod and cable release
• Lenses which cover a range from wide angle to telephoto
• A lens with close focus or macro

Wear

Ireland is infamous for its weather and autumn is a season of change so come prepared! We could get cool wet weather or we could get warm sunny weather. In all likelihood we’ll get both.

• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• A warm sweater
• Clothes for warmer weather
• Walking shoes or boots
• Gloves and hat for early morning and late night shoot

We’ll email the full list to participants.