About me

About Sweet Isle of Mine

Sweet Isle of Mine is a travel site created by me, Niall. I’m a proud native of County Mayo in the west of Ireland. This site is dedicated to showcasing the wild beauty, authentic experiences, and hidden gems of Ireland’s west coast, including counties like Mayo, Galway, and beyond.

Whether you’re searching for the finest hiking trails, lovely coastal villages, breathtaking scenery, or tips for planning a sustainable trip to Ireland, you’re in the right spot.

Who I Am

I’ve worked as a tour guide for several years, running my own custom bus tours across western Ireland for visitors from Austria and Germany. These experiences gave me a clear idea of what they really appreciated and what often disappoints.

Most of all, they inspired me to share the real Ireland beyond the guidebooks through this site. As someone who currently lives in Austria and visits Ireland now as a ‘tourist’, I have also discovered a new-found appreciation for this magnificent corner of Ireland.

Below is a photo of me with one of my groups along the majestic Atlantic Drive on Achill Island.

Why I Created This Site

I launched Sweet Isle of Mine in 2022, after years of guiding, planning, and sharing travel tips with friends and visitors. Living abroad in Austria has only deepened my appreciation for Ireland’s wild and unique landscape and for the laid back, warm hearted nature of its natives.

I chose the name after a certain 80s rock song (yes, that one), but it also reflects my own love for this little island, in particular the far west of it.

What You’ll Find Here

  • Hidden beaches, coastal drives, and off-the-radar hiking trails

  • Travel tips and local insights

  • Rainy day ideas, cultural nuggets, and honest advice

While we won’t ignore the big-name attractions, this site is all about going deeper and giving you the confidence to explore those overlooked corners that leave a lasting impression.

Thanks for Stopping By!

My hope is that this site helps you plan a trip full of unforgettable moments, moments that captures the real heart, soul and craic of Ireland’s west.

Go raibh míle maith agat—and let’s get planning.

The West’s Awake!