County Mayo is one of the most picturesque areas of Ireland, a land of remarkable light, rugged natural beauty, and warm people eager to share their rich traditions.

Our days are spent photographing the land and seascapes and enjoying time with the locals, who love to strike up a conversation. In the evenings, after a full day of photography, we enjoy traditional Irish meals and perhaps listen to a music session in some of the many welcoming pubs. Photography is just one aspect of this tour, as we are also immersed in the rich heritage of Irish folklore, literature, history, and music.

We travel south to Connemara and north to Achill Island, photographing tiny villages, hidden beaches, ancient abbeys, and Druid woods. Days are spent photographing in two or three locations—unique places you could never find on your own. One of the special aspects of our tour is what we call “unscheduled stops.” A neighbor may invite us to a party, or a potter may show us around their studio. We may attend the Ballinrobe horse races, a cattle auction, a sheep-shearing contest, or an outdoor farmer’s market. We discover the Irish land and culture through living it, not just visiting it.

We spend our last day and night in the riverside town of Ennis. This charming village, with its cobblestone streets, has a multitude of brightly colored storefronts and fascinating architecture.