County Mayo, on Ireland’s west coast, offers a rich blend of rugged landscapes, historic sites, and cultural treasures for travellers seeking adventure and serenity. With its dramatic cliffs, serene islands, and welcoming towns, this county provides a diverse range of experiences. From the wild Atlantic coast to ancient abbeys and tranquil trails, Mayo invites visitors to discover its attractions at their own pace.
Westport, a picturesque town along the Carrowbeg River, serves as a gateway to Mayo’s beauty. Visitors can stroll its Georgian streets, explore historic Westport House with its elegant rooms and lakeside grounds, or enjoy a pint in traditional pubs like Matt Molloy’s, known for live music. The town’s riverside walks and nearby Greenway cycling routes create a relaxed base for exploration.
Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, rises 764 metres above Clew Bay. Visitors can hike the 7km pilgrim trail to the summit, enjoying panoramic views of the bay’s islands and the Atlantic. A small chapel at the peak and interpretive signs along the path share its spiritual history, making it a rewarding climb for walkers and those seeking reflection.
Achill Island, connected by a bridge to the mainland, boasts dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Visitors can explore Keem Bay, a sheltered cove perfect for swimming, or cycle the Great Western Greenway, a 42km trail with coastal views. The island’s Deserted Village, a 19th-century ruin, offers a glimpse into rural life, blending history with natural beauty.
Ballintubber Abbey, a 13th-century monastery near Castlebar, is one of Ireland’s oldest continuously used churches. Visitors can tour its stone cloisters and Gothic arches, with guided tours sharing its history tied to St Patrick. The surrounding grounds and nearby Tóchar Phádraig walking trail provide a peaceful setting for history enthusiasts.
Clew Bay, with its 365 islands, offers opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and island-hopping. Visitors can take boat trips to Clare Island, home to a 16th-century castle once ruled by pirate queen Grace O’Malley, or explore its sandy beaches. The bay’s calm waters and scenic shores make it ideal for water-based adventures and wildlife spotting.
The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, in Turlough near Castlebar, showcases rural Irish life through engaging exhibits. Visitors can explore displays of traditional crafts, farm tools, and folklore, with outdoor paths leading to Turlough Round Tower and a historic church. The museum’s café and parkland setting create a welcoming stop for families.
Ballycroy National Park, spanning 11,000 hectares of blanket bog and mountains, is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can walk trails like the Bangor Trail, spotting rare birds and wildflowers, or visit the visitor centre for insights into the park’s ecology. The Owenduff River and remote landscapes offer a tranquil escape for hikers and photographers.
Ceide Fields, near Ballycastle, is a 6,000-year-old Neolithic site, one of the world’s oldest farming landscapes. Visitors can explore stone-walled fields and megalithic tombs via guided tours, with a visitor centre offering interactive exhibits on prehistoric life. The cliffside location and Atlantic views add a serene backdrop to this archaeological gem.
Downpatrick Head, near Ballina, features dramatic sea cliffs and the iconic Dún Briste sea stack. Visitors can walk coastal paths, view the blowhole known as Poll na Seantainne, and explore wartime lookouts. The site’s wild beauty and seabird colonies make it a rewarding stop for those seeking coastal adventures.
Foxford, a historic village, is home to the Foxford Woollen Mill, established in 1892. Visitors can tour the mill to see traditional weaving, browse its shop for handcrafted textiles, and enjoy a coffee in the café. The nearby River Moy offers scenic walks and fishing, creating a relaxed setting for a cultural day out.
County Mayo’s mix of coastal wonders, historic landmarks, and natural retreats creates a rewarding destination. Whether climbing holy mountains, exploring ancient fields, or strolling lively towns, travellers will find plenty to enjoy in this inviting corner of Ireland.
County Mayo:
Ireland’s county Mayo offers dramatic scenery and ancient heritage, with the Cliffs of Moher’s rugged beauty and Croagh Patrick’s pilgrimage trail providing stunning vistas. The town of Westport features Georgian architecture and access to Clew Bay’s islands, while the Ceide Fields showcase a prehistoric farming landscape. Other attractions include the celebrity beaches of Achill Island. Mayo is Ireland’s third largest county by size (5,398 square km) and 18th largest by population (137,970). Population peaked at 388,887 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 109,525 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Mayo is Ireland’s tenth most visited tourist county with around 218,000 international visitors per year.
Introduction – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Camping – Castles – Churches – Contact list – Cycling – Dining – Equestrian – Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Gardens – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Hotels8 – Instagrammable – Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies – Musicians – Name – New – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random Facts – Restaurant Awards – Sacred Places – Saints – Spas – Sports – Sunsets– Sustainable – Things to do – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Wild swimming – Writers – 1837 – 1846 – 1852 – 1909 – 1955 – 1980 –
Things to do
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
