County Mayo, along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, offers a wealth of adventure tourism opportunities set against its rugged coastline and dramatic mountains. From windswept beaches to serene lakes, the county provides facilities and experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
The Great Western Greenway, a 42km off-road trail, is a draw for cyclists and walkers, stretching from Westport to Achill Island. Bike hire is available in Newport, with guided tours from Greenway Adventures. Hikers can tackle Croagh Patrick, a 764-metre peak, with guided ascents offered by Mayo Adventure Experience. The Bangor Trail, spanning 70km through the Nephin Beg Mountains, provides a remote challenge for seasoned walkers.
Water sports thrive along Mayo’s coast. Surfing is popular at Keel Beach on Achill Island, with Blackfield Surf School offering lessons and board hire for all skill levels. Sea kayaking around Clew Bay’s islands is a favourite, with Kayak Mayo providing guided tours. Stand-up paddleboarding is available at Old Head Beach, with rentals from Wave Sweeper Adventures. For a unique experience, coasteering along the Belmullet Peninsula combines swimming and climbing, guided by Atlantic Adventures.
Families can enjoy activities at Westport House Adventure Park, featuring ziplines, archery, and water zorbing. Horse riding at Drummindoo Stud in Westport offers coastal and forest trails, suitable for all abilities. Eco-conscious travellers can join guided wildlife tours in the Ballycroy National Park, focusing on bogland ecosystems and rare birds.
Mayo’s adventure facilities prioritise sustainability, with many operators promoting eco-friendly practices. Whether cycling greenways, surfing Atlantic waves, or hiking rugged peaks, the county delivers diverse outdoor experiences in a stunning natural setting.
Adventure tourism
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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.
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