Plan Your Trip

Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Castlebar

What better way to kick off your day than with some stand-up paddle boarding on Lough Lannagh. Traditionally a Hawaiian sport, it combines a surfboard with a long handheld paddle and promotes balance, strength and general fitness. You don’t have to be a surfer to partake, and it’s a great way to explore the stunning natural landscapes Mayo has to offer. There is a dedicated Stand-up paddle boarding provider, who also offer kayaking and bicycle rental

Cycle the Great Western Greenway from Westport to Achill

Escape the bustle of urban life on the longest off-road cycling and walking trail in Ireland. Cycle along the old Westport to Achill railway line which closed in 1937, this 42 km almost entirely traffic free route is ideal for getting out on a bike for a spin and is perfect for a day of family fun

Climb Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s most famous Holy Mountain stands at 764m (2,507ft) and is best known for its association with Saint Patrick, who is said to have fasted for 40 days at the summit. In its entirety, the route is a 7km long round-trip but there are viewing points along the route that allow the less active to enjoy stunning views of Clew Bay without the strenuous climb.

Surf pristine coastal waters

Grab your surfboard and get ready to hit the water! Mayo has several beaches of blue flag standard which are perfect for amateur and expert surfers. Carrowniskey is one of the finest beaches on Ireland’s western seaboard and is only a short drive from Westport. Surf lessons and surfboard rental are available from local providers so you won’t have the hassle of carrying equipment. Carrowniskey beach is a safe environment, accommodating differing levels of expertise.

Ride the Velo Rail Train Line

At the end of your stay, why not enjoy a leisurely spin on the old railway line at Kiltimagh, where a section has been restored for pedal powered railcars. Ideal for a family or a group of friends, the aim is to pedal along the track until you reach the end of the journey. Stretching 13km in length, the Velo Rail is the only one of its kind in Ireland. It’s a unique way to see the countryside and the gentle inclines mean it’s a great activity to round off your adventures in County Mayo!

Admire the Céide Fields

Older than Egypt’s pyramids, the Céide Fields are the oldest stone walled fields in the world - clocking in at over 6,000 years old. This is not just another archaeological monument or visitor centre; here you can indulge yourself in a vast prehistoric landscape, a natural wild ecology of blanket bog, dramatic cliffs and coastline, while the centre itself has received Ireland’s most prestigious architectural award.

 

Visit Ballycroy National Park

Ballycroy National Park is Ireland’s sixth National Park and is located in Northwest Mayo. It comprises 11,000 hectares of Atlantic Bog and mountainous terrain, covering a vast uninhabited, unspoilt wilderness dominated by the Nephin Beg Mountain range. The views are suitably captivating, some of the best Ireland has to offer. Explore the park via one of many walking trails or hire a local guide.

 

Visit the National Museum of Ireland, Country Life

Learn about ways of life from centuries ago at the National Museum of Country Life. Situated in the stunning grounds of Turlough Park, Castlebar, the museum comprises of the estate’s original house (1865), which has been fully restored, as well as a purpose-built exhibition gallery. The innovative exhibits on show tell the story of Irish country life between 1850 and 1950.

Commemorate the past at Mayo Peace Park

Remember fallen heroes of the past at the Mayo Peace Park. This memorial is situated in the centre of Castlebar town, by the old town cemetery. It commemorates all those from Co. Mayo who served and died in the major world wars and conflicts of the past century, as well as in other wars and conflicts.

 

Stroll through Westport Town & Westport House

Westport is one of Ireland’s most popular tourism destinations. Along with a pleasant atmosphere, the town has a host of friendly pubs and restaurants to relax in. A short distance from the main street is Westport House, an historic home set in parkland with lake views, terraces and wonderful gardens. With over 30 rooms on show, visitors can immerse themselves in life as far back as the 16th century when Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley ruled the land and seas around the estate.

 

Spend the day in Ashford Castle and Cong

Home to a rich vein of culture, the delightful village of Cong is the ideal break away from the stresses of daily life. The setting of well known film ‘The Quiet Man’, the village boasts its own dedicated museum where you can relive the story. While here, enter the iconic Ashford Castle and estate, built in the 13^th century and once home to the Guinness family. The magnificently maintained grounds sit on the edge of Lough Corrib. Take a boat trip to ancient Christian ruins at Inchagoill Island on Lough Corrib or alternatively check out the Cong Augustinian Abbey to see some of the earliest architecture in Ireland.

 

Day trip to Clare Island

Park your car at Roonagh Pier and take the ferry across Clew Bay and explore by bicycle, or on foot. Clare Island is a twenty minute ferry crossing from the mainland and the journey may include some complementary dolphin or basking shark viewing along the way. When you arrive visit Grace O’ Malley’s castle, the Pirate Queen of Ireland who ruled the seas during the 16^th century. You can also view one of the Napoleonic towers dotted along the western coastline of Ireland, used to guard against an invasion during the Napoleonic Wars.

For ferry information click here