What to see and what to do
The Mayo coastline from Killary Harbour in Connemara to Killala Bay has everything:
sandy beaches, cliffs, rugged headlands and many islands. Most prominently are the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick and Achill Island, the largest island off the Irish Coast. Mayo's inland is
also varied with mountains rising out of endless moorland.
The picturesque town of Newport is only a short drive from the house. The Nephin drive provides beautiful views of loughs and the Ben Nephin range of mountains. Achill Island can be accessed via a swivel-bridge built in 1888 and is a breathtaking combination of magnificent cliffs, golden
strands, purple moors, precipitous hillsides and scattered white
cottages. The breathtaking Atlantic Drive will bring you along cliff edges and further on to Keel with one of Ireland's most famous surfing beaches. Keem Bay
is a beautiful inlet with another fine sandy beach and the spectacular quartzite peak of Croaghaun
Westport features a canalized river with 18th century bridges and quays, charming streets, including the Mall with lime trees overlooking the river, colorful shopfronts and pubs with live traditional music throughout the year. This is also an important fishing centre with an abundance of promising fishing spots all around. Westport House is a
modernized Georgian mansion in the magnificent setting of a country
park
hosting a zoo park and a number of family attractions.
Mayo offers plenty of planned trails and guided walks are available in various locations.
Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain, Slievemore and Croaghaun on Achill Island, Clare Island, Ben Nephin, the Western Way, the Foxford Way and the Bangor Trail, the wild North Mayo Cliffs - are just some of the many outstanding walking trails and areas...
The Lettermaghera Loop on the lower slopes of the Nephin Beg Mountains is a easy
10 km Loop Walk and begins 3km west of Newport - not far from the house.
For more leisurely walks try the quiet country lanes, the river and coastal walks near our house.
Driving Distances: Shops, Restaurants, Pubs in Westport & Newport: 10 mins - Achill Island: 30-45 mins -
Croagh Patrick: 30 mins - Connemara: 40 mins to 1 hr - Pier: 5 mins - Beaches: 20-30 mins