Attractions and Places To See around Mayo - Top 13

Mayo boasts stunning natural beauty. Don't miss Achill Island, with its magnificent beaches like Keem Bay and dramatic sea cliffs. Explore the unspoiled wilderness of Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, known for hiking and stargazing. For breathtaking views, climb Croagh Patrick or visit the dramatic sea cliffs at Downpatrick Head, a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. You can also experience Ireland's only fjord at Killary Harbour.

Yes, Mayo is rich in history and culture. Discover the ancient Céide Fields, home to the world's oldest known field systems dating back almost 6,000 years. Visit Ballintubber Abbey, unique for continuous Mass for 800 years, or the impressive ruins of Moyne Abbey. The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Turlough Park offers insights into Irish life between 1850 and 1950. Don't forget Westport House & Gardens, built on the ruins of Pirate Queen Grace O'Malley's castle.

Mayo offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling or walking on the Great Western Greenway, a 49km traffic-free route from Westport to Achill Island. Hiking is popular at Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park and up Croagh Patrick. Achill Island provides opportunities for water sports like surfing, diving, kayaking, and kitesurfing. For more specific routes, you can find various hiking trails around Mayo, including easy options, and MTB trails.

Mayo has several attractions suitable for families. Westport House & Gardens offers historical exhibitions, forest trails, and gardens that children can enjoy. The Great Western Greenway is a safe, traffic-free path perfect for family cycling or walking. Exploring the beaches of Achill Island, such as Keem Bay, provides opportunities for sandcastles and water play. The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life also features interactive displays that can engage younger visitors.

For stunning scenic drives, explore the Atlantic Drive on Achill Island, a 55km route showcasing epic seascapes. The Doo Lough Valley offers a hauntingly beautiful drive, particularly between County Galway and County Mayo. Driving around Clew Bay, overlooked by Croagh Patrick, also provides picturesque views of the coast and islands. The Mullet Peninsula and Erris Peninsula offer dramatic sea cliffs and vast landscapes for a memorable drive.

Mayo offers unique cultural experiences such as visiting Cong Village, famous as the filming location for 'The Quiet Man' and home to an ancient Augustinian Abbey. The Deserted Village on Achill Island provides a poignant glimpse into the island's past with its 80 ruined stone cottages. For those interested in Irish history, the Jackie Clarke Collection in Ballina houses one of Europe's most important private collections of Irish historical material.

Yes, Mayo is an excellent destination for stargazing. Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park is recognized as Ireland's first International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional opportunities to view the night sky due to its minimal light pollution and vast, unspoiled wilderness.

Yes, you can visit Aasleagh Falls, located near the border with County Galway. These beautiful falls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall, offering a picturesque natural sight.

Mayo is home to several significant lakes, including Lough Conn, Lough Carra, and Lough Mask. These lakes offer excellent opportunities for fishing, particularly for trout and salmon. They are also ideal for scenic drives along their shores and provide tranquil settings for relaxation and photography.

The Great Western Greenway is Ireland's longest off-road cycling and walking trail. This 49km traffic-free route follows an old railway line from Westport to Achill Island, providing idyllic scenery and a safe, enjoyable way to explore the region's landscapes.

Croagh Patrick is known as Ireland's 'holy mountain' and is a significant pilgrimage site. Located near Westport, climbing this iconic peak offers magnificent views of Clew Bay and the surrounding islands. It's a challenging but rewarding experience for hikers and those seeking spiritual reflection.

The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, located in Turlough Park, Castlebar, is the perfect place to learn about Irish country life. It showcases the period between 1850 and 1950 through a collection of artifacts, archival footage, and interactive displays, providing a deep insight into the region's heritage.