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From stunning scenery to delicious food stops, there's so much to see and do in Mayo this summer...
Magnificent Mayo along the Wild Atlantic Way is rugged, remote, and infused with wildness. Whether you want to explore its beaches, bays and bog, or its peaks, parks, and historical places, there are incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in its remarkable landscape.
From adventure activities to relaxing respites, here are some marvellous experiences to enjoy on an escapade to
Mayo...
For an invigorating and inspiring wilderness walk, take a trip to Wild Nephin National Park and Ballycroy Visitor Centre in the Nephin Beg Mountains of northwest Mayo. This is the third-largest national park in Ireland and where you'll find Ireland's most remote mountain - Slieve Carr - and the largest Atlantic blanket bog in Europe.
Get your bearings at the Ballycroy Visitor Centre through the engaging, interactive exhibition and then head off on one of the many walking tracks and trails. Surrounded by nature, you'll spot otters and seals and hear the calls of wading birds such as curlews and ringed plovers. You'll feel like an intrepid David Attenborough out in the wilderness.
If you are looking for a gentle jaunt through Wild Nephin National Park, follow the 1.5km Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail. This beautiful wooden boardwalk leads you through the bog and along the coast for picturesque views of the National Park Mountains, Claggan Mountain, and across the bay to Achill Island. It is a breathtaking part of the country.
The Ginger and Wild Cafe, located at the Ballycroy Visitor Centre, also doubles as a gorgeous gallery where Irish artwork adorns the walls. On a fine day, grab an outside table and take in the panoramic views of Achill Island and the Wild Atlantic Way as you devour dishes made with locally sourced produce and natural ingredients.
This walking history lesson transports you back to the Great Famine and provides a glimpse into the past and cultural heritage of the west of Ireland.
The Lost Valley is a ruined famine village and an active working farm, and as you stroll around, you'll see the tumbled-down walls of the cabins where people lived up to the mid-1800s until they were evicted and driven out. You'll see the potato plots and hear all about the hardships endured by the villagers. There is something very surreal about hearing tales so bleak whilst surrounded by such beauty. This tour is an incredibly unique and authentic experience that will linger long in the memory.
Once a beacon of safety, now a beacon for visitors, the Blacksod Lighthouse has, since 1864, shone brightly over Blacksod Point.
Perched proudly at the southern tip of the Mullet Peninsula in Co. Mayo, the Blacksod Lighthouse is made of locally sourced granite blocks, and its square shape makes it one of the most distinct lighthouses in Ireland. On a guided tour, lighthouse life comes to life as you learn about the previous keepers and their families. You'll also discover the lighthouse's fascinating role in the D-Day landings. It is such an exciting experience visiting a working lighthouse overlooking a working pier.
All that fresh air will work up an appetite, so silence a rumbling tummy with a mouthwatering meal at the Towers Bar and Restaurant on the seafront at Westport Quay. With sweeping views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick and Clare Island, a terrific atmosphere and cracking seafood, locals and visitors flock here for a good feed and a good time. On the menu, you'll find the freshest, locally caught seafood and other hearty dishes made with seasonal, local ingredients. For example, you can dine on Killary mussels, Clew Bay oysters and Inishturk crab. There's also a super beer garden with plenty of picnic tables perfect for an al fresco feast and beers by the sea this summer.
Located just 10km from Westport is the village of Murrisk at the foot of Croagh Patrick, or The Reek, as it is known locally. Croagh Patrick, in case you weren't paying attention in class, is where St Patrick fasted for 40 days.
If, like Paddy, you climbed the craggy peak without so much as a sandwich, banish your hunger and replenish your body in The Tavern Bar and Restaurant at the bottom of the mountain.
Warm up by the roaring fire and tuck into a feast featuring the best local produce from some of the region's finest food and drink producers. Delicious dishes on the menu include comforting favourites like Atlantic seafood chowder, seasonal soups, slow-braised shanks of Mayo lamb, slow-cooked feather blade and beautiful beef and Guinness stew. Hearty, homemade and hard to beat.
So, are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to discover the Wild Atlantic Way in
Mayo.
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this summer and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace. Start your discovery at discoverireland.ie
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