County Mayo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to County Mayo with this comprehensive tour guide featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to County Mayo

Located in West Ireland, County Mayo is an idyllic destination that boasts of stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and a vibrant culture. From picturesque landscapes and rugged coastlines to ancient ruins and lively towns, County Mayo has something for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in County Mayo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Country Life: Located in Turlough, this museum showcases the heritage of rural life in Ireland. Exhibits include displays on farming, fishing, and crafts, as well as a replica of a traditional farmhouse.
  • Westport House: Once the residence of Westport’s wealthiest family, the Browne family, this 18th-century estate now serves as a museum and entertainment venue, with a pirate-themed adventure park on its grounds.
  • Ceide Fields: This Neolithic site located near Ballycastle consists of a vast network of stone walls and enclosures that date back to 3500 BCE.

Natural Attractions of County Mayo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Croagh Patrick: Known as Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Croagh Patrick attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The hike to the summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Achill Island: Ireland’s largest island, Achill Island boasts of stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and a lively arts scene. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from surfing and kayaking to hiking and cycling.
  • The Great Western Greenway: This 42-kilometer route takes cyclists and walkers through some of the most scenic countryside in County Mayo, passing historic towns, castles, and beautiful landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Mayo

County Mayo is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails that cater to all fitness levels. Some of the best hikes and bike routes in County Mayo are:

  • The Western Way: This long-distance trail runs through the heart of Connemara and County Mayo, taking hikers over rugged hills, through lush valleys and along stunning coastlines.
  • Ballycroy National Park: One of Ireland’s six national parks, Ballycroy offers a range of hiking trails that take visitors through the unspoiled wilderness of north-west Mayo.
  • The Foxford Way: This 53-kilometer looped walk takes hikers through the scenic Ox Mountains, valleys, and towns of North West Mayo.

Best Things to Do in County Mayo: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, County Mayo offers plenty of things to do. Some of the best activities and tours in County Mayo are:

  • Surfing in Clare Island: Located off the coast of West Mayo, Clare Island is a mecca for surfers, with some of the best waves in Ireland.
  • Traditional Music Sessions: County Mayo has a rich tradition of traditional music, and visiting one of the many pubs that host nightly sessions is a must for music lovers.
  • Killary Fjord Kayaking: Take a guided kayak tour along the stunning Killary Fjord, where you can soak in breathtaking views and spot local fauna like sea otters, seals, and dolphins.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Mayo

Day 1: Explore Westport and visit Westport House. Day 2: Hike to the summit of Croagh Patrick and explore the surrounding countryside. Day 3: Visit the National Museum of Country Life and Ceide Fields. Day 4: Cycle the Great Western Greenway and visit Achill Island. Day 5: Hike the Foxford Way. Day 6: Visit Ballycroy National Park and take a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way. Day 7: Take a surf lesson in Clare Island or experience a traditional music session in one of County Mayo’s pubs.

Food and Drink Scene of County Mayo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Coddle: This hearty stew made with sausage, bacon, and potatoes is a traditional Irish dish that originated in Dublin, but is a popular classic across the country.
  • Boxty: This potato pancake made with grated potatoes and flour is a staple of Irish cuisine and can be enjoyed with savory or sweet fillings.
  • Connemara Smokehouse Salmon: This smoked salmon is considered one of the best in the world and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness: No visit to Ireland is complete without trying a pint of Guinness, the famous Irish stout beer.
  • Irish whiskey: Visit a local distillery, such as Connacht Whiskey Distillery or Teeling Whiskey, and sample some of the finest Irish whiskey.

Where to Stay in County Mayo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ashford Castle: Located on the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle is a luxurious 13th-century castle that offers stunning views and five-star accommodations.
  • Ballynahinch Castle: This 18th-century castle hotel set amid 450 acres of woodland on the banks of the Owenmore River offers luxury accommodations, outdoor activities, and fishing in its private salmon river.
  • The Wyatt Hotel: Located in the heart of Westport, The Wyatt Hotel offers comfortable accommodations, an award-winning restaurant, and lively entertainment.

What to Buy in County Mayo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Aran Sweaters: These iconic Irish sweaters are made from pure wool and are available in a range of traditional colors and patterns.
  • Belleek Pottery: This fine china pottery is produced in County Fermanagh but is widely available in County Mayo and makes for a unique and treasured souvenir.
  • Foxford Woollen Mills: Established in 1892, Foxford Woollen Mills produces high-quality woolen products such as scarves, throws, and blankets.

Local Culture and Customs of County Mayo

County Mayo has a rich history and culture, with many traditional customs that are still prevalent today. Some customs and practices to be aware of include:

  • Gaelic language: Irish is the official language of Ireland, and you may encounter Gaelic-speaking locals in County Mayo.
  • Pubs: Drinking is an important part of Irish culture, and visiting a local pub is a great way to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Irish people.
  • Music and dance: Traditional Irish music and dance are popular in County Mayo, with many pubs and cultural centers hosting live performances.

Best Time to Visit County Mayo

The best time to visit County Mayo is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, visitors can enjoy County Mayo’s attractions year-round, with many seasonal festivals and events throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Mayo

Do:

  • Take part in traditional Irish music sessions.
  • Respect local customs and practices.
  • Explore County Mayo’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Drink and drive.
  • Disrespect historic landmarks and sites.
  • Leave litter in the countryside.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Mayo

County Mayo is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should exercise caution when walking or hiking in rural areas, and take necessary precautions when engaging in outdoor activities and sports.

Health in County Mayo

Visitors to County Mayo should ensure that they have adequate health insurance and take necessary vaccinations, such as for tetanus and hepatitis A and B, before traveling. Visitors with specific medical conditions should consult with their doctor before traveling.

Getting to County Mayo: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near County Mayo: Ireland West Airport Knock is the closest airport to County Mayo, located 22 kilometers away from Castlebar, the county capital.
  • Bus Stations Near County Mayo: Bus Eireann operates regular services to and from major cities in Ireland, including Dublin, Galway, and Cork.
  • Other Options: Visitors can also travel to County Mayo by train, ferry, or using private transportation.

How to Get Around in County Mayo

County Mayo is best explored using a rental vehicle, as public transport is limited in rural areas. Alternatively, visitors can use private taxi services or take guided tours.

Where to Go Next from County Mayo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Galway City: Located just over an hour’s drive from County Mayo, Galway City is a lively hub of culture, music, and history.
  • Connemara National Park: Boasting of stunning scenery and diverse flora and fauna, this national park is a great destination for nature lovers and hikers.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Located just over two hours’ drive from County Mayo, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Conclusion

County Mayo is a beautiful destination that offers a range of attractions for every type of traveler. From scenic hikes and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and luxury accommodations, County Mayo should be at the top of your travel bucket list. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of County Mayo.

Mayo (dark green) Mayo (dark green) Chapel at summit of Croagh Patrick Chapel at summit of Croagh Patrick Ballintubber Abbey Ballintubber Abbey Ashford Castle in Cong Ashford Castle in Cong Abandoned village on Achill Island Abandoned village on Achill Island


    Achill Island
    Ballina
    Newport
    Westport