As some people might say, County Mayo is one of the most underrated counties in Ireland. Yet it has so much beautiful scenery to offer. I got the chance to explore some of County Mayo back in September of last year and particularly Achill Island I found fascinating.
As Ireland is slowly opening up again, I am sharing my Mayo experience with you.
1. Keem Bay Beach
In my opinion the most beautiful beach in Ireland, unless you found a better one than this. Located in the West of Achill Island, is Keem Bay Beach. The drive there was a bit daunting at times driving up the mountains next to the cliffs. There was a time I drove in the middle of the road to be safe. I travelled at a time it was very quiet and so I met very few cars.
The views down from the cliff road are stunning. The water is so clear and blue. You nearly want to jump in and go for a swim. Keem Bay Beach back in the day was home to fishing for basking sharks. Occasionally, depending on the time of year, you will still see some basking sharks circling around near the beach. One day I would love to take on a sea adventure and travel around the cliffs in a kayak.
2. Deserted Village
Heading back into Achill Island, nearly across from Keel beach, you will find the Deserted Village. Here are the remains of approximately 100 stone cottages. They are almost perfectly aligned and stretch nearly 2km beside the graveyard. It’s very easy to reach the village. Just follow the signs (or Google maps) and park your car at the graveyard. It is a very peaceful place and almost has a haunting feeling to it when you are there on your own. But with all the sheep surrounding the village, you are never on your own.
3. Westport House
Now I have to admit I am not a person who is big into history much but even this Palladian mansion built in the 18th century was fascinating. It is one of the still privately owned houses even after 300 years. Admission to the house and gardens is €13 per person.
During the Summer it is a very popular family destination as on site you will find the Pirate Adventure Park with plenty of activities and rides for the children. Accommodation used here would normally be Hotel Westport which will give you a discount into the park. Or you can be even braver and camp on site for a different experience. They are hoping to reopen this Summer with the right safety measures in place.
4. Westport
Then we have Westport town… I stayed a bit outside of Westport (Westport Country Lodge Hotel) but still only a 5 minute drive into town. I would suggest you park your car in any of designated car parks available and go for a wander around. It is a very quirky, bright and colourful town. Due to COVID, it was a bit more difficult to get the full experience of all the lovely pubs and restaurants. If you do visit, I would suggest you book a table in advanced. In September we were at the point of outdoor dining and I didn’t fancy it so I had my dinner in the hotel.
5. Clew Bay
If you end up having a bite to eat in the Towers Bar at the sea front, it is a good idea to watch the sunset afterwards right outside the door over Clew Bay. You can even spot Croagh Patrick. If you are brave enough, you may also climb Croagh Patrick. It was completely off the cards for me that weekend as I just climbed up the Stairway from Heaven the day before.
6. Ashford Castle
Aside from my trip to County Mayo last year, I also wanted to share with you a few other places you should put on your list while exploring Mayo. Many years ago hubby and I stayed in the beautiful Ashford Castle for his 30th birthday. I have to say it was very posh. The grounds were beautiful and if I remember right you could take a boats trip on the lake right next to the castle grounds.
7. Downpatrick Head
Heading to North County Mayo, a bit off the beaten track as they say, as you head down a small coastal road to get to Downpatrick Head. Admire the Dún Briste sea stack which broke away from the mainland many many years ago. I believe since I visited, the tourist attraction has since been improved and is easier accessible. I would nearly go and visit again when I seen someone taking a photo of it from the bottom of it up. All I remember from the time I visited with my mum, it was very windy up there and so I stayed well away from the cliff edge.
8. Ceide Fields
And last but not least… The Ceide Fields. A must visit when you come from Downpatrick Head. Here you will find the oldest stone walled fields in the world dating back as far as 6,000 years ago.
