Westport

Westport is a pretty town on the southeastern shore of Clew Bay. Tour a grand mansion, built in the 18th century. Enjoy a meal in a traditional Irish pub or restaurant. With stunning mountains, sandy beaches and an enchanting township, Westport is a leading tourist destination.

Visit Westport House, an opulent mansion in a beautiful parkland setting. See over 30 luxurious rooms in this heritage attraction. Admire the extravagant interiors, featuring marble fireplaces, fine hand-painted ceilings and bog oak furnishings. Discover spectacular views of Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick, from outside Westport House.

The mansion also features a small theme park called Pirate Adventure Park. Ride through the vast grounds on a miniature railway, known as the Westport House Express. Enjoy go-karting or take a swan pedal boat out on the lake. With log flumes and other amusement rides, the Pirate Adventure Park is perfect for families.

Croagh Patrick is a mountain about 11 miles (17 kilometers) from the center of Westport. Ascend the mountain and find remarkable views of Clew Bay and its surrounding green countryside. This mountain is considered the holiest in Ireland and honors a tradition of pilgrimage dating back to the Stone Age. Legend says that from this mountain, St. Patrick drove away all the snakes from Ireland.

Rent a bicycle and ride along the Great Western Greenway. The trail begins in Westport and ends in Achill. Stretching about 26 miles (42 kilometers) long, the Great Western Greenway is one of Ireland’s longest off-road walking and cycling trails. Enjoy the striking County Mayo countryside as you travel along this enjoyable trail.

In Westport’s town center, find stores selling locally produced knitwear and crafts, along with boutique clothing and books. Westport is about 155 miles (250 kilometers) from Dublin and 170 miles (270 kilometers) from Cork. Find pleasant accommodations among the available hotels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments.