Mayo Escape, Explore, Enjoy
Fre
e is
sue
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE
Capture the Spirit of Adventure! GO WILD IN MAYO
WALK BACK IN TIME
A JOURNEY WITH SOUL
Discover the Historical Houses and Gardens
The Culture and Spirituality of Ireland
TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
The stunning Islands and Beaches of Mayo
Eat your way round The Food Capital
!
Climb Croagh Pa
Contents
Westport Hous e
utes Only 45 mWin t Knock, s e d n la e from Ir from Shannon 2 hours rs from Dublin & 3.5 hou irports a WESTPORT
ST IRELAND WE OCK AIRPORT, KN
SHANNON
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
ON THE COVER: Standing on a sea arch at Dooega Head, Achill Island. Photo by Gareth McCormack
trick
MAYO – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE
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Traditional Mus
ic Sessions
DISCOVER WESTPORT’S WILDERNESS AND CHARM ON YOUR NEXT SHORT BREAK DUBLIN
Bustling, vibrant, colourful and cultural, Westport in Co. Mayo Ireland has been awarded the best town to live in Ireland. We also think it’s the best place to visit in Ireland. Our wild and rugged beach-laden coastline and hiking trails are the envy of mainland Europe, our Clew Bay islands are more numerous than any exotic archipelago, and our seas are home to countless wildlife wonders, from basking sharks to humpback whales.
We might not always get the Mediterranean’s sunshine, but the genuine warmth of our welcome in our award-winning hotels and restaurants will more than make up for the odd grey day and (dare we say it?) stray drop of rain! This beautiful heritage town located on the world-famous Wild Atlantic Way is just a short journey from Ireland West Airport.
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Go Wild In Mayo!
Historical Houses
Islands & Beaches
IT’S EASY TO FIND AND CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE
A WALK BACK IN TIME – DISCOVERING MAYO’S HOUSES AND GARDENS
TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED – THE ISLANDS AND BEACHES OF MAYO
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A Journey with Soul
The Foodie Capital
Great Days Out
SAVOUR THE DEEPLY ENGRAINED CULTURE OF OUR COUNTRY
THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING DELICIOUS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER
SAMPLE ITINERARIES: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TRIP
PAUL EWEN DESIGNER castlegraphics@icloud.com
www.maramedia.ie HUGH BONNER MANAGING DIRECTOR hugh@maramedia.ie GRACE McDERMOTT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER grace@maramedia.ie
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Our sincere thanks to: Nicola Brady (Travel writer)
www.mayo.ie E: visit@mayo.ie T: 087 1404461
PHOTOGRAPHY Gareth McCormack Enniscrone, Co. Sligo Eamon O’Boyle Ballina, Co. Mayo Brian Wilson Belmullet, Co. Mayo Michael McLaughlin Westport, Co. Mayo Evita Coyle Geesala, Belmullet, Co. Mayo Mayo North Promotions Office Ballina, Co. Mayo Malcolm McGettigan Aerial Photography Co. Mayo
PRINTERS W&G BAIRD Head Office, Greystone Press, Caulside Drive, Antrim BT41 2DU T: +44 (0)28 9446 3911 E: wgbaird@wgbaird.com W: wgbaird.com
In the compilation of this publication, every care is taken to ensure accuracy. Where errors or omissions are brought to the attention of Foilseachán na Mara Teo., future publications will be amended accordingly. However, Foilseachán na Mara Teo. does not accept liability to any person for loss or damage arising from anything contained in this publication or for any error or omission in it, even if such loss or damage is caused by negligence of Foilseachán na Mara Teo; its servants or agents. Opinions and articles featured are not necessarily the opinions of Foilseachán na Mara Teo.
MAYO COUNTY COUNCIL Published on behalf of Mayo County Council by Mara Media, Annagry, Letterkenny, County Donegal, Ireland. Main Line: + 353 74 9548935 Advertising Sales: +353 74 9548936
PLAN YOUR WESTPORT ADVENTURE AT WWW.DESTINATIONWESTPORT.COM #DESTINATIONWESTPORT
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ANNA CONNOR TOURISM OFFICER TERESA COYNE ADMINISTRATOR
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INTRODUCTION
Escape, Explore, Enjoy WHATEVER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR, MAYO HAS THE ANSWER
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“So get ready to head out and explore, and I know that you’ll fall in love with Mayo” Stunning sunset over Croagh Patrick. PHOTO: GER DUFFY PHOTOGRAPHY
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PHOTO BY MELANIE MULLAN
has in abundance, but more importantly, have it O MATTER HOW many times I visit all to yourself. Mayo, each trip leads me to discover After all, Mayo is a place that truly has something new. Whether it’s a freshlysomething for everyone, whether you want opened art gallery in a tiny coastal village, or a to hike alone among the purple heathers that cute café in a town I’ve never seen, Mayo has a blanket the clifftops, or join in the revelry habit of surprising me each and every time I call in a boisterous country pub. This is a place to its door. with majestic mountains just begging to be Which is why so many people return, time conquered, pristine white sand beaches primed and time again. This is a county that is primed for wild swimming, and some of the best food for repeat visits, where you can head back to Nicola Brady that can be found in the whole country. To help the places you love but discover some new little Travel writer get you started, we’ve included some suggested gems along the way. Whether you know the itineraries, to give you some ideas about where county well or are discovering it with fresh eyes, to go and what to see. But while it’s always a good idea to there’s always something to capture your imagination and plan a little before your break, Mayo is a place where you make you fall in love with it all over again. should leave yourself open to spontaneity too. Whatever you’re looking for, Mayo has the answer, which There’s always a story to be found in Mayo, and always is why we’ve divided this guide into themes that highlight someone who’s happy to tell it. The people who live in Mayo the best of what’s on offer. Fancy an adventure? We’ve are fiercely proud of their county, and love nothing more got the lowdown on all the amazing activities that are than to show it off. So get ready to head out and explore, available throughout the county, from the adrenaline rush and I know that you’ll fall in love with Mayo just as I did, and of kite surfing to the more sedate cycling paths that weave just as I do every time I go back. throughout the countryside. Want to get off the beaten track? We’ve laid out the best islands and lesser-known Safe travels! spots, so you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery that Mayo
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ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE
GO WILD IN MAYO!
STANDING TALL. Walker on the southeast shoulder of Mweelrea.
It’s easy to find thrills around every corner
I
T’S EASY TO CAPTURE the spirit of adventure in Mayo. Even the simple act of walking along a cliff top can feel like a thrill, as the waves crash below your feet and the flowers and grass that grow on the edge sway in the breeze. Adventure can be found around every corner, whether you want to throw yourself off the rocks while coasteering on Clare Island, or take to the water on a canoe. And when the scenery is this
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MAYO – The Ultimate Guide
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stunning, it’s hard to resist getting out there and exploring every single inch of it. Benwee Head is up on the north west of Mayo, where sea cliffs tower over 800 feet high and slopes of rock dappled in grass meander down to the shockingly blue water. The good news? Benwee is super accessible, whether you want to drive the car up to the peak and get out for a quick stroll, or tackle the full Carrowteige Loop Walk and make a day out of it. ➾
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HERE ARE TWO routes to choose from – the Children of Lir loop and the Black Ditch Walk, which are 10km and 13km respectively. Both routes take you up to the Children of Lir sculpture at Benwee Head (though taking different paths) before leading you around the stunning cliff top. As you follow the coast, the sea is dotted with rocky outcrops that are surrounded by white waves as the water swirls around them. This is the kind of place where the view can change in seconds, as the sun breaks through the clouds, illuminating patches of sea in glistening strands, as the waves morph between shades of blue, grey and even black. Gannets dive down into the ocean as giant seagulls squawk overhead, and the tiny sea stacks appear at random along the edge of the cliffs. If the constant companion of the
sea proves too tempting, you can finally jump in at Rinroe Beach, a calm little bay surrounded by cliffs. If you wanted to really make a day of it, this would be the perfect place for a picnic lunch, before tackling the final stretch back to the trail head at Seanscoil in Carrowteige. Bring a backpack stuffed with local sourdough, cheeses and freshly pressed apple juice, and you can tuck into an al fresco lunch after a dip in the sea. While the views from the top of the cliffs are incredible, seeing them from the water is another thing entirely. Heading out to sea on a kayak is one
Seeing the wildly rugged areas around the Belmullet coast from the water is an incredible experience
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
of the best adrenaline kicks there is – navigating your kayak over the swell of the waves, bobbing along on the ocean and paddling through the surf, as you take in views that not many people are lucky enough to see. Seeing the wildly rugged areas around the Belmullet coast from the water is an incredible experience, and you can venture out with Wavesweeper Sea Adventures (wavesweeperseaadventures.com), who takes people out on the water for a huge variety of different activities. You can go snorkelling around the sparkling clear waters of Erris Head, head out on the waves on a sea kayaking excursion, or learn the art of coasteering, in which you (safely) throw yourself into the water from the rocks, and scramble around the water’s edge. There’s no feeling quite like plummeting between the waves, decked out in a lifejacket and helmet, feeling like you can conquer any surface and take on ➾
GO KAYAKING! Passing Hag Island on the North Mayo seacliffs.
ERRIS HEAD. Sea kayak around the rock arch of Belmullet in the sparkling clear waters.
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1 GO WILD IN MAYO
THE MARINER WESTPORT
Westport’s
any wave. If you want to keep the adrenaline rushing, Achill Island is the kite surfing capital of Ireland. Kite surfing may look intimidating, but Achill is the best place to learn the ropes – the shallow waters of Keel Lake are the perfect spot for beginners, so you can pick up the basics without dealing with the waves. It’s probably the closest sensation to flying that you could ever experience, without growing a pair of wings. You can take lessons with the experts at Pure Magic (puremagic.ie), before heading back up to their lodge for pizza, fresh out of the oven and topped with Achill smoked salmon.
B
UT NOT EVERY adventure has to be quite as adrenalinefuelled as kite surfing. In Castlebar, you can take to the calming waters of Lough Lannagh, a serene lake just on the outskirts of town, for a stand up paddleboard adventure that’s a little more meditative, with Mayo Adventure Experience (mayoadventureexperience.ie). The edge of the lake is encircled by rushes, which sway in the breeze among lillypads and dragonflies, making it a dreamy location for a paddle. You might meet a few swans gliding past your board, or wave at the people making the most of the Castlebar Greenway, a 7km off-road trail to Turlough. You can also rent bikes from Bike & Board to cycle along the Greenway, which finishes up at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life. It’s the perfect trail for younger kids too, or for those who aren’t sure they want to tackle a longer cycle, like Mayo’s infamous Great Western Greenway. This 42km off-road route stretches from Westport to Achill Island, taking in Newport and Mulranny along the way. You couldn’t ask for a more picturesque setting, as you drift from the bustling town of Westport along to the pretty village of Newport, where you move on along the coast to Mulranny and finally out to the gorgeous island of Achill. It’s best to allow for a full day if you want to cycle the whole route, and bike hire companies will come and pick you
newest
boutique hotel
Welcome to The Mariner, an exquisite boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the enchanting heritage town of Westport on the Wild Atlantic Way. Our town centre location provides the perfect base from which to experience all that wonderful Westport, and the surrounding area, has to offer.
ADRENALINE TIME. Achill Island is the kite surfing capital of Ireland.
Setting a new standard for intimate, boutique style accommodation, highly personalised service and contemporary luxury, The Mariner comprises 34 guest rooms, a luxurious reception and an elegant casual dining Bar and Bistro. Breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menus are available seven days a week. Room service is available on request.
Guest bathrooms are sleek, stylish and luxurious, with large rainfall shower heads to provide the ultimate shower experience.
Our 34 thoughtfully presented guest rooms have been individually designed and decorated by Jane de Roquancourt to comprise the minimum number of touch points and surfaces that are exceptionally easy to clean and sanitise. Choose from our Classic, Premium and Family Rooms.
For the benefit of our guests, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel courtesy of the best-in-class Ruckus Wi-Fi system, which provides superior connectivity and signal to ensure a seamless browsing experience.
Each guest room presents with ample storage, a generous desk, safe, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and tea/coffee making facilities. Furthermore, each guest room is equipped with the very latest casting technology to deliver the ultimate ‘home away from home’ experience. This enables guests to bring their living room TV to their guest room, by sharing content from their device to the large Smart TV screen provided.
From captivating landscapes to sea adventures, fascinating historical journeys to cycling on the Great Western Greenway, and exhilarating walks along miles of golden, sandy beaches, it’s all on your doorstep.
CYCLE MAYO. Discover Mayo’s infamous off-route Great Western Greenway.
up in Achill (so you don’t have to cycle the whole way home, either). What’s great is that you don’t have to cycle the whole route – you can just cycle the final 13km from Mulranny to Achill, which is a fairly flat path with views that are well worth the effort. If you want to take to two wheels but get a little more off the beaten track, rent bikes from Rachel’s Irish Adventures (rachelsirishadventures.
com) and head off on a self-guided tour around the River Moy. You’ll start off in Ballina, taking in all the sights along the peaceful riverside, through Belleek Woods and on to Rosserk Abbey. This 17km is an easy and enjoyable stretch, and you’ll even finish up with tea and homemade scones. An adventure that ends with steaming hot tea some baked treats? You couldn’t ask for anything better. n
For further information, or to book, please
call +353 (0)98 29200 email welcome@themariner.ie or visit www.themariner.ie
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THE MARINER • MILL STREET • WESTPORT • CO. MAYO • F28 W942 • IRELAND
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
North Mayo
DESTINATION BREAFFY Connaught’s Premier Destination Hotel in the West
A SECRET NO MORE
2019
Winner of the Gold Medal Award ‘Ireland’s Family Friendly Hotel’
MORE AND MORE people are discovering the gems of North Mayo, enjoying its off-the-beaten-track vibe, breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, miles of walking trails and its warm, authentic welcome laced with local charm. Here are some suggestions to help you plan your visit:
Take to the Trails
#destinationbreaffy
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DOWNPATRICK HEAD.
n North Mayo is a walker’s paradise, with over 50 marked trails, including spectacular coastal and mountain hikes, catering for all levels of fitness. For a guided/heritage walking experience, contact Sláinte Ireland Tours (slainteirelandtours. ie), Terra Firma Ireland for a night walking experience, (terrafirmaireland.com), Rachel’s Irish Adventures (rachelsirishadventures.com) for some trail running, or find Walk West Ireland on Facebook.
Be a Beach Bum n From Enniscrone in neighbouring Sligo all the
‘When you Check into Destination Breaffy, You Check out of Everywhere else’ 4.5 8.5
4.5 8.5
way through Belmullet to Blacksod on the Erris peninsula, the North Mayo coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, each one more gorgeous than the last. And for the most pristine strands of all, get yourself on a boat trip to visit the breathtakingly beautiful and deserted Inishkea Islands, off the coast of Erris.
Get Cultured n Learn about a legendary collector in Ballina’s fascinating Jackie Clarke Collection (clarkecollection. ie), hear about one of Ireland’s great patriots in the Michael Davitt Museum (michaeldavittmuseum. ie), shop ‘til you drop or take the mills tour at Foxford Woollen Mills (foxfordwoollenmills. com) or explore the quirky Marshall Doran Collection (belleekcastle.com). See how visiting artists engage with our landscape at the Ballinglen Museum of Modern Irish Art (ballinglenartsfoundation. org).
CÉIDE FIELDS VISITOR CENTRE.
Outdoor Adventures n North Mayo is the perfect place to get your heart rate going! Learn to surf with 7th Wave Surf School in Enniscrone (surfsligo. com), go pony-trekking on the beach with Iceford Stables (icefordstables. com), get on par at Ballina Golf Club (ballina-golf.com) or take a guided seashore foraging walk with Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours (wildatlanticculturaltours. com) where you’ll learn all about sea plants and forage for your next meal! For something really different, try a Birds of Prey experience with the resident falconers at Mount Falcon Estate (mountfalcon.com)
JACK FENN COURTYARD CAFÉ, BELLEEK CASTLE.
Add to this countless dining options, a mix of accommodation from cottages to castles, and a warm and welcoming after dark scene, it’s clear there’s something in North Mayo for everyone. Best savoured slowly, it’s not just a place to visit, but a place to truly feel alive.
n For more inspiration and info on food and accommodation, visit mayonorth.ie.
4.5 8.5 RINROE STRAND.
Breaffy-A4-Review-Advert-2020-Final.indd 1
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EXPLORE, ESCAPE, ENJOY The beautiful setting of Lough Lannagh Village.
“There is nowhere like this in Ireland!” LOUGH LANNAGH VILLAGE – the place to stay to explore and discover the magic of the West of Ireland and beyond. The team, headed by Paul and Gerardine Lennon welcome individual and group travellers. They are passionate about hospitality so that your stay in Mayo is wonderful. Ask: and the Lough Lannagh will create a customised itinerary for you. You can take the road less travelled and experience Mayo’s secluded blue flag beaches and remote islands. Foodies can feast in an array of award-winning restaurants, bars, cafés and taste artisan food & drink produce. It’s also possible to take an historical walk back in time visiting historical houses, museums, and gardens. It’s also possible to journey to the cultural and spiritual soul of Mayo or go wild and experience the adventure of Mayo. The choice is yours: do it all, or sit back and relax. GROUPS: Families, corporate, sporting.
Lough Lannagh Village “At your service!” Tailormade for you! Lough Lannagh Village is the ideal base to explore Mayo, Connemara and the west of Ireland. It’s on the Great Western Greenway and close to the Wild Atlantic Way. Located in the adventure capital of Ireland, it’s perfect for walking, cycling, sporting and waterbased activities.
WHAT THEIR CUSTOMERS SAY: ENDA KENNY TD. Former Taoiseach Enda Kenny lives in Castlebar is a regular visitor to Lough Lannagh and said, “Set on the lakeshore, Lough Lannagh Village is a high-quality, multi-purpose facility in the heart of Castlebar. Comprising high-quality accommodation (self-catering and bed & breakfast) and a range of top-class conference facilities in a unique, idyllic location. A popular destination for tourists, Lough Lannagh Village caters to the specific requirements of a wide range of special interest and training groups. In fact, I myself have attended a number of events there in recent years where I had the opportunity to experience first-hand the wonderful facilities on offer as well as the hospitality and professionalism of Paul, Gerardine and their team.”
BILLY WALSH, Team USA Head Coach, (former Head Coach, Irish Elite Boxing Team). “As a venue for our international training camp, Lough Lannagh Village was a real find. A first-class operation, highly professional, family run and delivering terrific attention to detail to the specific requirements of each of our teams. I recommend them highly.” BERNARD DUNNE, National High Performance Director, IABA National High Performance Unit. “Lough Lannagh fulfilled our needs. The accommodation was perfect for resting in between sessions as it was just a short stroll from the training facilities. With the addition of a swimming pool & recovery centre this will be the ideal place for any team who wants to work and stay in an elite training environment that has an idyllic surrounding to allow for athletes to rest and recover to maximise their ability to perform.”
“GROUPS ARE OUR SPECIALITY” LOUGH LANNAGH VILLAGE caters for groups and conferences, offering a variety of accommodation, meeting rooms and social facilities. It is ideally located for off-site sports, retreats, family and cultural reunions, meetings and corporate events. Tailor-made programmes can be created and special needs catered for. Lough Lannagh Village has teamed up with organisations such as Mayo Adventure Experience, Bikes & Boards, Mayo School of Music, The Connaught Regional Tennis Centre, The Connaught Boxing Centre of Excellence, Castlebar Swim, Gym & Leisure Club Complex to offer an à la carte approach to planning a group trip to the West. (Minimum group size 12).
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Lough Lannagh “At Your Service” with Francis Brennan.
USEFUL TO KNOW Lough Lannagh has: l 60 ensuite bedrooms l 3 meeting rooms l Café for groups meals l Wheelchair accessible l Groups welcome
EASY ACCESS n Lough Lannagh Village, is the ideal base to tour Mayo and the West of Ireland. Galway City, Sligo town, Roscommon town are all less that 90 minutes drive. Dublin Airport 2 hours 50 minutes. Ireland West International Airport Knock, just 35 minutes drive.
LOUGH LANNAGH VILLAGE works in partnership with the team at Castlebar’s recently opened Leisure Complex @ Lough Lannagh, with a special interest in sport (leisure and elite) and corporate groups. Lough Lannagh Village acts as a one stop-shop for team development and ideal as a sport or corporate think tank, running bootcamps, promoting creativity and team bonding. The joint service anticipates the needs of the coach, trainer or mentor in every way possible, so the host can focus on the group, deliver a superb session and make the most of the time they have together. Furthermore national and international experts can be arranged to help deliver or lead a programme. Paul and Gerardine have access to a network of established experts covering areas such as leadership, diet, sports, cultural, spiritual and wellness & well-being. These partnered programmes are customised and budgeted according to the needs of the group and organisers. Requests vary – from trying something new, or reaching a certain level of skill. It can also be a sensory experience or something - just for the fun of it! Further more some clients may have specific religious, dietary or access needs and easily accommodated. Activities take place on-site or at the lakeside, less than two minutes from the cottages and B&B. For more information see www.loughlannagh.ie or contact the team and Lough Lannagh Village directly and they’ll make it happen. FOR MORE INFO:
lough village
Paul & Gerardine with Francis Brennan filming “At Your Service”.
Bed & Breakfast @ Lough Lannagh Lodge.
MAYO – The Ultimate Guide
Self Catering @ Lough Lannagh Cottages.
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On site Adventure Activities.
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Contact: Gerardine & Paul Lennon Lough Lannagh Village, Castlebar, Mayo Tel: 00353 94 9027111 Fax. 00353 94 9027295 Email: info@loughlannagh.ie Website: www.loughlannagh.ie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ LoughLannaghVillage Twitter: https://twitter.com/StayinMayo Instagram: https://www.instragram.com/ LoughLannagh
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27 holes of Links golf at its best along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Carne Golf Links Discover Carne, Links golf at its’ best, as nature intended, on the edge of the earth… CARNE GOLF LINKS, BELMULLET, CO. MAYO
Carne Golf Links, on the remote and rugged Mullet Peninsula, along the Wild Atlantic Way, an area renowned for its’ wild and ancient landscape.
Two amazing courses set in a majestic dunescape towering 150m above sea level with breathtaking views across the Atlantic Ocean and the legendary islands of Inis Glóire and Inis Géidhe.
OVER 80 YEARS OF HISTORY AND HOSPITALITY 1939 - 2020
Play the original Hackett course, the last course designed by Eddie Hackett, but feted as his best.
Enter through grand stone gates to discover an 800-year-old castle and former home to the Guinness family. Overlooking Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle is renowned for its warm Irish hospitality, exceptional dining experiences and an unrivalled range of estate activities - all set within
Discover Carne, Links golf at its’ best, as nature intended, on the edge of the earth.
the magnificent 350-acre Ashford estate.
Or try the newer Wild Atlantic Dunes course for an experience unlike any other.
Call 097 82292 or email info@carnegolflinks.com www.carnegolflinks.com 16
MAYO – The Ultimate Guide
Ashford Castle, Cong, Co. Mayo T: +353 (0) 9495 46003 | E: ashford@ashfordcastle.com ASHFORDCASTLE.COM SECOND EDITION
EXPLORE, ESCAPE, ENJOY
“Westport House is at the centre of a 400-acre estate, a combination of woodland, hills and immaculate gardens”
A WALK BACK IN TIME – DISCOVERING MAYO’S
HISTORICAL HOUSES AND GARDENS
Feel completely transported to another time and world
M
AYO IS A COUNTY that’s filled with sights of historical significance. But while the Megalithic sites and ancient ruins are fascinating, some of the most impressive examples are in the form of grand country houses, found in the towns, villages and depths of the countryside.
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Perhaps the most remarkable of all is Westport House (westporthouse. ie). The heart of the town of Westport, the house (in its current iteration) was built in 1730 by the descendants of the famous Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley, whose castle stood on this very spot in the 1500s. While the house is now owned by the local Hughes family, its spirit is very much public. Selfguided audio tours of the house are run every day, taking you through 30 immaculately elegant rooms and six permanent exhibitions. The rooms themselves are incredible in their luxurious authenticity, with stylish libraries lined with walls of leatherbound books and welcoming drawing rooms where you can just imagine
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➾
BELLEEK CASTLE. A neo-gothic style property on the banks of the River Moy.
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settling back with a snifter of brandy as turf smoulders in the fireplace. But while the house itself is an impressive spot (it would be easy to spend hours languidly drifting between rooms and harbouring fantasies of upper class living) there’s even more happening outside. The house is at the centre of a 400acre estate, a combination of woodland, hills and immaculate gardens, which have just received a huge makeover after extensive investment. The gardens around the front of the main house are beautiful, designed to conjure up a sense of history and bring the whole entrance back to its roots, with a curved
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
mature yew hedge, beautiful shrubs and an herbaceous flower mixture that provides plenty of colour. As well as the gardens, there’s a new walking and bike trail that weaves
MOOREHALL. A grand stone structure, striking in its broken beauty, burnt down in 1923.
WESTPORT HOUSE. Interior of the Entrance Hall with Grand Staircase.
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through the woods and estate, up sloping hills to reveal a beautiful view of the sea. The loop itself is 10km and perfect for a longer stroll, but you can also rent bikes on site from Clew Bay Bike Hire, and explore the gentle offroad trail, which is ideal for younger children. Families also love the Pirate Adventure Park (which now has ten new rides) where you can pan for gemstones, take a ride on the miniature estate train or play disc golf. In addition to the Caravan and Camping Park that is onsite, there’s also Hotel Westport, perfect for those who would prefer a hotel to canvas. Westport House is blessed with both the Carrowbeg River through the estate and views out to the sea, and it’s not uncommon for other grand houses to be located near the water.
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UST 40 MINUTES away on the shores of Lough Carra you’ll find Moorehall, home to the Moore family, who played a vital role in the history of Ireland, both politically and creatively. Standing on the wide stone steps of Moorehall, it’s hard to imagine the house as it would have stood in its prime, its guests arriving by horse drawn carriage, ready to be welcomed into the drawing rooms. Nowadays, the grand stone structure is festooned with creeping ivy, the window frames are empty and the steps thick with grass and shamrocks. Yet the house is striking in its beauty, the pillars holding up a balcony on the first of three floors, the stone remarkably in tact and the chimney pillars thick with greenery. And while the house looks deserted, it does in fact have 760 residents, though you’re unlikely to come across them during your visit. Who are these inhabitants?
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Moorehall’s grand stone structure is festooned with creeping ivy, the window frames are empty and the steps thick with grass Lesser horseshoe bats, a protected native species that is prone to taking up residence in only the grandest old country houses. Now, as the grounds are being remodelled, every step that’s taken needs to be agreed upon in consultation with the Wild Nephin National Park service, whose priority is the wellbeing of these tiny little houseguests. Moorehall was burned down in 1923 by anti-treaty forces during the Civil War, at a time when houses of similar size were destroyed in an act
of protest against the often-villainous landlords. However, the Moores were considered one of the more generous families by the locals – George Henry Moore imported thousands of tonnes of grain to feed families during the Great Famine, and bought every family a cow from the winnings his horse Coranna made during the Chester Gold Cup. In stark comparison to what was happening in the rest of the country at the hands of landlords, no one on the estate was evicted for non-payment of rent. While you can’t go into the house itself, the grand old entranceway has had a new lease of life, thanks to a huge renovation project. Now, the pathway to the front of Moorehall is dotted with wooden sculptures, carved with a chainsaw from local red cedar and oak. There are squirrels, badgers, foxes and owls, as well as dragonfly seating areas, storytelling nooks and picnic benches. ➾
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2 HISTORICAL HOUSES & GARDENS
n WESTPORT n MULRANNY n ACHILL
Explore Mayo’s Great Western Greenway Clew Bay Bike Hire Ltd, Co. Mayo, Ireland +353 (0)98 24818/ (0)98 37675 www.clewbaybikehire.ie info@clewbaybikehire.ie
Book online 10% discount: Quote MUG
A LANDSCAPE FOSSILISED
BELLEEK CASTLE, This historic property now serves as a boutique hotel run.
All are surrounded by the towering spruce trees of the woodland, inhabited by native wildlife. The walk around the grounds is a beautiful one, past the gigantic walled garden and down along the shores of the lake.
BELLEEK CASTLE. Features Paul Doran’s medieval armour collection and a massive collection of fossils.
ENNISCOE HOUSE. See the charming bedrooms and elegant drawing rooms.
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NOTHER PROPERTY on a rambling estate is Belleek Castle (belleekcastle.com). Built between 1825 and 1831 in a neo-gothic style, the house is named after the original Belleek Castle, a 13th century property on the banks of the River Moy. This historic property now serves as a boutique hotel run by Paul Doran, whose father Marshall Doran bought the dilapidated castle in 1961, restored it and opened it as a hotel in 1970. In addition to being a merchant navy officer (and a bit of a character) Doran was also an avid collector of fossils and medieval armour, which means that the
basement of Belleek Castle is a positive treasure trove of historical items. There’s a whole room filled with suits of armour and weaponry, including Samurai swords and jousting lances. The collection also includes an incredible collection of Jurassic fossils, including the full skeleton of an Ichthyosaurus Platyodon. But outside of the vault of treasures in the basement, the house itself is an impressive sight to behold. The influence of Doran (who did the bulk of the restoration himself) means there’s a nautical theme to much of the interior along with an impressive array of antiques throughout, like an authentic spit over the fire for medieval style weddings. It’s not the only historic house in which you can stay – Enniscoe House (enniscoe.com) dates back to the 1790s, and is tucked into the woodlands at the base of Mount Nephin. The house has been in the family since the 1650s, and ➾
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For availability and more information contact ++353-9836000 or www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie
www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie
SECOND EDITION
IN A UNIQUE LANDSCAPE where ocean, hills and fields merge together in every vista, this is where you catch your first glimpse of the Four Star Mulranny Park Hotel. Nestled within a beautiful woodland estate overlooking Clew Bay and Mulranny blue flag beach, the Mulranny Park Hotel exudes not only charm and elegance but offers every visitor the very warmest of welcomes in a unique setting. Sandwiched between The Wild Atlantic Way and the Great Western Greenway which are two of the most successful tourism initiatives by Failte Ireland in recent years, you are sure to create memories to last a life time whatever the reason for your visit to the Mulranny Park Hotel. The location is equalled only by the wonderful food offering in the Award Winning Nephin Restaurant, where the use of local produce is not only import but it’s an ingrained way of creating dishes presented by the Head chef Chamila Manawatta and his team. The accommodation offering consists of 40 hotel rooms with 19 apartments, offering every amenity including 20 metre pool & fitness classes for the for the four star traveller. Recently reimagined suites, including the John Lennon Suite, offer panoramic views of the bay with Croagh Patrick mountain as a back drop. When you are searching for your next break look no further than Mulranny Park Hotel for a safe, relaxing stay in one of Irelands truly unique hotel locations, offering the very best of West of Ireland Hospitality.
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2 HISTORICAL HOUSES & GARDENS
ASHFORD CASTLE. The epitome of 5 star service.
gives you an enthralling insight into life in a heritage estate, from the charming bedrooms to the elegant drawing rooms, where you can retire with a pot of tea. The fascinating North Mayo Heritage Centre is on the grounds, too.
O
NE OF THE grandest country properties in all of Ireland, Ashford Castle (ashfordcastle.com) is an estate that will never fail to impress. Even the journey up the driveway is designed to take your breath away, as you weave through the grounds and catch your first glimpse of the castle, standing proudly on the shores of Lough Corrib. Still glowing from the extensive refurbishment that was completed in 2015, Ashford Castle positively emanates luxury and is the epitome of 5* service, whether you’re staying for a few nights or simply visiting for lunch. On a 100-acre estate between
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The Mount Falcon 100 acre parkland estate is the primary accommodation and activity base in the county (all the extremities of which, are reachable within an hour’s drive). The epicentre of the estate is the multi-award winning, 4 Star Deluxe hotel and selection of luxurious 3/4 bedroom lodges. On site activities include; Golf Driving Range, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery, Falconry, Leisure Centre/Spa, 3 Km’s of Woodland trails, Fishing on our trout lake and Salmon fishing on our adjoining Fi 2 mile private stretch of the River Moy, Ireland’s most prolific salmon river.
ENNISCOE HOUSE. A great insight into heritage life from 1650.
Ballina and Foxford, Mount Falcon (mountfalcon.com) is a beautifully restored property that dates back to 1872, when Ultred Knox commissioned James Franklin Fuller to build a palatial castle for his new bride. In its current guise as a luxurious country house
hotel, Mount Falcon is a lavish property where you can cosy up in traditional rooms, unwind in the spa or make friends with the hawks, falcons and owls that live onsite. While the grand historic houses around the county give an idea of how ➾
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www.mountfalcon.com 00353 (0) 96-74472 Foxford Road, Ballina, Co.Mayo
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2 HISTORICAL HOUSES & GARDENS
MUSEUM HOUSE | GARDENS & TRAILS CAMPING | CHILDREN’S ADVENTURE www.westporthouse.ie
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND. A striking modern structure.
one portion of the population would have lived, there’s a more everyday portrayal at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life (museum.ie). A few miles outside of Castlebar, the only outpost of the National Museum outside of Dublin is held alongside a stately home that dates back to 1865, surrounded by a beautiful estate. The
exhibitions are held mostly within the modern structure that juts out towards the lake, offering an insight into how people lived in the country up until 1950. There are exhibits about the important role played by the bicycle, how the hearth formed the heart of a home, and how the way in which we romanticise the past can gloss over how
MOUNT FALCON. Make friends with the hawks, falcons and owls that live onsite.
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The National Museum is one of the places in Mayo in which you can feel completely transported to another time, and another world
located on the 400 acre Westport estate
tough life in rural Ireland truly was. Within the original Turlough Park House, there are three beautifully restored rooms that help you to conjure up an image of what life was like for the Fitzgeralds who lived there in the lap of luxury. One of these, the Drawing Room, is furnished with curated pieces from the Museum of Decorative Arts and History and also a Lyrachord Piano, the only one of its kind in the world. This is just one of the places in Mayo in which you can feel completely transported to another time, and another world. The fact that the heritage in so many of these homes is so lovingly restored and preserved is wondrous. n
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LEISURE BREAKS | OVER 50’S | MEETINGS & EVENTS SPECIAL OCCASIONS | FAMILY HOLIDAYS | WEDDINGS www.hotelwestport.ie | 098 25122
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Mayo – The Ultimate Guide
HERITAGE
LIFESTYLE
Toasting the O’Malley legacy.
The Queen of Whiskey
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HONOURING THE LEGEND OF GRACE O’MALLEY
RACE O’MALLEY SPIRITS is dedicated to the 16th Century Irish pirate queen, also known as Granuaile, born into Irish nobility in Co. Mayo in 1530.
Celebrating female leadership through rebellious spirit, our brand honours the legend of Grace O’Malley, regarded as not just one of Ireland’s but the world’s most inspirational and extraordinary female trailblazers. An international brand with local heritage, Grace O’Malley Spirits collaborates with a team of local coopers, renowned Irish and technical advisers including globally recognised spirits expert, Master Blender Paul Caris, in bringing distinctive premium Irish whiskeys and gin to the world. Our flagship whiskey is the Grace O’Malley Blended Irish Whiskey, a special blend of triple and double distilled malt and grain whiskeys. Unique due to its 46% malt content, the blend delivers an experience perfectly
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balanced between fruitiness, age character, complexity and smoothness. As a result of Covid 19, the annual O’Malley family gathering was cancelled. So as an alternative the Business Post LIVE team volunteered to host a virtual event. The County Mayo and O’Malley Global Virtual Gathering was streamed on the 25th of June 2020. This unique Global Event celebrated County Mayo, the O’Malley’s and Ireland Around the World and has 76,000 viewers to date. It’s was an opportunity to learn of the O’Malley legacy, the culture, the personality and business in Mayo in the spirit of Enterprise, Excellence and Adventure and featured special
guests including President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins and Irish sailor and Grace O’Malley descendant Joan Mulloy. The event was led by the Chieftains of the O’Malley Clan from Clare Island and featured a special Grace O’Malley Whiskey tasting from Gielty’s Bar and Restaurant in Achill County Mayo. The virtual event also featured the largest global and virtual ‘toast to Grace’ against the backdrop of Grace O’Malley Castle on Clare Island, joined by members of the O’Malley Clan and a global sing-song.
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The Ultimate Guide – Mayo
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
THE ISLANDS AND BEACHES OF MAYO
GARETH McCORMACK
Make you feel like you have the world to yourself
N
OTHING BEATS the feeling of arriving at a destination by boat. There’s an undeniable air of romance to setting foot on solid land after flying over the waves, the ocean spray filling the air and the scent of the sea clinging to your skin. Mayo is a county that is blessed with hundreds of islands, from tiny little islets in Clew Bay to dramatically rugged outcrops that emerge from the Atlantic like something out of a fairytale. But alongside the better-known islands like Achill, there are countless little spots just begging to be explored, like the uninhabited Inishkea Islands. As your boat approaches the Inishkea Islands, the little curves of white sand in the bay glow in the sunshine, as the birds swoop up above the rolling green fields. There’s not another soul to be seen, other than the grazing sheep and the tiny sandpipers, who dash CAMPING in and out of the gentle WILD. Sea kayakers waves as they lap at the on Inishkea shore. South Island. ➾
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3 THE ISLANDS AND BEACHES OF MAYO
Hikers descending Croagh Patrick.
actually the largest breeding ground of Atlantic grey seals in all of Ireland. Over 300 pups are born each year, so time your visit right and you might just catch a glimpse of these adorable, white fluffy seal pups lolling on the beaches.
The island’s caves are just as impressive, and best seen from your belly. As you (carefully) lie on the cliff’s edge, you can look down at the swathes of slate and wildflowers meandering down to the dramatic swirling vortex of waves as they crash below. On the grass that leads over the edge, little domes of moss act like miniature bouncy castles, forming a springy layer along the top of the cliffs. The only way to get to the Inishkea Islands is by chartering a boat, which you can do with the family run Belmullet Boat Charters (belmulletboatcharters.wordpress.com), based out of Blacksod. Charters can come with a guide, who will take you over the island and show you all the sights you might miss on your own, like the whaling station or the ancient Celtic slabs. If you want a real adventure, you can go fishing first, before arriving at the island’s beach to cook up your catch of lobster and mackerel over an open fire.
ACHILL ISLAND. Looking towards Saddle Head from Croaghaun.
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SEA OF ISLANDS. View across Clew Bay from the summit of Croagh Patrick.
GARETH McCORMACK
GARETH McCORMACK
The beauty of the Inishkea Islands is startling. If you were to close your eyes and imagine the perfect island, this would be it – the water is still, calm and a perfect shade of glossy pale turquoise, so clear you can see every grain of sand below. A narrow channel of water divides the two islands, Inishkea North and South, both of which have been deserted since the 1930s. The old stone cottages remain in the abandoned village, and if you peek through the empty window frames you’ll see the old copper pots still scattered on the floor around the hearth. Roaming around the rest of the island is a joy. Between the grazing sheep, the hares that dart between their burrows and the cows that meander over the fields, it feels like an island where nature rules the roost, and you’re just a welcome visitor. Take a longer hike to the southernmost part of the island and you’ll find a seal colony, which is
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
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Clew Bay is blessed with 365 islands – one for every day of the year.
Adventure Capital Downpatrick Head
Ceide Fields
Ballycastle
Belmullet
Western Way
Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route
Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route
Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route
Carrowmore Lake
Killala
Bangor Erris
Western Way
Inishkea
Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route
Crossmolina Ballina
Doohoma
Lough Conn
721 m
Slieve Carr Ballycroy National Park
672 m
Nephin Beg
Ballycroy Visitor Centre
Doogort
Slievemore
Nephin Bangor Trail
664 m
Croaghan
Keel
403 m
Birreencorragh
Pontoon
N59
Achill Sound Achill Island
698 m
Glennamona
R319
Nephin Mountains
588 m
Lough Feeagh
Trailhead
Mulranny
R319
Charlestown
R317
N59
Swinford
Beltra Lough
Furnace Lough N59
Corraun
Lough Cullin
Buckoogh
Museum of Country Life
Newport R311
Cloghmore
Castlebar
N59
Clare Island
Foxford Woollen Mills
806 m
628 m
Inishbiggle
Keem
Western Way
627 m
N59
CLEW BAY
Westport House
462 m
Ballin Lough
Westport Trailhead
Roonagh R335
Louisburgh
Kiltimagh
National Museum Greenway
Murrisk
R330
R335
N59
764 m Croagh Patrick
R335
Balla
N5
Ballintubber
Knock
Mayo Abbey
Ballintubber Abbey
Knock Shrine
Ballyhaunis
Claremorris
Inish Turk
Partry
Western Way Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route R335
Wild Atlantic Way Driving Route Lough Carra
N59
Tourmakeady
Mweelrea
814 m
Killary
Lough Mask
Ballinrobe Racecourse
Ballinrobe
Leenaun
Cong
Adventure Capital
Wild Atlantic Way
Right at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Mayo embraces the Atlantic Ocean with many of the county’s unforgettable landmarks dotted along its coastline - majestic Croagh Patrick, Clew Bay, Achill’s unmistakable cliffs, the Stags of Broadhaven and the sea stack Dún Briste. Mayo’s Atlantic coastline is a playground for those with an adventurous spirit, offering world class deep sea fishing, kite surfing, coasteering, kayaking, walking, cycling and many beautiful Blue Flag beaches.
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3 THE ISLANDS AND BEACHES OF MAYO
Clare Island Ferry O’Gradys
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Clew Bay Queen & Sea Sprinter Comhlacht Farantóir Oileáin Chliara GARETH McCORMACK
HE BOAT TO the islands takes a little over 30 minutes from Blacksod pier, but there’s an added bonus on the journey – the views over Croaghaun Sea Cliffs on the nearby Achill Island are breathtaking, particularly considering it’s a viewpoint that not many people get to see. It’s worth remembering that Achill’s sea cliffs are actually the tallest in the country, at 2,257 feet high – over three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher. The largest of all the islands in Mayo, it can be easy to forget the sheer scale of Achill. But get a view of it from the water and the island seems almost mythical, the clouds clinging to the peak of the Croaghaun Mountain and the waves crashing against the rugged cliffs. As well as being the largest island in Mayo, it has the handy bonus of being the easiest one to reach – instead of a boat trip, you just need to drive (or cycle) the bridge over to Achill. Once you’re there, the island never fails to impress, with its rugged, rolling peaks and picture perfect bays (some of which are visited by swarms of majestic basking sharks when May rolls around – catching a glimpse of these creatures from the cliffs above has to be one of the most impressive sights in the world). Even if you’ve been to Achill before, there’s always something new to explore. Up in Bunnacurry, Ireland’s first island distillery has set up shop, making Irish American whiskey from the pure spring water of Lough Corrymore,
Contact Tel. No.: 098 23737 Mobile: 086 8515003 / 087 9004115 Clare Island, Westport, Co. Mayo Email: bookings@clareislandferry.com
“Clare Island’s largest and fastest ferries”
CLARE ISLAND. The ancestral home of pirate queen Grace O’Malley.
Achill is also a dream for walking, whether you want to stretch your legs on one of the Wild Atlantic Way discovery points or take on a longer trek the highest mountain lake in Europe. You can visit their distillery and learn all about how their whiskey is made, before sampling a snifter or two in the tasting rooms. Achill is also a dream for walking, whether you want to stretch your legs on one of the Wild Atlantic Way discovery points or take on a longer trek, like the Slí Grainne Mhaol Loop. LOST IN TIME. The Deserted Village on Achill Island.
GARETH McCORMACK
SERVICING CLARE ISLAND ALL YEAR
This 6.7km walk begins and ends at Johnny Patten’s pub, taking you on an incredible pathway up the hills where you’ll be met with views of the Deserted Village, Clew Bay and even as far out as Belmullet, on a clear day.
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MAYO – The Ultimate Guide
at Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
CHILL’S NEIGHBOUR, Clare Island, is a quick ferry ride away. Famous for being the ancestral home of Ireland’s pirate queen, Grace O’Malley, Clare Island is a fantastic spot to explore, whether you want to rent bikes and tackle the hills or take a more serene amble between the archaeological sights, like the Bronze Age mounds or megalithic tombs. Down below Clare Island is the island of Inishturk. To walk around the island is a workout in itself – at its highest point it’s 722 feet above sea level, with stonking views out over the rest of Clew Bay. But the best part of the whole island, as well as the dramatic landscape and rare wildlife, is the friendly community vibe you pick up from those ➾ ➾
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online
www.clareislandferry.com
Discover Ireland’s National Folklife Collection
Admission Free - www.museum.ie Exhibition Galleries | Historic House and Victorian Gardens | Café and Shop
NMICL-Ad001-Generic-190x130-Jul19-v2.indd 1
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Booking
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3 TAKE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
“It’s places like this that make you feel like you have the world to yourself, that you can take a breath and feel all your cares melt away”
EXPERIENCE AMAZING
TOURMAKEADY WATERFALL. A wonderfull area on a calm day.
T ABOVE KEEM BEACH. The county is blessed with hundreds of bays that could pass for Caribbean shores.
who live there, whether you pass them by as you walk around the island or get chatting as you head down the pristine beach for a It’s beaches like this one that really shine in Mayo. The county is blessed with hundreds of bays that could pass for Caribbean shores, whether they’re broad, sweeping sands resting at the foothills of striking cliffs, or tiny little bays that can only be reached at low tide. What truly makes them special is that fact you can often have them all to yourself. The quieter stretches of coastline are simply stunning, and when they’re off the beaten track you can walk the length of the sand with only gannets flying above for company. You may associate beaches with summer, but they’re also a dream on a winter’s day, whether you’re blessed with crisp
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BEACHCOMBER. Enjoy a wondrous walk on the beaches of North Mayo.
blue skies or bundled up against the chill. Rinroe Beach is a curved stretch of white sand in North Mayo, with tiny bays dotted along its shore that emerge when the tide is low. This is the kind of beach that’s astoundingly pretty whatever the weather is doing – when the sun is shining, the waves glimmer
and sparkle in the light, but even on a moody day there are hundreds of colours within the water as the waves swirl against the sand. It’s not just the coastline that holds the best-kept secrets. The Tourmakeady Waterfall is found at the end of a neat and leisurely 1km forest trail, near the shores of Lough Mask. You can hear the sound of the water long before you clap eyes on the falls and, on a hot day, you’ll probably hear some kids splashing around in the pool beneath it, too. The waterfall is glorious, whether it’s full and forceful after a spell of rain or gentle and meditative on a calm day. It’s places like this that make you feel like you have the world to yourself, that you can take a breath and feel all your cares melt away. And it’s places like this that you’ll find all over Mayo. n
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HERE IS A SPECIAL KIND of landscape on the island, changing with the seasons. Just as alluring and magical on a wet, wild day, battered by the Atlantic winds as it is drenched in sunshine, highlighting the stunning greens and blues of the landscape. From the beautiful sheltered Keem Bay, with its turquoise waters, to the rough and wild seascapes of the Atlantic Drive there are plenty of natural discovery points on the island. And those who fancy the more challenging hikes to the top of Croaughan and Slievemore will be rewarded with amazing, one of a kind views. Scattered throughout the unique landscape of Achill Island are a number of historic sites. Achill has a long history of human settlement and there is evidence that Achill was inhabited as many as 5,000 years ago. Megalithic tombs and
Dugort. The Mission included schools, cottages, an orphanage, a small hospital and a hotel (the former Slievemore Hotel).
promontory forts testifying to this can be seen at Slievemore, along the Atlantic Drive and on Achill Beg Island. Other historic sites include: n THE DESERTED VILLAGE situated at the foot of Slievemore mountain and is made up of the remains of more than 80 houses which were abandoned in 1845. The houses were built of unmortared stone, which means that no cement or mortar was used to hold the stones together. Each house consisted of just one room and this room was used as kitchen, living room, bedroom and even stable.
n KILDAMHNAIT CASTLE is a 15th century tower house associated with the O’Malley Clan, who were once a ruling family of Achill. Grace O’Malley, or Granuaile, the most famous of the O’Malley’s was born in Clare Island around 1530. For those looking for more ADRENALINE FUELLED ACTIVITIES there is plenty to choose from; walks, hikes, bike trails, surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, horse riding and much more. ACHILL ISLAND REALLY DOES HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
n One of Achill’s most famous historical sites is that of the ACHILL MISSION or ‘the Colony’ at Dugort. In 1831 the Protestant Reverend Edward Nangle founded a proselytising mission at
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.achilltourism.com or Instagram: @achill_tourism and Facebook: @AmazingAchill THE DESERTED VILLAGE
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ENJOY HORSE RIDING TRAILS
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PHOTO: JAYKE MORRIS @TEAMPOINTBRAKE
ACHILL
KNOCK SHRINE
INTERIOR OF KNOCK SHRINE CHAPEL OF RECONCILIATION
Finding sanctuary at
KNOCK VILLAGE MODEL
KNOCK SHRINE
E
XPLORE A SACRED SPACE OF beautiful churches, sacred art and enriching events in the heart of Mayo. Whether travelling along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way or touring the West of Ireland, Knock Shrine in County Mayo is a must for travellers of all faiths and none. Whether you are coming on a day trip with the family, with a group or as an individual for some time out, there are a wealth of attractions for all to enjoy. Since the Apparition on the 21st of August 1879, pilgrims and visitors have been welcomed to Knock Shrine. It is a unique and sacred place, set in over 100 acres of landscaped gardens offering a peaceful, contemplative space in which to pray, reflect and reconnect with your faith. Knock became renowned for the Apparition which took place on 21 August 1879 when Our Lady, St Joseph, St John the Evangelist and a Lamb appeared at the gable wall of the Parish Church. The Apparition was witnessed by fifteen people ranging in age from just 5 years to 74 years of age. Since this time, people have come to Knock seeking healing, peace and prayer. The beautiful grounds, gardens and meandering pathways offer quiet space for prayer and contemplation. The five churches within the Shrine offer many outstanding
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KNOCK BASILICA
APPARITION MOSAIC AT KNOCK BASILICA
features, artworks and areas of interest. The history of Knock can be explored with a visit to the award-winning Knock Museum which walks visitors through the rich history of the Shrine. The grounds are dotted with sculptures designed by Canadian sculptor Timothy Schmalz representing Irish Saints and our fascinating Christian heritage.
A SENSE OF PEACE
Peace has been a recurring theme at Knock over the years and visitors will often describe the great sense of peace that they encounter in the Apparition Chapel, which is at the heart of the Shrine. As both a
PILGRIMAGE
Marian and Eucharistic Shrine, Knock is a unique and special place. Its role as Ireland’s National Shrine makes it a symbol of unity, family and togetherness.
SACRED TRADITIONS
Pilgrimage is a sacred and ancient tradition in Ireland. By leaving ordinary life behind, pilgrims gain time and space for reflection. They join others in a quest to experience the presence of God and grow in awareness that, on life’s journey, there are no strangers only fellow pilgrims. Many pilgrims return to Knock every year and like to take part in their own personal pilgrimage and rituals, such as taking part in the Stations of the Cross or attending Confessions. The tradition of Holy Water from Knock is one that dates back to the time of the Apparition in 1879. Intertwined with the tradition of Holy water is that of the original stone from the gable wall of Knock Parish Church, where the Apparition was witnessed on 21 August, 1879. For many years, pilgrims have paused to pray at the original stone from the gable wall where the Apparition occurred which has played an important role as another everyday ritual of visiting pilgrims and also in shaping the unique history of the Shrine.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
The National Novena to Our Lady of Knock takes place each year from 14-22 August. Ceremonies take place each day throughout the Novena at 3pm and 8pm. The evening ceremony is followed by a special outdoor candlelight procession and is an enriching and peaceful experience for pilgrims.
RETREATS, WORKSHOPS & SACRED CONCERTS
Faith Renewal is an important aspect of developments at Knock Shrine and the desire to reach out to people to help them enrich and renew their faith. With this at the forefront of ambitions for Knock, a vibrant programme of events takes place throughout the year, including retreats, workshops and music events with guest speakers and themes.
SACRED ART
Knock Basilica houses the magnificent ‘Apparition Mosaic’, the largest of its kind in Europe. The Mosaic represents the Apparition scene as it was described by the fifteen witnesses in 1879. It was specially crafted in Spilimbergo, Italy by Travisanutto Mosaic makers. It is comprised of over one million tiny mosaic pieces of Venetian glass, smalti, natural marble mosaic and gold smalti. The striking colour and scale of the
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This stunning three-dimensional model depicts Knock village exactly as it was on the 21st of August 1879, the evening of the Apparition. The village recreation is filled with wonderful miniature details. It offers a fascinating insight into village life in Knock and into the historical and social context of the Knock Apparition.
KNOCK VILLAGE MODEL
Mosaic has captivated visitors from all over the world and made it a major attraction in recent years.
Knock Shrine is open daily all year round. As Mass times and other services can vary depending on seasonality, it is advised to check our website prior to visiting. Wheelchairs are available from St Johns Rest & Care Centre for those who require mobility assistance. Café Le Cheile at Knock Museum overlooks the beautiful grounds of the Shrine and offers a selection of light lunches and meals. The Bookshop in the Shrine has an excellent range of books, unique gifts and an extensive range of spiritual resources for all ages. Knock Shrine, County Mayo is located 20 mins from Ireland West Airport and 50 mins from Galway City. Plan your visit at www.knockshrine.ie
IMOGEN STUART BEEHIVE MEDITATION CELL
The Beehive Meditation Cell was created by renowned sculptor Imogen Stuart in 1990. Irish monks and hermits lived in these cells on the Skelligs and elsewhere from the sixth century onward. Sitting in the cell you can feel the peace of God’s presence. The Beehive Cell is an interactive work of art where visitors can relax, experience the welcoming atmosphere and the silence. The Beehive Cell can be found in the Chapel of Reconciliation.
W: www.knockshrine.ie T: +353 (0) 94 93 88100 E: info@knockshrine.ie Follow us on:
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ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY VAST SKIES. Bright stars at the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, a designated International Dark Sky Park.
A JOURNEY WITH SOUL It’s hard to avoid the deeply engrained sense of culture and spirituality, wherever you are in Mayo
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T’S A PRETTY spectacular feeling, to stand in the middle of the Nephinbeg mountain range and gaze out upon your surroundings, unencumbered by any sign of humanity. There are no electricity pylons, no phone lines. No buildings, no towns, no traces of modern life whatsoever… just blankets of rich, green fields dotted with bog cotton and grazing sheep, handsome mountain peaks and rivers that
meander through the land. This whole area would be stunning enough at any time of day. But what makes this region special is the fact that it’s a designated INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY PARK (mayodarkskypark.ie), and was the first of its kind in Ireland. These blissfully unpolluted skies seem vaster than any you’ve ever seen, inky black and ever changing, and they couldn’t be better for stargazing. ➾
PHOTOS: BRIAN WILSON. Boardwalk at the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park.
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PHOTO: GARETH McCORMACK
WILD BALLYCROY WILD NEPHIN WILDNEPHIN NEPHINBALLYCROY BALLYCROY WILD NEPHIN BALLYCROY NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL PARK WILDNATIONAL NEPHIN BALLYCROY WILD NEPHIN BALLYCROY PARK
MIRROR IMAGE. Loch Geal in the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park,
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(wildnephinnationalpark. ie) are swathed in wildflowers, the meadows bursting with colours from tiny poppies, foxgloves and thistles, as bumble bees and butterflies zip in between them all. The nature pond is thrumming with life, from the dragonflies that flit over the surface of the water to the tiny frogs that zoom below. The visitor’s centre itself offers a fascinating insight into the local area, from the wildlife that calls these fields home, to the mythical monsters who were there before us all. You’ll learn about the boglands, and their botanical powers (the moss that grows here has medicinal qualities) as well as how important boglands are to the world’s ecosystem. We in Ireland have 8% of the world’s blanket bog and this is the largest intact bog in existence. There’s a 2km Daithí Bán walking trail, named after the mythical giant who built a fortress on Corslieve, the national park’s tallest mountain. The ➾ PHOTO: NPWS
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F YOU DON’T know your North Star from your Ursa Major, there are people who can guide you through the night sky and leave you with a deeper knowledge of the world above us. But the tours led by the Dark Sky Rangers at Terra Firma (terrafirmaireland.com) are about so much more than stargazing. On a Magic, Myth and Moonlight tour, you’ll be picked up from the nearby town of Newport in the glitzy Starship Express bus and taken into the depths of the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, for a hike like no other. It begins as dusk starts to settle, morphing the bright greens of the lush fields and forest into a moody, atmospheric shade of blue. You hike over the mountain, past babbling brooks and thick forestry as your eyes miraculously adjust to the fading light and the moon and stars emerge on the sky’s canvas. As you trek, you’ll learn all about the night sky, how we’ve used the stars to navigate our way through the world. You’ll also make the most of your heightened senses as the sky grows every darker, and learn how to decipher the noises of the forest to identify the
The Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail Boardwalk
You’ll learn all about the night sky, how we’ve used the stars to navigate our way through the world. native woodland creatures who come out at night. After a beautiful hike through the moonlit terrain, the tour ends at a bothy lit by candles, where you’ll sit with an enamel mug of hot chocolate to be entertained by magic and storytelling by a local seanchaí. But as magical as the Dark Sky Park is at night, it still radiates with charm during daylight hours. The fields that surround the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park visitor centre
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VISITOR CENTRE NATIONAL PARK VISITOR CENTRE VISITOR CENTRE NATIONAL PARK l lSPECIAL EVENTS l SPECIAL SPECIAL EVENTS EVENTS VISITOR CENTRE VISITOR CENTRE l lINTERACTIVE EXHIBITION lVISITOR EXHIBITION INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION CENTRE lINTERACTIVE SPECIAL EVENTS l l lNATURE SPECIAL EVENTS TRAIL LOOP WALK l NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK TRAIL LOOP WALK lNATURE l INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION SPECIAL EVENTS l INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION l lMAYO DARK SKY PARK l MAYO DARK SKYSKY PARK DARK PARK lMAYO l NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION l NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK l lCAFÉ l CAFÉ CAFÉ l l MAYO DARKTRAIL SKY PARK l MAYO NATURE LOOP WALK DARK SKY PARK l lFREE l FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE lFREE l l CAFÉ CAFÉ MAYO DARK SKY PARK l EDUCATION l lEDUCATION CENTRE CENTRE CENTRE l FREE lEDUCATION GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE l FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE CAFÉ
l EDUCATION CENTRE AVAILABLE l l EDUCATION CENTRE FREE GUIDED TOURS
ADMISSION FREE ADMISSION FREE ADMISSION FREE INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION ADMISSION FREE INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION Opening Opening Hours: Opening Hours: INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION ADMISSION FREE Hours: Opening Opening detailsdetails are Hours: subject to change. PleasePlease checkcheck website Opening are subject to change. website NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK Opening INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION details are subject toFREE change. Please check website ADMISSION Opening Hours: NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK l
EDUCATION CENTRE
Visitor Centre Visitor Centre Visitor Centre Visitor Centre Visitor Centre
Opening details are subject to change. Please check website 10am --details 5.30pm, 77days per week 10am - 5.30pm, days per week Opening areHours: subject to7 change. Please check website INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION TEAROOM Opening TEAROOM NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK 10am 5.30pm, days per week TEAROOM 10am 5.30pm, 7 days per week March -- -October March - October Opening details are subject to change. Please check website 10am 5.30pm, NATURE TRAIL LOOP WALK March October FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE TEAROOM March October7 days per week FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE March - October 10am - 5.30pm, 7 days per week TEAROOM EDUCATION CENTRE EDUCATION CENTRE FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE EDUCATION CENTRE March - October FREE GUIDED TOURS AVAILABLE Opening Hours Opening Hours EDUCATION CENTRE Opening Hours EDUCATION 10am - 5.30pm, days. March - October 10am - 5.30pm, 7 days. March - October Opening Hours7CENTRE 10amOpening - 5.30pm, 7 days. March October Hours ADMISSION FREE ADMISSION FREE 10am - 5.30pm, 7 days. March - October ADMISSION FREE 10am - 5.30pm, ADMISSION FREE7 days. March - October ADMISSION FREE
Tel: 098 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie Tel: Tel: 098098 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie
Tel: 098 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie www.wildnephinnationalpark.ie Tel: 098 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie www.ballycroynationalpark.ie www.ballycroynationalpark.ie www.ballycroynationalpark.ie Tel: 098 49888 Email:ballycroyvisitorcentre@chg.gov.ie www.ballycroynationalpark.ie
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The park is swathed in wildflowers, the meadows bursting with colours from tiny poppies, foxgloves and thistles, as bumble bees and butterflies zip in between them all. PHOTO: PHELIM DORAN LANDSCAPES
PHOTO: PHELIM DORAN LANDSCAPES
UST A FEW minutes drive away, the historically important Neolithic site of Céide Fields (ceidefields. com) is also boasting a new addition, in the form of a brand new, state of the art visitors centre. Here, you can discover six millennia of local history, where the oldest stone walled fields in the world lay beneath bogland. Céide Fields also form one of the six stops along the Route Millennia (routemillennia.com), a 60km trail through 600 years of history and culture in the county of Mayo. As well as the Neolithic site, there’s the Foxford Woollen Mills, National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, Belleek Castle, the excellent Jackie Clarke Collection, a museum made up of over 100,000 items. Also part of the route is the Michael Davitt Museum (michaeldavittmuseum. ie). Set in a restored pre-Penal Church in Straide, where Davitt was born, the museum tells the story of this incredible Mayo man, whose activism played an integral role in the creation of land reform and the Land League. He was also a key figure in the formation of the Women’s Land League, the first time women were used in political work. The museum tells his story through fascinating exhibits and pieces, like his walking stick, handwritten letters and postcards – there are even two ➾
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S YOU LEAVE the visitor’s centre and head out along the route along the North Mayo coast, you may well come across some additions to the natural landscape. The Tír Sáile Sculpture Trail (northmayoarttrail. com) is the largest public arts trail ever undertaken in Ireland, encompassing 11 site-specific sculptures on a route that weaves alongside the sea. Some of these artworks blend so immaculately into their surroundings that it’s hard to imagine a time in which they didn’t exist. Many utilise local materials, like Tearmon na Gaoithe which is found on a headland between Killala and Lacken bays and made using local sandstone slabs, inside a ring of stones. If you were told that the sculpture had been in this place for centuries, you would likely believe it. Others have a slightly more modern edge, like A Home for the Children of Lir at the Benwee headland. The use of steel chimes draws upon the natural
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WILD NEPHIN BALLYCROY NATIONAL PARK. (Above and right). It radiates with charm during daylight hours.
THE TÍR SÁILE SCULPTURE TRAIL. (Below). It weaves along the sea and has 11 site-specific sculptures on route.
PHOTO: GARETH McCORMACK
gently sloping trail starts at the visitor centre, and leads up to a viewing point with some incredible panoramic views of the mountains and, on a clear day, all the way out to Achill Island. The car park is open all night so you can take in the night sky, and its 4,500 stars, numerous planets and even the Milky Way, but is equally impressive during the day, when you can watch the light flit across the landscape and change the colour of the mountains as it passes.
A HOME FOR THE CHILDREN OF LIR. At the Benwee headland this sculpture has a more modern edge.
sounds of the ocean, creating a wave of sound as the wind sweeps around the cliffs. It makes sense that Mayo is a paradise for artists. The sheer beauty of the natural landscape serves as endless inspiration, which is why so many flock
to the area for their work. A great deal of them end up at the Ballinglen Arts Foundation (ballinglenartsfoundation. org), located in the pretty village of Ballycastle. This non profit organisation provides a space for artists to both exhibit and work – they come and stay
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in the village and work in their own studio space as part of the residency programmes, which draw artists from all over the world. You couldn’t imagine a more inspiring setting to create art – even the space in which the artists sit with a cup of tea looks out over the moody, vibrant seascape as the ocean glistens in the background. While the foundation has been in operation since 2014, the gallery itself is a new addition, a bright and airy space with rotating pieces on display from the artists who have visited and stayed in the past. The pieces range from classic oil paintings to abstract pieces, all reflecting the magical beauty of the area in a modern and inviting space (complete with a very cool glass floor).
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CÉIDE FIELDS. Discover the Neolithic bog lands.
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TERRA FIRMA
Hiking, Stargazing & Cultural Tours
JOHN JOYCE
NORTH MAYO HERITAGE CENTRE. (Far left). A chance to trace your geneology.
STRAIDE ABBEY. (Left). You can visit the grave of Michael Davitt.
MICHAEL MCLOUGLIN STUDIOS
From the Greenway to the Milky Way – The Difference is Night and Day!
KNOCK SHRINE. Pilgrims are welcomed from all over the world.
armchairs on display that were salvaged from his Dublin home. At the back of the museum is the grave of Michael Davitt, as well as the ruins of the Straide Abbey, complete with unique and exceptionally preserved carvings, as well as a sculptured tomb. Half an hour away you’ll find another excellent example of preserved carvings in Ballintubber Abbey (ballintubberabbey.ie), a working church surrounded by the ruins of the old abbey, complete with carvings and Celtic symbols that are centuries old. And behind it all, you’ll see the peak of Croagh Patrick – Ballintubber Abbey is the starting point for the Tóchar Phádraig, a pilgrimage that leads from the church all the way to the top of this spiritually significant mountain. Another site of spiritual significance, the Father Peyton Memorial Centre (fatherpeytoncentre.ie) is up near Ballina and offers a fascinating insight into the Venerable Patrick Peyton, who was born in Attymass. You can take a guided tour, see the rare memorabilia they have available to view and light a candle for a loved one.
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T BALLINTUBBER ABBEY. A working chutch with ancient Celtic carvings.
Of course, one of the best-known spiritual sights in Mayo is Knock (knockshrine.ie). Every year, thousands of pilgrims make the journey to this church, museum and shrine, which is one of the most spiritually significant locations in Ireland. Back in 1879, fifteen people from the village witnessed an Apparition of Our Lady, St. Joseph, St. John the Evangelist, a Lamb and a Cross on an altar within the church. While the rain fell, those fifteen people watched the Apparition remain miraculously dry, and since then, Knock has welcomed pilgrims from all over the world, who wish to be cured of an ailment, learn more about the miracle or simply soak up the energy of this sacred space. If you have connections to Mayo, you can trace your genealogy in the North Mayo Heritage Centre (northmayogenealogy.com), on the estate of Enniscoe House. The Family History Research Unit is renowned for its resources, with a database of over a million records, many of which you couldn’t even find online were you to delve into your history at home. There’s
also a museum, with artefacts on display that evoke a real sense of history within Mayo. After all, this is a county that’s got a captivating, and sometimes tragic, past. In 1912, 14 people from Addergoole in North Mayo set sail on the Titanic. 11 of them sadly perished, and are commemorated in the Addergoole Titanic Memorial Park. You can pay tribute to more of the fallen souls of Mayo at the Mayo Peace Park in Castlebar. This moving Garden of Remembrance commemorates those who served and died in the major world wars and conflicts over the past century, their names engraved in black granite. Strolling between the stones and reading the names makes for an emotive, poignant experience. It’s hard to avoid the deeply engrained sense of culture and spirituality, wherever you are in Mayo. From the enthralling romance of the star-dappled sky to the awe-inspiring feeling you get from standing within an ancient church, Mayo has a way of filling you with a sense of wonder that you just can’t shake. n
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ERRA FIRMA IRELAND is a bespoke hiking, stargazing and cultural walking tour provider, based in Newport, County Mayo. Business owners, Georgia MacMillan and Ged Dowling combined their expertise as mountain leaders and tour guides with their passion for the night sky to create unique experiences from the ‘Greenway to the Milky Way’. County Mayo is now a leading destination for stargazing. In May 2016, Wild Nephin National Park received a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park accreditation, following the research and application process completed by Georgia and Ged. Terra Firma has created unique tours and experiences within the Dark Sky Park and surrounding areas. These are ideal for small groups to enjoy evenings out in County Mayo’s stunning wilderness under celestial night skies. Terra Firma’s ‘Magic, Myth and Moonlight’ tour has become a signature experience and whisks visitors away on board the “Starlight Express” for a laser pointer tour of the night sky constellations. Finishing the evening with some enchanting storytelling and close up magic from local seanchaí Dan O’Donoghue. “Re-connecting people with the night sky is a cultural experience
and we are generating considerable interest. There are no other businesses offering the after dark experiences Terra Firma have created, so we are proud to say with confidence that they are unique. Visitors who live under heavily polluted skies are blown away when they experience the beauty of The Milky Way.” says Georgia.
Venus and Pleaides over Altnabrocky.
Terra Firma is not just active after dark. We have designed unique day tours around County Mayo to take our guests off the beaten path with expert local guides. If you are looking stay a little longer and enjoy total cultural immersion, you can avail of one of our multi day tours along Mayo’s Wild Atlantic Way coastline, staying with local accommodation providers
ranging from luxurious period houses to farmhouse B&Bs. Alternatively, let us assist you to create your own bespoke adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether it’s walking or sightseeing, we avoid typical tourist routes and introduce the visitor to places we like to bring our friends. Our tours are tailored for small groups, to provide a more intimate, authentic experience. Our daytime tours feature sacred sites, fairy forts and folklore. For those seeking wide open space, we offer wilderness experiences in the mountains of Achill, Connemara or the most remote mountains in Ireland, the Nephin Beg range. All our hiking guides have Mountain Leader, Advanced Leave No Trace trainer and Remote Emergency First aid qualifications, BA Hons. Degrees in Outdoor Education. As well as having numerous years of experience guiding, we have a love of the landscape, heritage, culture and are passionate about introducing all of this to visitors. Oh, and we’ve also been nominated for a few awards too. 2017: Finalists in the SICAP Enterprise award 2018: Outsider Magazine Eco-Hero award 2019: International Dark Sky Association Dark Sky Defender Award 2019: Mayo Best Tourism Business Award Finalist
www.TerraFirmaIreland.com Tel: +353 89 240 9015 (Ged) / +353 86 859 5166 (Georgia) Facebook.com/TerraFirmaClub Twitter.com/TerraFirmaClub Instagram.com/TerraFirmaIreland
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
Try Jack Fenn’s infamous Drunken Bullock beef fillet, which is spiced and flambéed with whiskey!
DELICIOUS. The oysters from Achill Island are known around the world for their incredible quality and taste. JACK FENN’S BISTRO. (Right) Situated in the beautiful courtyard of Belleek Castle, Jack Fenn’s is the home of elevated, imaginative cuisine.
PAUL DORAN
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EAT YOUR WAY AROUND
THE FOODIE CAPITAL OF IRELAND ??????????
In Mayo there’s always something delicious right around the corner
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There’s even a designated trail especially designed for gourmands. The Gourmet Greenway marks the places that your taste buds don’t want to miss, focusing on the areas along the Great Western Greenway. You can pick up a map at the Mulranny Park Hotel (mulrannyparkhotel.ie), where the idea for the Gourmet Greenway began, and make your plans from there. Though your trail could begin in the hotel itself, with a menu created using ingredients from all of the key local producers – think fresh, plump oysters and perfectly pink and juicy Achill lamb.
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There are also numerous activities for guests (and their children) who want to forge a better connection to the food that’s on their plates. Three times a week, the hotel organises a Seashore Safari, where kids can go and catch crabs and shrimp for their dinner. There are also beer and wine tastings for the adults, as well as baking classes with the chef. If you’d rather leave the baking to the experts, make a visit to one of the newer members of the Gourmet Greenway, Cornrue Bakery in
Westport. Here, you’ll find the most perfect loaves of sourdough you could dream of, tangy and airy with a glossy, buttery crust. There’s often a Saturday market outside too, with local flowers and vegetables for sale, along with mussels from Killary Harbour. Westport is a wonderful town for foodies – take a stroll along the streets and you’ll find many a delicacy, whether you want to sit down for a full meal or pick up some local treats in a gourmet grocery to nibble on a picnic. It’s not the only foodie hub in ➾
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PAUL DORAN
T’S ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE to have a bad meal in Mayo. This is the land of quiveringly fresh seafood, of tender mountain lamb and dishes speckled with umami-rich seaweed. In Mayo, good produce can be found around every little corner, whether it’s made in the salt plains of Achill or kneaded in a boutique bakery in Westport. The best news? This excellent, locally grown food is found on the menu of every café, restaurant and bar in the county.
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Experience the wild and wonderful at
The Ice House
ACHILL MOUNTAIN LAMB. The famous Blackface Mountain sheep are bred, reared and butchered on the Calvey family farm.
PAUL DORAN
CALVEY
JACK FENN’S BISTRO. (Right). It offers amazing dishes.
Set right on the banks of the Majestic River Moy, the Ice House Hotel is a sparkling gem of style and sophistication. Enjoy dishes to delight, afternoon tea to die for, panoramic river views, the award winning Chill Spa and bubbling hot tubs right at the water’s edge. For Foxford Woollen Mills, the Ceide Fields, Dun Briste Sea Stack, Downpatrick Head & all the amazing attractions along North Mayo’s Wild Atlantic Way, it’s your perfect jumping off point.
THE ICE HOUSE, THE QUAY, BALLINA, CO. MAYO
KELLY’S KITCHEN
CONOR MCKEOWN
TO BOOK, CALL 096 23500 OR VISIT THEICEHOUSE.IE
THE OCTAGON. Westport has something to offer all foodies.
Mayo – the village of Cong has long celebrated its culinary prowess, in the form of the Cong Food Village and accompanying festival held each year. With members made up of local producers, suppliers and businesses, the collective is a one-stop shop for delicious local nibbles, and the Cong Food Festival is the highlight of the year.
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VER IN NEWPORT, a longstanding member of the Gourmet Greenway is Kelly’s Kitchen (kellyskitchen.ie). Run by Shauna Kelly the daughter of the beloved butcher Sean Kelly who is right next door, Kelly’s is the perfect little café for a bite to eat and is (rightly) famous for their breakfasts. And why wouldn’t they be, when the dry cured rashers and sausages are not only award winning,
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KELLY’S KITCHEN. A perfect little café in Newport.
but sourced from just a few steps away. If you love pudding, you’re in for a treat – the black and white puddings served either in their full Irish or in a black & white goat which is legendary, or accompanying with boxty & apple puree. There are a few members from Achill on the Gourmet Greenway, too. Like the famous Achill Island Sea Salt (achillislandseasalt.ie), home of the ingredient that blesses practically every dish in Mayo. This home-grown salt is found in the cupboard of every foodie across the country, and now you can see how it’s made on one of their tours, where you can walk around the glass room and watch the process of its creation, from the surrounding seas to the finished product. There’s an excellent coffee truck outside, too. Another Achill ingredient you’ll
find on menus aplenty is the local mountain lamb and mutton, with a flavour that’s unique to the island - heather-sweetened & seasideseasoned! The sheep graze on a rich carpet of wild plants from heather-rich hilltops to seaweed-strewn shorelines. The Calvey family have been hill-farming for generations. You can take tours with them at Calvey’s, Achill Mountain Lamb (calveysachillmountainlamb.ie) between April and October. You will learn how they do it all from rearing the sheep to exquisite artisan meat products. You can even try your hand at shearing and watch the border collie dogs herd the sheep, before finishing up with a tasting of their delicious lamb & mutton in their farmhouse The oysters from Achill Island are known around the world for their incredible quality and taste. Sustainably ➾
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HEFFERNANS FOR TASTY FOODS FROM BREAKFAST TO DINNER MADE AND SERVED WITH CARE. HEFFERNANS FINE FOODS 4 Market Square – Ballina, Mayo, Ireland HEIFER + HEN RESTAURANT First Floor, 4 Market Square – Ballina, Mayo, Ireland TELEPHONE 096 21218 096 73528
heffernansfinefoods.ie
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The legendary black pudding from Kelly’s Kitchen.
sourced from the impeccable Atlantic waters around the island, these oysters are found in Michelin-starred restaurants all around the globe, but will never taste as good as they do when they’re freshly plucked from the sea, with a plump salinity that simply can’t be beaten. You’ll find them all over Mayo, but they may be freshest at the Chalet Seafood Restaurant, where they only have to travel a few miles before they’re shucked and on a plate in front of you, needing only a tiny squeeze of lemon and a glass of Guinness on the side (the chocolaty note from the stout matches perfectly with the saltiness of the oyster). The entire county is a wonder for seafood, whether you want to indulge in a world-class restaurant or simply pick up some treats to cook in your own kitchen. Head to the pier at Blacksod and you may well meet some local fisherman, fresh back from a jaunt around Inis Gé island, who will be happy to sell you some glossy mackerel, crab claws or fresh lobster. If you’d rather someone else do the hard work for you, head to Poacher Restaurant, the newest addition to Ballina, where the dishes are as delicious as they are beautiful – and that’s saying something. Even the warm bread that appears as you take your seat is influenced by the sea, infused with local seaweed and spicy black pepper, and slathered in creamy bright yellow butter sprinkled with sea salt. When it comes to main courses, seafood takes centre stage – think pan-fried sea trout with a skin so crisp you can crack it with a fork to reveal shimmering, slippery flesh. Or meaty monkfish from the Atlantic, gently poached in a fragrant and ever so slightly spicy olive oil.
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Reel Deel Brewery offer a range of ales. CONNAUGHT WHISKEY. (Above). There are two distillery tours held per day where you can sample Brothership and Ballyhoo whiskeys. JACK FENN’S BISTRO. (Left). Set in an historic 19th coach house.
POACHER RESTAURANT (Below). Ballina’s newest addition.
Ballyhoo and Brothership Connaught Whiskey.
Head to Poacher Restaurant, the newest addition to Ballina, where the dishes are as delicious as they are beautiful
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OT TOO FAR away, in the beautiful courtyard of Belleek Castle (belleekcastle. com), Jack Fenn’s Bistro is the perfect spot for lunch, after a stroll in the Belleek Woods. Housed in the historic 19th century coach house, Jack Fenn’s is the home of elevated, imaginative cuisine utilising the best of locally grown produce. Expect to see dishes like smoked duck salad with dressing made with their own gooseberries, or a divilish steak
Enjoy a delicious Pan Fried West Coast Sea Trout and Carpaccio of Smoked Tuna served at Ballina’s new Poacher Restaurant.
sandwich made with their infamous Drunken Bullock beef fillet, which is spiced and flambéed with whiskey. Handily enough, there’s a distillery right on the estate of Belleek Castle. Connaught Whiskey (connachtwhiskey.com) is one of the first modern distillers who opened with the aim of bringing Irish whiskey back to boutique, local producers. Their first batch of hand-crafted single
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malt pot still Irish whiskey has just been uncorked, after being barrel aged on site for three years and a day. There are two distillery tours held per day, which take you on a walk around the distillery and end with a tasting in the small bar, so you can sample their wares. There are a few varieties on hand, like their Brothership whiskey, a smoky blend made in conjunction with their sister distillery in Philadelphia, and Ballyhoo, a whiskey finished with port. They also experiment with different barrel
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casks too – one batch was aged in Amarone red wine for a fascinating fruity note. It’s not just whiskey being made, either – they also produce a top-notch vodka, fragrant gin and delicious poitín (which makes a killer margarita). It’s not just spirits made in Mayo – the county is a paradise for craft beer fans. The Reel Deel Brewery (reeldeelbrewery.ie) in Crossmolina produce a beautifully designed range of ales, from the Say Nowt Stout
to the Irish Blonde. Down in Westport, you can take a tour of the Mescan Brewery (mescanbrewery.com) and try a few of their renowned craft beers, lagers and stouts. There’s certainly something special about a county where everything, from the oysters on your plate to the whiskey in your glass, is all produced right within its borders. In Mayo, there’s always something delicious right around the corner. n
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GARETH McCORMACK
ESCAPE, EXPLORE, ENJOY
BALLYGLASS LIGHTHOUSE
ON THE CEIDE COAST.
ANNAGH STRAND.
© Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence Number NMA 2020/Mayo County Council.
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ON THE EDGE. You’ll get an amazing view of the Dún Briste sea stack.
GREAT DAYS OUT SAMPLE ITINERARIES
However long you have to explore and whatever you want to see, this is how to make the most of your trip ITINERARY 1
Four Days Along the Wild Atlantic Way
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HIS 2,500KM ROUTE weaves alongside the west coast of Ireland, taking in some of the most beautiful sights on the way. But the 543km long stretch in Mayo is particularly jaw dropping, encompassing wide white sand beaches, dramatic blowholes and cliffs that will take your breath away. Make the most of it on a four-day trip that will tick off all the major hot spots.
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Day 1
n Start off in Ballina, and make your way along the coast to Downpatrick Head, the first of the Signature Discovery Points in Mayo. Walk up to the edge of the cliffs and you’ll find the ground bouncing beneath your feet, as you stroll on springy domes of moss that give the whole area an otherworldly feel. At the edge, you’ll get an amazing view of the Dún Briste sea
stack, rising triumphantly out of the Atlantic as the waves crash at its base. For the best view, lie on your stomach and peek over the edge – it’s one of the most impressive sights you could ask for. Back towards the car park is Poll na Scantoine, a blowhole that emerges a few feet back from the cliffs, surrounded by a huge piece of art by Washington architect Travis Price, called The Crossing. It’s one of the
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14 conceptual pieces of art that make up Tír Sáile – The North Mayo Sculpture Trail, so keep an eye out for other pieces along the way. A few minutes along the coastline is the Neolithic site of Céide Fields, with a fascinating exhibition centre. An added bonus? The incredible views from the glass pyramid right at the top, so don’t leave without heading up there. From here, the route cuts in a little from the edge
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of the coast but weaves through beautiful bogland and countryside, until you make you way through the Gaeltacht and up to Carrowteige. This is one of the spots that is effectively a one-way path “off” the main route, but boy, is it worth it. Drive up to the headland and you’ll be met with a cliff top almost magical in its beauty, particularly if you get there as the sun begins to set and the sky is ablaze in colour. ➾
CÉIDE FIELDS. Discover 3,000 years of Neolithic history.
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6 GREAT DAYS OUT: SAMPLE ITINERARIES
THE AWARD WINNING PYRAMIDSHAPED VISITOR CENTRE.
Day 2
n Along the entirety of the Wild Atlantic Way there are over 150 Discovery Points, most of which are marked with a bronze way finder. A huge number of these are in Mayo, but 12 of them are in the Erris region alone, which means a day spent here is an absolute must. Start off in Erris Head, before making your way to Dún na mBó, another of the blowholes along the coast, where turquoise water swirls like a vortex right in front of your eyes. Continue around the Mullet Peninsula and you’ll find a huge variety of tiny beaches with sand so white it could pass for the tropics. Trá Oilí beach is one of the finest, and is ideal if you fancy a dip. Continue down to the very end of the peninsula and to the lighthouse at Blacksod, as well as the holy place of Fál Mór, before driving back to Belmullet.
FINDER. Over 150 Discovery Points.
Céide Fields A LANDSCAPE FOSSILISED Come and visit the most extensive Stone Age monument and landscape in Europe
BOG ASPHODEL.
Céide Fields, Glenurla, Ballycastle, Co. Mayo. F26 PF66
For daily opening hours and visitor information call +353 (096) 43325 or go to www.heritageireland.ie ON THE BOARDWALK. Walk the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park.
Day 4
KEEM BAY. Just one of the many stunning beaches Mayo has to offer.
Day 3
n Make your way towards Mulranny, passing through the beautiful Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park as you do. Meander along the road to Achill, past peaceful waters and thick pine forests, before passing over the bridge to the island itself. There are two loops on the island, so start off by going north up to Pollawaddy Strand, then all the way around to Keel Strand to watch the surfers do their thing. Then head up to Keem Bay, a stunning
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THE AWARD WINNING VISITOR CENTRE.
WHEN YOU FIRST see the spectacular wild boglands of Erris you may not realise that this blanket of soft bog covers an entirely different landscape hidden underneath. This is the Céide Fields, a Stone Age farmed countryside that gives a unique insight into the sophistication of early farming nearly 6,000 years ago. On Guided Tours visitors can be an archaeologist by probing for a field wall 2m beneath their feet, unseen in over five millenia. The award winning Vistor Centre run by OPW is spectacularly located beside the north Mayo cliffs. It houses exibitions on the bogs, archaeology and geology of the area as well as a restaurant. Translations of exhibitions are provided in French, Italian, German, Spanish, Dutch and Polish. The glass roof of the pyramid allows panoramic views from Donegal and Sligo to the Stags of Broadhaven and the sweeping bog covered hills and ever changing ocean of the Wild Atlantic Way.
MAYO – The Ultimate Guide
little crescent of pristine beach, with hardy mountain sheep dotted along the cliffs that hug the coastline. When you leave the island, head along the southern road to Mulranny and stop at the Spanish Armada viewpoint, where you’ll get an exceptional view of Clew Bay, which is blessed with 365 islands – one for every day of the year. These views continue all the way into the town of Westport, where you can wrap things up with a seafood dinner.
n Allow a little time to explore Westport itself, meandering between its charming cafés, boutiques and pubs – a pint in Matt Molloy’s is essential, to soak in the cosy atmosphere and maybe take in a trad session. The town is a great base from which to explore this stretch of coastline, incorporating the hundreds of islands dotted in Clew Bay. The best way to take it all in? Head up the iconic Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s sacred mountain, to be met with views spanning the entire bay, and further out over the gorgeous scenery of south Mayo. Nearby, Louisburgh is home to some beautiful white sand beaches, like Carrownisky and Old Head, which is surrounded by woodland. It’s also where you’ll find Roonagh Pier, the gateway to Clare Island or Inishturk. ➾ ➾
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Explore the story of Michael Davitt Ireland’s greatest patriot and the most influential International Irishman of the 19th Century
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HE COLLECTION is housed in the magnificently restored re-penal church in the village of Straide, Co. Mayo. The exhibits reflect the multifaceted nature of Davitt’s life. Michael Davitt was a founding member of the Land League, a Fenian, Labour Leader, Journalist, Author, Parliamentarian and Humanitarian. In addition to his role in Irish politics, themes explored include Davitt’s association with the Indian Nationalist Leader Mahatma Gandhi, the 1st President of the Republic of China, Dr. Sun-Yat-Sen and former United States President Theodore Roosevelt. Davitt was uniquely a patron of Glasgow Celtic Football Club and the G.A.A. His tireless activism greatly improved the lives of millions of people worldwide. The museum is part of an expansive, beautifully maintained site which includes ample parking and a substantial picnic area. It is also adjacent to Straide Abbey which contains magnificently preserved medieval sculpture.
OPENING HOURS: Tuesday to Saturday, March to September 10.30am to 5.30pm, October to February 9.30am to 4.30pm ADMISSION: Adults €5 and Children €3 NOTE: Visitors to the museum will receive a free pass to the Céide Fields Visitor Centre CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 094 9031942 EMAIL: davittmuseum@gmail.com WEB: www.michaeldavittmuseum.ie
6 GREAT DAYS OUT: SAMPLE ITINERARIES
ITINERARY 2
Great things to do on a Rainy Day
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ON’T LET THE weather dampen your spirit – even if you’re not blessed with amazing weather during your stay, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Mayo. Whether you want to wander around a fascinating museum or treat yourself in a luxurious spa, you’ll soon forget about the rain outside…
CHILL OUT AT THE ICE HOUSE CHILL SPA.
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n The National Museum of Country Life is just outside of Castlebar, and is a fantastic place to visit if it’s drizzly. Wander around the rooms in the grand old mansion before pottering around the main exhibitions and treating yourself to pot of tea and a homemade scone in Brambles Café. Even if it’s raining, you can still explore the gardens, particularly the Victorian greenhouse where it always feels like summer. Afterwards, drive down to Ballintubber Abbey and continue the theme by popping into the Celtic Furrow, an exhibition space that traces the cultural, historical and spiritual roots in Ireland over the last 5,000 years. Then take in the beautiful abbey itself, including a walk around the grounds if the weather allows. Afterwards, cosy up with dinner by the fire in Corley’s Bar, just over the road.
n Still raining? Well, there’s only one thing for it – a morning of pampering in one of Mayo’s luxurious spas. Head to the Ice House in Ballina, where their indoor/outdoor spa features cedar wood hot tubs and glass-walled saunas overlooking the River Moy. Or try Mount Falcon, with a beautiful indoor pool set among the forestry. The spa in Ashford Castle is perhaps one of the finest in the country, set inside a Victorian glass greenhouse with a beautiful pool, Hammam and steam rooms. To finish off the cosy vibes, visit the Connaught Whiskey Distillery, for a tour and a tasting in the bar. No matter how drizzly the day, it’s nothing that a snifter of whiskey can’t cure.
MICHAEL DAVITT MUSEUM.
KNOCK SHRINE.
JACKIE CLARKE MUSEUM.
Day 2
n Start off in the Michael Davitt Museum, dedicated to the life of Mayo’s native hero and founder of the Land League. Though the space is small, it would be easy to flit away an hour or two browsing the fascinating exhibits – if you get chatting to one of the friendly staff, then time really will fly. Afterwards, head up the road to the Foxford Woollen Mills, which dates all the way back to 1892. Take a tour of the mills themselves, before browsing the beautiful throws and homewares and sitting down to an excellent lunch in their café. In the afternoon, make your way to one of the quirkiest museums in the country, the Jackie Clarke Collection. The collection itself contains over 100,000 items spanning over 400 years, all belonging to one man, Jackie Clarke. The space holds thousands of pieces, like letters from Michael Collins, maps from the 1600s and political posters from the 1800s.
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FREE ADMISSION
Day 4
Open Daily 12 noon to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday. Pearse Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo T: +353 (0) 96 73508 E: clarkecollection@mayococo.ie W: www.clarkecollection.ie
n When it’s drizzly outside, it’s impossible not to dream of warm, cosy blankets and thick woolly scarves. Which is why a visit to the Foxford Woollen Mills is the perfect plan – you can browse their collection of herringbone throws, cashmere scarves and tweed caps, all made on site in their mills. Don’t skip a visit to the Foxford Café, where you can sit down to a meal of delicious homemade treats, featuring the best local produce and herbs grown in their very own garden. Not too far away you’ll find Knock Shrine, the scene of a vision in 1879, where villagers saw an Apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since then, Knock has been a destination for pilgrims from all over the world. You can take self-guided tours of Knock Shrine, and also discover 140 years of history in the Knock Museum.
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6 GREAT DAYS OUT: SAMPLE ITINERARIES
PEDDLE POWER. On the 42km stretch of the Great Western Greenway.
Day 2
ITINERARY 3
Great for Getting Active
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F YOU WANT to have an adventure, there’s no better place than Mayo. Whether you fancy an adrenalinefuelled thrill ride or simply a lovely walk with incredible views, there’s something for you…
Day 1
n Erris was voted the best place in Ireland to go wild, so it makes sense to start your adventure there. Kick things off on Erris Head, where the 5km walking trail gives you some of the best views in Ireland – keep an eye on the sea, where you can spot Peregrine falcons, dolphins and even whales if you’re lucky. Allow a couple of hours to enjoy the whole walk at your leisure, particularly at the look out point at the northernmost tip, where you’ll get great views of the sea stacks and arches. For an alternative viewpoint, take a boat tour along the coastline, where you’ll get a unique view of the headland from the water. Fancy a bit more of an adrenaline rush? Take to the sea on a kayak, and bob along on the waves as you drink in the scenery.
n The Great Western Greenway was the first of its kind in Ireland, and has spawned countless similar projects all around the country. This 42km stretch follows the route of the Westport railway line from the 1890s, which spanned from Westport out to Achill Sound. The last train ran back in 1937, but now life has returned to the former tracks, with hundreds of thousands of visitors using the Greenway each year, either on foot, horseback or by bicycle. Renting a bike in Westport or Newport is the best idea, mostly because the bike hire companies will then pick you up in Achill, to save you cycling all the way back. If you’re cycling the whole stretch, stop off in Newport for a refuelling lunch in The Gráinne Uaile, sitting outside if you want to enjoy the views. There are also picnic spots along the way where you can stop for a breather, before heading back on this exceptionally beautiful route. ➾
Take to the sea on a kayak, and bob along on the waves as you drink in the scenery.
SEA KAYAKING ON THE NORTH MAYO COAST.
ERRIS HEAD. One oif the best views in Ireland.
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6 GREAT DAYS OUT: SAMPLE ITINERARIES
An airport without all the crowds and hassle? Your prayers, answered.
Day 3
n There’s no better place for adventure than Achill Island, particularly if you want to try your hand at something new. Take a surf lesson on Keel Beach, a great spot for beginners with gentle waves that don’t feel too intimidating. Smaller children or those who are a little more cautious will love body boarding, too. If you do get bitten by the surfing bug, you can also take a lesson at Carrowniksy near Louisburgh, where the waves are perfection. After a hefty lunch, take in one of the island’s excellent walking routes. If you’re a seasoned hill walker, Croaghaun mountain is a challenge, but comes the reward of the highest sea cliffs in Ireland at the peak. It’s a tough climb, but well worth it. If you fancy something a little more accessible, there’s a great 7km loop from Keem Bay that takes in some of the island’s historical sights as well as incredible views of the coast. Finish things off with a seaweed bath, soaking in hot water and freshly harvested seaweed, as you look out over the sea.
CROAGHAUN MOUNTAIN. Looking over Achill Island.
Day 4
n Kick off your day in the best way possible – by leaping into the water from the piers at Old Head Beach, near Louisburgh. On sunny days, there’s always a gaggle of local adrenaline junkies ready to jump into the water, cheered on by their friends on the pier. Afterwards, head over to Clare Island on the ferry and explore all that it has to offer. It’s another great spot for sea kayaking, where you can paddle around the shores and discover all of the cliffs and little sea caves that line the island. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can scale the cliff faces with a rock climbing and abseiling excursion.
Day 5
RIVER MOY. Try fishing in Ballina.
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n If you’re a fishing aficionado, you’ll be positively spoiled for choice in Mayo. The River Moy in Ballina is the Salmon Capital of Ireland, and is unparalleled when it comes to angling and fly-fishing. The area is also rich with lakes that are perfect for trout fishing, but the North Mayo coastline is also great for sea-angling, with up to 34 species swimming in the waters. Further inland, Lough Carra is a wonderful spot for trout, as well as a spectacular place to spend a few hours, shrouded by picturesque forestry. Lough Mask is another top choice, famous for its large brown trout. n
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