One of Ireland’s rugged west coast counties, County Mayo is a place where dramatic Atlantic Cliffs meet quiet boglands, sacred mountains rise above island-dotted bays, and traditional music drifts from warmly lit pubs.
Mayo is the heartbeat of The Wild Atlantic Way with the longest coastline, the largest island and the highest sea cliffs in Ireland. It also boasts a rich tapestry of landscape, from lonely islands to magnificent mountain valleys. Mayo offers visitors a rich blend of scenery, heritage, outdoor adventure, and living culture.
Mayo has many vibrant towns, Castlebar, Newport, Westport and Ballina are often the first stops for travellers. All are ideal bases for exploring their own wider regions, with a lively arts and festival scene, they all offer parkland walks and beautiful surrounding views.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Great Western Greenway, a 42-kilometre walking and cycling trail stretching from Westport to Achill Island with sweeping coastal and mountain views throughout.
Dominating the skyline is Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain. Pilgrims climb it each July on “Reek Sunday”, but it’s a rewarding ascent year-round, offering spectacular Atlantic views.
While Mayo’s Islands may feel remote and windswept, their views are postcard-perfect. Achill’s Keem Bay’s turquoise waters and sands, the Cliffs of Croaghaun tower dramatically over the sea. The deserted village beneath Slievemore Mountain offers a poignant glimpse into famine-era history.
Scattered across Clew Bay are Clare Island and Inishturk. Clare Island was once the stronghold of the famed pirate queen Grace O’Malley, who is said to be buried at Clare Island Abbey. Further into the Atlantic lies Inishturk, also known for its rugged cliffs and clear waters. All islands offer superb hiking trails, with sweeping panoramic views.
In North Mayo, Downpatrick Head stuns visitors with its towering sea stack, Dún Briste. Nearby, the Céide Fields reveal Stone Age farming landscapes preserved beneath bogland, while Ballycroy National Park protects vast tracts of wilderness ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Religious heritage also plays a role in Mayo’s identity. The village of Knock is home to Ireland’s major International Marian Shrine, attracting up to 500,000 pilgrims from around the world each year.
Mayo’s cultural calendar brings communities alive year-round. Traditional Irish music sessions are common in towns like Westport, Ballina, and Louisburgh, especially during peak season.
Mayo has over 100 tracks and trails throughout the County and has so much more to offer walking enthusiasts than any other county in the country! There are all kinds of walking trails, including Mountain, Coastal and Island, Rural and Urban Greenways, and National Loop Trails. Here you will find an abundance of information, including directions, detailed maps, descriptions and photographs.
One of the newer experiences in Mayo is the Velorail located in Kiltimagh.
The unique velorail experience offers a one-of-a-kind journey along disused railway lines, where you can pedal your way through stunning landscapes and explore hidden gems at your own pace. Founded with a passion for sustainable tourism, Velorail is committed to providing eco-friendly, fun-filled adventures for all ages. The velorail routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that everyone can share in the excitement of this extraordinary way to travel.
County Mayo invites you to breathe deeply, embrace Atlantic winds, and experience Ireland at its most elemental. From sacred summits to island beaches, ancient archaeology to vibrant festivals, Mayo blends natural drama with heartfelt hospitality. For those seeking both adventure and authenticity, this western county offers an unforgettable journey.
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