Explore the local area

Croagh Patrick (Cruach Phadraig), nicknamed the reek, is a 764-metre (2,507-ft) mountain that is well worth climbing for the stunning views and the hiking challenge! It is 8.5 kilometres (5 miles) from Westport, above the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey, and is the third highest mountain in County Mayo after Mweelrea and Nephin. Every “reek Sunday,” the last Sunday in July, over 15,000 pilgrims climb it—some even barefoot!

Connemara national park is an area of scenic beauty spanning nearly 3,000 hectares. There are several things to see and do in the park including guided and self-guided walks (including diamond hill), Connemara ponies, exhibitions, an audio visual show, children’s playground and nature trails to name but a few. It consists of picturesque expanses of bog lands, heaths, grasslands, woodlands and mountains.

The Great Western Greenway (Bealach mew ani arthair) is a stunning off-road trail for cyclists and walkers in County mayo. It is a 42km (26 mile) route divided into 3 sections - 11km from Westport to Newport, 18km from Newport to Mulranny, 11km from Mulranny to Achill. It follows along the coast of Clew bay on the route of the former Achill extension of the Westport railway line.

Kylemore Abbey (Mainistir na Coille moire) is a benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara, County Galway. The abbey was founded for benedictine nuns who fled Belgium during World War I. The estate includes large walled victorian gardens which have been open since the the 1970s to public tours and nature walks.
The benedictine community have restored the abbey’s gardens and cathedral with donations and local artisans, so as to be a self-sustaining estate.

Take a cruise on Killary fjord (an Caolaire rua) and take in some truly beautiful scenery - the fjord forms a natural border between counties Galway and Mayo. It is 16 kilometres long and in the centre is over 45 metres deep. On its northern shore lies Mweelrea, Connacht’s highest mountain, rising to 814 metres. To the south rise the Maumturk mountains and the twelve bens. The area contains some of Ireland’s most awe inspiring and dramatic scenery.

Fishing permits can be easily obtained from both Delphi Lodge and Eriff Fisheries in Leenane, offering access to some of the best angling spots in the region. The nearby rivers provide excellent opportunities for salmon and trout fishing, attracting both seasoned anglers and beginners. Scenic surroundings enhance the experience.

According to tradition, Clew bay has 365 islands - one for everyday of the year! overlooked by Croagh patrick, it is the most spectacular bay in Ireland. With partly drowned drumlins, its largest island, Clare island, is famous for its historical and archaeological sites. the unique bay is surrounded by some of the best blue flag beaches in Ireland, perfect for many adventure sports.

The Doolough tragedy is an event that took place in mayo in 1849 during the great Irish famine. many people, including women and children, lost their lives by the shores of Doolough lake making the 19km journey from Louisburgh to Delphi lodge. a cross erected at Doolough and an annual famine Walk between Louisburgh and Doolough commemorate this event.