Stretching along Ireland’s rugged western seaboard, the Wild Atlantic Way is a journey of raw beauty, epic scenery and rich cultural heritage. Nowhere is this more true than in my native county, Mayo, one of the most captivating and unmissable sections of the route. From towering peaks and ancient castles to windswept islands and starlit skies, Mayo offers something for every kind of traveller.
At the heart of Mayo’s mystique lies Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s most famous holy mountain. Standing at 764 metres, this pilgrimage site has drawn walkers and worshippers for centuries. The 12km return trail offers a challenging yet rewarding climb, with breathtaking views over Clew Bay and its countless drumlin islands. Even if you don’t make it to the summit, the midway points offer stunning panoramas and a real sense of connection to the landscape. I recently climbed this again and my adventure is detailed in an article elsewhere in this supplement.
For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, the Great Western Greenway is a must. Spanning 42km from Westport to Achill, this mostly traffic-free cycling and walking trail winds through some of Mayo’s prettiest villages and most dramatic countryside. It is one of Ireland’s longest off-road greenways, perfect for soaking in the scenery at your own pace.
Speaking of Westport, don’t miss Westport House and Adventure Park – a delightful day out for families. Built in 1730, the house itself is a beautifully preserved Georgian mansion full of art, artefacts and history. Outside, the Pirate Adventure Park is perfect for kids under 12, with plenty of activities to keep young adventurers entertained.
From Westport, make your way to Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. This wild, remote outpost is a haven for hikers, swimmers and nature lovers. With dramatic cliffs, quiet coves and windswept beaches, Achill is a spectacular location for outdoor exploration – especially along the jaw-dropping Atlantic Drive. This 40km route also passes by sites associated with the legendary Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s 16th-century Pirate Queen, whose castles and forts still dot the Mayo landscape.
Mayo’s reputation for rugged adventure continues in Erris, a region crowned by The Irish Times as the “best place in Ireland to go wild.” Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most scenic loop walks, including trails at Erris Head and Ceathrú Thaidhg, offering a mix of sea views, cliffs and untamed terrain.
Nature lovers and stargazers alike will be enchanted by Ballycroy National Park and the Wild Nephin Wilderness, home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park. With its mountainous terrain, wide open skies and Atlantic backdrop, this is one of the best places in Europe for stargazing and astrophotography.
Further north, explore the dramatic coastline around Downpatrick Head and the ancient Céide Fields, a vast prehistoric landscape of megalithic tombs and stone-walled fields that are even older than the pyramids of Egypt. Standing on the cliffs, gazing out to the Dún Briste sea stack, you can almost feel the deep time etched into the land.
For those with a love of history and heritage, a boat trip along the Monasteries of the Moy offers the chance to step back in time. Visit ancient abbeys, towers and cloisters, each with its own story to tell.
Lastly, Mayo’s countless islands are miniature worlds unto themselves – each with a unique blend of history, wildlife, and local culture. From the tranquil shores of Clare Island and Inishturk to the lesser-known gems like Collanmore and Inis Gé, they are havens for endangered species and perfect places for peaceful exploration.
Whether you’re climbing holy mountains, cycling quiet trails, wandering through ancient ruins or just watching the stars, Mayo offers a deeply enriching experience that captures the wild, untamed spirit of the Atlantic coast. A visit here isn’t just recommended – it is essential.
