Mayo is one of Ireland’s true hidden gems, nestled along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way on our rugged western seaboard. Renowned for breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, warm hospitality and vibrant culture, Mayo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of visitor.
With Mayo celebrating their historic 2026 All-Ireland Senior Football Championship victory, there has never been a better time to visit. The county is alive with pride, excitement and celebration, making it the perfect opportunity to experience the unique spirit of Mayo!
For outdoor enthusiasts, Mayo is a paradise. Explore luscious Greenways by foot or bike – enjoy world-class angling, tackle scenic mountain hikes, or embrace the Atlantic with surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing. One of Mayo’s greatest treasures is Achill Island, where dramatic cliffs, Blue Flag beaches, rolling mountains and unspoilt natural beauty combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Check out our Top 10 Things to Do in Mayo and discover why our award-winning county deserves a place on your Irish travel itinerary.
The Great Western Greenway is one of the best ways to experience Mayo, whether on foot or bike. Stretching 42 km along the route of the former Westport to Achill railway line, this traffic-free trail forms part of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. It offers the perfect escape from busy city life, providing Ireland’s longest off-road walking and cycling experience. Starting in the vibrant town of Westport, the Greenway winds through the picturesque villages of Newport and Mulranny before finishing on the breathtaking Achill Island.
Atlantic Drive is one of the finest scenic routes in Ireland and an unforgettable way to discover the rugged beauty of Achill Island. This spectacular coastal drive takes visitors past dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, rolling hills and panoramic Atlantic views with countless opportunities to stop for photographs along the way. The island we call home welcomes you with traditional pubs, excellent cafés and restaurants serving fresh local seafood or classic Irish cuisine. Whether you visit for the day or stay a little longer, Achill Island is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Cong is a picturesque and peaceful village nestled between the shores of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask in the heart of County Mayo. Steeped in history, charm and natural beauty, Cong is best known as the enchanting setting for the beloved 1952 film The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. You can wander through the village streets and discover the famous statue celebrating the film, which remains a treasured part of Cong’s heritage. The village is also home to the magnificent Ashford Castle, a historic estate surrounded by beautiful woodlands, lakes, and scenic walks. With its ancient abbey ruins, friendly locals, traditional village atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Cong offers a true taste of Ireland and provides a wonderful base for exploring the hidden gems of County Mayo.
Westport House is one of Ireland’s best-loved heritage attractions and remains a must-visit destination. You can explore the beautifully restored historic house, admire its elegant interiors and stroll through its magnificent gardens and estate. The site is closely linked to the legendary Pirate Queen of Connacht, Grace O’Malley, whose descendants once lived here. Built on foundations dating back to the seventeenth century by Colonel John Browne and his wife Maud Burke, Grace O’Malley’s great-great-granddaughter, the estate continues to blend fascinating history with modern visitor experiences for all ages.
Croagh Patrick is Ireland’s most famous pilgrimage mountain and rises 762 metres above sea level, just 10 km from Westport. Spectacular views are a reward for walkers and hikers across Clew Bay, Achill Island and the surrounding countryside. While the mountain can be climbed throughout the year, the best conditions are generally found between April and September. Allow approximately four to five hours for the return journey and be sure to wear suitable footwear and check the weather forecast before setting out.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of Knock is one of Ireland’s most important pilgrimage sites. Located in the village of Knock, the shrine commemorates the reported apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint John the Evangelist, and the Lamb of God in 1879. Welcoming visitors from around the world, Knock offers a peaceful setting for reflection, prayer, and exploration. Whether visiting for spiritual reasons or an interest in Irish history, it remains one of County Mayo’s most significant attractions.
Founded in 1216 by King Cathal Crobdearg O’Connor, Ballintubber Abbey is one of Ireland’s most remarkable historic churches and the only royal abbey in the country to have remained in continuous use since its foundation. Despite surviving invasions, confiscations, fires and centuries of suppression, mass continued to be celebrated here even when the building stood without a roof. Beautifully restored, the abbey now celebrates over 800 years of continuous worship and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s rich religious heritage.
Located just outside Castlebar, the National Museum of Ireland is an award-winning museum that celebrates the traditions and daily lives of rural Ireland. Across four floors of engaging exhibitions, you can discover fascinating collections of traditional clothing, farming equipment, handcrafted objects, folklore and historic photographs. The museum provides a unique insight into how people lived and worked from the time of the Great Famine through to the mid-twentieth century, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for people of all ages.
The River Moy is recognised as one of Europe’s premier salmon fishing rivers and attracts anglers from across the world. Flowing for approximately 100 km through County Mayo, the river system includes renowned fisheries such as Lough Conn and Lough Cullin, together with numerous tributaries and lakes. The Moy also offers excellent sea trout fishing in its estuary, providing opportunities for both fly and bait anglers. Whether you are an experienced fisherman or trying angling for the first time, the River Moy offers exceptional fishing in one of Ireland’s most beautiful natural settings. Make sure you check local fishing regulations and permit requirements before heading out.
For lovers of water sports, Mayo is a true Atlantic playground. The county boasts some of Ireland’s finest Blue Flag beaches and offers excellent surfing conditions for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Beaches around Westport, including Bertra Beach, provide ideal learning conditions with local surf schools offering equipment hire and lessons throughout the season. For bigger Atlantic swells, Keel Beach on Achill Island and the beaches around Belmullet are among Ireland’s best-known surfing destinations. Paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and sea swimming are also popular activities along Mayo’s spectacular coastline. Be sure to bring (or hire) a wetsuit as the Atlantic waters remain refreshingly cool throughout the year.
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The best way to discover everything Mayo has to offer is to experience it for yourself. Does this sound like you? Call us today for a personalised quotation and let us create an itinerary featuring some (or all) of these incredible destinations. Whether you choose one of our Wild Atlantic Way self-drive vacations or a full chauffeur tour, every itinerary is carefully tailored to embrace your interests, pace and travel style.
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