A great contender for a staycation, Mayo has it all including walking trails, beaches, mountains and lively towns to name a few. It's easy on the eye as well. If you find yourself around this neck of the woods in Ireland, here are 9 things you should do.
1. Have the craic in Westport
Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, Westport is a popular haunt for tourists. With a colourful nightlife scene, the town is littered with lively pubs, bars and nightclubs and if you'll find a good few spots that play live music. Go for a walk at Oldhead beach to blow away the cobwebs.
2. Climb Croagh Patrick
While you're in Westport, make sure you fit Croagh Patrick in. People from all over the world flock to climb Ireland's holiest mountain and I'm sure the experience itself as been on many a bucket list. Just an FYI, April-September is advised as the best time to the climb.
3. Enjoy afternoon tea in Ashford Castle
The spot that hosts many celebrity weddings, this medieval castle is open to visitors and is definitely worth exploring. If you fancy treating yourself, they do a tasty afternoon tea menu.
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4. Camp in Achill Island
We may not have camping weather at the minute but a trip to Achill Island in general, is a must do. From great pubs and gorgeous beaches to walking trails and watersports, the Island has loads going for it. Its' beautiful scenery is its trademark though.
5. Cycle the Great Western Greenway
Hailed as the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland, the route stretches from Westport to Achill Island and there's lots to impress along the way including the mountain views. Stop off in towns like Newport and Mulranny.
6. Explore the Deserted Village
Step back in time and wander around the Deserted Village at Slievemore which has 80-100 stone cottages along a mile long stretch of road. The atmosphere in this remote part of the County is said to be unique because of its' historical significance.
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7. Stop off in Doolough
Also steeped in history is the coastal town of Doolough, located in North County Mayo. During the famine, a group of 600 made their way here to find food but most died along the way.
8. Visit Killarey harbour
Don't take a trip to Mayo without visiting Killarey Harbour. Home to some of Ireland's most spectacular views, Ireland's only fjord forms the extends 16km from the Atlantic and forms the border between Galway and Mayo.
9. Drink your weight in gin in Castlebar
You can do that anywhere really but what better place than the town that aspires to be the gin capital of Ireland? It has 15 pubs along the country's first permanent gin trail so there'll be plenty of spots to have the craic in. Just don't pencil your Croagh Patrick climb in for the next day.
