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2 Day tailored itinerary

Things to do in Mayo

Day 1

On your first day exploring Mayo we would suggest heading for Westport! Bustling, vibrant, colourful and cultural there is lots to see & do! Start off the day with a delicious coffee from This Must Be The Place, Another great spot is the Creel, best Pancakes in the west before heading for a walk in Westport House & Gardens.

Westport House & Gardens, Built on the ruins of the Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley’s castle, Westport House and Gardens is brimming with antiques, artwork and examples of fine architecture. Step into the 18th century with a tour of the house’s historical exhibitions, before exploring the grand grounds.

Wander through forest trails and secret walled gardens, or let the little ones run free at the Pirate Adventure Park. A day pass for the house includes unlimited use of the rides and attractions, including the Cannon Ball Run Slide.

Great Western Greenway, Rent a bike in Westport and cycle along the Great Western Greenway - a 42km stretch of traffic-free cycle track that follows the old Westport to Achill Island Railway.

Drink in the spectacular views of the Nephin Beg mountains and across Clew Bay to Croagh Patrick as you travel from Westport to Newport, through Mulranny and on to Achill. The route can be done in reverse if you’re starting out in Achill, and you’re free to choose a smaller segment as pre-booked transfers will drop you off and pick you up at various stages along the way.

Once back at the McWilliam Park Hotel, treat yourself to a hearty meal in Kavanaghs Bar and lounge afterwards relax while reading a book from the hotels extensive collection of books.

Day 2

After breakfast it's off to Achill Island for the day,  home to The Banshees of Inisherin, dont forget your swimmers and your sunscreen, Achill Island Sea Salt is a great place to pick up a Souvenir or two.

Achill Island, If you’re not cycling to Achill Island, simply drive over the bridge – no boat needed to get to Ireland’s largest island. Starting at Achill Sound, the 40km Atlantic Drive is the ideal way to explore the island, as it guides you through small villages, around cork-screw bends, past epic seascapes – each one more impressive than the last.  

While you’re there, hit the water for a taste of adventure, with surfing, diving, kayaking and kitesurfing or explore Achill’s rich history with a visit to the megalithic tombs, the 15th century Kildavnet Castle or the island’s poignant, deserted village; a mile-long stretch of over 80 ruined stone cottages on the southern slopes of Slievemore Mountain.

Keel Beach, Stretching for 3.5km to the cliffs of Minaun, Achill’s Keel Beach is blissfully secluded, surrounded by dramatic mountainous backdrops. Conditions are ideal for surfers and swimmers who find it hard to resist the clear waters on a sunny day. Look to the south and spot The Bill, a legendary arrangement of three rock stacks.

Keem Bay, You simply can’t leave Achill without taking in Keem Bay, one of the most special parts of the island. When the iconic view of the beach appears on the cliff-side drive up, you get a sense of the magic of this sheltered spot. You can swim, snorkel or hop in a kayak around the bay, or simply admire from the shore – you might even spot a basking shark out at sea.

 Why not stop and have dinner in the most Westerly Pub in Europe, Gielty's Bar & Restaurant.