The United Kingdom is renowned for its picturesque villages and towns, offering a diverse range of landscapes and architecture. However, venturing a little further can lead to discovering hidden gems that rival or even surpass the beauty found in Britain. Westport, situated in County Mayo, Ireland, is one such extraordinary destination. Accessing Westport is convenient with major airlines like Ryanair, British Airways, and Aer Lingus flying into Knock Airport, the nearest airport to the town. From Knock, a scenic one-hour drive west leads to this charming coastal Heritage Town.
The journey to Westport is a visual delight, as the landscape transforms dramatically towards the Atlantic coast, with the imposing Croagh Patrick, also known as Ireland’s “Holy Mountain,” standing just five miles away. Its iconic cone-shaped peak dominates the skyline overlooking Clew Bay.
Croagh Patrick attracts both religious pilgrims and tourists. Annually, on the final Sunday in July, devotees undertake the challenging ascent to the summit, where they visit a chapel, attend Mass, and participate in acts of reverence – some even opting to climb barefoot or on their knees.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Westport offers a variety of attractions within the town. Its elegant Georgian town center and picturesque stone bridges along the River Carrowbeg provide a tranquil setting for visitors to explore.
Westport prides itself on its cleanliness and quality of life, having won the Irish Tidy Towns Competition three times – in 2001, 2006, and 2008. The town was also recognized as the Best Place to Live in Ireland by The Irish Times in 2012.
Unsurprisingly, Westport hosts a plethora of charming pubs, including popular venues like Matt Molloy’s, MacBride’s, Porter House, and JJ O’Malley’s, featuring traditional Irish music performances in the evenings.
During pleasant weather, tourists can stroll along the Quay before visiting The Point, a favorite spot for locals to gather and swim in Clew Bay’s shallow waters. This area offers a unique opportunity to observe the friendly interactions among residents, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
While many visitors enjoy the town’s offerings, exploring the surrounding countryside is a must-do activity. Clew Bay is said to have around 120 designated islands, along with numerous submerged limestone formations visible at low tide.
Among these islands, Clare Island stands out as the largest, boasting breathtaking views and diverse birdlife, including puffins, kittiwakes, and peregrines. A short ferry ride from Roonagh Pier provides access to Clare Island, offering visitors spectacular walks and birdwatching opportunities.
For a more secluded experience, Inishturk, described as a “little piece of paradise,” beckons travelers with its golden beaches, sea cliffs, and unique flora. Explore Tra na nUan and Curraun, along with the island’s natural lagoon, for an unforgettable adventure.
Westport encapsulates the essence of Ireland’s natural beauty, hospitality, and tranquility, making it a destination cherished by many for