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About Westport

 

Fall in love with Westport when you first step foot into town and make your way along the Carrowbeg River, lined with colourful flowers and traditional shop fronts.

Stroll leisurely around the town of Westport making your way to the historic Westport House. Learn about the house's captivating history on a guided tour and relax in the manicured classical gardens.

Westport is one of Ireland’s most beloved towns, come experience it for yourself. Come and discover the beauty and charm of Westport, the iconic Croagh Patrick and utterly stunning Clew Bay.

Great Western Greenway

 

Our house is perfect for discovering the Great Western Greenway, an off-road cycling and walking trail. It follows the route of the historic Great Midlands Railway and takes in some spectacular scenery.


Make a plan to cycle or walk the Great Western Greenway and see some of the best views in Ireland. Pass by the pretty village of Mulranny, look out for the dramatic cliffs of Clare Island and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Achill Sound.

To cycle the 42km route takes between three to four hours and it's between six and eight hours to walk the entire length of the greenway from Westport to Achill. Enjoy magnificent views of Clew Bay while the rugged Nephin Beg mountains loom high above in the distance.

The Great Western Greenway is part of the National Cycle Network and has become a hugely popular attraction in recent years. You can rent a bike in the nearby towns and villages including Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Dooagh. Make sure you're wearing a helmet if you plan to cycle the route and bring your mobile phone, snacks, and water for the journey.

Croagh Patrick

 

Croagh Patrick is an important site of pilgrimage where St Patrick is believed to have fasted for 40 days in 441. The 765m-high mountain is just 8km from Westport and affords stunning views of Clew Bay.
Croagh Patrick, which overlooks Clew Bay in County Mayo, is considered the holiest mountain in Ireland. Its religious significance dates back to the time of the pagans, when people are thought to have gathered here to celebrate the beginning of harvest season. The mountain now takes the name of Ireland’s patron saint, who, according to Christian tradition, fasted at the peak of the mountain for 40 days in 441.

Each year, The Reek, as it is colloquially known, attracts about 1 million pilgrims, many of whom spend the last Sunday in July climbing to the summit in honour of St Patrick. At the top, there is a modern chapel where mass is celebrated and confessions are heard. Participants also have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of Clew Bay and the surrounding area.

Croagh Patrick is a high mountain and is a difficult climb, so those climbing it should be prepared. It is advisable to wear solid footwear and bring good clothing, a stick and mobile phone. It can get very cold on top of the mountain and weather conditions can change during the course of the climb.

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