Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Mayo, Westport offers a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historic charm for a weekend getaway.
As you arrive in the quaint Irish town, you’re greeted by the sight of tree-lined streets and colourful Georgian buildings, set against the majestic backdrop of Croagh Patrick.
Whether you’re exploring the scenic Great Western Greenway, indulging in the local food, or simply soaking up the friendly atmosphere, Westport is a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Things to do
Westport House and Estate has expanded its offering by transforming the 300-year-old quarry into an action-packed adventure park. Opening its doors for the first time this summer, the park invites visitors to ‘awaken your wild’ – to find adventure and experience the wonders of nature.
The Net Park is the largest in Ireland with an enclosed jumping playground spanning across the treetops. It is suitable for anyone curious about heights because it is completely enclosed through a network of tunnels, aerial bridges and giant areas to bounce.
The Twin Zipline allows you to zip across 100m, side-by-side against someone else, in a race to the bottom of the course. Launching from the very top of the quarry, participants can observe the panoramic views of the adventure park as they bolt towards the quarry’s floor.
Another activity to try is aerial trekking – although it isn’t for the faint-hearted. With suspended obstacles and challenges, the elevated course is designed to test balance, agility, and courage. Starting at a comfortable height, two levels allow you to take on the challenge and feel the fear of heights.
The giant swing looks over the quarry. As you are hoisted above the ground, you sit into the harness and slowly watch the ground get further away. All of a sudden you are released over the edge of the cliff swinging in between the trees; it feels like a real sense of adventure.
Ticket prices start from €5 for individuals and €75 for families depending on the activity. It is currently 10% cheaper to book online at westportadventure.ie
Cycle the Greenway
The Great Western Greenway is 42km long starting in Westport and ending in Achill. It passes through the towns of Newport and Mulranny, overlooking Clew Bay.
Previously a railway line, it offers mild gradients, making it suitable for all abilities. You can choose the distance you want to complete as there are many starting points at each town with different distances and estimated cycling/walking times. There is also a shuttle bus available to bring passengers back if they want to cycle one way.
Renting a bike and cycling this trail is one of the top things to do in Westport for families, travellers and large groups. In fact, it was voted one of the top three cycle trails in the world by the New York Times. While cycling through the bogs, woodlands and active farmland, there is no shortage of wildlife and flora along the route.
The routes include:
Westport bike hire starts at €25 per day westportbikehire.com
Where to stay
A stay in Westport doesn’t come any better or cosier than Knockranny House Hotel. The hotel and spa is perched on a hill on the edge of the town. It has views of Croagh Patrick that are as picturesque at sunrise as they are at sunset.
A four-star hotel, the rooms are elegant and the spa is renowned for top-quality treatments, with a stunning pool and thermal suite.
However, it is the cuisine at the hotel that is the standout experience, with award-winning chef Seamus Commons, a Mayo man himself, at the helm of the kitchen. The menus across all parts of the hotel, from breakfast to lunch in the Brehon Bar, or dinner in La Fougére are thoughtful, with local producers highlighted on the menu. The local area has an abundance of producers including Glen Keen Farm lamb, Clew Bay scallops, Killary Fjord mussels and Silver Hill duck.
The food is complemented by an extensive wine list and an all-Irish cocktail menu. Created by mixologist David Hacobian, he used local tipples such as spirits from Lough Measc Distillery.
Prices to stay in Knockranny House Hotel during the summer months start from €190. knockrannyhousehotel.ie
Knockranny Hotel.
Where to eat
There is no shortage of top-quality restaurants to try as Westport’s culinary scene is full of award-winning restaurants. ‘La Bella Vita’ translates to beautiful life in Italian. This bistro-style restaurant serves classic Italian food and specialises in traditional dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients and authentic Italian produce. They are only open for dinner, and it is recommended to call ahead of time to make reservations.
Instagram @ labellavitawestport
Recommended pitstop
Located in the heart of the town behind the Clock Tower, ‘This Must Be The Place’ is the perfect spot for a coffee and treat while watching the world go by.
Since opening in June 2018, owners Susan Timothy and Andrew McGinley, have been working alongside head chef Dominique Miralles to serve up fresh and original dishes.
At the core of their inventive menu is a host of local products, with Patrick O’Reilly’s famous sourdough bread, Joe Kelly’s organic salads and Kelly’s pudding all appearing on the menu. It is definitely one to put on the list.
Instagram @thismustbetheplace_westport
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