Looking to experience the best of Western Ireland? Add Westport to your list of things to do before you die. This charming town in County Mayo is full of beautiful scenery and unique cultural attractions. It is therefore no wonder that thousands of visitors a year come here from afar. While you could easily spend weeks exploring this wild side of Ireland, I recommend that you experience Westport in a weekend. Read on to find out why!
Located on the west coast of irelandWestport is definitely worth a visit. It’s the quintessential Irish city, offering a dose of nature, culture, history and (as it should be in Ireland) a lively and authentic pub scene. A beautiful river runs through the town with tree-lined promenades and cafes on both sides. It is just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean and Ireland’s most sacred mountain, Croagh Patrick. However, it is the local way of life that draws people to Westport rather than other destinations.
Although this Georgian town is small, there are plenty of things to do in Westport. I recently spent 48 hours here on a guided tour with Globus Journeyswhere I was able to explore the city center and its surroundings. It was one of Globus Choice Tourswhich combines a typical trip with a more local and immersive experience. It was a fun, hassle-free way to travel, and it introduced me to some amazing places I probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
Ready to soak up the beauty and timeless charm of Westport? Here is my guide to visiting Westport in a weekend.
Ride along the Wild Atlantic Way
When you visit Westport and the West of Ireland (in general), the star of the show is undoubtedly the Wild Atlantic Way.
This route stretches 2,500km along the west coast of Ireland, offering stunning views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, lush mountains and plenty of sheep. It takes you through Westport, where many visitors grab a bite and a pint before continuing up the coast. However, I think you’ll want to spend at least two nights in Westport to get a good feel for the area.
On my trip with Globus, we traversed several parts of the Wild Atlantic Way. The dramatic sea cliffs coupled with the winding roads and grazing sheep made this a magical trip. I’ve done a lot of great coastal drives, including the Pacific Coast Highway in California and the Road to Hana in Maui, and I think this one is the wildest of them all.
If you’re looking for epic coastal views, don’t miss the Wild Atlantic Way when visiting Westport.
Visit the beaches and cliffs of Achill Island.
As the largest of the Emerald Isles, Achill Island is a must-see destination near Westport. It is home to soaring sea cliffs, secluded beaches and a variety of flora and fauna. The landscapes are vibrant and verdant, making the scene totally unforgettable.
Achill Island is the crown jewel of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. My favorite place was Keem Bay with its rugged coastline and crystal clear waters. On a clear day, it’s a great place for swimming and water sports, including surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. When we visited, the weather was typical for Ireland – cloudy, rainy and windy, which made the waves all the more powerful and relentless when they hit the coastline.
Achill Island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it’s easy to get there from Westport. Considering the size of the island, we spent most of the day exploring it. A Westport Co. Mayo itinerary wouldn’t be complete without it!
Where to stay in Westport, Ireland?
On my trip with Globus Journeys, I stayed at Westport Plaza Hotel, which is conveniently located near Westport town centre. I loved the breakfast and dinner here, plus the amenities like the spa and fitness center. The staff was also super friendly and the room was modern and comfortable. Highly recommended!
Looking for a base in this quaint Georgian town? Here are some of the best stays in Westport:
Bike ride along the Grand Ouest greenway
As part of Globus’ Choice Touring ToursAs part of our trip, some members of our group had the opportunity to cycle the Great Western Greenway and swear by it! At 42km long, it’s Ireland’s longest greenway and an ideal place for a scenic walk or bike ride. And of course there is no shortage of cafes and pubs to visit along the way.
Formerly an old railway line, these tracks have been converted into a greenway. It takes you through the best of the Irish countryside, including farms, mountains, rivers, coastline and villages. From Achill Island you can cycle to Westport or to the charming towns of Mulranny and Newport. This is truly one of the most scenic stretches imaginable, which is why you should consider it when staying in Westport IR.
Visit local pubs
Unlike other European countries, where cities are built around cathedrals, life in Ireland tends to center around pubs. Westport is no different.
While visiting Westport, be sure to stroll through the local pubs and sample pints of the black drink. With dozens of pubs in and around Westport, there’s no shortage of places to listen to traditional Irish music and listen to local banter. My favorite pub is The Porter Housewhich is located in the heart of Westport town centre. The live music and cozy pub decor was super inviting and I recommend it to anyone.
Another traditional Westport bar is JJ O’Malleys. Besides beer and entertainment, the food here is simply amazing. Spend Friday or Saturday to experience the lively music scene and any other night to sample its menu, which covers Irish, European and American cuisines.
The best way to experience life in Ireland is to experience the pub scene, and Westport is certainly one of the best. I am very happy Globus gave us plenty of time to explore the town and experience its traditional pubs and live music.
Hike to the summit of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain
Overlooking Westport and the surrounding bay is Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s most famous mountain. At 764 meters high, it is one of the highest mountains in the country and should definitely be part of your Westport tour itinerary.
For centuries, Croagh Patrick has been a popular place of pilgrimage. In AD 441, Saint Patrick spent 40 days praying and fasting on its peak in an attempt to convert Ireland to Christianity. It is steeped in history, religion and mythology, which is why so many Irish Catholics make the trek to the top every year.
The main trail to the top of the mountain is 7 kilometers long, which takes about 3-4 hours to climb. And once at the top, you’ll have stunning views of the western coastline and many islands in the distance. No wonder it’s one of the best places to visit near Westport.
Westport House Tour
Almost 400 years old, Westport House is one of the best historic sites in all of Ireland. It’s the perfect activity for rainy days, offering 30 rooms and 6 exhibits showcasing the heritage of this private estate.
Take one private site visitwhich includes formal rooms and artwork inside the house as well as gardens outside. The property sits on 400 acres of beautiful forested landscapes, giving you a glimpse of life in the country homes of centuries past.
Besides the historical and cultural sides of this residence, Westport House also houses Pirate Adventure Spota theme park for children of all ages. With so much to see and do around the property, it’s no wonder Westport House is among the top things to do in Westport.
Soak up the panoramic views of Clew Bay
Just a short hop from Westport town centre, Clew Bay is another must-see on a Westport itinerary. It is home to 365 islands, which can be seen from Croagh Patrick and many other mountains in North Mayo. John Lennon owned one of them, which he planned to turn into a retreat center. Although it did not materialize, there is still plenty to see in Clew Bay.
The largest and most famous of these islands is Clare Island, which is one of only six inhabited islands. It is accessible all year round by the Clare Island Ferry and is the home of Gráinne O’Malley, a 15th century pirate queen well known in Irish history and folklore.
For gorgeous ocean views, coastal hiking trails and sandy beaches, be sure to visit Clew Bay in County Mayo. You will not regret it !
Stroll through the charming town of Westport, Ireland
Last, but certainly not least, in this guide to spending a weekend in Westport is the obvious: wander around this small town. With so much beauty and charm, Westport is a place you’ll want to take your time and be present.
From live music in the pubs to the tree-lined promenade on the river, this is a great place for a stroll any time of year. Have an Irish coffee at a riverside cafe and admire the colorful buildings dotted around the city. It’s easy to see why Westport is such a great town to live in and such a great place to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Westport, Ireland
Here are some FAQs about the beautiful town of Westport in County Mayo.
What makes sightseeing in Westport so special?
Westport is known for its picturesque town center and its proximity to many natural treasures including Achill Island and Croagh Patrick. The food and pub scene are some of the best in the area and there are countless outdoor attractions in Westport at any time of year. Additionally, it has been consistently rated “Best Place to Live in Ireland” by The Irish Times.
What county is Westport in?
Westport is located in County Mayo, which is in the west of Ireland. It straddles the Atlantic Ocean and offers views of Clew Bay and Clare Island.
What is the population of Westport, Ireland?
According to 2021 Census by the Central Bureau of Statistics, Westport has a population of 6,198. About 40% of the inhabitants can speak the Irish mother tongue.
Where is Westport in Ireland?
Westport is located on the west coast of Ireland, not far from Castlebar and Galway. It’s a stone’s throw from Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain, and Clew Bay.
How to get from Westport to Galway?
Galway is 80 km (50 miles) south of Westport, which takes just over an hour by car, bus or taxi.
How to get from Dublin to Westport Ireland?
Westport is 155 miles (250 km) west of Dublin, which is a traffic-free three-hour journey.
What are the best towns in County Mayo, Ireland?
The best places to visit in County Mayo are Westport, Cong, Castlebar, Ballina, Mulranny, Claremorris, Belmullet, and Knock.
What is Westport doing this weekend?
Every weekend you can enjoy live music in many Westport town center pubs. The traditional Irish music is second to none and lasts late into the night. Don’t miss it!
Explore Westport IR in 2022
Hope you enjoyed reading about all the things to do in Westport, Ireland. Have you ever visited this charming Georgian town? Have you fallen in love with Westport’s plethora of activities in and around the city? let me know on Instagram or in the comments below!
Have a good trip ! -Jon
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