Westport

Westport is a town in County Mayo in Ireland. It is at the south-east corner of Clew Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast of Ireland. Westport, designated one of Bord Failte's Heritage Towns, is situated in the shadow of Croagh Park. One of the few planned towns in the Country, Westport was designed in the 18th Century by James Wyatt. It has become one of Ireland's established tourism centres.

The famous pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick, known locally as "the Reek" lies some 10km west of the town near the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. The mountain presents a striking backdrop to the town. Croagh Patrick, one of Europe's best known places of Pilgrimage, has provided a tough ascent for many pilgrims each year, climbing barefoot in the memory of St. Patrick, who spent forty days and forty nights fasting on the summit more than 1,500 years ago. A small church at the summit of the mountain welcomes penitents, while magnificent views of Clew Bay, with an island for every day of the week and provides inspiration for many walkers and visitors throughout the year.

Unique and charming, the heritage town of Westport is a captivating blend of traditional and modern. From the cosiest corner of an antique pub to state-of-the-art conference facilities from the heart-stirring beat of traditional music to the cosmopolitan approach, contrast and paradox are just part of its charm.

The award-winning Great Western Greenway, one of Ireland’s most-talked-Greenway west resizes about walking and cycling trails starts here. Westport House and Country Estate, one of Ireland’s most recognisable tourist attractions is 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of town. Ireland’s iconic pilgrimage mountain, Croagh Patrick is just up the road. Lots of sandy blue flag beaches near Westport are just a short drive away, along the shores of Clew Bay.

Westport is also well known for sea-angling and freshwater fishing is popular on nearby Loughs Mask and Carra, and on the Eriff River. Westport House and its Pirate Adventure Park attract families, many of whom stay at the caravan and camping park which belongs to Westport House. Westport has an 18-hole golf course. A nearby 9-hole course has an attached guest accommodation.