On Ireland’s west coast, the heritage town of Westport is a popular holiday destination on the famous Wild Atlantic Way.
Characterised by its Georgian town centre, stone bridges and tree-lined promenade, it’s a pretty town that’s brimming with history, proximity to vast natural landscapes aching to be explored, and has plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by as well.
Sat on the banks of the Carrowbeg River, there’s an instant sense of tranquillity. Historic attractions in and around the area include Kylemore Abbey, an impressive Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle. The Round Tower is one of the distinctive features on the landscape dating back to Mediaeval Ireland. Meanwhile, Knock Shrine in Co. Mayo is a place of pilgrimage attracting half a million people a year to its shrine.
History and nature collide in some of the most popular attractions. Croagh Patrick is said to be a holy mountain, while Ballycroy National Park in the Owenduff/Nephin Mountains is perfect for a hike and is filled with unique flora and fauna. In the surrounding area, visitors also delight in fishing, boating, golf, cycling and even visits to some exceptionally beautiful beaches.
Spas in and around Westport provide the ideal base for exploring the area and making the most of a relaxing break. Spend your time exploring the countryside, tucking into the area’s superb food and drink, and don’t forget to unwind with a spa treatment or two as well.
