Irish Roadtrip pt. 5 | County Mayo
Part five of my Ultimate Coastal Irish Roadtrip explores the wild landscapes of County Mayo. The county is known for its dramatic, verdant coastline, deep history, and quiet, ethereal beauty. Being Ireland’s third-largest county and ranking only 18th in population means the land is largely uninhabited, creating a rare sense of solitude.
Bertra Beach
Aasleagh Falls
Drive time Kylemore Abbey to Aasleagh Falls: 30 minutes
Approximate time there: 15-30 minutes
An easy stop if you’re already driving through, as it’s located right off the road. There’s a short trail along the stream that feeds the falls if you feel like taking a walk.
Doolough Valley early morning
Doolough Valley
Drive time Aasleagh Falls to Doolough Valley: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 30 minutes
One of the most breathtaking views we saw in Ireland, Doolough Valley, is nestled amongst the mountainous terrain. Whether you have time to stop for a while to visit the memorial of the famine walk or just take in the landscape as you drive through, Doolough Valley is a must-see while you’re here.
Bertra Beach
Bertra Beach
Drive time Doolough Valley to Bertra Beach: 30 minutes
Approximate time there: 1 hour
Running along a narrow peninsula, this sandy beach is a beautiful choice for a casual stroll or a dip into the Atlantic waters.
Westport
Drive time Bertra Beach to Westport: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 1-1.5 hours
The picturesque town of Westport is a wonderful stop to grab lunch and enjoy the charm of a small old town. While you’re here, pop into Kate McCormack & Sons, a local butcher shop with the best sausage rolls you could dream of. The shop is just down the road from Westport’s clock tower, known locally as the “Four-faced Liar” for constantly telling the wrong time.
Downpatrick Head
Drive time Westport to Downpatrick Head: 1.5 hours
Approximate time there: 1-1.5 hours
Another breathtaking coastal cliff view, Downpatrick Head is known for its seastack about 80 metres from the mainland. There are a few legends associated with the site. One says that when St. Patrick drove all of the snakes from Ireland, he sent them across a natural bridge which he later caused to collapse by striking it with his staff, stranding them on the seastack. The landscape is unlike anything else we saw, with brilliant green grass starkly contrasting the bright blue waters for a beautiful effect!
