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A panorama view of Keel Beach and holiday makers enjoying the summer sun, looking towards Dooega Head, Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland

Explore Co. Mayo from The Lodge at Ashford Castle

Often described as Ireland’s most captivating county, Mayo is home to ecclesiastical ruins, secluded islands, hidden bays and spectacular coastal walks… all just moments from Ashford Castle.

Downpatrick Head Mayo Ireland, amazing scenery aerial drone landscape image on Eire sign Irish landmark Downpatrick Head, Knockaun, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Downpatrick Head

Just a few miles north of Ballycastle village in County Mayo is the windswept outcrop of Downpatrick Head. This is the perfect place to park up and stretch your legs with an invigorating coastal walk. The name Downpatrick is derived from a time when St Patrick himself founded a church here. You can still see the ruins of the church building, a stone cross and holy well here today.

This was once a popular pilgrim destination, and today the crowds still gather here on the last Sunday of July – known as Garland Sunday – to hear mass at this sacred site. The site has a statue close to the cliff edge dedicated to the patron saint. It is one of the most amazing places you can ever visit in Ireland.

Croagh Patrick mountain is popular place to visit in Republic of Ireland

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is a well-known mountain and an important site of pilgrimage in County Mayo. You can find it 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Westport, above the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. It is the third highest mountain in County Mayo after Mweelrea and Nephin. If you visit, you will be joined by pilgrims who make the journey which Saint Patrick himself once did. Aside from the religious aspect, it is a beautiful mountain with awesome views!

Aerial view of Keem Bay, located on Achill Island. Keem Bay, Keel West, Keem, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Keem Bay

Keem Bay is an absolutely phenomenal site located past Dooagh village in the west of Achill Island in County Mayo. This bay was formerly the site of a basking shark fishery and a British army lookout post (to the bay’s south).

Keem Bay is a heavenly secluded valley at the very western tip of Achill Island. It is extremely popular during warmer months when the strand is a magnet for beach-goers and those interested in scenic walks. This place is our favourite spot in County Mayo.

A haven of adventure

Experience County Mayo

Immerse yourself in the activities of the Ashford Estate and create memories that last a lifetime.

Activities at The Lodge