Visit | Mayo
Westport House
There's something for everyone in this late-18th-century residence. While the art lovers are drooling over the striking art nouveau carvings inside, parents and children can enjoy the log ride, pedal boats and aviary in the sprawling gardens. [Read More]
January 15, 2011
Stay | Mayo
Ashford Castle
From the turrets and towers to the drawbridge and battlements, Ashford (pictured) exudes a real fairy-tale air. The 350-acre estate features Ireland's first school of falconry, while inside the spacious rooms convey an unmistakable air of opulence. Rooms start at €113. [Read More]
January 15, 2011
Visit | Mayo
GRANUALIE CENTRE
This quirky visitor centre is dedicated to the life and story of one of Ireland's great heroines, Grace O'Malley. Known as the “Pirate Queen”, in the 16th century she fearlessly led battles against the English and ruled the high seas. [Read More]
June 18, 2010
Stay | Mayo
NEWPORT HOUSE HOTEL
The O'Donnell family, princes of Tir Connell, built this beautiful Georgian mansion in 1720. Outside the River Newport ambles by, while inside is spacious, elegant and ornately furnished in a classical style. [Read More]
June 18, 2010
Bars | Mayo
JOHN'S BAR
This friendly Westport pub is well known for its brilliant live music. If you're lucky, you'll even catch owner John Staunton perched on a stool in the middle of the bar playing everything from traditional standards to American country tunes on his acoustic guitar. [Read More]
June 18, 2010
Eat | Mayo
QUAY COTTAGE
This charming waterfront eatery is housed in an old stone building bursting with nautical bric-a-brac. Famous for its freshly caught seafood, the menu features classics such as lemon sole beurre blanc and wild local salmon. [Read More]
June 18, 2010
Visit | Mayo
CEIDE FIELDS
Beneath a thick carpet of bog the remains of a Stone Age village have been preserved for millennia. Today, the excellent visitor centre brings to life this important megalithic find. [Read More]
November 16, 2009
Stay | Mayo
ASHFORD CASTLE HOTEL
Built on a 350-acre estate, this 13th-century castle-cum-luxury hotel has a fairy-tale feel to it. The ancient drawbridge is still in working order and the antiques in the bedrooms convey an unmistakable air of opulence. [Read More]