Louisburgh 

Famous for its unspoiled beaches and sandy coves, Louisburgh is a dream spot for a dip in the sea, paddling and a picnic. Families love Silver Strand, sheltered by the rocky headlands and high sand dunes, for its views towards Inishturk and Inishbofin.

Once you’ve dried off, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland awaits at The Lost Valley. Book a guided tour and explore the West’s cultural heritage through the ruined famine village or take on the hike up the steep walking trail with older kids for views of the valley. Time your visit just right and you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the dolphins who frequent Ireland’s only fjord, Killary.

Croagh Patrick

Climbing Croagh Patrick is a bucket list item for many, but it’s not an easy trail. Though thousands of pilgrims take it on barefoot every year, the rocky, steep climb isn’t suitable for younger kiddies. Teens, however, can lace up their hiking boots, and even if you only get halfway up, the views over Clew Bay are spectacular.

Westport House

A 15-minute spin away is Westport, with its colourful streets, award-winning restaurants and traditional pubs. A short stroll from the centre is Westport House, where you'll enjoy hours of family fun. Hop on the colourful Westport Train Tour and journey around 46 sights in the town and the house’s grounds discovering the fascinating history dating back to Grace O’Malley, the Pirate Queen.

Westport House

Houses and gardens

Westport House

Westport, Co. Mayo

Westport Cruises 

With its rich maritime tradition, you can’t leave Mayo without taking to the sea. Get up close and personal with the seal colony in Clew Bay, with Westport Cruises. Departing daily from the harbour from May to October, take a round-trip of Clew Bay’s islands aboard the Spiorad Naomh Phadraig, with its heated lounge and upper outdoor deck and café. 

Get a panoramic view of Dorinish Island, once owned by John Lennon himself, and sail in the summer months to see the cute seal pups join the 400-strong colony.

The Great Western Greenway

Hop on your bike, or rent one from Clew Bay Bike Hire in Westport, and cycle the incredible Great Western Greenway. A 49km stretch from Westport to Cashel, taking in Newport, Mulranny and Acaill (Achill Island), the route hugs the coastline of Clew Bay.

If you’re travelling with smaller kids, jump in at the stretch from Newport to Acaill, for a gentler and more accessible cycle – it’s possibly the most beautiful stretch so you won’t feel you’ve missed out. Many bike hire companies offer shuttles to allow you to start and stop where you want, and you can also get kids’ trailers and tag-a-longs for the little ones who just want to enjoy the ride. 

Acaill (Achill Island)

Feel life slow down as you cross the bridge onto Acaill. It’s the kind of place where sheep roam freely, and you’re never far from a stunning Blue Flag beach. The jewel in Acaill's crown is Keem Bay, a secluded beach at the western tip of the island. Enjoy the cliffside drive up, before joining the swimmers and snorkelers in the clear waters.  

For adventurous families, drop into Pure Magic on the way back down – they’ll have the adrenaline going with kitesurfing or paddleboarding on the waves of Keel Lake. A firm family favourite, especially for rainy days, is the Achill Experience Aquarium and Visitor Centre, where kids can meet Dory (blue tang) and Nemo (clownfish), and learn about tropical fish like piranhas. Touch tanks allow them to feel local sea creatures like starfish, urchins and scallops, too.

Hit the road south through the stunning mountain pass of Doolough, then along the shore of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord or go north to Ballycastle and the Belmullet peninsula via Castlebar and Pontoon. Drop into the visitor centre at Céide Fields, where you’ll journey back 5,000 years at the most extensive Stone Age site on the planet.

Hop on the ferry at Roonagh Pier, just outside Westport, over to Clare Island. Half the fun is in the journey, with incredible views of Clew Bay at every turn. It’s a swimmer’s paradise, and the Blue Flag beach near the main harbour is the most popular spot for a dip. Bring a picnic along and get the kids to spot the puffins and peregrine falcons that call the island home.