Under the shadow of Ireland’s most sacred mountain — Croagh Patrick — the city of Westport boasts immaculate, tree-lined streets and old stone bridges decorated with blooming flowers that run over the Carrowbeg River. Ninety minutes from Galway on the County Mayo coast, it is a designated heritage town full of important sites and spectacular Georgian architecture, including the impressive Westport House and Gardens, Rockfleet Castle, and Burrishoole Abbey. Westport is also spoiled with beautiful beaches that are just 10 minutes from town. By the foot of Croagh Patrick, you’ll find Bertra, one of Ireland’s best beaches for birdwatching, as well as kitesurfing and windsurfing. Thirty minutes away is Carrowniskey, a popular surfing beach with a surf school that offers lessons and boards and wetsuits to rent.

The town of Westport is full of colorful shop fronts, traditional pubs, and seafood restaurants that serve local mussels and classics like fish and chips. There’s also a handful of art galleries to explore, luxury spas to pamper yourself, and one of Ireland’s finest championship golf courses.

Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) is around a 45-minute drive to Westport and accepts flights from selected European cities. Dublin Airport (DUB) accepts direct flights from U.S. cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago and is a 3.5-hour drive to Westport. From NOC, there’s a direct bus to town, and from Dublin, you’ll need to catch the bus to Galway, then change to Westport. Once you arrive, the town is compact, with everything within easy walking distance. There are many bike paths in and around the town, so cycling is a great way to see the area. If you plan on making regular trips to nearby attractions like Killary Fjord or Letterkeen, a car may be your best option.

County Mayo experiences fickle weather year round, but extremes in temperatures are rare. Summer is a great time to book an accommodation in Westport, when you can expect mostly long warm days with daylight often lasting till 11:00 p.m. in June and July. In spring, the days are mostly mild with wildflowers blooming in the surrounding countryside. Fall also sees mostly mild weather with the chance of rain, but it’s a great time for events in town.

In September, the popular Westport Food Festival celebrates the food of the region with cheese tastings and cooking demonstrations and competitions. In October, the town hosts the Westport Art Festival, which showcases the work of local and international artists, writers, and musicians. In winter, expect colder temperatures and more rain, but this part of Ireland normally enjoys milder winters than most.

Great Western Greenway

Set off on a scenic journey along Ireland's longest cycling and walking trail, the Great Western Greenway. This 26-mile journey from Westport to Achill cuts along an old railway route, passing coastal mountains, bogs, and rivers and offering sweeping views of County Mayo’s rugged countryside. You’ll also come to lovely villages with pubs and cafes, including the historic village of Newport, where you can stop and re-fuel for the next leg of your journey.

Croagh Patrick

Drive just 15 minutes from town to the foot of Croagh Patrick, where the country’s most famous saint fasted for 40 days and nights. Known as Ireland’s holy mountain, the 2,500-foot climb can take around two hours to reach the summit. From the trail, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding area. Make sure you have appropriate footwear and plenty of water before you go.

Westport House

Regarded as Ireland’s most beautiful home, Westport House is a 16th-century grand Georgian mansion surrounded by acres of sprawling gardens. There are 30 ornate rooms you can explore, along with six permanent exhibitions that offer insight into the house's history. Outside, the beautiful scenery continues with a picturesque lake surrounded by manicured lawns that boast spectacular views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick.