Rugged County Mayo is a fascinating place to explore, ideal for fishing, golf and hiking, cycling or driving along the famed Wild Atlantic Way. The area’s growing popularity means that there is a broad range of accommodation available, from lovely country house hotels to cosy B&Bs catering to a whole host of budgets. Many of the best places to stay in County Mayo are tucked amidst spectacular coastal or riverside scenery, perfect for couples or families looking to make the most of the great outdoors.

Too-often overlooked in favour of Ireland’s most well-known destinations, County Mayo is brimming with beautiful landscapes and heaps of adventurous activities — largely without the crowds. The biggest attraction is the Wild Atlantic Way, which you can wind along by bicycle, on foot or by car. There are heaps of walking and biking trails to follow, with panoramic ocean views, rocky headlands and haunting ruins to admire. Venture inland to see Ballycroy National Park, clamber up Croagh Patrick Mountain for impressive vistas, or cycle the 25-mile Westport-to-Achill railway line on the Great Western Greenway.

Achill Island, the largest of Ireland’s offshore islands, is also well worth visiting. You’ll find five Blue Flag beaches, Slievemore Mountain, quiet villages and lively bars to grab a pint and simply relax. There’s climbing, hiking, sea-kayaking and surfing to try, too. Stay on the island itself, or come for the day and return to your countryside hideaway on the mainland.

The region’s towns are also appealing holiday bases. Seaside Westport, for instance, has been voted one of the best places to live in Ireland, and is hugely charming. Its pretty harbour and lively streets lined with Georgian edifices make for wonderful summer strolls, and there’s good food and live music on offer in characterful pubs and gourmet eateries. Head out to the surfing beaches, try sailing and boat trips, or amble around beautiful Clew Bay to marvel at the hundreds of islands. Castlebar is also interesting for a day trip, whilst there’s lots to see in the fishing hotspot of Ballina, perched at the mouth of the River Moy to the north.

With pirate tales, windswept islands and Stone Age secrets to uncover, County Mayo is an enchanting Irish destination for romantic couples looking to unwind, or active families keen to try everything from kayaking to falconry. Book a room in one of the best places to stay in County Mayo and set off on foot, on two wheels or on horseback to discover the myriad wonders of this craggy wilderness, before returning for cosy evenings at the spa, or savouring delicious dishes by the fire.

The Best Places to Stay in County Mayo

For a country house hotel

• The Lodge at Ashford Castle is a luxuriously-appointed country house with opulent interiors, a lively bar and views over the rugged landscape. Wilde’s serves delicious gourmet fare. With everything from golf to fishing, riding to kayaking and paddle boarding on the lake, this is a top pick for an active couple or family. Also perfect for weddings!
• Delphi Lodge promises a classic countryside escape with antique-filled rooms in a gorgeous ivy-clad house. Spend your days hiking, cycling and fishing before eating in splendour in the grand dining room. The setting, alongside Fin Lough in the Delphi Valley, is enchanting. Choose this hotel for a calm, grown-up feel.
• Mount Falcon Estate, set in 100 acres of beautiful grounds, offers an elegant stay in a romantic Victorian manor house. With individual lodges as well as rooms in the main house, there’s lots of space for families or big groups. Try salmon fishing on the River Moy, falconry, cycling and golf, before unwinding at the spa. The award-winning restaurant is a sure-fire hit, too. Choose this hotel for the facilites and activities.
• Stella Maris Country House is an ideal choice for a soothing seaside retreat in an old coastguard house and former convent. The 11 rooms are comfortable and traditional, with ornately carved wooden beds, and the huge conservatory boasts striking Wild Atlantic Way views. A restful escape.
• Enniscoe House is a pretty pink Georgian building hidden away in the countryside. Stay here for traditional charm, with patterned wallpaper, cosy quilts and antiques aplenty. Well-placed for fishing, golf and countryside rambles. Great for quiet, laid-back couples or families.

For a spa

• Knockranny House Hotel & Spa is a sophisticated retreat set between Westport and the craggy mountains. With elegant rooms and suites, a mouth-watering menu and a superb spa, this is an indulgent, grown-up choice. Try the therapeutic Spa Salveo Signature Massage for total bliss.
• Ice House Hotel & Spa is a restful riverside hideaway in Ballina. Chic rooms and suites are nestled in an old salmon ice house. Pick this place for fishing, golf, locally-sourced food and a wonderful riverside spa. Relax in an outdoor hot tub before treating yourself to the Warm Pebbles of Enniscrone massage. A stylish couples’ haven with impressive views of the Wild Atlantic Way.

For a boutique island escape

• Clare Island Lighthouse offers five cosy rooms in a striking nineteenth-century lighthouse with dramatic Atlantic Ocean views. The rooms are bright and spacious, with cast-iron beds and lovely wood-burning stoves, and there are attractive communal areas for guests to share. A super-secluded boutique hideaway.

For great value

• Wyatt Hotel is a charming seaside spot in buzzing Westport. Great-value rooms are cosy and contemporary, the two eateries and the Cobbler’s Bar are wonderfully lively, and the location is ideal for strolling around town. Live music nights are a big draw! Fun for couples or families.
• Teach Cruachan B&B is a bright and modern six room B&B on Achill Island. A very reasonable Wild Atlantic Way base for the whole family, rooms are spacious and bathrooms very smart. There are bikes of all sizes to hire, and hearty breakfasts to kick off days of exploring the island. Lovely!

For an apartment or cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Dublin International Airport, or take the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin if travelling from the UK. Alternatively, Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) is just 21 miles from County Mayo and offers regular flights to and from England.
• Dublin is around 3 hours from County Mayo. Hop aboard a train or drive from the city to your hotel. There are also regular buses, but the journey takes close to 5 hours.
• This is a beautiful region to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Time your trip between May and September for warmer temperatures and long, bright days. Temperatures peak at around 17°C on average, so bring jumpers and coats!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in County Sligo.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Ireland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in County Mayo