Top 5 Westport Walks to give a go

Westport, a charming town on the west coast of Ireland, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, traditional music, and friendly locals. The town and its surroundings offer a range of walking routes, each with its unique charm and scenery. Here are the top five walks in Westport that you should not miss.

1.     The Great Western Greenway

The Great Western Greenway is a 42-kilometer walking and cycling trail that runs from Westport to Achill Island. The route follows the path of an old railway line and takes in some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland, including the Nephin Mountains, Clew Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail is flat and well-maintained, but it is the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland so walkers with limited abilities should bear this in mind. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns and villages like Newport, Mulranny, and Achill Sound, where you can stop for a bite to eat or a pint of Guinness.

2.     Westport House and Gardens

Westport House is a historic country house that dates to the 18th century. The house and its gardens are open to the public, and there are several walking trails that take you through the extensive grounds. The woodland walk is particularly beautiful, with its winding paths and ancient trees. You'll also get to see the lake, the walled garden, and the stunning views over Clew Bay.

3.     Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is a 764-meter mountain that dominates the skyline around Westport. It's also one of Ireland's most important pilgrimage sites, with thousands of people climbing it every year on Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July. The climb is challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see for miles around, taking in the rugged coastline, the islands of Clew Bay, and the Connemara mountains in the distance.

4.     The Burrishoole Loop Walk

The Burrishoole Loop Walk is a 10-kilometer trail that takes you through the wild and rugged landscape of the Burrishoole Peninsula. The route starts and finishes in the village of Newport and takes in the ruins of a 15th-century friary, a holy well, and several ancient standing stones. The trail is well-marked, but it can be challenging in places, with steep ascents and descents.

5.     The Westport Town Walk

The Westport Town Walk is a gentle stroll around the streets and alleyways of Westport town. The walk takes in many of the town's historic buildings, including Westport House, the Octagon, and St. Mary's Church.

In conclusion, Westport has plenty of walking routes that cater to all ages and abilities. From the challenging climb up Croagh Patrick to the gentle stroll around Westport town, there's something for everyone. So, put on your walking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this stunning part of Ireland on foot.