During my blogtastic adventures in Ireland last fall I was lucky enough to to get the chance to explore the west part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, after departing from Dublin the first stop on this adventure just 3 hrs drive into the county of Mayo was the town of Westport, or in Irish Cathair na Mart, meaning “stone fort of the beeves“.

This small town with it’s Georgian architecture and beautiful tree lined promenade (mall) along the river Carrow Beg and charming streets It’s easy to see why Westport has won Irish Tidy Towns Competition three times, as well as winning the “Best Place to Live in Ireland competition in 2012 by The Irish Times.

Although Westport may be a small town with a population of only  5,543 there is no shortage of activities to do, with guided walking tours of the town departing on Thursdays at 11am, starting at the top of bridge street near the clock,you take a wee wander along the beautiful promenade and visit the tidy town statue as well  the beautiful Holy Trinity Church and other places of historical significance

Holy Trinity Church

Westport is also a great place to base yourself to explore the surrounding rural area, With beautiful mountains located to the south and west of Westport, there are great mountain climbing and hill walking opportunities  with fantastic views over the Conemara mountains and Clew bay Area.

If you want something a little more adventurous you could do what I did and go on one of Clew Bay bike hire and Outdoor Adventures trips, their office is located in Westport town,they offer many adventure activities in Westport and the surrounding Clew Bay area and beyond.With  options to either rent your own bike and explore yourself or join in one of thire guided tours it’s definitely a great way to see the surrounding countryside.

If you are looking for more information, events and places to see in Westport be sure to check out the official webpage for Westport Tourism

Stay tuned for my next post where I go on a bike ride along the former railway the Greenway.