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Croagh Patrick, Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland

At Croagh Patrick, County Mayo
At Croagh Patrick, County Mayo

Embarking on a journey to Croagh Patrick and Achill Island, County Mayo offers a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, spiritual exploration, and coastal serenity.  On the west coast of Ireland Croagh Patrick is very close to the town of Westport, in fact only 8kms away. It was on this mountain that Ireland’s patron saint fasted for 40 days and nights and where he supposedly banished venomous snakes from Ireland. Climbing the mountain, which is 765m high, is an act of penance for thousands of pilgrims on the last Sunday of July (Reek Sunday). 

Visitor's Centre, Croagh Patrick
Visitor’s Centre, Croagh Patrick
Croagh Patrick from the car park
Croagh Patrick from the car park

There is a Visitor’s Centre and opposite the car park is the National Famine Memorial. The trail starts outside the Visitor’s Centre. On this occasion I did not walk up the mountain but I would like to return to do so when in the right mindset.

The track up Croagh Patrick starts outside the Visitor's Centre
The track up Croagh Patrick starts outside the Visitor’s Centre

Next I headed off to Achill Island stopping off briefly at Newport, a lovely town with a very nice looking viaduct. I liked the feel of this town.

Newport, County Mayo, Ireland
Newport, County Mayo, Ireland
Viaduct at Newport
Viaduct at Newport

Achill Island covers 55 square miles and is Ireland’s largest off shore island. It is connected to the mainland by a short bridge making it an easy place to get to by car. Dramatic mountains, moors and wonderful beaches made this island a great place to drive around. I stopped off in Keel and walked along the beach. There was a camping park and shops nearby. I thought it was really beautiful down at the beach. Keel seemed to be the main town on the island and would make a great holiday spot. I would also say if you like hiking that Achill would be a fantastic place to explore.

Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
Looking across to Achill Sound
Looking across to Achill Sound
Off to Keel, Achill Island
Off to Keel, Achill Island
Keel Beach, Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
Keel Beach, Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
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