The North Mayo coast is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. Here’s how to make the most of a day exploring this off-radar region:
9am: Start at Killala
Begin your day in the charming village of Killala, nestled on the River Moy estuary. Fuel up with a morning coffee at *The Kiosk Café* on Market Street, a cozy spot to enjoy your first taste of the local hospitality. Afterward, take a short stroll to explore the **Round Tower**, a striking 75-foot limestone structure dating back to the fifth century. This ancient tower, with its doorway set high above the ground, once served as a defensive refuge against marauders.
10am: Drive to Downpatrick Head
Set your GPS for Downpatrick Head, approximately a 30-minute drive from Killala. This stunning coastal promontory is home to **Dún Briste**, a towering sea stack that stands just 80 meters from the cliff edge. The name «Dún Briste» translates to «broken fort,» a reference to the legend that a violent storm separated the stack from the mainland in 1393. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean and let your imagination wander as you consider the tales of locals being rescued from the stack using ships’ ropes.
11.30am: Stop at the Ballinglen Museum of Art
Continue your journey to Ballycastle, where the **Ballinglen Museum of Art** awaits. This small but inspiring museum showcases works by artists who have found inspiration in the wild beauty of the North Mayo coast. After soaking in the art, stop by *Céide Ladle’s* nearby food shack for a delicious lunch. Enjoy locally caught mackerel served with fresh salad and homemade brown bread, a perfect way to refuel before your next adventure.
2pm: Head on to the Céide Fields
A short drive from Ballycastle will bring you to the **Céide Fields**, where you can explore one of the world’s oldest-known stone-walled fields, dating back nearly 6,000 years. The visitor center, open from March to November, offers fascinating insights into this Neolithic landscape, much of which remains buried beneath a blanket of bog. The fields and their surrounding landscapes were immortalized by poet Seamus Heaney as “a landscape fossilized.”
3.30pm: Take the Local Road from Belderrig to Portacloy
Next, set off on a scenic drive along the local road from Belderrig to Portacloy. This route takes you through a hauntingly beautiful agricultural landscape, where you’ll pass through areas of cut bog, grottoes, and ancient ruins. The landscape is a poignant reflection of the west coast’s rugged beauty and historical melancholy. If you’re traveling off-peak, you may even find the secluded **Portacloy beach** entirely to yourself, offering a tranquil spot to relax and take in the views.
5pm: Enjoy a Scenic Walk Along the Coast
Conclude your day with a coastal walk, taking in the dramatic scenery of **Benwee Head**. This short loop near the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area of Carrowteige offers spectacular views of the heaving Atlantic, sheer cliffs, and the **Stags of Broadhaven**, a group of jagged rocks just offshore. The walk provides an excellent balance of stunning natural beauty and a sense of serene solitude. Finish your walk in Carrowteige, or return to Killala to wrap up your day with a well-deserved rest.
This itinerary offers a perfect snapshot of the North Mayo coast’s unique charm, blending its rich history, striking natural beauty, and warm local culture. Whether you’re drawn by the ancient monuments, the rugged landscapes, or the quiet beaches, this day out in North Mayo is sure to leave you with lasting memories.