Our popular tour is based in Ballina, the largest town in Co. Mayo, on the banks of the River Moy. From here we’ll explore the rugged landscape of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Wild Nephin National Park and the county’s rich historical heritage dating from prehistoric times to the present.
Taking the afternoon ferry crossing from North Wales with an overnight hotel near Dublin. Then on to Ballina, visiting the National Famine Museum at Strokestown on the way, signifying a tragic but fascinating chapter of Irish history.
A full and scenic day, venturing to the Georgian town of Westport, at the south east corner of Clew Bay, to see the local sights. Then time to relish some of Mayo’s most spectacular scenery, heading to Mulranny, perched on the Wild Atlantic Way; up to Corraun with dramatic views across to Achill Island, looping back to Mulranny and on to the Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail to Ballycroy Visitors Centre and the unspoilt wilderness of Wild Nephin National Park, before returning to Ballina.
With a guide for the day bringing the heritage of Co. Mayo to life, visiting the Killala Roundtower and the remarkable Céide Fields overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where the conflicts of the weather have resulted in the wild beauty and uniqueness of this region. On to Belmullet, along the impressive coast with sandy beaches, well served by a variety of shops, cosy pubs and eateries before heading back to Ballina via Bangor Erris, on the banks of the Owenmore River.
Start the day at Foxford Woollen Mill, founded in 1892 by an Irish nun, with an introduction to a century of manufacturing and craftsmanship. There’s time to browse before we visit the National Museum of Ireland. Here, immerse yourself in Ireland’s rural past but recent way of life and the Victorian Gothic mansion which overlooks gardens and parkland.
Time to head for home, travelling to Dublin with an afternoon at leisure in the capital before continuing to your overnight hotel before boarding the morning ferry.
The 4* Great National Hotel, Ballina is your base for this lovely tour. Located on the outskirts of the town with 87 spacious twin/double bedrooms accessed via the lift. A warm welcome awaits you in McShanes bar and restaurant plus there is an on site leisure club featuring a 20m indoor pool.
Tour includes: Welcomed with tea and coffee on arrival. 4 nights half board with full Irish breakfast and three course choice dinner with tea and coffee. Half board overnights out and return. Porter service throughout. Guided tour of Strokestown House and Famine Museum. Visit to Ballycroy Visitors Centre. Introductory talk at Foxford Woollen Mill. Visit to National Museum of Life, Castlebar. Admission to Ceide Fields Visitors Centre with guide for full day excursion of Co. Mayo. Local coach hire one day. Return ferry. Coach parking.
