Here is our list of top places to stay, see and eat in Mayo …
Fans of the award-winning Misunderstood Heron – formerly perched above Killary Fjord and hailed by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top ten coolest food trucks – will be thrilled by its new home at BigStyle Lodge at P Dan’s, Killadoon, near Louisburgh, which has a terrace with incredible sea views. While you’re there, try The Big Dipper, a wood-fired sauna and hot tub with front-row seats to the waves crashing below.
Charming and colourful, Westport is one of Ireland’s liveliest small towns. Grab brunch at Cornrue Bakery (buy the sourdough to take away). In the evening, enjoy live music at backto- basics-in-a-good-way McGing’s Pub (Thursday to Sunday), or stop into the legendary Matt Molloy’s, for nightly traditional Irish music. Don’t miss Staunton’s Pub, a family-run gem just outside town, offering local pints and scenic views of nearby Croagh Patrick.
All eyes are on new hotel, The Grace, named after pirate queen Grace O’Malley, being built on the grounds of Westport House. The local Hughes family, owners of Portwest have big plans for The Grace, due to open in spring 2026 and the refurbishment of 300-year-old Westport House.
On Achill Island, swim at Keem Bay, one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. In Keel, about 8km away, Ar Bia Mara’s seafood truck serves up locally caught calamari, scampi and monkfish, Thursday to Sunday. As the sun sets, cosy up at historic Lynott’s Pub in Cashel, a 200-year-old thatched cottage perfect for a quiet pint.
If you’re passing through Swinford on the Dublin Road, don’t miss Jimmy’s Irish Coffee Drive-Thru – a one-of-a-kind coffee stop. @jimmysirishcoffee. There’s also a branch in Ballina.
A short spin from Ballina is the village of Foxford – make time to visit the Foxford store and newly expanded café there.
Saltwater Cottage (sleeps six, pet-friendly) on Achill Island.
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