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Adventure awaits
As Westport is Ireland’s adventure capital, there is no shortage of companies offering wild Atlantic experiences for your family to enjoy. Wavesweeper Sea Adventures is a family-run adventure company that will ensure you make the most of your time on the Mayo coastline with activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and coasteering. The Adventure Islands host similar activities with other exciting additions such as windsurfing, wakeboarding and island camping, as well as some land-based activities. Adventure West is a similar provider of adventure in the Clew Bay Area, including rock-climbing and abseiling.
Wavesweeperseaadventures.com Adventurewest.ie
Westport House
Dating back to the 1500s, this house and its scenic surroundings are sure to be enjoyed by adults and children alike. You can tour the house and take advantage of the attractions and events throughout the grounds. The Pirate Adventure Park is one of the most notable attractions here for children, as hours of fun can be had on the rides and slides of this themed playground. Float along in one of the giant swan pedal boats or brave the zip wire in the Adventure Activity Centre. The enjoyment is endless here for families wishing to experience one of Westport’s most beloved attractions. Be sure to keep an eye on their website for their seasonal events such as Santa’s Christmas visit. Westporthouse.ie
Westport Adventure Park
Test your fitness and skill through Westport Adventure Park’s exciting activities. Splatball is a version of paintball which can accommodate kids as young as seven, while the Military Style Assault Course is sure to test your stamina. Bubble Soccer and Zorb Wars are sure to lead to some comical activity as each of you are enclosed within an inflatable ball, and those over the age of 14 can enjoy the terrifying Paintball course in all its adrenaline-pumping glory. Westportadventurepark.ie
Carrowholly Stables and Trekking Centre
Catering for beginners and more advanced riders, the Carrowholly Stables provide a unique way of experience Mayo’s nature – via a horse-back trek! Featuring beach rides with magnificent views of Clew Bay, the Rosturk Trail which can lead to several secluded islands when trekking at low tide, or the Mulranny Mountain Trail, which offers stunning landscape views of off-shore islands and mountain ranges. With experienced instructors guiding your way and first-time riders being offered the most gentle and calm horses, this is sure to be an enjoyable experience for all. Carrowholly-stables.com
Great Western Greenway
This cycling trail traverses the Atlantic coast between Westport Town and Achill Island, offering stunning views of Clew Bay and mountain landscapes along the way. It is the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland and follows the route of a closed down railway line. Bike rental and accommodation are available right across the route so it couldn’t be easier for you and your family to get involved. Ideal for ensuring you and your family stay active during your getaway, as well as guaranteeing you get to soak in all of the scenic beauty which this trail has to offer. Greenway.ie
Fantastic pet farms
Gruane Pet Farm and Play Centre is home to several species of adorable pet animals which are sure to be popular among little ones. On sunny days, you can enjoy the parks outdoor benefits such as picnic areas and playgrounds, but the beauty of this farm is that it is brilliant when the weather is less favourable too. Many of the animals’ enclosures are sheltered and the farm’s play centre is located indoors as well. Gruanepetfarmandplaycentre.ie
Visit Achill Island
To ensure culture and history are included in your family’s getaway, visit the off-shore Achill Island. Achill is constantly hosting events and festivals surrounding arts, culture, history and music which are well worth attending. In addition to that, the island is jammed with beautiful scenery, breath taking beaches and vibrant views of the Atlantic sea. The nature trails and regular mini-marathons are great ways of keeping active throughout your stay as well. When combined with their seasonal water sports and aquatic activities, there’s no doubt that there is plenty of entertainment available to you here. Achilltourism.com
Croagh Patrick
It would be a shame to visit Mayo without embarking on a climb of St. Patrick’s sacred mountain. Situated five miles outside of Westport, the mountain is rich in religious importance and amazing history. This historic climb is sure to provide incredible scenery and panoramic view of the surrounding area, making it an unforgettable experience. Ideal for those seeking an active family day out, this may be best suited for older kids whose legs won’t tire as easily during the climb. The Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre has lockers to store your belongings in as well as a coffee shop, restaurant and important information and images regarding Croagh Park.
