Spending a day in Westport offers a mix of outdoor adventure, history, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture. Here’s a suggested itinerary for making the most of your time in this charming town:

Morning: Explore the Town and Westport House

1. Start with Breakfast in Town

   • Begin your day with us at Ashville Guesthouse for a hearty Irish breakfast and coffee.

2. Stroll Through the Town Center

   • After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through Westport’s charming Georgian streets. Explore The Mall, a tree-lined promenade that runs alongside the Carrowbeg River. The town’s architecture, quaint shops, and colorful storefronts make it a lovely place to wander and soak in the atmosphere.
   • Stop by some of the unique local shops or galleries if you want to pick up souvenirs or art from local craftspeople.

3. Visit Westport House

   • Next, head to Westport House, one of Ireland’s most historic and beautiful country estates. The mansion, built in the 18th century, has stunning period interiors and a rich history connected to the pirate queen Grace O’Malley.
   • Spend time exploring the house and the extensive grounds, which include landscaped gardens, woodlands, and a lake. There’s also a café on-site if you want a mid-morning coffee or snack.
   • For families, Westport House has adventure activities like a pirate-themed amusement park and a mini-train tour around the estate.

Midday: Croagh Patrick or the Greenway

4. Hike Croagh Patrick (optional)

   • If you're up for an outdoor adventure, take a trip to Croagh Patrick, just a short drive from Westport. Known as Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick offers incredible panoramic views of Clew Bay and its 365 islands.
   • The hike takes about 2-3 hours up and down, and while it’s steep in places, the views from the summit are worth it. It’s a sacred pilgrimage site, so you’ll see many people making the climb, especially in summer.
   • If you’re not hiking, you can visit the Visitor Centre at the base of the mountain to learn more about its history and religious significance.

5. Cycle or Walk the Great Western Greenway

   • If hiking isn’t your preference, consider renting a bike and cycling along the Great Western Greenway, a scenic trail that runs 42 km from Westport to Achill Island. The Greenway is relatively flat and passes through stunning countryside, coastal views, and villages.
   • You can do a shorter section if you don’t have time for the full trail, such as cycling to Newport or Mulranny and back, stopping for a picnic or lunch along the way.

Lunch in Westport or Newport

6. Lunch at a Local Restaurant or Pub
   • After your morning activities, grab lunch at one of Westport’s renowned eateries. If you're in town, try The Pantry & Corkscrew or J.J. O’Malleys, known for local seafood and hearty Irish dishes.
   • Alternatively, if you’ve cycled to Newport or nearby, you can stop at Grainne Uaile or The Blue Bicycle for a casual but delicious meal.

Afternoon: Scenic Drives and Coastal Views

7. Drive the Atlantic Coast (optional)

   • After lunch, take a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, one of the most famous coastal routes in Ireland. From Westport, head towards Louisburgh, enjoying views of Clew Bay and its numerous islands.
   • You can stop at some quiet beaches like Bertra Beach or Old Head Beach for a walk or simply to enjoy the ocean views.

8. Explore the Quay in Westport

   • Head back to Westport Quay, the historic port area, and enjoy a relaxed stroll by the waterfront. The Quay is home to small galleries, craft shops, and pubs.
   • You can also visit the Clew Bay Heritage Centre, a small but interesting museum covering the history of the bay, the Browne family, and local maritime life.

Evening: Dinner and Live Music

9. Dinner in Westport

   • For dinner, consider An Port Mór, a popular fine dining restaurant that serves contemporary Irish dishes using local ingredients, especially seafood. Sage is another great option, known for its creative, modern Irish cuisine.
   • If you prefer a more relaxed pub setting, The Helm Bar or Matt Molloy’s Pub (owned by the member of The Chieftains) offer both great food and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

10. Traditional Irish Music at Matt Molloy’s

    • End your day with some traditional Irish music at Matt Molloy’s Pub, one of the best-known places in Ireland for live sessions. It’s a cozy, atmospheric pub where you can listen to talented musicians play traditional tunes well into the night.