Croagh Patrick & Clew Bay

Ireland's holy mountain rises above a bay dotted with 365 islands - one for every day of the year. This route circles Clew Bay from charming Westport, taking in the Reek's pilgrim path and the scattered islands where Grace O'Malley, the Pirate Queen, once ruled.

Why This Route?

Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay combine spirituality with scenery:

• Croagh Patrick - Ireland's holiest mountain
• Westport - Award-winning heritage town
• Clew Bay islands - 365 drumlins in the sea
• Grace O'Malley heritage - The Pirate Queen's territory
• Great Western Greenway - 42km cycling/walking trail

Where to Stay

This 85-kilometre circuit around Clew Bay from Westport takes in Croagh Patrick, Louisburgh, and the Clare Island ferry before returning along the bay's northern shore. It is a day route, and Westport -- the starting and finishing point -- is the obvious base, offering Mayo's best selection of accommodation and evening entertainment.

Westport

Westport's tree-lined Mall, Georgian architecture, and harbour-side Quay district give you a lively home base for the day. Head out to Murrisk and the Reek's pilgrim path early, loop down to Louisburgh and Killadoon Beach, then return along Clew Bay with its drumlin islands spread across the water. Back in town, Matt Molloy's pub, the Octagon restaurants, and Westport House are all within walking distance.

The Route

Westport

One of Ireland's finest towns:

The Octagon

Georgian planned town centre:

• Tree-lined Mall along the river
• Colourful shop fronts
• Traditional pubs
• Excellent restaurants

Westport House

Historic mansion with:

• Stately home tours
• Adventure park
• Pirate history
• Gardens

The Quay

The old harbour area:

• Matt Molloy's pub (Chieftains member)
• Restaurants
• Views to Croagh Patrick

Murrisk

At the foot of Croagh Patrick:

• Pilgrim statue
• National Famine Memorial (coffin ship sculpture)
• Start of the pilgrimage path

Croagh Patrick

Ireland's holy mountain (764m):

• St Patrick fasted here for 40 days (441 AD)
• Reek Sunday pilgrimage (last Sunday July)
• Chapel at summit
• Panoramic views

Louisburgh

A pleasant town with:

• Granuaile Centre (Grace O'Malley heritage)
• Beach access
• Mountain backdrop

Killadoon Beach

Wild Atlantic beach south of Louisburgh.

Lecanvey

Views across Clew Bay to Clare Island.

Clare Island Ferry

Ferries depart from Roonagh Pier:

• Grace O'Malley's castle
• Abbey with medieval murals
• Walking and cycling
• Day trips possible

Return via North Shore

The road along Clew Bay's northern edge through:

• Newport
• Mulranny
• Views of the islands

Climbing Croagh Patrick

The Path

• 7km return from Murrisk
• 750m elevation gain
• Allow 3-4 hours
• Rocky, steep final section

When to Climb

• Any clear day (avoid cloud cover)
• Reek Sunday (last Sunday July) - thousands climb barefoot
• Avoid winter ice

What to Bring

• Sturdy boots (essential)
• Waterproofs
• Water and snacks
• Walking poles helpful

The Summit

• Oratory chapel
• Mass on Reek Sunday
• Views of Clew Bay, Connemara, Clare Island

Grace O'Malley

The "Pirate Queen" (c. 1530-1603) controlled these waters:

Her Story

• Born to seafaring clan
• Commanded fleet of ships
• Met Elizabeth I as an equal
• Legend throughout the west

Her Places

• Clare Island Castle (her stronghold)
• Rockfleet Castle (near Newport)
• Westport House (built on her castle site)

Great Western Greenway

42km traffic-free trail:

Route

Westport to Achill Sound via Newport and Mulranny.

Surface

Crushed stone, suitable for all bikes.

Bike Hire

Available in Westport, Newport, Mulranny.

Highlights

• Victorian railway bridges
• Coastal views
• Clew Bay panoramas

Practical Tips

1. Croagh Patrick - Check weather; mist is dangerous
2. Reek Sunday - Expect crowds; early start essential
3. Westport parking - Use designated car parks
4. Clare Island - Check ferry times; book in summer
5. Greenway - One-way with shuttle back available

Before You Drive This Route

At 85km the Croagh Patrick & Clew Bay looks like a 2 hours drive on paper. Allow 1 day and you will actually see it. The Irish driving rules and road signs guide covers speed limits, signage and the penalty points system, which is worth ten minutes before you set off. For what a trip like this costs in 2026, from fuel to beds, see the budget guide. Most visitors hire at the airport; our guide to renting a car in Ireland covers deposits, excess and what to check before you drive off the lot. More drives in the same corner of the country are on the County Mayo page, and the Achill Island & Wild Atlantic Mayo pairs naturally with this one.