Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of County Mayo and County Galway, Ashford Castle offers an idyllic starting point for an array of local adventures and day trips that promise to fill your days with wonder and delight. Whether you seek to immerse yourself in Ireland's rich history, explore the pristine landscapes, or savor the vibrant local culture, this corner of the world has an abundance of treasures waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we embark on a journey through the best local activities and day trips, where each experience is a cherished memory in the making.
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Also known as the Royal Abbey of Cong, Cong Abbey's ruins mostly date to the 13th century and have been described as featuring some of finest examples of medieval ecclesiastical architecture in Ireland. The grounds of the abbey also contain a monk's fishing house, built on a platform of stones over a small arch which allows the river to flow underneath the floor.
The city’s hub is 18th-century Eyre Square, surrounded by shops and traditional pubs that offer live Irish folk music. Nearby, stone-clad cafes, boutiques and art galleries line the winding lanes of the Latin Quarter.
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Situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980.
Diamond Hill is a two-hour loop walk in Connemara, this route follows gravel paths, wooden boardwalk and steps up the slopes of Diamond Hill itself. Strenuous but satisfying, the trail through Connemara National Park climbs up to Diamond Hill’s summit at 400m and showcases the breadth of Connemara’s coastline.
The Aran Islands are three rocky islands guarding the mouth of Galway Bay in western Ireland. You can reach the Aran Islands by passenger ferry from Rossaveal, which is about an hour west of Galway City. Weather permitting; the ferry runs year-round but cars are not permitted.
Killary Harbour is a fjord located in northern Connemara, and the border between counties Galway and Mayo runs down its centre. Killary Fjord Boat Tours sail an 9-mile inlet and enjoy uninterrupted views of some of the finest scenery in the west of Ireland.
County Mayo is a place of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, Mayo boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in all of Ireland. Mayo is also steeped in history, with ancient ruins, castles, and heritage sites that tell the story of Ireland's past. The area’s deep connection to Gaelic culture, make County Mayo a truly special and welcoming destination for travellers seeking an authentic Irish experience.
County Galway is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known as the 'Land of the Tribes', Galway city is a cultural hub renowned for its lively arts scene, bustling streets, and traditional music sessions. With its friendly locals, ancient heritage, and breathtaking scenery, County Galway is a place where every corner offers a new adventure and a warm welcome.
Discover and immerse yourself in these unique, authentic and intimate experiences of the west of Ireland, exclusively curated and especially hosted by Ashford Castle’s Experience Ambassador. Engage all of your senses with the sounds of the workshop, the beautiful landscapes, the smell of Irish rain and the taste of the finest Irish food.
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