The picturesque market town of Westport in County Mayo has been officially crowned the best place to live in Ireland, combining stunning natural beauty with an exceptionally high quality of life.
Known for its immaculate streets and welcoming atmosphere, this designated Heritage Town offers visitors and residents alike a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich culture, and traditional Irish hospitality.
A Landscape of Mountains and Islands
Westport's setting is nothing short of spectacular. The town is dramatically positioned near the iconic Croagh Patrick, Ireland's revered 'Holy Mountain', which stands just five miles away.
This cone-shaped peak towers over Clew Bay, a breathtaking bay famously said to contain an island for every day of the year. In reality, there are approximately 120 named islands, with countless smaller drumlins appearing at low tide.
The largest island, Clare Island, is accessible via a short ferry journey from Roonagh Pier and offers magnificent walking trails. It's a haven for birdwatchers hoping to spot puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes.
The Charm of Westport Town
At the heart of Westport lies its elegant Georgian town centre, where stone bridges cross the Carrowbeg River, lined with picturesque, tree-shaded walkways.
The town's cleanliness is a standout feature, evidenced by its multiple wins in the Irish Tidy Towns Competition in 2001, 2006, and 2008. This commitment to maintenance and community pride contributed to its 2012 designation as the Best Place to Live in Ireland by The Irish Times.
As you'd expect from an Irish town, Westport boasts an excellent selection of traditional pubs. Establishments like Matt Molloy's, MacBride's, Porter House, and JJ O'Malley's regularly host live traditional music sessions, creating a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Experiencing Local Life and Adventure
For those seeking authentic local experiences, the Quay area and The Point are popular spots where residents gather, especially on fine days. Visitors can observe the friendly banter of locals swimming in Clew Bay's shallow waters.
Adventure seekers can tackle the pilgrimage ascent of Croagh Patrick, particularly popular on the last Sunday of July when thousands make the challenging climb. For less strenuous activities, the Great Western Greenway offers fantastic cycling opportunities through stunning landscapes.
Travel to Westport is straightforward, with Ryanair, British Airways, and Aer Lingus all operating flights to Ireland West Airport Knock, located approximately one hour's drive from the town.
Enthusiastic visitors frequently return, with many praising the area's combination of natural beauty, welcoming culture, and accessibility. As one Reddit user noted, 'It really does seem magical out there, lots of outdoor activities and seems less busy with tourists.'
