While there’s plenty to do on the Wild Atlantic Way, we’ve put together a list of 10 of the top things to do this Summer to help you make the most of the amazing places and experiences within arm’s reach.
No matter what your interests, you’ll find loads to enjoy in Mayo North. We can arrange any of these activities for you and have loads more suggestions, just ask the team at reception
1. Bespoke Tours with Rachel
Based in Ballina, join Rachel as she brings you on her Irish adventures. She will bring you with her on an exhilarating outdoor experience through the wonderful landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way. Activities offered by Rachel include hiking, mountain climbing and trail running, road biking, cookery classes, whiskey and wine appreciation sessions and guided heritage walks and tours.
If you are feeling active take a look at Rachel's website - HERE
2. Fishing with Judd
Join our local fisherman, Judd Ruane on a wild Atlantic fishing trip. Judd will bring you to the mouth of the River Moy to try your hand at fishing while getting to see the Wild Atlantic Way from the water.
Fancy a peaceful day fishing click - HERE
3. Foxford Woollen Mills
Step back in time to experience Irish life as it was in the 1800s at the award-winning Foxford Experience, just a short drive from The Ice House. Enjoy a multimedia tour, see a working mill as it runs today, and get a taste of the tradition, design and craftsmanship that has been passed down for generations. And best of all… Ice House guests enjoy a 10% discount at Foxford Woollen Mills.
Find out more about this wonderful woven world - HERE
4. Enniscrone Beach
Just a short drive from the hotel, Enniscrone beach is a must visit, boasting a 3 mile uninterrupted sandy beach, suitable for a romantic stroll, or for the more energetic, a good power walk.
5. Harbour SUP & Sail
Explore River Moy from a different view on a Stand-Up Paddleboard or kayak with views of the river and Belleek Forest Park. Whether you’ve tried it before or it’s your first time on a SUP board, this is the perfect way to enjoy it in this incredible backdrop.
Want to know more, click - HERE
6. Connacht Distillery
The Connacht Distillery sits on the banks of the beautiful River Moy in Ballina, County Mayo. It was set-up to bring pure pot still Irish whiskey back to the West of Ireland after an absence of over 100 years. They distill and barrel spirits on site and offer small interactive tours including a chance to sample their Whiskey and spirits.
Book Distillery tours - HERE
7. Jackie Clarke Museum
Located in Ballina, this is the most important private collection of Irish history material in public hands, comprising over 100,000 items spanning 400 years. It includes artifacts associated with Theobald Wolfe Tone; letters from Michael Collins, Douglas Hyde, Michael Davitt and O’Donovan Rossa. It also contains rare books, proclamations, posters, political cartoons, pamphlets, handbills, works by Sir John Lavery, maps, hunger strike material and personal items from Leaders of the 1916 Rising. Thousands of items can be seen on display in the Jackie Clarke Collection.
Take a look at more information about the collection - HERE
8. Surfing
Whether you are a beginner or a pro, find the perfect swell and plan your surfing break in Mayo. Go wild this summer and surf some of Ireland’s best waves at Enniscrone or Easkey. Take lessons or simply rent the equipment you forgot to bring. There’s a surf school close by in Enniscrone and another further afield at Strandhill with lots of Ireland’s secret surfing spots in between. Get directions and the latest surf reports every day.
9. Ceide Fields
Just a short drive from The Ice House lies the Ceide Fields, one of Mayo’s most famous tourist attractions, this is the oldest known field system in the world. A unique Neolithic landscape with megalithic tombs preserved beneath a blanket of peat, it has changed our perception of our Stone Age ancestors. Visit the multi award winning visitor centre and let it change yours too. Retrace the footsteps of Irish history at Ceide Fields.
Want to know more click - HERE
10. Walking
Mayo’s largely unspoiled, clean countryside, unique scenery, rich heritage and folklore mark it as ideal walking destination. The variety of walks on offer may combine to offer an unrivaled and unforgettable experience for walking tourists.
Walks right on our doorstep are the Belleek Woods, gorgeous walkway just across the river from the hotel. Or for something a bit different, explore one of Ireland’s 6 national parks in the Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, stretching 15,000 hectares includes Mayo International Dark Sky Park too.
