County Mayo- A Rugged Region of Mountains, Lakes and Castles
National Geographic Traveller (UK)|December 2017

A rugged region of mountains, lakes and castles perfect for a scenic road trip

Jack Southan
County Mayo- A Rugged Region of Mountains, Lakes and Castles

There’s little doubt as to what’s considered County Mayo’s main draw. Venture out along one of its coastal roads in almost any direction, and in no time you’ll be struck by the implausible beauty of this Western Irish landscape.

The key to such an endeavour is the Wild Atlantic Way — a coast-hugging road network that runs for over 1,600 miles around Ireland’s west coast. The section that passes through Mayo is stunning: winding roads cut through orange-green moorland, dappled with heather and lichen-covered rock; past shady woodland dells or along precipitous coastal cliffs; and through picturesque towns nestled on the hills above pristine emerald lakes that sparkle in the sunlight.

This story is from the December 2017 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

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This story is from the December 2017 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

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