Westport Ireland has been named one of the best places to visit in 2013. You might not have heard of Westport, Ireland, but it is blossoming into a very popular family destination. There’s really something for everyone in Westport; beautiful scenery, incredible golfing facilities, beach swimming, hiking, yachting, and if you visit in September you’ll get to enjoy Westport’s Art Festival which showcases some of the best art from this region. There are numerous great hotels in Westport suited to a variety of budgets. If this hasn’t convinced you to visit Westport yet, check out our 5 reasons why you should visit Westport below:
1) It is Strikingly Beautiful
Ireland is well-known for being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. In Westport you’ll enjoy a beach, beautiful rivers dividing the city, and nature on the doorstep. It’s a great place for hiking, cycling and recreational fishing. Because of Westport’s location, you’re not too far from the beach or the cycling trials – the best of both worlds. The old city streets are very quaint and dotted with lovely little restaurants, ensuring you will have a wonderful and relaxing holiday.
2) There’s So Much to Do
Fancy some swimming? Golf? Recreational fishing? Perhaps you’d like to take the kids to Pirate Adventure Park (or maybe you just want to go yourself). Add in all the hiking and cycling trails and you’ve got a jam-packed long weekend or week’s worth of fun and adventure to keep you busy in Westport.
3) Westport’s Art Festival
I’m at art lover – and I make an effort to go to as many galleries and museums whenever I visit a new place. Why not coincide your (late) summer holiday to Westport with the Art Festival? Along side the festival itself, there are a number of cute pop-up boutique stores that open up which transforms Westport into a buzzing town.
4) The Legend of Grainne Mhaol
Fancy seeing a traditional Irish music show? Well, you’ve come to the right place. The Legend of Grainne Mhaol is based on a real-life story of the Irish Queen Grace O’Malley. This show is bursting with energetic talent and wonderful musicians. This is something special to do in Westport that is very local and authentic. Consider The Legend of Grainne Mhaol a must-see when visiting Westport.
5) The Great Western Greenway
We’ve already mentioned that Westport is a great place for cycling, but we’re not kidding! The Great Western Greenway is a bike path with absolutely striking views. You can organize to be dropped out a certain distance from town and to cycle back, otherwise you can cycle from and back to Westport. The total stretch is around 40km, which is about 2-2.5 hours cycling for someone of moderate fitness. Overall the ride is not very challenging and has incredible views, making for a great day out.
Westport was the first city that Google mapped in 3d and it’s been voted the top 8th place to visit this year by Lonely Planet. You could say that all signs are pointing to Westport!
Have you ever been to Westport? Let us know what you thought in the comments below.