When you take the time to discover the Mayo North epic coastline, you will meet the Wild Atlantic Way in an area of unrivalled coastal beauty and can explore The Céide Coast of Ballycastle and Belderrig.
Stretching from the Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point at Downpatrick Head to the sea cliffs of Ben Mór, Belderrig, there are plenty of things to do along this route.
One of the most popular things to do is visit Downpatrick Head which offers panoramic views while you take in the stunning Dún Briste sea-stack from the edge of the cliffs. Marvel at the Spirit of Place Installation overlooking “Poll Na Seantainne” a spectacular natural blowhole. Here, you’ll also find a number of promontory forts, church remains and a World War Two lookout post and land marker.
If you want to try a bit of 'sea swimming' why not take a dip in Belderrig’s natural sea pool, or wet your toes at the stunning Ballycastle’s Bunatrahir Bay (check for local tide information). For those that want to explore some underwater scenery, there are numerous quality dives around Dún Briste Sea Stack, and dives of varying depths off Horse Island, Belderrig.
For fishing enthusiasts, there is a long tradition of fishing in Belderrig going back six millennia. Bring your rod and fish from the rocks you may be surprised to see what you can catch!
Of all the things to do in Ballycastle and along the Céide Coast, we can highly recommend lacing up your boots and enjoying a walk to Ballycastle Beach, or taking the Sralagagh Loop Walk – a beautiful trail starting from Ballycastle with breathtaking views of one of the Wild Atlantic Way signature points, Downpatrick Head.
You can also take in a portion of the Western Way Walking Route – a linear 150 km walking route from Leenaun, Co.Galway to Ballycastle. It includes long sections on tarmac roads, but the views of the Downpatrick Head and the spectacular vista to the north looking to Donegal and Sligo make it more than worth it!
Afterwards, enjoy a homemade meal or a warming cuppa in one of the local artisan cafes.
