Wild Atlantic Way 08: Downpatrick Head and North Mayo

Make Downpatrick Head the focus of a North Mayo day, with a base chosen around the journey.
Dún Briste sea stack at Downpatrick Head, County Mayo

The headland near Ballycastle

Downpatrick Head brings the journey to an exposed stretch of North Mayo coast near Ballycastle. The offshore sea stack is a striking part of the view. Allow time to arrive, read the site notices and take in the setting; a brief stop squeezed between long drives leaves little margin for weather or changing conditions.

Plan from the map

Ballina can be one possible base for exploring this part of the county, while a stay nearer your main coastal interest may shorten the day. Compare the route and the evening arrangements before booking. The Mayo destination guide provides a starting point for finding other visits that fit the area you have chosen.

Towards Erris

Belmullet and Erris form the next chapter, further along the coast. Treat the connection as part of the trip rather than time that disappears between attractions. Check fuel, food and your arrival plan before leaving a town, especially when travelling outside the main visitor season.

Useful links

Before you go

Check weather and local headland notices, keep well clear of cliff edges and follow marked access. Choose an alternative plan when conditions are poor.

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Featured image: Dún Briste sea stack, Downpatrick Head, Co. Mayo (1) – geograph.org.uk – 5829962.jpg — Mike Searle · CC BY-SA 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP. No scene changes. Image retains the stated source licence.