County Mayo (Maigh Eo) receives less hype than County Galway. Mayo's appeal is its historical resilience, its hidden corners, and its raw, wild landscape of bog, mountain, and meadow. The Great Potato Famine hit Mayo the hardest and while it is still recovering in some ways, those exploring Ireland's wilder wonders will not be disappointed.

One of Mayo's treasures is the town of Cong (Conga), which sits cushioned between Lough Mask and Lough Corrib. Not far from the luxurious grounds of Ashford Castle the town is worth exploring for its clear tourist draw; the film The Quiet Man (1951), starring John Wayne, was filmed here. A backdrop of rivers, streams, and forests lends itself to further exploration.

Sitting off the Clew Bay and undeniably Mayo's most adorable town is Westport (Cathair na Mairt). The town's population hovers at around 6,000 inhabitants and walking to the Westport Quay Harbor makes a worthwhile jaunt.

Westport House and Gardens

The Westport House and Gardens (098 25 430, www.westporthouse.ie) is a spectacular mansion overlooking Clew Bay. With gardens and an amusement park feel, a trip here makes a fun family outing. Attractions on hand for kids include a small zoo, pedal boats, and a train. Killary Adventure Company (see Chapter 13) has opened a branch here offering activities including kayaking, a climbing wall, laser tag, and archery. Westport House and Gardens is open daily from the end of March to September, 11:30 A.M.–5:30 P.M., Sunday only in October. Westport Attractions are open daily June–August, 11:30 A.M.–5:30 P.M.; Sunday only in May. Admission to House and Gardens 7.50/9/12. Admission to House, Gardens, and Attractions 16.50/18/21.