The Céide Coast Tour

Explore the Spectacular Views of North Mayo

Approx Duration: 6 Hours

The Céide Coast is without a doubt a must-see tour of the North Mayo region. Taking us back 6000 years ago, we’ll get the chance to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors. We’ll start from the beautiful Ballina with a brief tour of Belleek Castle, before venturing off to explore the wonders of the coast. Our tour will finish up at the Céide Fields, an archaeological wonder bursting with historical marvels. 

We start our day with a brief tour of the enchanting Belleek Castle. With its very walls woven by County Mayo’s rich culture and history, you’ll be blown away by the staggering combination of Victorian and Medieval features. If these walls could talk, we’d be riveted by their sublime stories.

Next, we will step back in time at the Moyne and Rosserk Abbeys, just a few of the impressive Monasteries of the Moy. Situated on the banks of the River Moy and between Ballina and Killala, these ecclesiastical ruins are a must-see. Despite a tumultuous history and being burnt by Cromwellian forces during the 17th century, they still echo with spiritual life and Irish stories.

Arriving in Killala, we will do a walk about this beautiful coastal town. As part of our tour, we will explore stunning sights and become spellbound by its local history. Some of the key stops will be the spectacular St Patrick’s Cathedral and the ancient Round Tower, the foundations of which date back to the time of St Patrick. History fans will be pleased to learn of the links with Humbert and movie buffs are sure to recognise landscapes from the ‘Year of the French’ which was filmed there.

Discover unparalleled views of the Atlantic Coast as we venture to the staggering natural beauty of Downpatrick Head. Nearby, you will spot the geological wonder of the Dún Briste Sea Stack with its different layers of rock and nesting seabirds. Close by, the Blow Hole (Poll na Sean Tine) is another feature with the wow-factor. This spectacle of Atlantic erosion will take your breath away as you watch the sea foam rise through it like smoke in a chimney. 

We will then have a refreshing stop in Ballycastle. There, you can take advantage of its international and creative flair with a visit to the Ballinglen Arts Foundation and Museum of Art. Immersing yourself in contemporary Irish art will be easy as you explore their spectacular collection. 

To finish of our tour, we will explore one of the most unique Wonders of Ancient Ireland. Located on the magnificent Atlantic Coast in Ballycastle, the Céide Fields is the oldest Neolithic site in the world dating back nearly 6000 years ago. This region is rich in Neolithic history, its blanket bog covering a plethora of ancient tombs, submerged stone-walled fields, and houses. Enjoy the breathtaking natural surroundings and immerse yourself in the local history at the Céide Fields Visitor Centre before enjoying a drink at the divine on-site café.