Multiple Mayo hotspots feature in bumper Ireland tourism guide

The vibrant tourism scene in Mayo has received a further ringing endorsement for 2026, as a plethora of stunning travel hotspots have made a national list compiled by dozens of travel experts.

In total, four places to eat, stay, and sample the local culture have appeared on a list from the 'Irish Independent', where they canvassed the opinion of over 50 travel insiders and tastemakers.

The county first featured in the 'small and secret stays' section is Bervie Bed and Breakfast, ideally situated near Achill's iconic Keem Bay and Dugort.

The 14-room guesthouse came in for rave reviews from Kathy Donaghy, who described the ambiance and surroundings as "like stepping into a warm hug”.

“The charm and welcome of Bervie is sublime," Donaghy writes. “The smells emanating from the kitchen are mouth-watering. I first visited this summer and know I want to go back again and again.” 

Another popular place to stay, which has received rave reviews, is the Oak Tree House. The quaint stay, located in the shadow of Croagh Patrick just outside Westport.

The treehouse venue has everything needed to make a memorable stay, and was branded as "the closest you can get to staying inside an actual fairytale” by Nicola and Ronan Lavin, known online as our uniquestays.

Two experiences also made the list. Wild Nephin National Park, one of the jewels in the Erris crown, has received plenty of awards.

The latest endorsement comes in this list, as the Mayo International Dark Sky Park received acclaim from travel vlogger Criostoir Connolly.

The park is renowned in Mayo and beyond for the ability to view the constellations and even the aurora borealis on a rare night.

“You’ll witness some of the clearest dark skies in Ireland, perhaps even the world," Connolly stated. "It’s an experience you’ll never forget and one that deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.”

The last mention comes just off the shores of this famed county, with Clare Island and Inishturk the locations of Atlantic Island Escapes.

Curated experiences are the name of the game. Whether it's fishing with local fisherman Jack Heanue, crab claw cooking, or sea-swimming off the secluded Tránaun Beach, the two-day adventure has everything island life has to offer.

You can read the whole guide by clicking here.