Tourist info

Discover the hidden gem of County Mayo—an Irish-speaking Gaeltacht village nestled between the Partry Mountains and the sparkling shores of Lough Mask. Tourmakeady offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a true escape into rural Ireland.

About Tourmakeady

Located in Southwest County Mayo, on the shores of Lough Mask.
Gaeltacht Region (Irish-speaking area) in the scenic Joyce Country.
Located from, Ballinrobe (15 mins), Castlebar (35 mins),Westport (40 mins), Cong (30 mins).
Known for its natural beauty, Irish language culture, walking trails, and its iconic waterfall.

Nature & Attractions

Tourmakeady Waterfall & Forest Walk: A peaceful forest trail leading to a stunning waterfall.
Lough Mask: Ideal for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Partry Mountains: Great for hillwalking and photography.
Wildlife: Home to otters, herons, pine martens, and diverse bird species.

Places to Stay

B&Bs and Guesthouses: Traditional Irish hospitality in family-run accommodations.
Self-Catering Cottages: Ideal for longer stays and nature lovers.
Nearby Hotels: Options available in Ballinrobe, Cong, and Westport.

More information here

Activities

Walking & Hiking: Forest trails, hill walks, and lakeside routes.
Fishing: Lough Mask is renowned for trout and salmon angling.
Photography & Birdwatching: Breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.
Cultural Events: Irish music, storytelling, and local festivals (especially in summer).

Culture & Heritage

Gaeltacht Village: Many locals speak Irish as their first language.
Waterfall Magazine: A local publication capturing history and community stories.
Historical Sites: Old churches, famine walls, and rural ruins dot the landscape.

Arctic Char

A large outdoor Mosaic piece created by Annaliese Brown for the Mayo Local Authority Waters Programme to raise awareness of the Blue Dot sites in Mayo.
In particular, the pristine waters of wonderful Lough Mask, in Tourmakeady, which still has a significant population of Arctic Char.
check out her process here: brownbearart.ie

Coláiste Chonnacht

Coláiste Chonnacht was established by the Gaelic League in 1906 in Tourmakeady in Co. Mayo.
It was established to train teachers in the teaching of the Irish language.
The college moved location to An Spidéal, Co. Galway in 1910, where it acquired a premises in Sheeaunroe House.
The college is located here to the present day.

More information here

Food & Drink

Local Pubs: Great for a pint, live music, and warm local conversation.
Cafés & Restaurants: Options are limited but expanding—check seasonal hours.
Nearby Dining: More variety in Ballinrobe and Cong.

More information here

Getting There

By Car: Best accessed by car; scenic routes from Westport, Galway, or Castlebar.
Public Transport: Limited—nearest regular bus services in Ballinrobe or Westport.
Closest Airports:

Ireland West Airport Knock (1 hr), Shannon Airport (2 hrs),

Dublin Airport (3.5 hrs)

more information here

Local Tips

Shops: Small convenience stores for essentials—best to stock up in nearby towns.
Weather: Can be changeable—bring layers, waterproofs, and good shoes.
Cash vs Card: Some rural places may prefer cash.