Suitable For:
- Families with Older Children
- Families with Young Children
- Couples
- Retirees
Amenities/Other:
- Suitable for small children
- Children are welcome
- Pets are welcome
- No Smoking
- Free Internet Access
- Yard/Garden
- Parking Space
Other Information
- Bedrooms: 5
- Bathrooms: 4
- Bicycles: 0
Property Description
Our house is 5 bed detached house on half an acre with seaviews, 4 miles from Belmullet town.
Unfortunately, like so many others in the same situation, we won't be going abroad this year so more than ever we want to explore Ireland Our home is our holiday home just outside Belmullet, Co Mayo on the West coast of Ireland next stop on the map is America! It is built on half an acre site, it has 5 bedrooms and panoramic views overlooking the Broadhaven Bay built. A 5 minute drive away is a beautiful beach just beside Claggan Island called Shraigh Beach, only the locals know where it is, it is often secluded, it is Heaven on earth, especially if the sun is shining. There is an excellent golf course not too far away Carne Golf Club, Westport is 45 mins away if you want to Climb Croagh Patrick Mountain. The house has a high chair, 2 cots, stairgates and is very homely with panoramic seaviews, It is rural. 1.5 hours drive from Knock Airport. A four hour drive from Dublin if you are travelling by Ferry. It is 1 hour from Achill Island, 7 minutes drive from Belmullet town, Ballycroy National Park is a 20 minute drive away, Westport is 40 minutes away and Ballina is half an hour away. The house has an open fire in the living room and a stove in the kitchen, we always have turf for burning in the fires.
When you look out of the windows, it is like looking at a picture postcard, fantastic seaviews and cliff views. Wifi is available in the house, please do not expect great speeds, we have to be honest, there are too many mountains in the area, it is very rural so the wifi will not be as fast as you may be used to, but I have worked from their and it was fine for me. Belmullet is only 4 miles away for a visit to supermarkets, restaurants, bank etc and Aldi is opening in August 2020. If you like golf, Carne Golf Club is 8 miles away, golfing with a sea view, the Clubhouse Restaurant is good too. The Broadhaven Bay Hotel is 3.5 miles away, it has a Spa too. The Gateway Leisure Complex has bowling, a play area for the children on rainy days and a great bar and restaurant too. McDonnells Bar is a must to visit in Belmullet, a great pint of Guiness a small pub but very traditional. The Ceide Fields is about 12 miles from the house and they date back well before the Egyptian Pyramids. There are lots of great walks with mountain and sea views, fishing is plentiful and the Broadhaven Bay organise fishing tours. Bikes can be hired also if you need them. Westport House is great for adults and children. There are great Greenway Cycling routes from Westport, Mulranny and Newport. If you haven't climbed Croagh Patrick then you must try it.
Surroundings
- In a Rural Area
- Beach
- Walking/Hiking
- Mountains
- Golfing
- Park/Playground
Location Description
This information sheet is intended to tell you a little bit about the area of Barnatra and Belmullet.
There are four lighthouses off the Erris Coast. Their presence indicates the indented nature of this coastline. These lighthouses were fully manned, up until 1997, when all lighthouses in Ireland became fully automated. The lighthouse you can see from this accommodation is Ballyglass lighthouse.
Belmullet is a very popular town, situated on the Erris Pennisula, there are many spectacular scenic spots up and down the coast including Elly Bay, which is a white sandy beach stretching over a mile long.
Shraigh Beach is the nearest beach to the house, it is also a white sandy beach and is approximately 2 miles from the house. Directions to Shraigh Beach are come out of the house, turn right, at the end of the road turn left. When you come to the crossroads, go straight ahead until you come to 'Our Lady's Shrine' grotto, which will be on your right, take a right and follow the road ahead. You will see the beach.
Knock airport is approximately 50 miles away. Carne Golf Club has a private helicopter pad, and a light aircraft grass airstrip. Two major towns in Mayo County, Castlebar 35 miles away and Ballina, 25 miles away.
North Mayo has one of the greatest concentrations of Stone Age Tombs (megaliths) in Europe. It possesses the intact farms of the tomb builders, preserved underneath the bog which covers the region. Tir Saile (English) has created a trail of permanent sculptures from the Moy Estuary to the Mullet Peninsula marking in a contemporary way this ancient landscape.
Last but not least, Cead Mile Failte, for those who aren't familiar with the words it means a hundred thousand welcomes.
IF YOU ARE HERE JUST TO CHILL OUT AND DO NOTHING, JUST IGNORE THIS PART !
TOURIST INFORMATION
The tourist information office on American Street, Belmullet (take a right at the roundabout, it's on your left), offers a vast amount of local information. Open all year around, the staff should be able to give you directions to all the hidden treasures of erris. Tel 097 81500 or email: iorrasd@hotmail.com
WATERSPORT ACTIVITIES
Wavesweepers Sea Adventure, Belmullet 097 81096
CEIDE FIELDS VISITOR CENTRE Tel: 096 43325
This is a unique Neolithic landscape of world importance which has changed our perception of our Stone Age Ancestors. Preserved under blanket bog, which has been growing for 5000 years, lies a farming countryside of stone walled fields; the oldest enclosed landscape in Europe. These fields were already deserted, and bogs growing before the pyramids were built in Egypt ! The bog surface is the modern landscape. There is an audiovisual show in the visitor centre along with exhibitions and coffee shop. Guided tours of the site are also available. The visitor centre is five miles west of Ballycastle. Directions from Belmullet View Holiday accommodation is once out of the house, take a right, at the end our road take a right on to the main road, at the T junction take a right, this is the main road to the Ceide Fields, look out for signposting for the Ceide Fields.
GOLFING IN CO MAYO
18 hole Courses: Ballina, Ballinrobe, Carne (Belmullet), Castlebar, Claremorris, Westport, Enniscrone
9 hole Courses: Achill Island, Ashford Castle, Ballyhaunis, Ballinrobe, Clew Bay, Mulranny, Swinford
CARNE GOLF CLUB( 8KMS FROM THE HOUSE) Tel: 097 82292 Email: carngolf@iol.ie
Carne Golf Club is a classic 18 hole championship links and is undoubtedly nature's gift to golf! Situated 2.5km from Belmullet town in a very unique and dramatic landscape, Carne Golf links provides a great golf challenge. It has been rated by 'Golf World (2000)' as one of Irelands top 5 links coursed. The course itself in length is 6119m (6,690 yards), it is 18 holes and has a par of 72. Carne Golf Links
Clubhouse provides full catering facilities with a bar and restaurant. Carne Golf Links is a member of West Coast Links a group of 6 superb links courses from Sligo to Galway to Donegal. Buggies, trolleys and clubs are available on request. The course is open to non-members and visitors are most welcome.
DAY TRIP TO ISLANDS
Off the coast to the west lie the beautiful and tranquil islands of Inis Gluaire, Dubh Oilean Mor, Inishkea North and Inishkea South, all of which are steeped in history and where monitories flourished in the early Christian times.According to the legend, the islands of Inis Gluaire is said to be the final resting place of the Children of Lir, Conn, Aodh, Fiachra and Fionnuala. A spell was cast on these four children whereby they were turned into swans and condemned to this life until they regained their human form some 900 years later.
Up until 1927 the Iniskeas were home to thriving fishing communities until 10 fishermen were lost at sea in a tragic accident. There were two survivors. The islands deserted shortly afterwards, and are now home to a variety of birdlife, including half of the Irish wintering population of Barnacle Geese.
Inishkea South and North contain a wealth of archeological material dating to the early Christian period and more recently Inishkea South was the site of a whaling station, the remains of which are still evident.
These are available weather permitting. For further details please contact: Geraghty Charters, Inis Ge Islands Tours and Angling Tel: 097 85741 Email: bruclannlir@eircom.net
Lavelle Charters, Fishing and Island Trips, Eachleim Tel: 097 85669
Sean Lavelle, Diving and Sea Tours Tel: 086 8365983 or 086 3499988 or log onto www.divewestirleland.com
Anthony Irwin, Dolphin and Wild Life Watching and Island Tours. Tel:
087 2582124 or 097 85976
WALKING IN THE BARONY OF ERRIS
The beautiful scenery and unspoilt, unpolluted atmosphere make The Barony of Erris an ideal walking environment with plenty to offer walkers of all levels.
Siuloidi Iorrais - Erris Walk
A series of 24 circular walks throughout the Barony, catering for every
age group and ability. The guidebook is available from Iorras Domhnann
at 097 81500 or email: iorrasd@hotmail.com
The Bangor Trail
48km in length, this trail is regarded as one of the finest walks in the country, passing from Newport to Bangor Erris. Much of the trail is off-road in remote countryside and maps are available in tourist
information offices. Belmullet office 097 81500
ERRIS LOOP HEAD
This is a beautiful 5 kilometer walk along a good signposted path, World War 2 lookout post a the top with Eire carved out down below. Scenery very rugged and beautiful, be careful if bringing children.
CROSS BEACH LOOP WALK
Beautiful beach walk, park in the car park, nice on a nice day. You can see Achill headland and Slieve Mor on a good day.
The Western Way
Stretching along the western coast for over 170km, the Western Way passes through rugged mountains and forest trails. This walk takes you from the Westport region northwards through the wild bog of Erris and
Tirawley until it reaches Belderrig and Ballycastle, near the 5000 year old Ceide Fields. Maps are available from the Tourist Office, Tel: 097 81500
Angling
Ireland is recognised as being the outstanding angling destination in Europe and North Mayo is undoubtedly a game anglers' and sea anglers' paradise. The Barony of Erris, with its miles of coastline and variety of rivers and lakes in tranquil surroundings, justly holds a number of records for the varieties of fish caught.
Sea Angling
With over 39 varieties of fish known to inhabit the waters off the shores of the Barony of Erris, the sea-angler is rewarded with the best all-round sea angling waters in Ireland.
There are 4 approved charter angling boats in the area for whole or half day hire with excellent, helpful skippers. A tackle and bait shop in Belmullet carries a full range of equipment and bait.
The Belmullet Sea Angling Club run a number of open competitions during the year. For details call the Club Secretary Michael John Nallen on 097 82093.
Game Angling
The Owenmore and Owenduff rivers in North Mayo provide excellent Salmon and Sea Trout fishing, controlled mainly by private ownership. Limited day tickets are available. Carrowmore Lake, near Bangor Erris, is renowned for its Salmon, Sea Trout and resident stock of Brown Trout. For further information contact the Bangor Angling Club Manager, Seamus Henry on 097 83487.
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing is particularly good all year round. The miles of accessible coastline and almost deserted beaches guarantee a fisherman perfect peace. Recently a ten and a half pound sea trout was caught off the shore at Glosh Beach - making history in the area !
THE BEACHES OF ERRIS
The coastline has an abundance of beautiful uncrowded beaches, some of the Blue Flag status ensuring clean water and safety. This EC quality status was awarded to Elly Bay and Mullaghroe, both located on the Mullet Peninsula, south of Belmullet.
Watersports
The watersports enthusiast has a choice of both gentle, sheltered waters and also the more exposed western shoreline noted for windsurfing. Wavesweepers Sea Adventure 097 81096, you can also find them on Facebook.
There is an adventure centre in Elly Bay offering a quality instruction in sailing, windsurfing, or canoeing. Also adventure and diving centre in Pollatomish offers first class diving and equipment hire.
UISCE Adventure Centre Tel: 097 82111 or email: uisce@eircom.netCuan na Farraige Diving Centre Tel: 097 87800 cuannafarraige@eircom.net
BIRDWATCHING
The beaches and coastline are home to a variety of bird species throughout the year, making the Barony of Erris especially interesting for birdwatchers. Cormorants and a wide variety of Gulls are some of the more common birds to be seen. Further information is available from Birdwatch Ireland on 01 2804322.
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
The Barony of Erris has a rich tradition of music, singing and dancing. The Strawboys can be seen entertaining at weddings and other festive occasions. In parts of Erris the Irish language is spoken as an everyday language, hence the visitor has an opportunity to learn a few words or improve their fluency.
Irish Colleges
For further information on Irish course contact CONCOS the National Association for Summer Colleges. Tel 066 9156100.
FLANNERY VILLAGE
A visit to Flannery Village in Graughill on the Atlantic Coast with its heritage and wildlife centre is recommended and children are sure to enjoy the pony trekking and open farm and coffee shop. For the adults, take advantage of a visit to the knitwear factory with an extensive range of hand knits, scarves and hats, all available at factory shop prices. Flannery Village Tel: 097 84058
HOLISITIC HEALING
When in Erris a visit to the Natural healing Centre in Corclough West is essential! Gisela Jurgens, a recognised Kinesiologist and Reiki Master, believes an individual's body knows what is required for good health. She offers a variety of treatments such as Reiki, emotional healing, Chinese medicine, Reflexology and Tachyon energy work an can treat all ailments form high blood pressure to eye disorders. For further information call 097 82065. Appointment is essential.
EAGLE ISLE SEAFOODS LTD
Established over 30 years ago, a visit to the family run smoked salmon factory is a must. Located in Doohoma, visit the factory and then relax in the pub with a pint and a plate of Eagle Isle Smoked Salmon.
FESTIVALS
BELMULLET ARTS FESTIVAL
For details on Belmullet arts festival email: belmulletfestival@hotmail.com
Tel: +353 (0)97 81008 (Home)
+353 (0)97 20555
+353 (0)87 6448082
Traditional Fair Day - L· an Logha
Biggest single event in Erris on 15th August each year. La an Logha translates as the Day of Indulgence and is traditionally a pilgrimage to commemorate St Deirbhle's Well (Tobar Deirbhile). It's the highlight of the summer season in Erris and emigrants arrange their holidays around ths time. Whatever its origins, huge crowds gather and fun is guaranteed!
GEESALA FESTIVAL
Horse and pony races on Doolough Beach, Dog show, Greyhound Racing, Ceili nights and much more. Information on 097 86742.
BELMULLET SEA ANGLING FESTIVAL
Renowned international festival with open boat competition. There are also a number of competitions throughout the year. Information on 097 82093.
ERRIS INTERNATIONAL FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL / FEILE IORRAIS
Visiting folk arts group from overseas, children and adults workshops and literary competition. Last week in July. Email: feileiorras@eircom.net
THE NATIONAL PARK IN BALLYCROY
The National Park in Ballycroy is one of the largest expanses of peatland in Europe, providing a unique habitat and a wide selection of flora and Fauna.
BELDERRIG RESEARCH AND STUDY CENTRE
The new Research Centre in Belderrig, beside the prehistoric farm site provides a purpose-built facility in which to continue the research into the ancient human relationship with the environment. The centre has 2 laboratories and a lecture/general purpose hall where the ongoing research will be conducted and where short courses relating to landscape and environment will be on offer. Log onto: www.mayo-ireland.ie/mayo/towns/belderrig/belderrig.htm
FURTHER AFIELD:
ACHILL ISLAND
Achill Island lies off County Mayo on the west coast of the Republic of Ireland. Marked by rugged mountains and peat bogs, the island is known for its tall sea cliffs and clean beaches. Its breezy shoreline makes it a popular spot for water sports. The strand (beach) at Keem Bay inspired visiting writers Heinrich Böll and Graham Greene. Keel, the island's main village, has a sandy surf beach. A very scenic drive up the mountains (if you have a fear of heights, maybe it is not for you – very beautiful though)
FOXFORD WOOLLEN MILLS VISITOR CENTRE Tel: 094 56756 Foxford, Co Mayo
Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre is centrally located in County Mayo, just a short drive from any of the major towns. The Foxford Mills Visitor Centre is the ideal location for a lunch-stop with easy parking in the grounds plus all facilities under one roof.
ART GALLERIES
The Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre hosts two art galleries. On the first floor An Grianan Gallery shows the works of local artists, much of the work depicts the beautiful scenery of the county. All paintings are for sale.
JEWELLERY WORKSHOP
The Jewellery workshop on the first floor manufactures a fabulous range of gold and silver jewellery catering for all tastes and budgets. Claire and Michael can be seen handcrafting intricate pieces of jewellery, many of which are made to order.
THE WOOLLEN MILLS TOUR
One hour self guiding multi media presentation in French, German, Italian and Spanish as well as English and Irish.
OLDE MILL RESTAURANT Situated on the first floor the atmosphere is welcoming, bright and traditional, seating up to 110 people at any given time. It offers a selection of fresh homemade food, from a cup of coffee to a light snack to a full mea