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If you’re looking for a summer escape that doesn’t require a car or a long-haul flight, Westport makes for an ideal weekend base. With train access from Dublin, great food, mountain trails, beaches and a growing wellness scene, it’s easy to put together a low-stress itinerary that leaves plenty of room for slowing down.
Friday Evening: Dublin to Westport
Finish work, grab your bag and jump on the evening train from Dublin. Arriving in Westport around 8.30 pm, you’ll have enough time to check into your accommodation and head out for dinner.
For food, some favourites in Westport include An Port Mór, Sage Restaurant, J.J. O’Malley’s.
For accommodation, the centrally located The Wyatt Hotel makes a great base, while Westport Heights offers a quieter option with views over the town. You can also camp in Westport House, or a quick search on Airbnb can land you with some lovely self-catering options too.
Saturday: Croagh Patrick and a Sauna Session
Start the day with an early bus (number 450) from Westport to Murrisk before setting out on the climb up Croagh Patrick. Although one of Ireland’s most popular mountains, the route is still rewarded with incredible views across Clew Bay and the islands.
After the hike, head to the Misunderstood Heron for lunch; it’s one of the most unique food stops on the West Coast and is exactly what you need after a good hike, since you aren’t driving you can also enjoy a pint in the nearby pub, Campbell’s. Return to Westport in the afternoon and spend the evening slowing things down. A session at Sabhna Saunas, Westport Estate, offers the perfect way to recover after the climb.
Dinner can be as relaxed or as indulgent as you like before spending another night in town.
Sunday: Brunch, Beaches and the Journey Home
Start the morning slowly with brunch at Serv’d before exploring some of Westport’s quieter corners definitely an underrated brunch spot!
You could spend a couple of hours walking around Westport House and the grounds of Westport Estate, rent bikes and cycle part of the Great Western Greenway or simply wander through the town and enjoy a coffee.
If the weather plays ball, head out to Bertra Beach on the 450 bus for a swim and a final dose of Atlantic air before returning to Westport and catching the train back to Dublin.
A Sustainable Weekend Escape
One of the best things about Westport is how much you can experience without needing a car. Between the train, local buses and the town’s walkability, it’s easy to enjoy a weekend of mountains, beaches, good food and saunas while keeping things simple.
Sometimes the best summer adventures are the simplest ones.
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