Ballycroy National Park

Ballycroy National Park is spread over 11,700 hectares in the Nephin Mountains area in Co. Mayo. Its Atlantic blanket bog land is the largest expanse of its kind in Europe, playing host to a very unique and diverse flora and fauna. You can head out for a guided nature trail in the park. Alternatively you can follow the Bangor Trail―a 29-kilometre long, sign-posted hiking trail, largely through blanket bog terrain and the Nephin Beg Mountains. The Owenduff River within the national park is an important conservation area and the region is a breeding site for many migratory bird species. If you’re lucky you can spot rare species such as the whooper swan and the peregrine falcon. Large parts of the national park are protected areas, so make sure you head to the Visitor Centre (open from March to October) to find out which trails and walks are open. The Tea Room offers fantastic views of the national park and the nearby mountains, and is a great place to stop for a soup and sandwich lunch before leaving the area.