Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Cong Wood
Explore the serene landscapes of Cong Wood in Co. Mayo, a national forest perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks amid Ireland's rich heritage.
Nestled in the heart of Co. Mayo, Cong Wood offers tourists a serene escape into nature. This enchanting national forest, known for its stunning trails, rich biodiversity, and historical significance, is a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike. With its well-marked paths and diverse flora and fauna, Cong Wood serves as the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, vigorous hikes, and peaceful picnics, promising visitors an unforgettable experience in Ireland's scenic landscapes.
A brief summary to Cong Wood
- Saint Mary's Church, Abbey St, Cong, Cong South, Co. Mayo, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the trails.
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better chances of wildlife sightings.
- Bring a packed lunch to enjoy a picnic amidst nature.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and vibrant wildlife.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Salthill Promenade, start walking east towards the Claddagh area. Once at the Claddagh, continue straight onto Quay Street. Follow Quay Street until you reach the intersection with Cross Street. Turn left onto Cross Street and keep walking until you reach the bus station. Here, you can catch a bus towards Cong. Board the bus and enjoy the scenic ride. Once you arrive in Cong, follow the signs to Saint Mary's Church on Abbey Street, which is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Cycling
If you have access to a bicycle, start at the Salthill Promenade and cycle along the coast until you reach the Claddagh area. From there, continue on Quay Street and turn left onto Cross Street. Follow this road to the bus station to catch a bus to Cong. After arriving in Cong, cycle towards Abbey Street, where you will find Saint Mary's Church.
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Public Transport
From Salthill, walk to the nearest bus stop located on the Promenade at the junction with Threadneedle Road. Take the bus number that heads towards Cong. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Alight at the Cong bus stop, then walk straight along Abbey Street to reach Saint Mary's Church.
Discover more about Cong Wood
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ballykine Castle
3.7 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Ballykine Castle, a hidden historical treasure set amidst the stunning landscapes of Co. Mayo, Ireland.
The Pyramid
5.8 km
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Ballycurrin Lighthouse
7.9 km
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Currarevagh House
9.3 km
Discover the charm of Currarevagh House in Co. Galway, a luxurious hotel with fine dining and breathtaking views, nestled amidst stunning nature.
Curraghduff Farm
10.7 km
Discover the enchanting Curraghduff Farm in Co. Galway, where friendly alpacas and stunning landscapes create a unique tourist experience.
Derroura Woods
10.8 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Derroura Woods, a hidden national forest gem in County Galway, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
Oughterard Shrubbery
13.0 km
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Brigit's Garden & Café
17.9 km
Explore the enchanting Brigit's Garden & Café in Co. Galway - a serene botanical escape with delightful food, local crafts, and breathtaking nature.
Joyce Country Sheepdogs
19.2 km
Discover the art of sheep herding at Joyce Country Sheepdogs, a unique attraction in Clonbur, County Galway, showcasing Ireland's pastoral heritage and stunning landscapes.
Moore Hall
19.7 km
Explore the historical ruins and stunning landscapes of Moore Hall, a captivating gem in County Mayo that embodies the essence of Ireland's rich heritage.
Castle Hackett
21.9 km
Discover the captivating allure of Castle Hackett in Co. Galway, a historical gem nestled amidst Ireland's stunning landscapes.
Knockma Wood
22.3 km
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Knockma peak Knights Tower (in Ruins)
22.7 km
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Ballintubber Abbey
24.1 km
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Holy Well
25.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Monk’s Fishing House
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Monk's Fishing House in Cong, Co. Mayo, a perfect retreat for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The Quiet Man Museum, Tours & Giftshop
0.1 km
Explore the legacy of 'The Quiet Man' at this delightful museum in Cong, County Mayo, and immerse yourself in Irish film history.
Cong Abbey
0.2 km
Discover the ancient beauty of Cong Abbey, a historical landmark in Co. Mayo, showcasing Ireland's rich monastic heritage amidst stunning landscapes.
St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church
0.2 km
Discover tranquility and community spirit at St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church in Cong South, Co. Mayo.
Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara
0.2 km
Explore the iconic Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara in Cong, Co. Mayo, a charming tribute to the classic film 'The Quiet Man.'
Cong Dry Aqueduct
0.4 km
Explore the historic Cong Dry Aqueduct in Co. Mayo, a stunning landmark reflecting Ireland's engineering legacy amidst breathtaking landscapes.
The Guinness Tower (1864)
0.5 km
Explore the historic Guinness Tower in Cong, Co. Mayo, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a journey through Ireland's rich heritage.
Ashford Castle
0.7 km
Discover the luxury of Ashford Castle, a historic resort hotel in County Mayo, where opulence meets adventure in a breathtaking setting.
Dog's Cave
0.7 km
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Pigeon Hole Cave
1.2 km
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Pigeon Hole Wood
1.3 km
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Ard Na Gaoithe, Forest Recreational Park
2.1 km
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Clonbur Wood
4.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Clonbur Wood, a hidden hiking paradise in the heart of County Galway, Ireland.
Clonbur Wood Car Park
4.8 km
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Lough Corrib
4.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Lough Corrib, Ireland's largest lake, surrounded by lush landscapes, rich wildlife, and charming historic sites.
Essential places to dine
Cullen's at the Cottage
0.7 km
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Wilde's at the Lodge
1.1 km
Experience fine dining excellence at Wilde's at the Lodge amidst the breathtaking beauty of Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo.
John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway
5.0 km
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Connemara Lake Hotel
12.5 km
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Connemara Greenway Restaurant
12.6 km
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The Lough Inn
15.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at The Lough Inn - a cozy pub and family restaurant nestled in scenic County Mayo.
Screebe House
24.8 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Screebe House in Connemara, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional hospitality.
Ellie McGuires Restaurant
26.2 km
Experience local flavors and warm hospitality at Ellie McGuires Restaurant in Ballindine, Co. Mayo - the perfect stop for travelers.
Sheridan's Bar & Restaurant
27.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Sheridan's Bar & Restaurant in Milltown – where warmth meets deliciousness in every dish.
Old Arch Bar & Bistro
27.6 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Old Arch Bar & Bistro in Claremorris—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Pullman Restaurant
29.5 km
Experience fine dining like never before at Pullman Restaurant – where culinary excellence meets historical charm aboard a vintage train.
Westport Country Lodge Hotel
29.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Westport Country Lodge Hotel with exceptional dining options in scenic Co. Mayo.
Oxtail Kitchen
31.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Oxtail Kitchen in Balla, Co. Mayo—where tradition meets culinary innovation.
The Country House Bistro
31.3 km
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Delphi Resort
32.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lilly's Antiques and Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Lilly's Antiques and Collectables for unique gifts and treasures in Cong, Co. Mayo, where history meets charm.
Walkin's Gift Shop
10.3 km
Explore Walkin's Gift Shop for unique Irish crafts and gifts in Ballinrobe, offering a treasure trove of local artistry and souvenirs.
John P. Keogh & Sons Irish Gifts and Crafts
12.6 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at John P. Keogh & Sons, where handcrafted gifts and authentic souvenirs await every traveler.
Connemara Sheep and Wool Centre
27.4 km
Experience the charm of the Connemara Sheep and Wool Centre, where Irish heritage meets exquisite wool craftsmanship amidst stunning landscapes.
Jeremiah Higgins
27.7 km
Explore Jeremiah Higgins in Claremorris, a unique gift shop and historical museum offering local treasures and charming fashion items.
L’Armoire Boutique
27.8 km
Discover unique fashion and accessories at L'Armoire Boutique in Claremorris, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style.
Shine Boutique
27.8 km
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Joyce's Craftshop
30.8 km
Explore Joyce's Craftshop in Co. Galway for unique handmade jewelry and crafts that showcase the essence of local artistry.
The Gaiety Antique and Vintage Store
31.3 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds at The Gaiety Antique and Vintage Store in Islandeady, Co. Mayo.
The Fancy Nest
31.7 km
Explore The Fancy Nest in Claregalway: Your destination for unique home goods and charming gifts that capture the spirit of Ireland.
Westpoint Shopping Centre
32.1 km
Discover shopping bliss at Westpoint Shopping Centre in Westport, Co. Mayo, where retail therapy meets local charm and dining delights.
Gateway Shopping Park
32.3 km
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The Boutique Charity Shop
32.5 km
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Euro stretcher
32.6 km
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Aodha Irish craft & design
32.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
TJ Gibbons' Bar
13.6 km
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The Lough Mask Inn
14.2 km
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Joyce's Bar
30.8 km
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The Rendezvous Bar
31.2 km
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Cú Chulainn's Bar
32.2 km
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Toby's Bar
32.5 km
Discover Toby's Bar in Westport, Co. Mayo – a vibrant pub offering local brews, hearty meals, and a warm atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar
32.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar in Westport - where creative cocktails and fine wines blend beautifully.
The Brewery
32.6 km
Experience the heart of Westport at The Brewery, a cozy bar offering local brews, live music, and a taste of Irish hospitality.
The Old Grainstore Westport
32.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic pub culture at The Old Grainstore in Westport, where every visit feels like home.
Morans Pub
32.6 km
Discover Morans Pub, a quirky gem in Westport, where Irish charm, lively music, and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Cosy Joe's
32.7 km
Cosy Joe's: A charming cocktail bar in Westport, offering creative drinks and a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Jester Bar
32.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Jester Bar, a premier sports bar in Westport, Co. Mayo, where great food meets live sports action.
Mac Brides Bar
32.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mac Brides Bar in Westport – where every drink tells a story and every visit feels like home.
Blouser's Pub
32.7 km
Discover the charm of Blouser's Pub in Westport, where authentic Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks.
Danny's
32.7 km
Experience the excitement of sports and the warmth of community at Danny's, Westport's favorite sports bar with delicious food and live entertainment.
