Croagh Patrick

There’s a rare beauty to Croagh Patrick. Rising dramatically from the County Mayo landscape, this scree-covered peak rewards those who reach its summit with spellbinding panoramas of the Wild Atlantic Way. Stand here, and Clew Bay – edged by mountains – spreads out before you; its countless islands scattered across the water in soft washes of blue, green and brown. Steeped in legend and spirituality, Croagh Patrick has been a popular pilgrimage site since St Patrick visited here in the 5th century, and thousands still scale it on the last Sunday of July.

Croagh Patrick has been considered a holy mountain since pagan times, when people would gather at the summit to celebrate the beginning of the harvest season (known as Lughnasa), on or around 1 August. More recently, archaeologists have found evidence of Neolithic art here, suggesting that it has been a sacred site for thousands of years. The mountain, however, is most famously connected with St Patrick.

It’s said that the saint fasted for 40 days for Lent back in the year 441. Originally, the mountain was called Cruachan Aigli, but it was renamed Cruaich (meaning “mountain”) Patrick in the mid-14th century in honour of Ireland’s patron saint.

Today Croagh Patrick presents a challenging but rewarding hike, especially between April and September, with the well-marked but steep Pilgrim Path taking roughly 3-4 hours there and back.

At the summit – windswept and wild – the vastness of the view delivers a humbling reward, making those aching muscles all worthwhile. Before you begin your descent, visit the small white church known as St Patrick’s Chapel, which sits on the site of a much older structure dating back to the 5th century.

Thousands of people climb Croagh Patrick each year but preparation is the key to a successful hike. Conditions can change quickly so always check the weather before you set out. Sturdy footwear is essential, as is rain gear, sunscreen, water and snacks. 

A pilgrimage to Ireland’s Holy Mountain – Croagh Patrick

Drop into the Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre at the foot of the mountain, where you can learn more about the history and heritage of Croagh Patrick, as well as ancient pilgrimage traditions and local folklore. The centre offers two interactive virtual reality experiences that take you to the summit and allow you to enjoy those epic views without ever setting foot on the mountain. These 15-minute VR experiences can be booked at the visitor centre and are ideal for families or those with mobility issues.

There is a coffee shop in the Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre, where you can enjoy soup, sandwiches and light bites before or after your climb. Or stop into nearby pubs including the Tavern Bar and Restaurant, and Campbell's pub, where The Misunderstood Heron eatery serves up local seasonal ingredients with a creative twist. If a picnic is more your style, Bertra Beach is just a short walk from the visitor centre.

Discover great food experiences along the Wild Atlantic Way

Beyond Croagh Patrick

Once you’ve scaled Croagh Patrick, make sure you stick around – this part of County Mayo is packed with great things to see and do. The mountain is not far from the lively town of Westport, renowned for its vibrant traditional music scene, excellent restaurants, and the 400-year-old Westport House.

Looking for more adventure? Hire a bike and take to the Great Western Greenway, which brings you along the Wild Atlantic Way from Westport to Achill Island, a majestic location boasting gorgeous beaches, dramatic sea cliffs and great walking trails. 

Whether you head north to the surfer’s paradise of Sligo  or drive through the hauntingly beautiful DooLough Valley to Killary Fjord in County Galway – you’ll discover further proof that this is one of the most beautiful regions on the island of Ireland. 

Explore Ireland’s rugged coastline with these amazing cliffside walks

Travel beyond County Mayo and discover what the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer. This 2,500km coastal touring route follows Ireland’s west coast from the charming town of Kinsale in County Cork to the magnificent Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal.

Try our 10-day Wild Atlantic Way trip idea to help you plan your itinerary now.