Nestled on the western coast of Ireland, Clew Bay and the charming town of Westport in County Mayo offer a unique blend of natural beauty, local history, and scenic tranquility. Many visitors to this region find themselves asking, How far is Clew Bay from Westport? While the answer might seem straightforward, understanding the distance involves more than just kilometers it also involves appreciating the landscape, access points, travel options, and what makes the route so special. Whether you’re planning a walking trip, a scenic drive, or a cycling adventure, the proximity of Clew Bay to Westport plays an essential role in shaping your experience.
Geographical Location and Overview
Where Is Westport?
Westport is a picturesque town in County Mayo, located on the western coast of Ireland. Known for its Georgian architecture, lively pubs, and vibrant community, Westport serves as a base for exploring many surrounding attractions, including Croagh Patrick, Achill Island, and of course, Clew Bay. The town sits on the Carrowbeg River and is celebrated for its cleanliness and tourist-friendly atmosphere.
What and Where Is Clew Bay?
Clew Bay is an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean located just northwest of Westport. It is renowned for its hundreds of small islands, many of which are drumlins oval-shaped hills formed by glacial activity. The bay stretches across a large area, with its coastline dotted by fishing villages, beaches, and hiking trails. From a geographical standpoint, Clew Bay is not one fixed point but rather a vast, diverse body of water that encompasses multiple entry points and scenic areas.
Actual Distance Between Westport and Clew Bay
Straight-Line Distance
The straight-line distance from the town center of Westport to the edge of Clew Bay is remarkably short. The bay begins just a couple of kilometers from Westport’s center about 2 to 3 kilometers (roughly 1.5 miles). Depending on your exact starting point in Westport and where you want to reach along Clew Bay, the distance can vary slightly.
Driving Distance and Travel Time
If you’re driving, you can reach the shoreline of Clew Bay in approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The quickest route often takes you through the N59 road, which leads northward out of Westport and offers multiple access points to the bay. Roads like the R335 also wind along the coast, giving drivers opportunities to stop and enjoy scenic views.
Walking or Cycling
For those who prefer a more active approach, walking from Westport to Clew Bay is entirely feasible. The walk can take around 20 to 40 minutes depending on your pace and destination within the bay. The Great Western Greenway, a popular cycling and walking trail, starts in Westport and runs along the coast of Clew Bay toward Achill Island, offering an excellent way to explore the area on foot or bike.
Popular Routes and Scenic Points
Via Westport Quay
Westport Quay is one of the most popular starting points for accessing Clew Bay. Located about 2.5 kilometers from Westport town center, it is accessible via a short drive, walk, or bike ride. The Quay features a mix of restaurants, cafes, and galleries and serves as a hub for boat tours and water activities. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Clew Bay’s islands and nearby Croagh Patrick mountain.
The Great Western Greenway
This trail stretches over 40 kilometers from Westport to Achill, tracing the northern edge of Clew Bay. It’s one of Ireland’s most scenic cycling routes, allowing uninterrupted views of the sea, islands, and mountains. Starting the Greenway in Westport gives you direct and easy access to the bay in just a few kilometers.
Why Proximity Matters to Travelers
Convenience for Day Trips
Because Clew Bay is so close to Westport, visitors often plan half-day or full-day excursions without needing to book overnight stays elsewhere. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, or sightseeing, the bay’s accessibility makes it a prime destination for spontaneous adventures or relaxed coastal walks.
Ideal for Photography and Nature Lovers
The short distance means you can catch the golden hour over Clew Bay even with little planning. Photographers frequently travel just a few minutes out of Westport to capture the sunset behind the islands. Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts benefit as well, as the diverse habitats around the bay are within easy reach.
Points of Interest Along Clew Bay
Island Views and Cruising
- Clew Bay is home to approximately 365 islands, legend says one for every day of the year.
- Inishgort Lighthouse and Clare Island are among the best-known features visible from the mainland.
- Boat tours departing from Westport Quay offer up-close exploration of the islands and surrounding wildlife.
Croagh Patrick
Located just to the south of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick is a pilgrimage site and hiking destination. From its summit, you can see an expansive view of the bay. It lies about 8 kilometers from Westport, and the drive or cycle there takes you along the scenic southern edge of Clew Bay.
Mulranny and Newport
As you move further along the bay to the north, you reach towns like Newport and Mulranny. Both offer coastal charm and are directly connected by the Greenway. These areas provide deeper exploration of the bay’s diverse environments and are easily accessible from Westport.
Accommodation and Dining Near the Bay
Staying Close to the Water
Many hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and guesthouses line the route between Westport and the bay. Staying at or near Westport Quay lets visitors enjoy quick access to Clew Bay at any hour. Many of these lodgings offer sea views and are within walking distance of both the town and the water.
Dining with a View
Restaurants near the bay specialize in seafood, offering dishes that feature locally caught fish, mussels, and oysters. Dining with a view of Clew Bay’s calm waters and distant islands adds to the overall experience and can be a highlight of your visit to the region.
the Distance
While the physical distance between Westport and Clew Bay is short just a few kilometers it opens up a wide range of opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation. The bay’s closeness to town makes it a central feature of any visit to Westport, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet walk by the shore or an active day out on the water. This geographic advantage, combined with the natural splendor of Clew Bay and the charm of Westport, makes the area one of the most attractive coastal destinations in Ireland.