Nature spot · County Mayo
Mayo Dark Sky Park
Mayo is internationally recognised as one of the best places in the world to view the wonders of the night. Mayo Dark Sky Park at Wild Nephin National Park has received a prestigious Gold Tier Award from Dark Sky International.
Home to Ireland's first International Dark Sky Park, Mayo has some of the darkest and most spectacular night skies in the world, making it a must visit destination for stargazers. Set between the remote Nephin Mountains and the wild Atlantic coastline, this internationally recognised Gold Tier Dark Sky Park is the perfect place to experience the night at its finest.
On a clear night, thousands of stars, planets, the Milky Way, meteor showers and, on occasion, even the Aurora Borealis can appear. Discover some of the park's signature viewing locations, including Ballycroy Visitor Centre, the Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail and the remote Brogan Carroll Bothy. Whether you are exploring a scenic walking trail or simply pausing to look up, Mayo's naturally dark skies promise an unforgettable experience. Come and reclaim the night.
Outdoors in County Mayo this week
Best day outdoors: Sun, 11 Oct — dry by day, breezy, up to 14°C
Status Yellow - Rain warning for Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo
From Thu, 8 Oct, 09:00 until Fri, 9 Oct, 04:00
Heavy spells of rain.
Be aware of potential impacts:
- Difficult travelling conditions
- Localised flooding possible
Issued by Met Éireann · met.ie/warnings
- Fri, 9 Oct12° / 8°Medium rain showers
- Sat, 10 Oct12° / 7°Sun with light cloud
- Sun, 11 Oct14° / 13°Sun with light cloud
Make a day of it
The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.
Trails & walks
Beaches & bathing waters
Parks, gardens & islands
Nature spot · 100 m awayPáirc Náisiúnta Néifinne FiáineWild Nephin National ParkParkBallycroyWild Nephin National Park is situated in northwest Mayo and covers over 15,000 hectares of Atlantic blanket bog and mountainous terrain.
Nature spot · 6.5 km awayInis Bigil (Inishbiggle Island)IslandLocated between the mainland and Achill Island in County Mayo, Inishbiggle is a unique island with stunning panoramic views of West Mayo.
Nature spot · 7.7 km awayAn CloigeannClagganParkThis point in Claggan in north-west County Mayo offers panoramic views over Ballycroy National Park, south towards Claggan Mountain, and west, across the inlet, to Achill Island.