Ballina Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque Mayo region of Ireland, the town of Ballina offers a charming blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Located on the banks of the River Moy, Ballina is a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil escape amidst stunning landscapes.

One of the main attractions in Ballina is the River Moy, renowned as one of Ireland's premier salmon fishing spots. Anglers from all over the world flock to this area, hoping to catch the elusive Atlantic salmon. Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner looking to try your hand at fishing, the River Moy offers an unforgettable experience in a serene setting.

For history enthusiasts, Ballina boasts a wealth of historical sites and landmarks. The impressive St. Muredach's Cathedral stands proudly in the town center, showcasing stunning Gothic Revival architecture. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Ballina and discover the remnants of its past, such as the Jackie Clarke Collection. Housed in a beautifully restored Georgian building, this collection is home to an extensive array of historical artifacts and documents, providing a fascinating insight into Ireland's history.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the abundance of natural wonders surrounding Ballina. Just a short drive away lies the majestic Belleek Woods, a sprawling forest that offers picturesque walking trails and breathtaking scenery. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this enchanting woodland, and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls it home.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical charm, Ballina also offers a vibrant cultural scene. The town hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Ballina Salmon Festival. This lively event celebrates the town's fishing heritage with a range of activities, from street performances to live music concerts.

Alternative names: Population: 10.1 thous.Area: 11.55 mi²Elevation: 33 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 54°6'50"N, 9°9'17"W

Location

MayoIreland

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Ballina Top Attractions

Ballina Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ballina offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: St Muredach's Cathedral, Rosserk Friary, Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Nathy, Jackie Clarke Collection. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church
St Muredach's Cathedral
St Muredach's Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Killala in Ireland. It is located on the east bank of the River Moy in Ballina, County Mayo. It is also the parish church of the parish of Kilmoremoy.
Architecture • Sacred and religious sites • Historical place
Rosserk Friary
Rosserk Friary is a friary located in County Mayo, Ireland and a National Monument. Located along the river Moy, the friary was set up by the third order of Franciscans.
Church • Gothic Revival architecture
Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Nathy
Ballaghaderreen Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Achonry. Located in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon in Ireland, the cathedral was commissioned in 1855.

54°6'53"N • 9°9'11"W
Jackie Clarke Collection
Specialty museum • Museum
Memorial
Dolmen of the Four Maols
The Dolmen of the Four Maols is a cist and National Monument located in County Mayo, Ireland.
54°7'9"N • 9°8'47"W
Entrance Arch Belleek
City gate
54°6'60"N • 9°9'13"W
Humbert Monument
Memorial

Day trips

Ballina – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ballina, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Museum of Country Life (Castlebar), Ashford Castle (Cong), Muckross Head (Kilcar).

16 milesS
Specialty museum, History museum, Museum
Museum of Country Life, Castlebar
Nestled in the lush landscape of County Mayo, the Museum of Country Life is a cultural gem located just outside the bustling town of Castlebar, Ireland. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Irish rural life from the 1850s to the 1950s, an era...
40 milesS
Forts and castles, Gothic Revival architecture
Ashford Castle, Cong
Ashford Castle is a medieval and Victorian castle that has been expanded over the centuries and turned into a five star luxury hotel near Cong on the Mayo-Galway border, on the Galway side of Lough Corrib in Ireland. It is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World organisation and was previously owned by the Guinness family.
41 milesNE
Beach, Outdoor activities, Park
Muckross Head, Kilcar
Muckross Head is a small peninsula in the parish of Kilcar about 10 km west of Killybegs, Co. Donegal, in north-western Ireland. It contains a popular rock-climbing area, noted for its unusual horizontally layered structure.
35 milesE
Imposing 1600s castle overlooking lake
Parke's Castle, Dromahair
Parke’s Castle is a plantation era castle situated on the northeast shore of Lough Gill, in County Leitrim, Ireland. The castle is built on the site of an earlier fifteenth-century O'Rourke tower house.
27 milesSW
Museum
Clew Bay Heritage Centre, Westport
Clew Bay Heritage Centre is a local history museum in Westport, County Mayo, Ireland. Located in the west of the town, on the pier, it illustrates the social history and heritage of the Clew Bay area and Westport.