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Westport
- In the shadow of Croagh Patrick.
Westport, designated one of Bord Failte's Heritage Towns,
is situated in the shadow of Croagh Patrick, overlooking
Clew Bay. One of the few planned towns in the Country, Westport
was designed in the 18th Century by James Wyatt. It has
become one of Ireland's established tourism centres, with
many outstanding features, most notably the beautiful tree
lined boulevard known as The Mall, running parallel to the
Carrowbeg River.It is an ideal base from which to explore
the west of the country including the very beautiful Connemara
region.
Croagh Patrick, one of Europe's best know places of Pilgrimage,
has provided a tough ascent for many pilgrims each year,
climbing barefoot in the memory of St. Patrick, who spent
forty days and forty nights fasting on the summit more than
1,500 years ago. A small church at the summit of the mountain
welcomes penitents, while magnificent views of Clew Bay,
with an island for every day of the week, provides inspiration
for many walkers and visitors throughout the year.
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