Beautiful Ballina...
When you explore a new area on holiday you want to know that you can do this as safely as possible, did you know Ballina, Mayo is a Purple Flag town?
What is a Purple Flag town? A Purple Flag is an international accreditation scheme for towns and city centres in the evening and at night. It is the “Gold Standard” for night time destinations. the Purple flag is awarded to towns across Ireland which have demonstrated to have a safe evening and night-time economy (ENTE).
Ballina, Mayo lies at the heart of Mayo North with some of the most beautiful scenery in Western Europe within easy reach of the golden beaches of Enniscrone, Lacken and Killala to the majestic sea cliffs in Ballycastle. This vibrant, historical town straddles the River Moy Estuary and is set in a stunning location between the Ox and Nephin Mountain Ranges.
Ballina has officially been designated as Ireland’s Salmon Capital by virtue of the quality of angling available on the Moy, and this status is echoed throughout the town with dedicated walkways along the river where tourists can observe anglers at the world renowned pools, beats and weirs. Among the town’s impressive vantage points are the town’s striking angling-themed pedestrian bridge and nearby Cathedral walk.
The River Moy is not the only natural wonder in Ballina. Belleek Woods is located a short distance away from the town centre and is one of Europe’s largest urban woodlands with six miles of peaceful natural forest pathways with many hidden secrets to explore, and striking views of the Moy. It is also the setting of the majestic Belleek Castle which contains a 16th century armoury and the unique Marshall Doran Collection.
Just across the Moy from Belleek Woods is the charming old sea port known locally as The Quay or Crocketstown which has been named as a Discovery Point on The Wild Atlantic Way.
Widely recognised as a foodie destination, and recently awarded the ‘Purple Flag’ in recognition of its booming night-time economy, the town is also a cultural hub and hotspot for internationally acclaimed festivals such as the Ballina Salmon Festival, Food Fleadh Ballina, Samhain Abhainn, Frosty Salmon Festival, and many other seasonal events.
But this is only a small portion of what we have to offer. There’s so much to explore. This is just the starting point! The list of things to do and see in North Mayo is endless, from Downpatrick Head to the Céide Fields, Wild Nephin National Park and over to Erris where you will discover gems such as, Blacksod Lighthouse and the deserted islands of Inishkea. The list is endless. There’s something for everyone…
