The sea stack that St Patrick made in anger at Downpatrick Head
We love our stories in Ireland, it used to be a trade, a Seanachaí or storyteller would go from village to village telling stories. Today, we have Netflix 😔
In the north coast of Mayo, in a remote corner that not enough people visit, is a tall sea stack, standing on its own 200 metres from the open cliffs.
The story goes that St Patrick got angry when a local chieftain would not convert to christianity, he struck the ground with his crozier and the ground split, creating this lonely tower of rock.
That's what a Seanachaí would tell you.
A geologist would tell you it broke away from the mainland in a 14th century storm.
I believe the Seanachaí.
The Downpatrick Head Loop Walk
If you drove here and just saw the sea stack, you'd say it was well worth it. But there's much more to see. A 1.5km loop will take an hour and you'll see:
Dun Bríste Sea Stack
St Patrick's sea stack is called Dun Bríste or the broken fort. I'll tell you now that my photos don't do it justice. It's just one of those places that you can't properly appreciate until you're standing on the edge of the cliff over looking it.
It's home to so many birds. You can sit looking at it all day and just watch Nat Geo live play out in front out you. The birds fly in like a busy airport. I was there on a glorious day and nearly got sunburned taking it all in.
Poll na Seantainne Blowhole
This is a huge blowhole where you can look down at watch the sea crash against its wall and kick up big gushes of water. This is protected by a platform. Thankfully.
Poll na Seantainne Blowhole
Eire 64 Sign
During WW2, we used stones to spell out the name of Ireland, Eire, on the edges of the country to let any lost Luftwaffe know that this was neutral Ireland. They are numbered and you see can see number 64 here.
St Patrick's Church
See the ruins of church founded by St Patricks and his cross. Mass is said here on the last Sunday of July, on Garland Sunday.
Is Downpatrick Head Worth It?
Absolutely, it's unmissable if you are exploring the northwest region of Ireland.
The scenery from the area overlooking the sea stack is like a mini Cliffs of Moher. They're not as long, not as high, but there are similarities.
That's why I always say, you don't have to drive all over the country to see every famous place. Every corner of Ireland has something just like it.
Stick Mayo and Downpatrick Head on your list.
Getting to Downpatrick Head
It is a stop on the Wild Atlantic Way in Mayo. You need a rental car to get here.
Where To Stay Near Downpatrick Head
- Stella Maris Shore House, Ballycastle - One of Ireland's Top 50 Hotels is very close to the site.
But you will most likely stay in another town like:
- Riverside Hotel, Sligo Town - Sligo is to the north & a great town full of locals.
- Achill Island - I love Achill so much, it's a different & beautiful world out there.
- Westport - The most popular town for tourists in Mayo.
For more info about Mayo, read my full guide to Mayo.
Ireland by Locals
Downpatrick Head Photo Gallery
