The Gourmet Greenway is on our radar for 2023. Here is why you should consider visiting this Co Mayo gem.
Neven Maguire’s latest food venture involves travelling the emerald Isle and tasting the best produce the country has to offer. Episode one of the six-part series aired last night on RTÉ One and featured the stunning views of The Great Western Greenway in Co Mayo. The 44km cycling and hiking trail is a scenic treat where travellers can soak up the wild western views, rustic landscapes and fresh Atlantic breeze.
Along this trail is the Gourmet Greenway devised by Mulranny Park Hotel in Mayo. It is home to some of the finest food producers in the country that are well worth adding to your 2023 travel list. If you fancy an adventure and some delicious artisan delicacies, completing this Greenway offers both.
Kellys Butchers Newport
This family business set up in the 1930s is situated on the main street in Newport. Known for their award-winning black and white pudding and sausages, Sean Kelly, one of the owners is also described as “one of the most creative charcutiers in the country.”
Croagh Patrick Seafoods
Another family-run business that provides fresh, local produce is Croagh Patrick Seafoods. Specialising in Clew Bay native oysters, clams and mussels, the Gannon family’s produce is available for purchase in SuperValu in Westport and Clarke’s fish shop also in Westport.
Rua and Café Rua
Rua and Café Rua consists of a ground floor shop and upstairs balcony café that serves dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Based on New Antrim Street in Castlebar, it has been listed in the Mc Kenna’s ‘100 best restaurant guide’ and also is a winner of Good Food Ireland’s ‘Café of the Year Award.’
Calvey’s Achill Mountain Lamb
Located on Achill Island, Calvey’s Achill Mountain Lamb produces quality lamb products that are available to eat in various restaurants across the country including their own Calvey’s Restaurant on the island. The business also won the ‘Farming for Nature’ national award in 2018 and is known for their relaxed, stress-free sheep that roam the open fields of Achill.
Newport House
For something more extravagant, Newport House is an old Georgian country house that is home to an award-winning menu full of local produce. As well as serving their own home smoked salmon, their Irish farmhouse cheeses can be enjoyed in the elegant surroundings of the 4-star house.
Marlene’s Chocolate Haven
Craving something sweet on your travels? Marlene’s Chocolate Haven in Westport will provide you with hot chocolate and homemade cakes whilst you pick out some handmade chocolates to take home with you. Made with Belgian chocolate, they are also gluten free and some are sugarless too.
