The best MTB trails around Lough Mask

The only way to get a bike here is to carry it 😉

small path under the street

Ashford Castle, a stunning medieval castle on the shores of Lough Corrib near the town of Cong in County Mayo, is one of Ireland's most magnificent and historic buildings. Originally built in the 13th century by a noble Anglo-Norman family, the castle has a long and fascinating history spanning several centuries. In the 19th century, Ashford Castle was purchased and both restored and expanded by Benjamin Guinness, a member of the famous brewing family. His son, Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, was responsible for creating the extensive gardens and forests, which are now decorated with exotic plants from all over the world. Since 1939, the castle has served as one of Ireland's most exclusive 5-star hotels, attracting guests from all over the world, including numerous celebrities and royalty. Visiting Ashford Castle is not only a trip back in time, but also an opportunity to experience the luxurious amenities and exceptional service of one of the world's leading hotels. The magnificent gardens and picturesque lake provide ample opportunities for walking and exploring in some of Ireland's most beautiful scenery. Access to the grounds of Ashford Castle is normally reserved for hotel guests, but there are routes to allow viewing, such as the footbridge at Monk's Fishing House behind the abbey, which offers free entry. However, visitors should inform themselves in advance about the current access conditions and possible restrictions.

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.

Wikipedia (Cong Abbey, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cong_Abbey “… The grounds of the abbey also contain a monks' fishing house, probably built in the 15th or 16th century, on an island in the River Cong leading towards nearby Lough Corrib. …”

At the bridge, look not only at the fisherman's house but also at the water under the bridge. The Cong is known for its salmon run and with a bit of luck you can see a salmon "in one piece" in its natural state and not just in the frozen section as a fillet. But you can almost always find brown trout there. Access to Asford Castle along the river path was only possible up to the meadow in front of the hotel (as of June 2023). There was now a gatehouse with security guards. Then you can't go any further! The path along the river is worth every meter.

The Pigeon Hole is a limestone cave located between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask just outside of the village of Cong. A steep descent of steps with a welcome handrail will bring you down to the main cavern, a fairly substantial space over 12-feet wide with a subterranean stream running through it. The cave gets its name from the fact that it’s a common place for pigeons to nest.

On the abbey grounds close to Cong Abbey is a delightful stone bridge and next to it is a charming 15th/16th century monks fishing house built over the River Cong. In the floor of this small ruin is a trapdoor where the monks would have been able to fish in relative comfort.