Plan your Journey from Knock Airport
Ireland West Airport Knock in County Mayo is the perfect starting point for your journey around the west coast of Ireland. With its rugged coastline and town steeped in history, Knock is a beautiful introduction to what the Emerald Isle has to offer.Take your time and drive out to the far-flung points of this charming part of the world. There are plenty of natural beauty spots, bustling market towns, and unique traditions to enjoy.
Knock and beyond: Destinations Features
Knock and Beyond
With Galway to the south-west and Sligo to the north-west, you’ll be perfectly poised to take in some of Ireland’s finest sights, where roads hug the coast and you can enjoy miles of untamed beauty.Knock Village
The village of Knock itself is rather small, but it’s been marked on the tourist map and pilgrimage trail thanks to one incident. In 1879 a vision of the Virgin Mary, St. John and a host of angelic figures appeared on the gables of Knock’s parish church. Today, the church is a shrine with modern marble statues of the apparition.
A trek to nearby Croagh Patrick offers a chance to appreciate the region's stunning scenery. The mountain site is where St. Patrick banished Ireland’s snakes.
Sligo, Donegal & Galway
Journey north from the airport towards the town of Sligo where you can glimpse the magnificent Ben Bulben mountain and stunning views across the Atlantic .
Sligo’s city centre has had a modern day makeover and now boasts a variety of great restaurants, shops and hotels. You’ll also find plenty of shops and boutiques selling authentic Irish crafts, including jewellery and pottery.
Other hidden gems in the Sligo area include Carrowmore, Ireland's largest cemetery that contains ancient tombs constructed of large stone slabs. A visit to Knocknarea leads to Queen Maeve's cairn and more stunning views of West Ireland’s natural countryside. Two miles from Sligo town is Lough Gill and the Hazelwood Sculpture trail. You’ll find outdoor sculptures from Irish and international artists, a quiet picnic area and beautiful lakeside views towards Innisfree (W B Yeats' island).
Head further to the north-west on the N15 and you’ll continue to enjoy the panoramic ocean views until you reach County Donegal. A visit to this part of Ireland is a must for drivers. Donegal lacks cultural sites such as museums and galleries, but a ride around the area itself provides stunning views and a great road trip adventure.
If you're heading south from Ireland West Airport Knock, you’ll be drawn to Galway. Head straight down the N17 and soak up the rich green landscape on offer. Galway is also known for its excellent seafood, traditional Irish dancing and use of the Gaelic Irish language.
No matter what direction you head from Ireland West Airport Knock, you’ll be sure to find a warm welcome from the locals, along with beautiful landscapes to keep you company on your journey.
Your journey starts here
From the moment you arrive, Avis has got your car rental covered for the duration. Whether you fancy a supermini or hot hatch for an urban jaunt, an elegant saloon for a business trip or wedding, or a people carrier for a family holiday – your perfect hire car is standing by on the tarmac.
Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.
Your hire car awaits … And the open road lies ahead
Book now to unlock the world.