the lakes tour

The town is now known for producing top quality tweed, rugs and blankets. An audio-visual history of the mills is followed by a tour, where visitors can see work being produced. Continue on the N57 to Ballina, home town of Irish President, Mary Robinson. This is a renowned angling centre, being close to excellent river, lake and sea waters. Former Irish soccer team manager and keen angler, Jack Charlton, has a holiday home near here. At Ballina, take the N59 for Crossmolina. There are several ruins near the town, including Abbeytown Abbey and Castle Deel. As you take the R310 south, you will see Enniscoe House, located some 3km from Crossmolina. The North Mayo Family History Centre and Heritage Centre offers a genealogical service. Continue on to Pontoon by the Western shore of Lough Conn. This is a terrific angling centre, located as it is between Lough Conn and Lough Cullin. There are several beaches on Lough Cullin, and the area has pleasant forest and lakeshore walks. Pontoon is where President Mary Robinson has her holiday home. Go left at Pontoon taking the scenic road, bordered on each side by Lough Conn and Lough Cullin. This will bring you back to Foxford and Castlebar.