Ballintubber Abbey – Proud Partner of the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark
Explore Our Whispering Landscape. Ballintubber Abbey is proud to be part of the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark, a region of stunning natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and internationally significant geology. Together with neighbouring communities, we invite you to explore a landscape shaped by ice, water, stone, and the footsteps of pilgrims.
This is a place where ancient history meets living heritage: lakes and limestone, castles and trails, vibrant villages and sacred sites. It’s a land that speak, Guth na Talún, the voice of the land.
What Is a Geopark?
A Geopark is more than a beautiful landscape. It’s a community-driven initiative that protects geological heritage, promotes education, and fosters sustainable tourism. The Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark spans over 1,500 km² across north Connemara and south-west Mayo, including the mountains, lakes, and valleys that define our region.
The Geopark is working toward UNESCO Global Geopark status—joining a global network dedicated to preserving places where nature and culture are deeply connected.
Why it Matters to Us
Founded in 1216 by King Cathal of Connacht, Ballintubber Abbey has stood for over 800 years, an enduring spiritual and cultural landmark. Located on the ancient pilgrim path to Croagh Patrick, the Abbey embodies the human connection to landscape that the Geopark seeks to celebrate.
As a Geopark partner, we are committed to:
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Protecting and sharing our heritage
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Supporting sustainable, community-led tourism
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Engaging schools and visitors in environmental learning
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Contributing to local economic development]
A Vision for the Future
The Geopark’s 2022–2028 Master Plan and Tourism Strategy outline how communities, businesses, and heritage sites like ours will work together to preserve what makes this region so special. These efforts align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education and sustainable communities.
A Vision for the Future
The Geopark’s 2022–2028 Master Plan and Tourism Strategy outline how communities, businesses, and heritage sites like ours will work together to preserve what makes this region so special. These efforts align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education and sustainable communities.
Visit and Connect
Whether you come for a guided tour, a sacred walk, or simply to explore, your visit to Ballintubber Abbey is enriched by the deeper story of this land. Let the landscape speak to you, past, present, and future.
