Ballina is the largest town in County Mayo, on the west coast of Ireland in the province of Connacht. It sits on the banks of the River Moy, and the river is the reason many visitors come here. The town is also known by its Irish name, Béal an Átha.
Salmon fishing on the Moy
Ballina is known for salmon fishing on the River Moy, and anglers are the town's most familiar visitors. Whether you fish yourself or simply enjoy watching the river from its banks, the Moy gives the town much of its character. If angling is your interest, it is worth checking the current rules and seasons before you plan your trip.
What a visit offers
- Time on the River Moy, for fishing or a slow walk along the water
- A base in Mayo, with the wider county and its landscapes within reach
- A town of practical size, easy to explore on foot
Ballina suits a visitor who wants a relaxed stay built around the river rather than a long list of attractions. Its appeal lies in the setting and in the chance to spend time on one of Ireland's well-known salmon rivers. Plan around the river, and allow time to look around the town itself.
