Ballina, Co. Mayo

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Ballina (Irish: Béal an Átha - mouth of the ford) is the largest town in County Mayo. It lies at the mouth of the River Moy near Killala Bay, in the Moy valley, with the Ox Mountain range to the east and the Nephin Beg Mountains to the west.

The River Moy is famous for the quality of the salmon and trout fishing in its waters and Ballina is considered by many to be Europe's foremost Salmon angling resort. One of the best spots is in the heart of the town and is known as the Ridge Pool. There is also eighteen hole golf nearby and hunting.

Near Ballina's railway station is the dolmen of the Four Maols, three large rocks, capped by a massive boulder, a tombstone dating from the bronze age. The legend surrounding the rocks is from the early christian era. Four Foster brothers, named Maol, murdered their master Ceallach, a 6th century bishop, whose death was avenged by his own brother. The four were hanged, and supposedly buried there.

The highlight of the tourist season occurs in early July when the Ballina Street and Arts Festival takes place.