Famed for its rewilding project, dark skies and vast area of blanket bog among many other wonderful things, the Wild Nephin National Park is also home to an outstanding visitor centre. While the uncompromisingly modern, angular white marble and glass building may come as a shock against the natural landscape on first sight, it's home to some excellent facilities, an educational programme, interpretive exhibition, information on the Mayo Dark Sky Park and much besides - and, helped along by staff who are clearly proud of it and take pleasure in introducing the area to visitors, it's a place you could grow very fond of.
And then, of course, there's the lovely Ginger & Wild café which is always well worth a visit - whether you’re visiting the national park or just passing by on the Wild Atlantic Way, it provides a welcoming stopping place with stunning views across to Achill Island, the Nephin Beg Mountains, the wild Atlantic coast - and delicious food. On the first floor and accessible by lift, it's a light and airy modern space with floor to ceiling windows and a large terrace (where dogs are allowed) to soak up the views. The setting is simply gorgeous and, while the low key decor does nothing to distract from the wonders of nature, it also makes a perfect background for a constantly changing exhibition of work by Irish artists and carefully curated craftwork.
So it will come as no surprise to find that the food and service provided by Nicola (front of house) and Jean Pierre (the chef) is equally simple and confidently considered. Everything is homemade using natural, locally sourced ingredients (the famous Mulroy Bay mussels for example, and Noone's free range chicken from Inishowen in nearby Donegal) and, although short, the menus posted beside the counter offer plenty of choice, and with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options offered. There will be a tasty soup (seasonal vegetable perhaps), panini (ham, Irish cheddar & onion, or maybe bacon, brie & cranberry) and a choice of quiches, including a Mediterranean vegetable version, as well as a Spinach one with feta and red pepper. But many regulars will pop in specially for a cuppa from the tea & coffee menu and the freshly baked treats - and, with apple tart, tangerine cake, scones, and vegan cake among the homemade temptations on display, it will be hard to resist.
All round, like Mayo itself, this is a fascinating place, so it's well worth allowing time to enjoy it - and plan a return visit, to take in a few more of the unique activities on offer, including the wondrous dark skies.
