Wild Nephin National Park

Wild Nephin National Park, located in County Mayo, Ireland, is a sprawling wilderness covering over 15,000 hectares. It lies in the northwest of the country, within the province of Connacht. The park is near the towns of Newport, Mulranny, and Castlebar, with Ballina and Westport being larger nearby towns. Established in 1998, Wild Nephin was initially part of Ballycroy National Park but was expanded and rebranded in 2018 to include a larger wilderness area. It is one of Ireland's most pristine landscapes, where human impact has been minimal. The park is notable for its rewilding efforts and the preservation of Ireland's natural wilderness. Wild Nephin has multiple parking areas, including at Letterkeen Loop, Ballycroy Visitor Centre, and several trailheads. The parking facilities are free, but they are limited, and visitors are advised to come early, especially during the summer months. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, otters, pine martens, and several bird species like the peregrine falcon and the golden eagle. Its bogland and forested areas provide crucial habitats for these animals. The flora of Wild Nephin includes vast expanses of blanket bog, heathlands, and native woodlands. Common plant species include heather, mosses, and lichens, with unique vegetation adapted to the wet, acidic soils of the area. Notable features within the park include Nephin Beg Mountain, the Bangor Trail, and the Owenduff River, which flows through the boglands. Public transport options to the park are limited, though local bus services run from nearby towns like Westport and Castlebar.