Dún na mBó

Looking through the end of the sculpture to the Dún na mBó blowhole below carljohengen (Atlas Obscura User)

The Atlantic coastline of County Mayo is full of dramatic features, but Dún na mBó is something not to be missed. Found on the Belmullet Peninsula just south of Erris Head, this remarkable place features a winning confluence of nature and public art: a natural blowhole accentuated by an evocative sculpture that doubles as a means of keeping spectators safe from tumbling into the hole.

The blowhole at Dún na mBó (also known as Doonamo Point) is located near the site of an ancient promontory fort that likely dates to the Iron Age. Blowholes are created by the enormous pressure of the sea eroding landward and upward, eventually creating a hole through which the water can spew at times of high tide or turgid currents.

Nearby there are other wonderfully scenic spots—Eagle Island Lighthouse can be seen from the coast, and the narrow headland of of Ceann an Eanaigh (Annagh Head) is a short drive from here.

Know Before You Go

Dún na mBó is signposted from the village of Belmullet at the entrance to the Belmullet Peninsula; the drive will take 10 minutes. From the R313, take the unnamed road northwest through the villages of Carn, Corclogh, and Gladree. Turn right to follow the coastal road north and Dún na mBó will be on the left. It is typically very windy along this coast, so dress appropriately.