Gimli at the Monks Fishing House, located at Cong River
Looking for the perfect dog-friendly day out in Cong, County Mayo? Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, Cong is one of the most charming villages in the West of Ireland and an ideal stop on a Wild Atlantic Way road trip with a dog. This was my first visit, but certainly not my last - and I can safely say that if you re travelling with a dog, this is a fantastic place to check out.
From woodland walks and historic landmarks to cosy cafés and traditional Irish pubs, here's my tried-and-tested itinerary for spending a day exploring dog-friendly Cong with your four-legged companion.
From woodland walks and historic landmarks to cosy cafés and traditional Irish pubs, here's my tried-and-tested itinerary for spending a day exploring dog-friendly Cong with your four-legged companion.
Enjoy a Morning Walk Through Cong Woods
After a morning coffee, start your day with a walk through Cong Woods. The woodland walks around Cong are particularly enjoyable with a dog, offering shaded trails, riverside paths, and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy while taking in the beautiful scenery. It's an easy and rewarding way to begin a dog-friendly day out in this quaint little village.
Cong Woods has a few waymarked trails which are mapped throughout, and lead you through lush, jungle like landscapes, defined by giant Redwoods, birdsong and cool underground caves like Pigeon Hole. The walks are usually looped, taking you to and from town, which is a great way to start the day.
After a morning coffee, start your day with a walk through Cong Woods. The woodland walks around Cong are particularly enjoyable with a dog, offering shaded trails, riverside paths, and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy while taking in the beautiful scenery. It's an easy and rewarding way to begin a dog-friendly day out in this quaint little village.
Cong Woods has a few waymarked trails which are mapped throughout, and lead you through lush, jungle like landscapes, defined by giant Redwoods, birdsong and cool underground caves like Pigeon Hole. The walks are usually looped, taking you to and from town, which is a great way to start the day.
 Gimli with John Wayne & Maureen O'Hara - Stars of The Quiet Man (1952) |  Gimli at Pigeon Hole Cave within Cong Woods |
Grab a Hearty Brunch at McHugh's Café
McHugh's Café is one of the most popular cafés in Cong, where your dog is welcome too. Located in the heart of the village, it's a great place to fuel up before or during a day of exploring, but because of it's popularity it can get quite busy. The café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, making it an ideal stop before heading out on foot around the village and beyond.
I started the morning with a long walk, which tired Gimli out and helped me build up an appetite, so I went for a hearty Saturday brunch. The café was lively but not overcrowded, with locals popping in for takeaway coffee while others, like me, enjoyed a sit-down meal. Unsure if dogs were welcome, I asked politely and was told the seating area at the front was fine for owners with dogs—perfect for us.
I browsed the extensive menu and settled on “The Whole Hog” sandwich, easily one of the best I’ve had in a long time. I can only imagine there’s no wrong choice here—everything sounded delicious. Gimli was treated to a bowl of water, which he eagerly lapped up after a long morning walk through Cong Woods - and I have to say the music playlist was fab!
McHugh's Café is one of the most popular cafés in Cong, where your dog is welcome too. Located in the heart of the village, it's a great place to fuel up before or during a day of exploring, but because of it's popularity it can get quite busy. The café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, making it an ideal stop before heading out on foot around the village and beyond.
I started the morning with a long walk, which tired Gimli out and helped me build up an appetite, so I went for a hearty Saturday brunch. The café was lively but not overcrowded, with locals popping in for takeaway coffee while others, like me, enjoyed a sit-down meal. Unsure if dogs were welcome, I asked politely and was told the seating area at the front was fine for owners with dogs—perfect for us.
I browsed the extensive menu and settled on “The Whole Hog” sandwich, easily one of the best I’ve had in a long time. I can only imagine there’s no wrong choice here—everything sounded delicious. Gimli was treated to a bowl of water, which he eagerly lapped up after a long morning walk through Cong Woods - and I have to say the music playlist was fab!
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Explore Cong Village on Foot
Cong Village, straddling County Mayo and County Galway, is often hailed as one of Ireland’s prettiest villages—and it’s a title well deserved. The energy here is unmistakable, and despite being a popular tourist spot, the abundance of open space and nature means it never feels too crowded, which was a pleasant surprise. The village is quite small, so it doesn’t take long to see the highlights, but you might find yourself wanting to linger longer than you expected.
The village is famous for:
Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the statue of John Wayne and Maureen O' Hara who starred in the 1951 movie The Quiet Man, filmed in Cong.
Cong Village, straddling County Mayo and County Galway, is often hailed as one of Ireland’s prettiest villages—and it’s a title well deserved. The energy here is unmistakable, and despite being a popular tourist spot, the abundance of open space and nature means it never feels too crowded, which was a pleasant surprise. The village is quite small, so it doesn’t take long to see the highlights, but you might find yourself wanting to linger longer than you expected.
The village is famous for:
- The filming location of The Quiet Man (you can even take a Quiet Man walking tour)
- Historic stone bridges
- Woodland trails
- Scenic river walks
- The grounds surrounding Ashford Castle
- Historic sites like Cong Abbey, The Guinness Tower and the Monks Fishing House.
Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the statue of John Wayne and Maureen O' Hara who starred in the 1951 movie The Quiet Man, filmed in Cong.
 |  The Quiet Man cottage replica in the village (museum and gift shop) |
Marvel At Cong Abbey
No visit to Cong would be complete without stopping at Cong Abbey, one of the village's most impressive historic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, the ruins of this Augustinian abbey sit in a picturesque setting beside the river and are completely free to visit.
The abbey is remarkably well preserved, with beautiful stone archways, intricate carvings, and peaceful grounds that make it one of the most photogenic spots in Cong. It's also located just a short walk from the village centre, making it easy to include as part of your morning stroll.
Dogs are welcome on the surrounding grounds, and the riverside setting provides plenty of opportunities for a scenic walk while soaking up a piece of Irish history. This is such a peaceful spot to sit, reflect and step back in time.
No visit to Cong would be complete without stopping at Cong Abbey, one of the village's most impressive historic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, the ruins of this Augustinian abbey sit in a picturesque setting beside the river and are completely free to visit.
The abbey is remarkably well preserved, with beautiful stone archways, intricate carvings, and peaceful grounds that make it one of the most photogenic spots in Cong. It's also located just a short walk from the village centre, making it easy to include as part of your morning stroll.
Dogs are welcome on the surrounding grounds, and the riverside setting provides plenty of opportunities for a scenic walk while soaking up a piece of Irish history. This is such a peaceful spot to sit, reflect and step back in time.
 Cong Abbey |  Entering Cong Abbey from Cong Woods |
Finish the Day at Pat Cohan's Bar
After a day of exploring, head to Pat Cohan's Bar, one of the most famous pubs in Cong. Known for its connection to The Quiet Man, this traditional Irish pub is packed with character and history - and your pooch is welcome too. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the village, enjoy a pint and some delicious food, and reflect on a day spent exploring one of Mayo's most beautiful destinations.
The pub remains one of Cong's most recognisable landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish culture and local history. The atmosphere there is fantastic, especially when there are other visitors around and when we stopped by, Gimli was the star of the show.
Note: The pub have two designated tables near the door for pets and their owners, but there are also outdoor seats too. We sat outside because the weather was glorious, but were happy to learn that dogs are welcome indoors too.
After a day of exploring, head to Pat Cohan's Bar, one of the most famous pubs in Cong. Known for its connection to The Quiet Man, this traditional Irish pub is packed with character and history - and your pooch is welcome too. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the village, enjoy a pint and some delicious food, and reflect on a day spent exploring one of Mayo's most beautiful destinations.
The pub remains one of Cong's most recognisable landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish culture and local history. The atmosphere there is fantastic, especially when there are other visitors around and when we stopped by, Gimli was the star of the show.
Note: The pub have two designated tables near the door for pets and their owners, but there are also outdoor seats too. We sat outside because the weather was glorious, but were happy to learn that dogs are welcome indoors too.
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How To Get To Cong & Where To Stay?
The best way to reach Cong in your own vehicle (rental car, motorhome or car) as public transport options are limited in this rural part of Ireland.
From Galway City
The best way to reach Cong in your own vehicle (rental car, motorhome or car) as public transport options are limited in this rural part of Ireland.
From Galway City
- Approx. 1 hour drive
- Follow the N84 towards Headford, then signs for Cong
- Scenic countryside route through East Galway and Lough Corrib
- Approx. 2.5–3 hours drive
- Take the M4/M6 motorway to Galway
- Continue via Headford to Cong
- Approx. 1–1.5 hours
- Easy connection via regional roads through Mayo and Galway
Where To Stay In Cong?
Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park (we stayed here, check out our review)
A popular dog-friendly choice for road trippers and campers, offering:
Lakeland House (Hostel & Self-Catering Accommodation)
Ideal for budget travellers, Lakeland House offers:
Michaeleen’s Manor B&B
A traditional Irish bed and breakfast in Cong, offering:
Ashford Castle (Luxury Stay)
For a premium dog-friendly experience
Ashford Castle is one of Ireland’s most famous luxury hotels. While not budget-friendly, it offers a unique castle stay experience with world-class dining and activities.
Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park (we stayed here, check out our review)
A popular dog-friendly choice for road trippers and campers, offering:
- Camping pitches and motorhome spaces
- Glamping pods
- Clean, modern facilities
- Dog-friendly stays
- Great base for exploring Lough Corrib and Connemara
Lakeland House (Hostel & Self-Catering Accommodation)
Ideal for budget travellers, Lakeland House offers:
- Hostel-style rooms
- Private self-catering options
- Group-friendly accommodation
- Walking distance to Cong village
Michaeleen’s Manor B&B
A traditional Irish bed and breakfast in Cong, offering:
- Comfortable en-suite rooms
- Homely, local hospitality
- Close proximity to the village centre and Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle (Luxury Stay)
For a premium dog-friendly experience
Ashford Castle is one of Ireland’s most famous luxury hotels. While not budget-friendly, it offers a unique castle stay experience with world-class dining and activities.
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