- Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage Trail (7 km, Challenging, ~3-4 hours: Ascending Croagh Patrick (764m), Ireland’s holy mountain near Westport, this steep trail offers panoramic views of Clew Bay and its islands. The rocky path, used by pilgrims for centuries, requires sturdy boots and caution, especially on the loose scree near the summit.
- Western Way: Section from Westport to Leenane (18 km, Moderate, ~4-5 hours: Part of the 179 km Western Way, this section traverses Mayo’s countryside, passing bogs, forests, and views of the Partry Mountains. Starting in Westport, it follows quiet trails to Leenane, ideal for a long day hike. Waterproof boots are advised for boggy sections.
- Achill Island: Slievemore Loop (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: On Achill Island, this trail climbs Slievemore (671m), offering stunning views of Keem Bay and the Atlantic. The loop passes a deserted village and megalithic tombs, blending history with rugged scenery. Suitable for moderately fit hikers with proper footwear.
- Clare Island Loop (7 km, Easy to Moderate, ~2 hours: Accessible by ferry from Roonagh Pier, this trail on Clare Island explores coastal cliffs, beaches, and Grace O’Malley’s castle. The gentle loop offers views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick, ideal for a scenic island walk with historical charm.
- Nephin Beg via Bangor Trail (12 km, Challenging, ~4-5 hours: Starting in the Wild Nephin National Park, this trail ascends Nephin Beg (627m) through remote bogs and forests. The rugged, unmarked path offers solitude and views of the Nephin Range. Experienced hikers need navigation skills and waterproof gear.
- Ballycroy National Park: Claggan Mountain Boardwalk (2 km, Easy, ~1 hour: In Ballycroy National Park, this short, family-friendly boardwalk explores blanket bogs and offers views of the Nephin Beg Mountains. The accessible trail is perfect for casual walkers, with interpretive signs highlighting the park’s unique ecology.
- Mullet Peninsula: Erris Head Loop (5 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1.5-2 hours: This coastal loop near Belmullet follows dramatic cliffs at Erris Head, with views of the Atlantic and Inishkea Islands. The trail passes seabird colonies and a historic signal tower, offering a scenic, windswept walk suitable for most hikers.
- Clew Bay Heritage Trail (5 km, Easy, ~1-1.5 hours: Starting in Westport, this gentle trail follows the Greenway and explores historic sites like Westport House and the town’s quays. The flat path, ideal for families, offers views of Clew Bay and is perfect for a leisurely cultural walk.
- Ballina River Walk (3 km, Easy, ~1 hour: This flat, urban trail follows the River Moy through Ballina, passing historic sites like the Salmon Weir Bridge and Belleek Castle. The paved path is family-friendly, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying riverside scenery.
- Inishturk Island Coastal Trail (5 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-2 hours: Reached by ferry from Roonagh, this trail on Inishturk Island loops along rugged cliffs and quiet beaches, offering views of Mayo’s coastline and Croagh Patrick. The path includes historic ruins and is ideal for a peaceful island hike.
Walking
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