Ancient Trails of the Wild Atlantic Way

Distance:

7 km (4 miles) | Elevation 764m (2500ft) | 4-5 hours walking

After a hearty Irish breakfast, we’ll bring you to the start point of today’s hike at Murrisk on the shores of Clew Bay in Co. Mayo. Croagh Patrick is a place of ancient history and archaeological heritage. This dazzling quartzite pyramid has a small chapel at its peak in honour of Ireland’s fifth-century patron saint, St Patrick, who is said to have fasted on its summit for forty days. 

It is a challenging climb, but the views will make it worth the effort. No walking trip in Ireland would be complete without reaching its impressive peak. A real highlight! When you return, we’ll be waiting to transfer you to your next destination, our home town, the pretty village of Leenane where you’ll stay tonight. 

Meals included: Breakfast 
 

Distance:

15 km (9 miles) | Elevation 80m (260ft) | 3-4 hours walking

This morning’s hike follows the Famine Trail along the edge of Killary Fjord which was built as a relief project during the Great Famine of the 1840s. As you hike along the path through abandoned villages, you can’t help but sense the history and lives of all those who have walked this way before you. With spectacular views over the fjord and surrounding coastline and majestic mountains rising either side, this is a true escape. 

At the end of the trail, you can choose to visit Tom’s Sheep Farm or we’ll bring you back to Leenane where you can board the Connemara Lady catamaran for a cruise along the fjord out to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with commentary on the fascinating history, landscape and people of this dramatic area. The trip is often honoured by the company of leaping dolphins.

You’ll spend a second night in Leenane, where we suggest a cold pint of Guinness in an authentic west of Ireland pub is just the thing to end the day!

Meals included: Breakfast
 

Distance:

16 km (10 miles) | Elevation 250m (820ft) | 4-5 hours walking

Today’s walk follows an ancient pilgrim’s path to Maumean, the ‘Pass of the Birds’. The summit of Maumean is marked by a small chapel and other religious features associated with Ireland’s patron saint, Patrick. There is much ritual and myth attached to this site - a fascinating insight into religious practice in Ireland in centuries past. 

The route brings you into the Mám Éan Geotrail, a fascinating trail that explores the geological links between the west of Ireland and north eastern America which were once connected before being separated by the Atlantic Ocean 100 million years ago!  

You’ll then follow the Western Way, a marked walking trail surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, into the tranquil Inagh Valley. Tonight you’ll stay in charming accommodation overlooking Lough Inagh, one of Connemara's most spectacular lakes, surrounded by the majestic Maamturk and Twelve Bens mountains. A perfect haven for complete rest and relaxation after a day on the hills.

Meals included: Breakfast
 

Distance:

7 km (4 miles) | Elevation 400m (1310ft) | 2-3 hours walking

This morning’s walk is in the beautiful National Park of Connemara. It’s a relatively easy but highly rewarding walk, with stunningly beautiful views over Kylemore Abbey and lake, to the Renvyle Peninsula and out to the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk to the west and northwest, and the Maamturk mountains and Ben Choona mountain range to the south. 

After your walk we’ll bring you to the fishing village of Cleggan to catch the ferry to Inishbofin Island ('Inis Bo Finne' - Island of the White Cow) where you’ll stay for two nights. Forty minutes by ferry, this small island is layered in history and a world apart from the mainland. As you sail around the tower and signal light into the harbour, look out for the 16th century ruined barracks used as a prison for Catholic priests from all over Ireland after the English Statute of 1585 declared them guilty of high treason.

This ancient island has been the home of fishermen, farmers, monks, soldiers and adventurers for over 6,000 years. Today it has a population of only 200 people who will warmly welcome you during your stay and allow fascinating insight into traditional island life. After you’ve settled into your accommodation, you might even find yourself drawn into a cosy pub by the sound of traditional Irish music! 

Meals included: Breakfast
 

Distance:

Choice of routes: 6-15 km (4-9 miles) | Elevation 60-180m (195-260 ft) | 1-5 hours walking

Today you’ll have the whole day to explore beautiful Inishbofin and discover some of its secrets. You’ll have a choice of walking routes - there are several looped walks around the island with stunning views of the island's beautiful coastal cliffs, coves, harbour and beaches. Meandering laneways and old stone walls all contribute to the feeling of stepping back in time. You can explore the remains of ancient celtic forts and early Christian monasteries or visit a ‘blowhole’, a geological marvel carved by the sea. 

You’ll spend the last night of your walking tour in this very special place soaking up its magic and mystery.

Meals included: Breakfast
 

After your breakfast today you’ll take the ferry back to Cleggan, where you can catch a connecting bus to Galway City. It’s the end of your tour and time for your onward journey, bringing your unforgettable memories of Ireland with you. Slan go fóill! – we’ll see you again soon.

Meals included: Breakfast