Granuaile Loop Walk: Achill Island's Coastal Gem

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Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.

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Granuaile Loop Walk

The Granuaile Loop Walk on Achill Island offers a scenic 6.7km trail through Derreens, Kildownet, and Ashleam Bay, showcasing panoramic views of the 'sea kingdom' of the legendary pirate queen, Grace O'Malley (Granuaile). This looped walk provides an immersive experience into Achill's natural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Granuaile Loop Walk

Derreen, Derreen, Co. Mayo, IE
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail includes varied terrain, including grassy bog roads and moorland.
Bring rain gear and layers, as Achill Island weather can change rapidly.
Park near Johnny Patten's pub in Derreens, the official trailhead.
Follow the green arrow signposts with the Granuaile castle logo to stay on the correct path.
Take your time to enjoy the panoramic views of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, and the surrounding landscape.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Anvil House

Anvil House: Your Achill Sound Retreat

Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)

Achill Tourism Office: Gateway to Adventure

Achill Cottages

Achill Cottages: Your Coastal Escape

Getting There

Walking

If staying in Derreen, the Granuaile Loop Walk is accessible by foot. Head towards the R319-3 and follow it until you see the signs for the loop walk. The walk is approximately 1-2 km from the center of Derreen. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes.
Car

From anywhere on Achill Island, head towards the N59 road and follow signs for Achill Sound. Then, take the R319 towards Keel. Continue on the R319 until you reach the junction with the R319-3, which leads towards Derreen. Look for signs for the Granuaile Loop Walk. The trailhead is located just off the R319-3 road, where parking is available. Parking is free.
Public Transport

From Westport or Castlebar, take Bus Éireann route 450 to Achill Sound. From Achill Sound, you can take a local bus or taxi to Derreen. Bus Eireann single fares from Westport to Achill Sound are approximately €10-€15. A taxi from Achill Sound to Derreen will cost approximately €15-€20.

Discover more about Granuaile Loop Walk

Embark on the Granuaile Loop Walk, a captivating 6.7km (4.1 miles) trail that winds through the stunning landscapes of Achill Island, County Mayo. Named in honor of the legendary Irish pirate queen, Gráinne Mhaol (Grace O'Malley), this looped walk immerses visitors in the rugged beauty and rich history of the region. Starting and ending near Johnny Patten's pub in Derreens, the trail guides you through Derreens, Kildownet, and Ashleam Bay, offering panoramic views of Granuaile's 'sea kingdom'. The walk, opened in 2015, is well-signposted and typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete, with a total climb of 334 meters. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter diverse terrains, including old bog roads now grassed over and open moorland. The path winds along a bog road built during World War II and a section of the historic 'Coffin Trail,' once used to carry coffins to Kildownet graveyard, the island's only cemetery. Keep an eye out for the remains of deserted villages like Ailt, remnants of the 1854 evictions by landlord William Pike. The walk provides stunning views of Clew Bay, Clare Island, Croagh Patrick, and the mountains of Connemara. Granuaile's castle in Kildownet is also visible along the route. From the final section of the walk, you can spot Carraig na Loinge, a rocky outcrop that served as a landmark for ships traveling to Westport. The trail is considered strenuous, so wearing appropriate footwear and bringing rain gear is recommended.