Granuaile Loop Walk: Achill Island's Coastal Gem
Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
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
- Visit website
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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Granuaile Loop Walk
0.0 km
Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
Anvil House
3.0 km
Experience Achill Island charm at Anvil House B&B: Modern comfort, friendly service, and the perfect location for island adventures.
Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)
3.2 km
Your essential guide to exploring Achill Island: maps, tips, events, and local expertise for an unforgettable adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Cottages
3.3 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island from the comfort of charming, highly-rated cottages in a serene coastal setting. Book your escape today!
Achill Sound Hotel & Connaughton's Bar
3.3 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at Achill Sound Hotel, your gateway to Achill Island's beauty and adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Island Hotel
3.7 km
Experience Achill Island's rugged beauty and warm hospitality at this family-run hotel on the Wild Atlantic Way.
White Cliffs of Ashleam
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Achill Island's White Cliffs of Ashleam, a dramatic coastal landscape along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achillbeg
4.3 km
Discover Achillbeg Island: an unspoiled Irish escape with dramatic cliffs, tranquil scenery, and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant
12.3 km
Experience coastal bliss at Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring Achill Island.
Achill Island Property
13.9 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and rich heritage of Achill Island, Ireland's largest island, where adventure meets tranquility.
Achill West Coast House
13.9 km
Experience coastal charm at Achill West Coast House B&B. Discover stunning views, cozy rooms, and easy access to Achill Island's beauty.
Slievemore
14.2 km
Hike to the summit of Slievemore on Achill Island for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history.
Teach Cruachan B&B
14.8 km
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Achill Maritime History Trail Point No. 10
16.1 km
Explore Achill Island's maritime past at this scenic trail point near Corrymore, where history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Achill Island Secret Beach
16.5 km
Discover Achill Island's best-kept secret: a remote beach with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil escape on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @An Chéibh Bheag
2.5 km
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Achill Secret Garden
3.2 km
Escape to Achill Secret Garden: A tranquil coastal haven where vibrant flora meets the rugged beauty of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Corraun Achill
3.3 km
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Wild ocean view
3.5 km
Experience the raw beauty of Achill Island at Wild Ocean View. Dramatic cliffs, expansive ocean vistas, and untamed landscapes await your discovery.
Great Western Greenway: Achill Sound to Cashel
4.6 km
Explore Achill Island's stunning landscapes on this 5km traffic-free section of the Great Western Greenway, featuring a unique bog boardwalk.
Minaun Cliffs
7.8 km
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Achill Heritage Centre
7.9 km
Discover Achill Island's vibrant past at the Heritage Centre: history, culture, genealogy, and stunning scenery await!
Achill Island
8.2 km
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Minaun Heights
8.2 km
Experience breathtaking 360° panoramic views from Minaun Heights, a must-see destination along Achill Island's Wild Atlantic Way.
Cathedral Rocks
9.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Cathedral Rocks in Co. Mayo, a natural wonder with stunning views and exhilarating hiking opportunities.
Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth
9.2 km
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Bunacurry Viewpoint
9.5 km
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Lookout Hill Loop
10.3 km
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Mulranny Beach
10.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Mulranny Beach, a hidden gem on the stunning coast of Co. Mayo, Ireland.
Mulranny Causeway
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Mulranny Causeway, a scenic landmark in Co. Mayo, perfect for leisurely strolls and stunning views.
Essential places to dine
Pattens Bar
0.0 km
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McLoughlins Bar
3.1 km
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Hotspot Takeaway Achill Sound
3.2 km
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Hotel Nad Oceanem
3.6 km
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Alices
3.7 km
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Mickey's Bar
5.7 km
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Ted's Bar, Restaurant and Venue
5.8 km
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Blásta at Ted's
5.9 km
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Lynott's Pub
7.1 km
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The Cross
10.8 km
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BERVIE GUESTHOUSE
12.2 km
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The Islander - Megs
12.2 km
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The Currach
12.3 km
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Ár Bia Mara
12.3 km
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The Valley House Hostel and Bar
12.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Achill Island flowers
3.1 km
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The Aleph by Meg's
3.2 km
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Molloys Pharmacy
3.2 km
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Kieran Sweeney Crafts & Knitwear
3.2 km
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Ketterick's Family Butchers
3.2 km
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Mac Savers
3.3 km
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Lavelles Shop, Your Stop
3.4 km
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Sweeney's SuperValu
3.5 km
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Sweeney’s Siopa Claddaigh
3.5 km
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Sweeney's Homevalue Hardware
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Blásta Bikes
5.8 km
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Boreen Gallery
6.7 km
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Achill Island Distillery
8.0 km
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Achill Island Sea Salt
8.8 km
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Costcutters Supermarket
11.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Compass Bar
3.4 km
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Lounge Bar
12.2 km
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The Basking Shark Bar
12.4 km
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Munnelly's Bar Lounge
23.4 km
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Blouser's Pub
29.7 km
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The Jester Bar
29.8 km
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Morans Pub
29.8 km
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The Old Grainstore Westport
29.8 km
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Mac Brides Bar
29.8 km
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Cosy Joe's
29.8 km
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The Brewery
29.8 km
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Walsh's
29.8 km
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Danny's
29.8 km
Experience the excitement of sports and the warmth of community at Danny's, Westport's favorite sports bar with delicious food and live entertainment.
Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar
29.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar in Westport - where creative cocktails and fine wines blend beautifully.
Petie Joes Bar
29.9 km
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