Granuaile Loop Walk: Achill Island's Coastal Gem

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.