Valley Loop Walk Travel Guide

The Valley Loop Walk (Slí Tóin a tSeanbhaile) is a celebrated trail on Achill Island, the largest of Ireland's islands, accessible by bridge since 1887. This well-marked, 8.5km loop offers hikers an engaging experience through diverse landscapes, including lush fields, rugged terrain, and captivating coastal vistas.The trail begins at the Golden Strand Beach Car Park in Dugort, approximately 15 minutes by car from Achill Sound. From the car park, the route heads past Fr. O'Brien's, home to Achill Rovers Football Club, and takes in the headland past sand dunes. Keep an eye out for the stones protruding from the ground marking the graves of unbaptized babies. The path continues along a bog road, past a lake, and eventually returns to the starting point through the unspoiled village of the Valley.The Valley Loop Walk provides exceptional views of Slievemore mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. It also incorporates sites of archaeological significance, including stone dwellings unearthed during digs. The walk is considered moderate in difficulty, typically taking around 2 hours to complete, with no significant hills or climbs.