Valley Loop Walk, Achill Island Travel Guide

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Discover Achill Island's beauty on the Valley Loop Walk: a scenic trail offering stunning views, historical sites, and a refreshing escape into nature.

The Valley Loop Walk on Achill Island offers an 8.5km circular route through varied terrains with stunning views of Slievemore mountain and the Atlantic coast. This moderate trail is well-marked and provides an immersive experience in County Mayo's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Valley Loop Walk

Unnamed Road, Tonatanvally, Co. Mayo, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Valley Loop Walk.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the varied terrain comfortably.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife along the trail.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Pack snacks and water to enjoy a relaxing break at one of the scenic viewpoints.

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Explore Valley Loop Walk on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Valley Loop Walk, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you are already in Dugort, you can easily walk to the Golden Strand Beach Car Park, the starting point of the Valley Loop Walk. From the center of Dugort, follow the road towards Golden Strand. The car park is located right next to the beach. The walk to the car park is short and straightforward.
Public Transport

To reach the Valley Loop Walk using public transport, take Bus Éireann route 450 from Westport to Achill. Alight at a bus stop in Keel. From Keel, it is approximately a 4 km walk to the trailhead. Follow the R319 northwest, and look for signs directing you to the walk. Bus fares from Westport to Achill typically range from €10-€15.
Car

If driving from Achill Sound, head northwest on the N59 towards Mulranny. After approximately 15 km, turn left onto the R319 towards Achill Island. Continue for about 10 km until you reach Keel. From Keel, take the R319 northwest and follow the signs for the Valley Loop Walk. The walk begins on an unnamed road in Tonatanvally. Parking is available at the Golden Strand Beach Car Park. Parking is free.

Discover more about Valley Loop Walk

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.