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Slievemore Deserted Village: A Haunting Echo of Rural Ireland

Explore the haunting beauty of Achill Island's Deserted Village, a window into Ireland's rural past set against a stunning mountain landscape.

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Nestled on the southern slope of Slievemore Mountain on Achill Island, the Deserted Village is a poignant reminder of Ireland's past. The site features the remains of almost 100 stone cottages, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of life that has vanished.

A brief summary to Slievemore Deserted Village

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions on Achill Island can change rapidly.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and for better lighting for photography.
  • Take some time to explore the surrounding area, including Slievemore Mountain and the nearby coastline.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Deserted Village is located off the R319 road on Achill Island. From Achill Sound, follow the signs for Keel and then Dugort. The village is situated between these two locations. A signposted car park is located a short walk from the site, near Slievemore Old Cemetery.

  • Public Transport

    Bus Éireann route 450 connects Achill with Westport. From Westport, take the bus to Achill Sound and then transfer to a local bus service or taxi to reach the Deserted Village. Alternatively, take the bus to Keel and walk approximately 2.5 kilometers south along the R319 road. Taxi services are available on Achill Island. A taxi from Achill Sound to the Deserted Village will cost approximately €20-€30.

  • Walking

    If you are in Keel, you can walk to the Deserted Village. Follow the R319 road south for approximately 2.5 kilometers. The walk is relatively flat and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. There is no fee to enter the Deserted Village.

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Discover more about Slievemore Deserted Village

The Deserted Village at Slievemore is a haunting and evocative historical site located on Achill Island, County Mayo. Situated on the southern slopes of Slievemore Mountain, the village consists of the remains of nearly 100 stone cottages. These structures stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, offering visitors a tangible connection to Ireland's rural past. The village wasn't always deserted. Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in this area dates back as far as 5,000 years, with a megalithic tomb nearby attesting to early settlements. The current cottages are believed to have been constructed from at least the Anglo-Norman period (12th Century AD) onwards. The village was occupied at various stages throughout history. The most recent period of habitation ended in the early 20th century. The cottages were used as 'booley' houses during the summer months, when families from nearby villages like Pollagh and Dooagh would graze their cattle on the mountainside, returning to their main homes in winter. Achill is considered one of the last places in Europe to practice this seasonal transhumance. The reasons for the village's final abandonment are complex, with the Great Famine of the mid-19th century playing a significant role. Emigration and changing economic conditions also contributed to the village's decline. Today, the roofless stone cottages stand as a powerful reminder of the hardships and resilience of the people who once called this place home. Visitors can wander through the ruins, exploring the remnants of houses, barns, and other structures, imagining daily life in this remote community. The surrounding landscape, with its ancient field systems and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, adds to the atmosphere. Archaeological investigations continue to uncover more about the history of the Deserted Village. An annual Summer Archaeological School is held at the site, providing further insights into the lives of its former inhabitants.

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