ACHILL LOOPS

The Valley Loop walks starts at the Golden strand Car Park where there is ample parking. This particular walk boasts exceptional views of the impressive Slievemore mountain looming over the Atlantic Ocean (that always tends to be a little calmer on this northern side of the island). The walk begins after taking a left turn down a lane/boreen towards Fr. O’Brien, home to Achill Rovers Football Club and then takes in the headland past sand dunes. You might even see some wild hares.

There is a “Cillini” as you walk, you will notice stones protruding from the ground; these are headstones marking the graves of unbaptized babies.

This area also takes in a site of archeological significance where an archaeological dig unearthed stone dwellings.

Heading along a bog road, you pass a lake and continue on to return to a junction, head right on to a tarmacadeam road through the village called the Valley. It’s a pretty unspoilt village. You will pass by the gate house to the history steeped valley House on you left and continue on to the crossroads, taking the right turn and continuing on the road approximately 400 metres until you reach your starting point. The signposted route should tow hours to complete and has no hill or climbs.