Slí Grainne Mhaol
Grade
Strenuous
Length
6.2 km
Time
2.5 hours
Format
Loop
Ascent
334 m
Dogs Allowed
No
Waymarking
Green arrow on white background with Granuaile castle logo
Start Point
Pattens Public House
Finish Point
Pattens Public House
Nearest Town to Start
Derreens
Grid Ref.
L 724 965
Lat. and Long.
53.902702, -9.941281
Stunning panoramic views of Clew Bay, Achill Sound. Historical features. Deserted villages. Great walking surface.
Maps and other information
External Links
Trail Management
Michael Patten, Derreens, Achill, Co Mayo
Facilities
Car parking, public house
OSI Maps
Discovery Series Sheet 30
Public Transportation
None
Tony & Aine from United Kingdom
Have done this walk both times we have come to Achill and think it's a stunning walk and moderate hike, with the right gear (boots, windproof waterproof jackets). Great views, including of Clare Island, which we have also hiked and recommend. We are both in our 70's, so the walk is for everyone. Slainte!
Caroline from Dublin
Enjoyed the walk lovely scenery. It is great to see other part of the island. I think it would be very helpful if the distance one had to go, or had walked was marked on the signposts.
John from Wicklow
In the manner of the Tour of Mont Blanc (TMB) this walk goes around Derreens Hill rather than climb to the top. On a glorious warm sunny October day we had wonderful views of the sea, Gráinne Uaile's castle at Cloghmore, Achilbeg and Clare Island. We stopped for lunch at one of the benches provided along the way.
A fine walk, walking boots essential for some rough ground.
A fine walk, walking boots essential for some rough ground.
Eleanor from Mayo
Just back home after hiking this trail. Interesting hike for us as ‘locals’? as we were in off main road and had views over Achill Sound and Ashleam Bay from higher up. Marked strenuous and it was as approx. 2k of track is narrow sheep trails over blanket bog where heather is deep and feet get tangled. We were three golden oldies in our 70’s, me not great with my balance...lots of step up and downs on last bog trail. Easy to miss one's footing in a hole so take care. I suspect no problem for a younger fitter person. Historical aspect very interesting. A long 6.80 k. Took us over three hours. Well worth effort though. Disappointed to find Patten’s Bar closed at 3.20 on a Sunday afternoon. They have a great collection of historic photos. Suggest looking at repairing exit track to Breanskil to avoid open hill? Return to Patten’s by road or be collected.?
Siobhan from United States
I recently visited Achill Island with my husband and three children and this walk was the absolute highlight of our trip!! The views of Achill Island and Croagh Patrick were stunning! There were breathtaking coastal views in every direction we looked. The trail is marked strenuous, but it was easy to navigate and I would label it a more moderate hike. Looking at the old abandoned settlements, cutaway bogs and remarkable geographic features makes this trail educational as well as beautiful. If you are visiting Achill Island, don't miss hiking along this trail!!
Eddie from Clare
Absolutely spectacular views ... Each one more spectacular than the last. Wet underfoot in parts but relatively easy ( I'm not an experienced walker). Would definitely recommend.
Stephen from United Kingdom
Really enjoyed this walk. Very well signed. Was wet underfoot so good footwear needed. Spectacular views.
Stephen from United Kingdom
Really enjoyed this walk. Very well signed. Was wet underfoot so good footwear needed. Spectacular views.
Michael from Antrim
Really enjoyed this walk on this great October day with Sunshine all the way. Visibility was at its best and all sides of the Island looked brilliant in the Autumnal Colours. Compliments have to be showered on all involved in its creation and maintenance. Well Done
Jessica Kilbane from Dublin