OUTDOORS Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail walking festival

Walk the trail


Spring is in the air at last, and many walkers and hikers have started eyeing their boots with renewed interest. Memories of long meanderings through scenic backdrops stir the soul and the itch to walk is reawakened. Walking is a wonderful way to keep fit and see some spectacular scenery while you’re at it.
One of the most beautiful routes to walk in the county – maybe even the country – is the 61k Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail. Extending from the town of Balla in central Mayo to the seaside village of Murrisk at the foot of Croagh Patrick, the trail (an accredited National Way Marked Way)  passes through deciduous woodland and across rolling fields and bogs. Walkers pass along bóithríní and ancient pathways as the trail makes its way through a number of picturesque villages, including Killwalla and Aughagower, as they move towards their destination on the shores of Clew Bay. On arrival, those with enough energy (this walk is classed moderate to hard) might be inspired to climb The Reek – but no pressure, an ascent to the summit of Croagh Patrick is not part of the trail!
A three-day walking festival celebrating the trail has been organised for Friday, March 19, to Sunday, March 21. Experienced guides will offer participants insights into the many heritage sites along the way. On each of the three days walkers will be picked up at the finish point and brought back to their accommodation; services and food will be available along the route. Each day, the walkers will cover roughly 20k of the route – Day one covers the ground between Balla and Ballintubber. On the second day, the walkers will head as far as Aughagower, with Murrisk firmly in the sights for the third and last day.
For bookings and registration, contact 094 9366709. For more information, visit www.croaghpatrickheritagetrail.com or email info@croaghpatrickheritagetrail.com.