The best MTB trails in Connacht

A lovely and striking stone bridge on a beautiful river. You will see a sign on the road here pointing you to Blanemore Forest Walk, which you should do; a potentially a fascinating place from an archeological perspective.

Aasleagh Falls is a pretty waterfall not far from Leenaun. It's set in a typically beautiful and mountainous Connemara landscape, where the Erriff River empties into the Killary Fjord. The intriguingly named Devilsmother rises to the east, while Ben Gorm rises to the west. This part of the Western Way can be prone to flooding. If the trail is impassable, the N59 can be used instead.

Ashford Castle, a stunning medieval castle on the shores of Lough Corrib near the town of Cong in County Mayo, is one of Ireland's most magnificent and historic buildings. Originally built in the 13th century by a noble Anglo-Norman family, the castle has a long and fascinating history spanning several centuries. In the 19th century, Ashford Castle was purchased and both restored and expanded by Benjamin Guinness, a member of the famous brewing family. His son, Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, was responsible for creating the extensive gardens and forests, which are now decorated with exotic plants from all over the world. Since 1939, the castle has served as one of Ireland's most exclusive 5-star hotels, attracting guests from all over the world, including numerous celebrities and royalty. Visiting Ashford Castle is not only a trip back in time, but also an opportunity to experience the luxurious amenities and exceptional service of one of the world's leading hotels. The magnificent gardens and picturesque lake provide ample opportunities for walking and exploring in some of Ireland's most beautiful scenery. Access to the grounds of Ashford Castle is normally reserved for hotel guests, but there are routes to allow viewing, such as the footbridge at Monk's Fishing House behind the abbey, which offers free entry. However, visitors should inform themselves in advance about the current access conditions and possible restrictions.

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.

Wikipedia (Cong Abbey, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cong_Abbey “… The grounds of the abbey also contain a monks' fishing house, probably built in the 15th or 16th century, on an island in the River Cong leading towards nearby Lough Corrib. …”

At the bridge, look not only at the fisherman's house but also at the water under the bridge. The Cong is known for its salmon run and with a bit of luck you can see a salmon "in one piece" in its natural state and not just in the frozen section as a fillet. But you can almost always find brown trout there. Access to Asford Castle along the river path was only possible up to the meadow in front of the hotel (as of June 2023). There was now a gatehouse with security guards. Then you can't go any further! The path along the river is worth every meter.

Lough Talt sits in the Ox mountains and forms part of the Lough Hoe Bog Special Area of conservation, an area of montane bogland and oligotrophic lakes. The lake is home to many endangered and rare species including the Arctic char fish, the European eel and white-clawed crayfish. You can also spot swans, ducks and dippers. If you're lucky you may spot the remaining four pairs of black-headed gulls.

Tucked into the far end of Achill Island sits the paradise beach of Keem Bay that would not look out of place in the Caribbean. Sitting beneath the large green hills of Irelands west coastline, the beach is Blue Flag awarded meaning it ticks all the boxes for a high standard of cleanliness and quality. As a key film location for the Oscar winning The Banshees of Inisherin, this beach clearly stunned much of the Hollywood and the wider film audience on the big screen!