The best walks and hikes around Lough Feeagh

There are over 25 hiking trails around Lough Feeagh, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include 8 easy routes and 20 moderate options, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The terrain around Lough Feeagh is quite diverse. You'll encounter mountainous landscapes with views of the Nephin Mountains and Corranabinnia range, extensive blanket bogs, and areas sloping towards river floodplains. Some routes feature wet heath, cliff vegetation, and upland grassland, while more challenging trails can involve rocky, steep descents, marsh, and turf.

Yes, Lough Feeagh offers several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Furnace Loop is a moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) trail that is often enjoyed by families. The area's diverse network includes 8 routes classified as easy, providing gentler options for beginners or those seeking a relaxed stroll.

Lough Feeagh is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. You'll experience continuous views of the majestic Nephin Mountains and the Corranabinnia mountain range. The area is also known for its extensive blanket bogs and the clear, oligotrophic waters of Lough Feeagh itself. On a peninsula extending into the lake, you can find the remains of an Iron Age promontory fort known as Leaba Dhiarmada agus Gráinne (Diarmuid and Gráinne's bed).

While the region offers a true wilderness experience, specific regulations for dogs on trails can vary. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife habitats like the Special Area of Conservation. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.

Lough Feeagh offers beautiful scenery year-round. However, for the most comfortable hiking conditions, late spring to early autumn (May to September) is generally ideal, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Be prepared for changeable weather at any time of year, as is typical for County Mayo.

Yes, many of the trails around Lough Feeagh are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Loch Feeagh east banks loop from Salmon Research Visitor Center and the Lettermaghera or Red loop from Derradda, both offering diverse landscapes and scenic views.

Parking is available at various trailheads around Lough Feeagh. For example, the Loch Feeagh east banks loop starts from the Salmon Research Visitor Center, which typically has parking facilities. Other routes, like those from Derradda, also have designated starting points where parking can be found. It's always advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.

While Lough Feeagh offers a wilderness experience, you can find amenities in nearby towns. Newport and Castlebar, for example, offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. It's a good idea to bring your own refreshments for the trails, as facilities directly adjacent to the more remote hiking paths are limited.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the sense of wilderness and tranquility, and the continuous views of the mountains and lakes. The diverse terrain, from bogs to mountain slopes, also receives positive feedback for offering varied hiking experiences.

Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking on the established trails around Lough Feeagh. However, always respect private land and follow any local signage regarding access. The area is a Special Area of Conservation, so adhering to Leave No Trace principles is essential.

The duration of walks around Lough Feeagh varies depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Furnace Loop, which is 5.5 miles (8.9 km), typically takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Rockfleet Castle loop from Derradda (17.6 km), can take over 4 hours. There are options for shorter, easier strolls and longer, more challenging treks.