Easy hikes and walks around Ballymore Lough
4.5
(15)
73
hikers
13
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ballymore Lough are set within a rugged landscape in County Mayo, Ireland. The lough is a freshwater body with the Ox Mountains to its east and the River Moy to its west, offering scenic vistas. The surrounding area is characterized by its natural features and historical sites, including the ruins of Kildermot Abbey. The Owenrevagh River also contributes to the lough's ecosystem.
Best easy hiking trails around Ballymore Lough
- The most popular easy hiking route is…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
6.76km
01:44
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
5.29km
01:21
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.8
(4)
7
hikers
3.90km
00:59
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
3.76km
00:58
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
29
hikers
4.54km
01:10
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bridge without historical or architectural value. But it does offer a viewpoint over the river and specifically the Muredach Cathedral.
6
0
Large mural in honor of Jack Charlton, the legendary manager of the Irish football team. The mural is located in the center of Ballina and forms a recognizable point along the streets around the Moy.
5
0
Quiet viewpoint on the River Moy, with clear views of the Ballina Manor Hotel and the Salmon Weir Bridge upstream.
6
0
19th-century ice house that was part of the former salmon fishery on the Moy. The above-ground stone structure with bars in the door and windows still stands, while the roof has disappeared. Inside, you look straight up at the trees from the round cellar. Quiet, photogenic stop along the path, with a beautiful contrast between stone and forest green.
5
0
The cycle path through Belleek Woods takes you through a lush, historic forest along the banks of the River Moy. As you cycle beneath the dense tree canopy, you'll pass unique sights such as the Crete Boom (a concrete ship), an old ice house, and a mysterious 19th-century famine wall. This paved forest path is part of the Monasteries of the Moy Greenway and offers a safe, natural passage towards the historic abbeys further on. Keep an eye out for the rare red squirrels that thrive here.
4
0
Upper Bridge provides lovely views across Ballina, with the impressive spire of St. Muredach's Cathedral particularly prominent. The bridge takes you across the River Moy, a well-known salmon river. Every July, the town hosts the Ballina Salmon Festival.
1
0
A lovely little tour in Ballina along the mouth of the Moy River. We really enjoyed the section with the many little elf houses hidden in the trees. A great route if you're traveling with children. Provides plenty of entertainment (;-). There's also a coffee stop at the castle hotel to finish.
2
0
Nice wooded walk, with parts along the lovely river Moy. See the concrete ship, long abandoned on its mooring.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Ballymore Lough?
There are 7 easy hiking trails around Ballymore Lough, offering a variety of experiences from scenic loops to urban explorations.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Ballymore Lough?
The best time to hike around Ballymore Lough is generally during spring, summer, and autumn. These seasons offer more favorable weather conditions to enjoy the rugged scenery and historical sites. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and colder conditions.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails around Ballymore Lough?
The easy trails around Ballymore Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic vistas, the tranquil lough, and the historical points of interest like Kildermot Abbey.
Are there any easy circular routes around Ballymore Lough?
Yes, several easy circular routes are available. A popular option is the Ballymore Lough loop from Attymass, which is 6.8 km long and takes about 1 hour 44 minutes to complete. Another is the Foxford Woollen Mills loop from Foxford, a shorter 3.9 km trail.
Are there any beginner-friendly routes for those new to hiking?
Absolutely. All the easy trails around Ballymore Lough are suitable for beginners. The Ballymore Lough loop from Attymass is a great starting point, offering gentle terrain and beautiful views. For a shorter urban walk, consider the Bird Girl Statue – Ballina loop from Ballina.
What kind of scenery and landmarks can I expect on easy hikes around Ballymore Lough?
Easy hikes around Ballymore Lough offer a mix of rugged natural beauty and historical intrigue. You'll encounter the freshwater lough itself, views towards the Ox Mountains and River Moy, and significant historical sites such as the ruins of the 13th-century Kildermot Abbey and the Old Killeen Graveyard. There's also a crannog, an ancient artificial island, in the center of the lough.
Are the easy hiking trails around Ballymore Lough suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the easy trails are well-suited for families. The gentle gradients and manageable distances make them enjoyable for children. The Ballymore Lough loop from Attymass is a good option for a family outing, combining nature with historical sights.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails around Ballymore Lough?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Ballymore Lough. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially near livestock or historical sites, and to clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Is there parking available near the easy hiking trailheads?
Parking is typically available near the main trailheads for routes like the Ballymore Lough loop from Attymass. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local signage.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails for refreshments?
While Ballymore Lough itself is a more rural setting, nearby towns like Attymass and Foxford offer options for cafes and pubs where you can find refreshments after your hike. For example, the Foxford Woollen Mills loop from Foxford takes you directly through the town of Foxford.
What should I bring for an easy hike around Ballymore Lough?
For an easy hike, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are recommended due to changeable Irish weather), water, and perhaps a snack are sufficient. A camera is also a good idea to capture the scenic views and historical landmarks.
How long do the easy hikes around Ballymore Lough typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies. Shorter routes like the Bird Girl Statue – Ballina loop from Ballina can be completed in about 35 minutes, while longer loops such as the Ballymore Lough loop from Attymass take around 1 hour 44 minutes.
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