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Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail
Balla, Co. Mayo
Free to visit
Free car parking
This 61km linear walk combines ancient monastic heritage with County Mayo’s lush mountain scenery and simply stunning Clew Bay views. Taking this impressive trail is a truly satisfying way to embrace this corner of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Traversing County Mayo’s exceptional coastal and mountain scenery, the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail takes three days to complete.

With mixed terrain including quiet stone-walled roads, farmland, forest and field paths, bog roads and open moorland, this moderate walk ascends 310m - mainly on the last leg.

Reaching from the village of Balla in East Mayo to picturesque Murrisk at the foot of Croagh Patrick, one of Ireland’s most important pilgrimage sites, the trail then unfolds onto the stunning shores of Clew Bay.

Boasting incredible scenery and exceptional views of mighty Croagh Patrick itself, this route gives walkers the very best of Mayo. From swathes of rich farmland, forest paths and bog lands to the diverse tapestry of ancient heritage sites and lively villages, you’ll appreciate every step.

Enjoy some refreshment in one of Murrisk’s two pubs and embrace more Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick vistas from the village too.

Trail details

Type:
Long Distance Waymarked Way
Location:
Balla Murrisk
Grade:
Strenuous
Format:
Linear
Length:
61km
Ascent:
310m
Dogs allowed:
No
Time:
3 days
Nearest town start:
Balla
Nearest town finish:
Westport
Start point:
Balla
Finish point:
Murrisk
Waymarking:
Yellow arrow on black background
Facilities:
Car parking
At Start - on street in the square in Balla
At End - in car park for Croagh Patrick in Murrisk
Why we like it
  • The majestic quartzite pyramid of Croagh Patrick stands 764m. Dominating the land south of Clew Bay, it has been a holy mountain since before Christian times. The mountain views on this trail are simply spectacular.
Contact details
Mayo Abbey National School, Kilbride, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp on durable ground
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Minimise the effects of fire
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