Western Way

Overview

The Western Way (Slí an Iarthair) is a long‑distance, way‑marked hiking trail that stretches roughly 179 km (111 mi) from the fishing town of Oughterard on the western shore of Lough Corrib, through the rugged landscapes of Connemara, and on to Ballycastle in north‑Mayo before reaching the Sligo border near Bunnyconnellan. Designated a National Waymarked Trail by the Irish Sports Council, the route is managed jointly by Coillte, Galway County Council, Mayo County Council and local development companies. The trail is moderate in difficulty, linear (point‑to‑point), and is marked by a yellow arrow on a black background. Dogs are not permitted on off‑road sections, and there is no admission fee – the trail is free to use.

History

The Western Way was formalised in the early 2000s as part of Ireland’s expanding network of long‑distance paths. Its Galway section follows historic routes that have been used for centuries, including a pilgrimage path to Mám Éan (Maumeen) – a holy site that attracted early Christian pilgrims. In the 19th century, Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo surveyed the area and laid out many of the modern roads that the trail now follows, particularly around the Maam Valley. The trail also bears the memory of the Great Famine, with several sections passing through areas that were once sites of hardship and emigration.

What to See & Do

Galway Section (Oughterard → Leenane)

• Lough Corrib shoreline – the trail hugs the western edge of Ireland’s second‑largest lake, offering tranquil water views and opportunities to spot waterfowl.
• Maam Bridge – a picturesque village where Nimmo’s road‑building legacy is evident.
• Maumeen Pass (259 m / 850 ft) – the highest point on the Galway section, providing sweeping vistas of the Maumturk range.
• Inagh Valley – a lush glen sandwiched between the Twelve Bens and the Maumturks, with the striking Lough Inagh as a focal point.
• Killary Harbour – one of only three glacial fjords in Ireland; the dramatic sea‑inlet is framed by steep cliffs and is a popular filming location (the film The Field was shot in nearby Leenane).
• Mám Éan Chapel – a small stone chapel at the summit of Maumeen Pass, a reminder of the ancient pilgrimage tradition.

Mayo Section (Aasleagh → Ballycastle & beyond)

• Croagh Patrick’s eastern slopes – the trail skirts the iconic pilgrimage mountain, offering distant views of its summit.
• Westport – a vibrant market town where walkers can rest and enjoy local cuisine.
• Nephin Mountains – remote, bog‑covered peaks that test the trail’s rugged character.
• Coastal walk from Ballycastle to Killala – dramatic Atlantic cliffs, sea‑stack islands and the historic Benwee Head viewpoint.
• Ballina – the River Moy’s broad floodplain provides a contrasting low‑land landscape before the trail reaches the Sligo border.
• Aasleagh Falls – a picturesque waterfall near the county border, a pleasant side‑trip for photographers.

Throughout the route, walkers encounter timber bog bridges, boardwalk sections, and a mixture of quiet roads, bog tracks, open moorland and forest paths. The trail’s varied terrain supports a rich array of wildlife, from red deer in the Connemara mountains to coastal seabirds along the Mayo shoreline.

Wildlife & Landscape

The Western Way traverses a mosaic of habitats. In the Connemara mountains you may spot red deer, pine martens and golden eagles soaring above the quartzite peaks. The bogs are home to meadow brown butterflies and a variety of mosses, while the coastal sections host gulls, razorbills and, in summer, the occasional puffin on the cliffs near Killala. The Inagh Valley’s woodlands provide a haven for badgers and otters along the riverbanks.

Nearby Attractions

• Aughnanure Castle – a well‑preserved 16th‑century tower house just a short detour from Oughterard, offering a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
• Glengowla Mines – a short drive from Leenane, this restored 19th‑century lead mine provides an interactive family experience (information available at the visitor centre).
• Kylemore Abbey – although not linked internally, it lies a few kilometres south of the trail and makes an excellent day‑trip for history and garden lovers.

Practical Information

Getting There

• By Bus: Bus Éireann Route 419 runs Galway → Oughterard → Clifden; Citylink also serves the Galway‑Clifden‑Letterfrack corridor.
• By Car: The trailhead at Oughterard is easily accessed from the N59. Free parking is available in the town centre and at the Maam Community Centre (used for the annual walking marathon). Limited on‑street parking exists at Maam Bridge – arrive early in peak season.
• By Air: The nearest airports are Galway Airport (≈30 km) and Ireland West Airport Knock (≈120 km) for those arriving from abroad.

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation is limited along the route, especially between Oughterard and Leenane. Small B&Bs, guesthouses and hostels are scattered in Oughterard, Maam Bridge, Leenane and Westport. It is advisable to book ahead during the summer months. The trail passes close to Connemara National Park (≈20 min from Leenane) where additional lodging options exist. For a comfortable base at the start of the walk, consider staying at The Western Way B&B in Oughterard – an Irish Tourist Board‑approved establishment.

Weather & Safety

Irish weather is changeable; rain and wind are common even in summer. Pack waterproof clothing, sturdy boots and a warm layer. Carry a fully charged mobile phone and inform someone of your daily itinerary. Be prepared for boggy ground, especially after rain – the timber‑bridge sections can become slippery. Respect private land by staying on the way‑marked route.

Navigation & Apps

While the trail is well‑marked, many walkers find the HiiKER app useful for real‑time GPS navigation and waypoint tracking. Offline maps can be downloaded from the official trail PDFs linked above.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring (April‑June): Wildflowers carpet the bogs and the Inagh Valley bursts into colour; birdwatchers can hear skylarks.
• Summer (July‑August): Long daylight hours make the 2‑day Galway section popular; the Connemara Western Way Annual Walking Marathon takes place each August, starting at Maam Community Centre.
• Autumn (September‑October): The foliage turns golden, providing striking contrast against the quartzite peaks.
• Winter (November‑March): Trail sections can be very wet and some boardwalks may be closed; experienced walkers should check weather forecasts and closure notices before setting out.

Events

The trail hosts the Connemara Western Way Annual Walking Marathon and Half Marathon each August, starting at Maam Community Centre and covering the scenic stretch from Killary Harbour to Maam Valley. The event showcases the trail’s relatively flat sections and highlights the views of the Maumturks and Twelve Bens.

Maps & Guidebooks

• Folding Landscapes – Western Way (Galway) Map Guide and Mountains of Connemara.
• Ordnance Survey Discovery Series – Sheets 37, 38, 44, 45 (1:50 000 scale).
• EastWest Mapping – The Western Way guidebook (available via Trailhead Central).
• The Waymarked Trails of Ireland by Michael Fewer.
• The Mountains of Connemara by Joss Lynam (Folding Landscapes).