The Western Way from Lough Inagh to Leenane

Hike: The Western Way from Lough Inagh to Leenane, Co Galway. The entire Western Way is a marathon trail that stretches for over 200km. There are many scenic stretches, but this section in north Connemara is one of the best. Almost entirely off-road, it passes between the Twelve Bens and the Maumturks, two of Ireland’s most dramatic mountain ranges. Start in the townland of Illion, where the route leaves a tarmac road. Follow a stone track northwest along the Inagh Valley, passing around the open base of the Maumturks. The next 5km are spent along the tracks of a forestry plantation. The final section is the most beautiful, as you contour high above Killary Harbour — Ireland’s only fjord — before descending to the waterside village of Leenane.

Start at: Illion, Lough Inagh.

Finish at: Leenane.

Get there: Lough Inagh is located along the R344 Recess to Leenane road, while Leenane is on the N59.

Level: Moderate — signed paths and tracks with 180m ascent.

Length / Time: 15km / 4-5 hours.

Pack: Hearty snacks and OSi 1:50,000 sheet 37, or trail maps downloaded from irishtrails.ie

Refuel at: Blackberry Restaurant in Leenane (blackberryrestaurant.ie). Perfectly located at the end of the walk, this is a great spot for lunch or dinner, with local seafood a speciality. Book ahead.