#mayohikes

📍Portacloy Beach

Portacloy beach is one of Mayo's hidden gems. Situated near the village of Carrowteige and not too far away from Rinroe Beach (a beach that has narrowly missed out on this list), it's a hidden beach which hasn't been discovered by tourists yet.

On a hot Summer's day this photo above was taken. There wasn't a sinner on the beach except ourselves. Felt like we were on a private island.

The photos say it all. A must visit beach.

Even in the Autumn months, the beach is stunning with the view out towards the Atlantic Ocean.

This photo was taken in October and boasts the lovely view of the beach from the beginning of the Carrowteige Loop Walk.

Nephin is Ireland's highest standalone mountain at 806 metres, as well as the second highest peak in Connaught.

Situated near the village of Lahardane and west of Loch Conn the views from the top are breathtaking. 

Length: Approx 4 hours 

Height: 806m 

What to wear: Waterproof hiking boots (because of the boggy nature), waterproof pants (advisable, but not necessary), warm top, hat and gloves (depending on time of year). Make sure to look at the forecast and plan accordingly. 

How to get there: Type in 'Nephin Car Park' into Google Maps and it will lead you to the starting point of the climb. From there, there is a trail which you can follow all the way up and down the mountain. 

Rain or shine, there are four loop walks which can be done from beside the shop in Carrowteige village. 

1. Benwee Loop Walk

- Takes 5 hours 

- 12.4km 

2. Carrowteige Beach Loop Walk

- Takes 1hr 30 mins 

- 6.5km 

3. Carrowteige Black Ditch Loop Walk

- Takes 3 hours 

- 13km 

4. Children of Lír Loop Walk

- Takes 2hr 30 mins 

- 10km 

These loop walks show the beauty of the coast of Ireland and the colours in the cliffs are different depending on the sun and the shadows as well as the time of day. Between now and Christmas wear appropriate footwear such as waterproof hiking boots and warm clothes. 

Ceathrú Thaidhg - Carrowteige - North Mayo - Ireland