Directions to the Trailhead
The Aughris Coastal Walk is located some 6km from the N59 national route between Sligo and Ballina. Taking the minor road near Skreen Catholic Church, signposted Aughris Head/Dunmoran Strand. Park considerately near the Beach Bar which overlooks Dunmoran Strand. Walk from here to Aughris Harbour and the start of the walk is along a path to the left of the pier.
The Trail Map:- OSI Map Series 25
Aughris Coastal Walk is one of the most spectacular walks in Sligo, and indeed anywhere along the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s also relatively flat, and at just 4km it’s one that will appeal to all members of the family and to those looking for a gentle looped walk along a clearly marked path, along with a mix of great views!
The Route
Park considerately near the Beach Bar which overlooks Aughris Beach. Once you arrive at a cross roads, turn right for Aughris Pier. The coastal walk is located to the left of the pier.
The trail itself is approximately 4km in length and is a mixture of grass and gravel paths, which, for the most part, is fenced on both sides. Note that there are sections where the path runs along an unfenced coastal grass section, and extra care should be taken here. Allow between 45 minutes-1 hr to complete the walk – although you may get distracted by the stunning views and decide to take your time! The walk is fairly flat with just some gentle inclines.
After 3km kilometres, the path turns away from the coast towards a World War II look-out post and a deserted village where it meets a minor road. Follow this until you reach a T-junction, turn left, go straight through the next cross roads to complete the walk.
The Beach Bar is a wonderful establishment which offers good food and drink and is well worth a visit upon completion of your walk.
Note: It is worth noting that the path is quite narrow in parts, and therefore you should consider visiting here at times when it is likely to be quieter. As mentioned, some parts are unfenced and therefore require care, especially the grassy sections. Therefore good walking footwear is a requirement, and bring a light waterproof mac with you as well just in case!
Did You Know
The fields near Aughris Pier were once the scene of political meetings by Charles Stewart Parnell – ‘The uncrowned King of Ireland’ and others in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. On Garland Sunday, 27th July 1901, an estimated 8,000 people
attended one such event.
Sligo Walks Podcast 016 – Tommy Fleming
One of Sligo’s best known singer/songwriters, who is also an actor, Tommy Fleming has developed a great love of the outdoors. But as much as he enjoys walking and exercise, sometimes Sligo can throw up new surprises, as we find out when he takes the Aughris Coastal Walk as part of the MySligoWalks series.
Nearby walks you might like
Dunmoran Strand
Secluded beach and a picturesque fishing harbour.
Duneil River Walk
Road and River Walk.
Latest news items from the SligoWalks blog
-
What To Look For In Sligo’s Hedgerows
Keeping the eyes open as nature comes to life is one of the great pleasures of walking at this time of year. As Spring extends into Summer, and with Biodiversity Week just around the corner, there is so much to look at as we walk on trails and country paths the length and breadth of…
-
Hazelwood To Re-Open This Weekend
In welcome news, Hazelwood Forest Walk, so badly damaged during Storm Eowyn, will reopen to the public on Saturday next 5th April. Hundreds of trees have been cleared, paths restored and the area made safe after several weeks of work throughout the site. “It was a huge undertaking after what was the worst storm damage…
-
St. Patrick’s Day Walks in Sligo
When the Parade has passed and you’ve set aside the green leprechaun hats and oversized glasses, it’s time to get into the second part of the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day. After hanging around waiting for the floats to pass and feeding the kids ice cream and crisps to pass the time, what better way to…
- Plan ahead and Prepare
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Respect wildlife and farm stock
- Be considerate of others
- Minimise the effects of fire
Leave a Reply