BLANEMORE FOREST HAS REOPENED!
Blanemore Forest Walk, Moygownagh has reopened after a walk upgrade and timber extraction. Coillte has embarked on an extensive native tree replanting programme, with further trail improvements in 2024
As featured in Irish Examiner's 100 Irish Trails Vol II, page 19 (9 May 2021)
As featured in Irish Sun's Travel feature 'The Way to Mayo' (Aug 2020)
Download our Blanemore Forest Walk Guide Book (old version)
Click here for the IRISHTRAILS.IE guide to Blanemore Forest Walk
As part of their commercial timber extraction programme, Coillte has upgraded the trails and amenities at Blanemore. We are in the process of upgrading our information signage and free smartphone self-guide app so please allow for some out-of-date information on the displays etc!
We are excited for the new ecological and amenity works including trail structural and safety upgrade, new seating and picnic areas with improved access (you can now bring a buggy or cycle all of our paths!). Coillte ensures 20% of replanting will be with native broadleaves (15% oak and 5% birch) mainly along the walking paths.
We look forward to seeing you again at our new and improved Blanemore Walk!
Explore our Blanemore Forest Archaeological Walk with our online & smartphone app (5km)
“Six thousand years of history lie in this conifer woodland, set on a gravel ridge above the wild and ancient bog-lands of North Mayo. Explore the sacred tombs and field walls of our first farmers. Walk among the mysterious standing stones of the bronze age and sit with the brooding dark beauty of Lough Naweela. This is a unique walk through Blanemore Forest.” (for recent reviews click TripAdvisor reviews or Mayo.me review )
Trail Head Directions: When leaving Moygownagh Village to travel to Ballycastle, follow the R315 road northwards, passing the GAA Football Pitch and community centre. Take the first by-road (on left) after a distinctive ‘humpback’ bridge and continue on a tarred boreen for approx 2.5km, which then becomes a gravel bog road which can have an uneven surface in winter or after heavy rains, so care is required. Follow the GREEN ARROW signs. The Walk is signposted.
Trailhead: 54.17419, -9.39559 - at the car-park, by the entrance to Blanemore Forest.
Estimated Completion for Average Walker: 1hrs – 1hr 30min. Are Dogs Allowed?: Yes - on a leash please.
Terrain: Forestry Road, Bog road, Gravel Paths; suitable for buggies.
Directions: Follow the Green Arrow Waymarkers (Green arrow on white background)
Ascent: Highest point is a 20m ascent mid-way on the trail in Blanemore Forest, in a gentle incline.
Minimum Gear: Walking Shoes and Rain-Gear, Snacks & Fluids, Midge repellent recommended.
Services: None on site, 4km away is Moygownagh Village with Shop, Toilets, Food Court, Bar.
Distance: 3.7km, Trail Format: Loop, Grade (Difficulty): Easy.
Easy Grade Definition: Will include either Class 1 or Class 2 trails and flat sections of Class 3 and Class 4 trails. Routes can include some obstacles such as stiles, gates, steps etc. but these must be minimal. Should only have gentle slopes with no continuous climbing on the route.
Easy Trails are Suitable For: Family groups including children and the elderly. May be suitable for parents with buggies (should be denoted at trail head) or very small children. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn.
Further details can be found in the document: Classification and Grading for Recreational Trails
Explore BLANEMORE FOREST WALK - A Self-Guided Walk of Blanemore’s Archaeological Secrets.
CLICK HERE TO BEGIN YOUR VIRTUAL TOUR
OR
Download the FREE! SmartPhone Self Guide App
Use the FREE self-guide smartphone app to guide you on your walk among the monuments, with a video and audio commentary by Liam Alex Heffron. Just plug in your headphones, power up the app and away you go!
Download Android SMARTPHONE APP
Download iPhone SMARTPHONE APP
Display signs and pathways provided. Trail grading level: moderate (walking) of 4.8km, as per irishtrails.ie guidelines - on wooden boardwalk, gravel paths - see maps. This walk has been provided by the voluntary efforts of historian Liam Alex Heffron and the Moygownagh Community with the kind support of IPB Insurance (Community Engagement Fund), Fiontar Chomhraic Teo, Mayo County Council (Mayo Walks), Mayo North East LEADER Partnership & Coillte Teo.
NOTE THAT YOU ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK. THIS IS A COILLTE OWNED, WORKING WOODLAND FOR TIMBER HARVEST AND DILIGENT ATTENTION TO HAZARDOUS TERRAIN IS ESSENTIAL. All walkers enter at their own discretion and no liability is accepted for any injuries sustained when participating on any aspect of the walk. - whether guided or otherwise. Please keep to the track-ways and care must be taken as underfoot conditions may be boggy, wet and slippery. Do not litter, light fires or disturb plants, wildlife or archaeology. Also no digging or moving of in-situ rocks or stones. Thank you!