For a stay connected with Aasleagh, there are several possible focuses: the Western Way from Aasleagh, nearby Aasleagh Falls and fly fishing at Erriff Fishery Beat 3 in the surrounding area.

Hiking the Western Way

The Western Way Mayo begins in Aasleagh, near Leenaun. A 12 km section starts at Aasleagh Falls, passes Devilsmother Mountain and continues through Erriff Valley to Sheeffry. The first section from Aasleagh offers views of fjords, rivers, lakes and forests. The focus is therefore on a clearly defined hiking route and a variety of landscapes.

For planning your day, it is useful to distinguish between the 12 km route and the short walk to the falls: you can choose between hiking options of different lengths rather than treating them as similar activities.

Aasleagh Falls and fishing

A path leads to Aasleagh Falls on a short walk. The area also offers riverside walks and places for picnics. You can see the waterfalls from Aasleagh Falls Bridge. Formal parking is available in two lay-bys on either side of the R335 regional road.

Canyoning is also one of the activities at the falls. Check current access conditions before making plans. You can also watch salmon anglers fishing at Aasleagh Falls.

Fly fishing only is permitted at nearby Erriff Fishery Beat 3. Catch and release applies: all fish must be returned alive. Rental equipment and landing nets are not available there. Fishing permits can be purchased online or during opening hours at the fisheries office in Aasleagh. Before fishing, check the fishery’s current rules and the official information on purchasing permits.

County Mayo: more hiking and cultural topics

In County Mayo, hiking routes range from summit trails to multi-day long-distance trails. Croagh Patrick is 764 m high and has been a pilgrimage destination since pre-Christian times. The main summit route starts in Murrisk on the Louisburgh Road (R335) and is 7 km long, including the return journey. The Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail is 59.9 km long and passes through County Mayo’s coastal and mountain landscapes. It combines ancient monastic heritage with views of Clew Bay and takes three days to complete. These details show different distances and time frames: a summit route with a return journey compared with a multi-day long-distance hike.

County Mayo also offers a variety of cultural experiences. The National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park uses objects, rare archive photographs and films to convey Ireland’s rural past; workshops, lectures and guided tours take place throughout the year. In County Mayo, Knock Shrine tells the story of the 1879 apparition and the site’s development into an international pilgrimage destination.

For the broader travel overview: County Mayo.