The Leenane Horseshoe

This walk is probably one of the easier walks in the Maaumturk mountains. Spectacular views onto Killary Harbour await you along the route.The walk involves a steep ascent from the parking place followed by a gentle route along a grassy ridge. However,good navigation skills are needed (as with all walks) on this route, particularly in bad weather.

Route Description

I used to park in a small gravel area at L865623. However, this convenient parking facility has now disappeared due to construction work along the N59. Parking can be awkward at the moment. I suggest parking near the Hotel just outside Lenanne village on the N59.

The ascent from where I used to park my car (at L865623) is a rather steep one, having to negotiate a number of small rocky outcrops higher up. This leads you to the unnamed peak (556 m) at L863604, passing a small bog lake along the way. From here, continue south for 1.5 km over boggy ground to another unnamed peak (578 m). There is a good view into the grassy corrie of Leenaun and of Killary Harbour, Irelands only fjord, from here. Follow the ridge towards Leenaun Hill (618 m) at L874594. If you are walking here in poor visibility it is easy to make a mistake and end up passing Leenaun Hill and going onto the next ridge. (I know from experience!!). There are many nice views from this peak, such as the remainder of the Maamturk range to the south, Binn Gorm to the north and Devils Mother on the North East.

The decent is a direct route northwards down the grassy ridge towards Leenane village. During winter this can be a very wet place. This area holds the record for the highest amount of rainfall annually in Ireland. You can gain access back onto the road by hopping over the fence near the Hotel, a few hundred meters west of the village.

I recommend both Gaynor's pub and Hamilton's pub for refreshments. Fresh sandwiches, and chocolate can be bought in Hamilton's shop, which is useful if you want to bring some food supplies with you when you set out for your walk.