Cnoc Mordáin

Duration Distance Parking Start Ascent Map Difficulty
4.5 hrs 14.3 km L889389 L885390 407m Sheet 44 Level 2

 

Brief Description

A less technical walk over grassy mounds and turfbanks with unique views of all of the mountains of Connemara and South Mayo to the North East, and the many bays, inlets and islands of the Connemara gaeltacht to the South West.

Detailed Description

The route commences along the path towards the water tower located at L884390. Continue your ascent to point 307 and then to point 354. This is a good place to take a break for refreshments and to admire the splendid views of the Connemara mountains to the North East. You can also get unique views of the islands of Leitir Mór and Garumna, and the many bays and inlets of Cill Chiaraín towards the south west. Continue south west towards the saddle and then ascend to point 339. Begin you descent from this point, towards the forrestry road at Gleann na Rod (L844349). Follow this road to the main road (R340) and turn left and return to where your car is parked. Please note that the road walk, including the forrestry road, takes approx 1.5 hours. However, I believe it is worthwhile, as you can survey your route along the ridge of Cnoc Mordáin as you walk. You get an entirely different perspective of the walk from the road.

Alternative Route

A second car can be left parked along the forrestry road if you want to cut out the road walk.