Letterkeen Loop Trail Wild Nephin National Park, Co Mayo Image courtesy Ireland's Content Pool / Gareth McCormack

Hike the Majestic Letterkeen Loop in Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park, County Mayo

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park with this strenuous 12km loop.

Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park in County Mayo is a hidden gem in Ireland's west coast. The park boasts some of the most majestic mountain scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way. The Letterkeen Loop, one of several trails within the park's vast landscape, covers riverbanks, footbridges, tracks, forestry roads, bogland, and open mountain slopes. It is graded as strenuous and takes around three hours to complete.

The loop starts at the Brogan Carroll Bothy car park and travels clockwise, featuring steep ascents and descents as well as rough ground. The high point of 311m showcases stunning mountain vistas before descending to cross a pass into the pastoral Nephin Beg Mountains' lowlands. The loop also takes you along the babbling Altaconey River, adding to the serene experience.

The Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park Visitor Centre's cafe, Ginger & Wild, is the perfect place to unwind after this challenging hike. For those looking for a livelier atmosphere, the nearby town of Newport boasts plenty of welcoming pubs and restaurants.

At the trailhead, you'll find a car park, picnic benches, and an open bothy, providing a comfortable starting point for your journey. With so much rugged beauty to explore, Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Letterkeen Loop in Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park is a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience that immerses you in Ireland's natural beauty. With stunning mountain vistas, babbling rivers, and an idyllic trail, this is a must-do hike for any outdoor adventurer. Don't forget to stop by Ginger & Wild for some well-deserved refreshments after the trek.