Lacken Loop Walk
The Lacken Loop Walk is a scenic trail starting at Lacken Strand, east of Ballycastle in County Mayo.
The walk takes you along a stunning stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, Downpatrick Head, and the distant Stags of Broadhaven. The route starts at the Lacken Strand car park and passes through a mix of sandy beaches, coastal cliffs, and farmland, showcasing the rugged beauty of Ireland’s western coastline.
The walk also offers opportunities to spot birdlife, including herring gulls, oystercatchers, and cormorants along the shoreline. Occasionally, grey seals can be seen basking on the rocks or swimming in the waters nearby.
To continue your walking in the area head west to visit Downpatrick Head where there are more great sea views and an impressive sea stack to see.
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Lacken Strand. As you traverse the loop, you'll encounter a rich variety of coastal flora such as thrift, sea campion, and marram grass thriving in the sandy dunes and rocky outcrops.Inland sections of the trail may feature wildflowers like foxgloves and orchids during the blooming season, adding vibrant colours to the landscape.
Lacken Strand. The area is steeped in history, with remnants of ancient settlements and evidence of traditional farming methods still visible in the fields. The local village of Lacken adds a quaint charm, and its quiet, unspoiled nature makes this walk feel like a step back in time. The coastline itself is geologically significant, with striking rock formations shaped by centuries of Atlantic winds and waves. The loop is moderately challenging, with a mix of flat sandy stretches and gentle inclines along the cliffs. It's advisable to check tide times if walking sections near the beach and to wear appropriate footwear, as parts of the trail can be uneven or slippery.