This coastal walk really does have it all - a glorious start on Ballydongan beach, iconic sights like Skellig Micheal, a scrambling hillside climb and atmospheric old engine houses scattered like husks across the hillsides.

Besides the beautiful scenery, the other theme of the walk is the area’s copper mining heritage. The route trailhead is Allihies Copper Mine Museum, so there’s no escaping the link. Three signed walks start here; this loop follows the green arrows.  

You begin by descending along quiet country roads, which deposit you at the coast at beautiful Ballydongan. The white sand of the beach here is actually made up of crushed quartz ore. Enjoy a wonderful 2km stretch beside the sea, then climb inland to explore the old mountain mines. A final section of laneway carries you back to the start.

– Helen Fairbairn
 

Don’t Miss

The opportunity for a sea swim from Ballydongan beach

A visit to the Copper Mine Museum, at the start and finish point, to learn more about the area’s industrial past

Practical Information

The Copper Mine Museum also has a tempting café serving lunch

Allihies village is famous for its colourful buildings – bring your camera!

Part of this loop also follows the long-distance Beara Way