The Benwee Loop

What: Following a dramatic coastline over open bogland and stunning cliff tops, this loop is a tough one, but the views are so worth it. You’ll be covering a fair ascent, but the bogland underfoot gives you a bit of a bounce, making life easier (in dry weather, that is). This section of coastline will enthral birdwatchers — look out for the gannets swooping down into the sea. The area is a living Gaeltacht, so throw in a cupla focal if you pass a fellow walker.

Start/Finish: The loop walk starts and finishes at Carrowteigue Village, a 30-minute drive from Belmullet.

Get there: From Belmullet, take the R313 and R314 to Glenamoy, where you’ll turn left onto the L1023.

Level: Strenuous.

Length/Time to walk:12.4km/5hrs.

Pack: A windbreaker and enough water and food to keep you going. Download a detailed map from irishtrails.ie or pick up OSI Discovery Series 22 and 23

Refuel: At The Talbot Hotel (thetalbothotel.ie) in Belmullet, with excellent seafood and hearty portions, food served daily until 9pm.