Picture yourself standing at the edge of a towering cliff, waves from the Atlantic crashing below as the sun sets, casting warm hues across the sky.
The rugged beauty of Mayo’s coastline stretches in both directions, offering not just breathtaking views, but the perfect setting for those seeking adventure and unforgettable photo opportunities.
Located on Ireland’s stunning Wild Atlantic Way, County Mayo is a paradise for hikers and photographers alike.
With its dramatic landscapes, vast beaches, and towering cliffs, this part of the Irish coastline offers endless exploration. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best hiking trails Mayo has to offer, along with some of the most photogenic spots, while making sure you’re equipped with everything you need for a safe adventure
Best Hiking Trails Along the Mayo Coastline for Photographers
Each trail offers its own unique slice of Mayo’s natural beauty, and with the HiiKER app, you can easily navigate these trails with confidence, ensuring that you make the most of every view and photo opportunity.
1. The Great Western Greenway
- Distance: 45 km
- Grade: Hard
- Est. Time: 1 day
Overview: Stretching 45 kilometers from Westport to Achill Island, the Great Western Greenway is a family-friendly, mostly flat trail that follows a former railway line through some of Mayo’s most scenic landscapes.
Why it’s great for photography: This trail offers panoramic views of Clew Bay and spectacular views of the Nephin Mountains in the distance.
Photo Tip: Arrive at the bay during sunset, when the light casts a golden glow over the islands, and the water becomes a mirror-like surface reflecting the sky.
2. Croaghaun Cliffs & Benmore Loop
- Distance: 14 km
- Grade: Medium
- Est. Time: 5 Hours
Overview: Achill Island is home to two of Mayo’s most dramatic hiking experiences: the Croaghaun Cliffs and the Benmore Loop. Both start from Keem Bay, one of Ireland’s most famous beaches. Croaghaun boasts some of the highest sea cliffs in Ireland, while the Benmore Loop takes you along rugged ridges offering spectacular views of the coastline.
Why it’s great for photography: The Croaghaun Cliffs, rising nearly 688 meters above the Atlantic, provide stunning views of sheer drops and endless ocean. The Benmore Loop offers panoramic vistas of Keem Bay, with its turquoise waters and golden sands contrasting beautifully against the cliffs.
Photo Tip: For Croaghaun, late afternoon light casts long shadows and enhances the dramatic textures of the cliffs. For the Benmore Loop, capturing Keem Bay from the ridges at sunrise or sunset provides the best lighting for that iconic shot of the bay nestled between the mountains.
3.Carrowteige Loop
- Distance: 6 km
- Grade: Easy
- Est. Time: 2 Hours
Overview: Located in the remote northern region of Mayo, the Carrowteige Loop is a hidden gem along the wild Atlantic coastline. This trail takes hikers along breathtaking cliff edges, secluded beaches, and sea arches, offering unrivaled views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Stags of Broadhaven sea stacks.
Why it’s great for photography: The rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations along the Carrowteige Loop make for stunning compositions. The Stags of Broadhaven, a group of isolated sea stacks, are a highlight, rising dramatically from the Atlantic and offering a powerful focal point for landscape shots.
Photo Tip: The cliffs and sea stacks are best captured during sunrise, when the light enhances the textures of the rugged coastline and casts long, golden shadows.
4. Benwee Head Loop
- Distance: 12 km
- Grade: Medium
- Est. Time: 3 Hours
Overview: One of Mayo’s most remote and rugged coastal walks, the Benwee Head Loop provides towering cliffs, sea arches, and hidden coves, making it an ideal trail for those seeking a wilder experience.
Why it’s great for photography: The sheer cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and powerful waves make this one of the most photogenic spots in Mayo.
Photo Tip: Stormy weather enhances the drama of this location, creating an ideal setting for capturing the power of the Atlantic crashing against the cliffs.
Photography Tips for Hiking the Mayo Coastline
Hiking and photography along Mayo’s coastline go hand-in-hand, but being prepared is key. Here are a few practical tips to make the most of your journey:
Pack Smart: Choose lightweight camera gear that won’t weigh you down on long hikes. A sturdy tripod is a must for steady shots, especially if you’re shooting during golden hour or in windy conditions.
Prepare for Weather: Mayo’s coastal weather can change quickly, so be sure to pack rain covers for your camera and dress in layers to stay comfortable as you hike. Embrace the changeable skies for dynamic photos.
Golden Hour Advantage: To capture the best light, plan your hikes so that you’re at your chosen spot during sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light at these times adds depth and richness to landscape photos.
Composition Matters: Use natural features like cliffs, winding paths, and rock formations to guide the viewer’s eye into the photo. Include elements like wildflowers or coastal stones in the foreground for added depth.
Leave No Trace: Always stay on marked trails to protect the environment, and pack out all your waste. It’s important to preserve the beauty of Mayo’s coastline for future hikers and photographers.
