A small but picturesque waterfall on the River Erriff where it meets Killary Harbour — Ireland's only true fjord. Best seen after heavy rain, this Wild Atlantic Way stop offers a quick, rewarding pause framed by the brooding slopes of Ben Gorm and the Devil's Mother.
The easiest way to take in Aasleagh Falls is from the stone bridge spanning the Erriff River just upstream of the cascade. From here you can watch the river tumble over a ~4-metre run of pale rock steps, with the fjord and mountains as a backdrop. A telephoto lens helps capture the detail from this distance.
A short, flat 200-metre unpaved trail leads from beside the bridge down to the base of the cascade. It's an easy walk but the ground turns muddy and slippery after rain, so sturdy boots are essential. The close-up view is rewarding, especially when the river is in spate.
The Erriff is one of Connemara's more reliable salmon rivers, with the run peaking between June and September. From the bridge you might spot fish leaping the falls. The river also holds trout in the pools below the cascade and supports otters, kingfishers, and European eel.
Aasleagh Falls marks the official start of the Mayo section of the Western Way long-distance trail. The opening 12 km stretch follows the Erriff Valley beneath the Devil's Mother and Ben Gorm, passing Tawnyard Lough (look for its crannog — an ancient artificial island) before climbing to the Sheeffry Pass. A map board at the car park introduces the route.
The grassy banks near the falls make a peaceful picnic spot with the sound of rushing water and views across Killary Harbour. Bring everything you need — there are no shops or cafés on site. Leenane (4 km south) is the nearest place to stock up.
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