View the falls from the bridge
The easiest view is from Aasleagh Falls Bridge, just upstream of the cascade, where the Erriff drops about four metres before reaching Killary Harbour. It is most impressive after heavy rain, when the river runs high.
Aasleagh Falls
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About
A small but photogenic waterfall where the River Erriff drops about four metres into Killary Harbour, framed by the mountains of the Galway-Mayo border. It is a quick roadside stop that roars after rain.
Things to Do
Walk to the base of the falls
From beside the bridge, a rough, flat 200 m path leads down to the foot of the cascade. It is unpaved and turns muddy and slippery after rain, so walking boots are advisable.
Walk a stretch of the Western Way
A section of the Western Way starts at the falls, running 12 km through the Erriff Valley beneath Ben Gorm and the Devil's Mother towards Sheeffry and Tawnyard Lough with its crannog island.
Look for salmon
The Erriff is a spate river with a salmon run from June to September. Anglers fish the pools below the falls, and you can watch from the bank.
Explore Leenane and Killary Fjord
The village of Leenane, 4 km south at the head of Ireland's only fjord, is the nearest base for food, pubs and boat tours on Killary Harbour.
Drive the Doolough Valley
The Leenane to Louisburgh road over the Doolough Valley is one of Ireland's finest drives; continue past the falls for icy lakes and rugged mountains.
Visit Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey and its walled gardens on Pollacapall Lough in Connemara make a worthwhile longer detour from the falls.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open to visit at any time; there are no opening hours.
- Admission: Free — there is no entry fee
- Parking: Two free lay-by parking areas flank the R335 just past the bridge, holding roughly 40 cars between them. They sit on a sharp, sweeping bend with no path, so cross the road with care.
- Food: No food or drink is sold at the falls. Leenane, 4 km south, has cafés and pubs — Hamilton's Bar, The Purple Door Café and Gaynor's Bar are recommended.
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