A remote cluster of four waymarked coastal loops on North Mayo's Dún Chaocháin peninsula, where 255m cliffs — higher than the Cliffs of Moher — plunge into the Atlantic with no crowds, just raw, exhilarating views over Broadhaven Bay and the Stags of Broadhaven.
The big one: 11.3 km, strenuous, ~5 hours. Follows bog track and sheep paths to the highest cliffs on the peninsula. You'll pass a WWII EIRE neutrality marking and an old army observation hut before reaching Benwee Head — described by naturalist Robert Lloyd Praeger as "the finest piece of cliff scenery in the country." Purple arrows on white backgrounds mark the way.
The most popular route — 10.7 km, moderate, ~2.5 hours. Takes you along the clifftop to the Children of Lir sculpture on An Priosuin, with panoramic views across Broadhaven Bay and the Stags of Broadhaven. On a clear day you can see from the Nephin Beg range to Slievemore on Achill Island.
10.9 km, moderate, ~3 hours. Shares the clifftop section with the Children of Lir route then follows an old boundary ditch inland towards Benwee Head. Includes a fairly demanding ascent over open ground. Stay on the correct side of the ditch — the cliff edges are unguarded and fatal falls have occurred.
The easy, family-friendly option: 6 km, ~1.5 hours on surfaced roadways and sandy track. Follows the shoreline past the cemetery to the sheltered cove of Carrowteige Beach, then loops inland through bogland with strong seaward views. Ideal with children or if you're short on time.
The striking sculpture on An Priosuin (the 'Prison') commemorates the legend of the four children turned into swans, condemned to wander for 900 years — 300 of them on Inishglora island just offshore. Part of the international Spirit of Place Sculpture Trail, it's reachable on the Blue, Red, and Purple loops.
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