The best road cycling routes around Lough Mask

This road winding along the foot of the Sheeffry Hills provides excellent views across Tawnyard Lough towards Devilsmother and the great plateau of Maumtrasna. It's worth taking a short detour from the road to the popular viewpoint. The pass is part of the Western Way long-distance trail.

Situated on the Killary Fjord to the north of the Maumturks and with views towards shapely Mweelrea, Leenaun is wonderfully situated for hiking adventures. The name of the village derives from the Irish An Lionán, which means 'ravine' – a reference to the way the fjord cuts through the mountainous landscape. There are a few places to eat and drink, as well as several accommodation options.

Leenaun, also spelled Leenane (Irish: An Líonán), is a picturesque village located in County Galway, Ireland. Situated at the head of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord, Leenaun lies on the boundary between County Galway and County Mayo, offering stunning views of surrounding mountains.

Parking spot with a bench for a snack. Behind the bench there is a single track that brings you to a nice view point!

There is only access to one Stone Circle. Glebe (North) About 16 m in diameter, 23 stones remain, up to 1.2 m in height. The monument was later landscaped as a tree ring, and some stones have been disturbed by tree roots. The others nerby (some are visible) are not reachable - you have to climb over walls and fences. Maybe there are cows and bulls on the field... At least one is covered with plants and bramble. Also known as 'Cong Stone Circles'

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.

Wikipedia (Cong Abbey, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cong_Abbey “… The grounds of the abbey also contain a monks' fishing house, probably built in the 15th or 16th century, on an island in the River Cong leading towards nearby Lough Corrib. …”

At the bridge, look not only at the fisherman's house but also at the water under the bridge. The Cong is known for its salmon run and with a bit of luck you can see a salmon "in one piece" in its natural state and not just in the frozen section as a fillet. But you can almost always find brown trout there. Access to Asford Castle along the river path was only possible up to the meadow in front of the hotel (as of June 2023). There was now a gatehouse with security guards. Then you can't go any further! The path along the river is worth every meter.