The best walks and hikes around Levally Lough

There are a few dedicated hiking routes in the Levally Lough area, with komoot listing 3 distinct trails. These routes are generally considered moderate in difficulty.

The terrain around Levally Lough is characterized by green, rural landscapes, including pastures and bogs, forming part of a wetland mosaic. The bedrock is primarily sandstone and mudstone. While specific trails directly encircling the lake are not extensively detailed, the broader Mayo landscape offers varied walking routes.

Levally Lough itself is a serene freshwater lake, approximately 1.9 km long and 1.1 km wide, and is a key natural feature. The area is also part of the River Moy Special Area of Conservation (SAC), supporting diverse wildlife including various bird species like ducks, swans, and herons, as well as small mammals like otters and foxes.

The tranquil ambiance of Levally Lough offers seasonal appeal, ranging from misty mornings to clear skies. While specific recommendations for hiking seasons aren't detailed, the green landscapes of western Ireland are generally pleasant for walking during spring, summer, and early autumn, avoiding the wettest winter months.

The komoot routes in this guide are all rated as moderate difficulty, featuring significant elevation gains. For families with younger children or those seeking very easy, flat walks, these specific routes might be challenging. However, the general rural environment of Mayo offers opportunities for more casual, local walks that might be more suitable for families.

While the region is generally dog-friendly, specific rules for dogs on the trails around Levally Lough are not detailed. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Access to Levally Lough is facilitated by public roads in the vicinity of Lahardane and Crossmolina, allowing for approach by car. However, dedicated parking or visitor facilities are not present directly at the lake itself. You may find informal parking spots along the public roads.

The area around Levally Lough is quite rural, and direct public transport options to the trailheads are limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for services to nearby towns like Lahardane or Crossmolina, and then plan for a taxi or a longer walk to reach the lake and trail starting points.

The routes in Levally Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 7 reviews. Hikers often appreciate the natural beauty and the challenge of the moderate trails.

While the guide highlights routes like Nephin via Cloghbrack Far and Nephin South Trail, these are primarily focused on ascents of Nephin. For a circular option, consider the Lough Cullin loop from Foxford, which offers a different perspective of the wider region.

The hiking routes listed for Levally Lough are all classified as moderate. They involve significant elevation gains, such as the Nephin out and back trail with an ascent of 2,332 feet (711 m), making them suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Levally Lough is situated in a rural setting. While there are no direct amenities at the lake, nearby towns such as Lahardane, Crossmolina, or the larger town of Castlebar would offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation.