April 2026

The 2026 Achill Camino Challenge  will take place on  Saturday, April 18th and Sunday, April 19th, offering an unforgettable weekend of walking on Achill Island.

This special event celebrates the island’s spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage. Walkers can select from three stunning routes, each showcasing a different aspect of Achill’s varied landscapes.

Saturday Walks – April 18th

1. Slievemore to Dooagh Way (10km Loop)

Beginning and ending at Slievemore Cemetery, this scenic loop guides participants across rugged hillsides, dramatic coastal stretches, and historic sites — including the haunting Deserted Village. Rated easy to moderate, this route is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a rewarding introduction to the island’s beauty.

2. The Coffin Way (18km)

Steeped in history and tradition, this 18km trail traces the old funeral path once travelled by Achill communities from Dookinella to Derreens. Rich in folklore and cultural meaning, it provides a powerful link to the island’s past. Walkers will assemble at Patten's Bar, with bus transport provided to the starting point in Dookinella. This route is graded moderate to strenuous.

Sunday Walk – April 19th

3. The Greenway and Forest Way (18km)

Starting in Mulranny and finishing in Achill Sound, this 18km walk follows the scenic Great Western Greenway. The route passes through the peaceful Tonragee Forest before rejoining the Greenway en route to the finish. With a moderate grading, walkers can enjoy quiet woodland trails, expansive coastal views, and sweeping open countryside. Participants will meet at Óstán Oileán Acla, where buses will transfer them to the starting point in Mulranny.