Blanemore Forest Archaeological Walk in Moygownagh is a treasure chest packed with historical secrets. Underneath the boglands of North Mayo, 6,000 years of historical importance has recently been uncovered. This includes sacred tombs, mysterious standing stones and field walls.
Thanks to the efforts of the local community in Moygownagh, as of Summer 2023 the Blanemore Forest Archaeological Walk is open to the public once again. Take a deep breath , inhale the history and see the sites of where your ancestors once walked. Don’t just experience Mayo North – be a part of it!
Ungraded trail and facilities now open
The upgraded Blanemore Forest Walk reopened to the public in July 2023. As part of their commercial timber extraction programme, Coillte has extensively upgraded the trails and amenities at Blanemore. The works included an upgrade to the trails structure and safety, a new seating and picnic areas with improved access. The trail is now fully buggy and bike friendly and is also accessible for wheelchairs, although due to the surface care must be taken as it is very bumpy in places. Once timber extraction was complete, Coillte ensured that 20% of replanting is being done with native broadleaves (15% oak and 5% birch), which are mainly along the walking paths.
Trail grading level: moderate (walking) as per irishtrails.ie guidelines – on wooden boardwalk, gravel paths. Display signs and pathways provided.
Please note that you enter at your own risk. This is a Coillte-owned, working woodland for timber harvest, and diligent attention to hazardous terrain is essential.
For more information please visit Blanemore and download the mobile app that will guide you around the forest walk! And see below for a detailed guide video.
For more see http://blanemoreforest.com and download the FREE walking app for iPhone and Android Smartphones.
Wild Camping
Located around 5km from the start of the forest walk is Blanemore Wild Camping. From the 1st July to the end of September the flower meadow is topped and campers can pitch up a tent to explore this beautiful part of North Mayo. It is wild camping, so facilities are limited, but there is a portable toilet, hot shower, drying room and washing-up area. Campervans can also be accommodated as there is also hard standing.
Pitches start at €20 and can be booked though Pitchup HERE.
For more information please visit Blanemore Wild Camping Facebook page.
Link to map: https://goo.gl/maps/iBan9KvVno2SsJk59
