Lacken, County Mayo
Lacken nestles along the rugged North Mayo coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way, between the towns of Killala and Ballycastle. It looks out onto the Atlantic Ocean and Lacken Strand offers breathtaking views of Mayo, Sligo, and Donegal – the North West region of Ireland.
Lacken Strand
Lacken Strand is special. With its miles of beautiful, vast expansive shoreline and some of the best unspoilt beaches, its scenic beauty is simply unrivalled. Because it’s off the beaten track, it’s completely unspoilt. It’s here you go to breathe, to revel in the open space, and blow away the cobwebs. The strand here is so vast that it’s been used to host the Lacken Races, and Band on the Strand (BOTS), an annual Foroige concert – while the tide is out, obviously!
Away from the shoreline the area is rich in history and heritage to explore.
Just around the corner from Lacken Strand, you’ll find a true hidden treasure in Kilcummin Back Strand. Our own secret beach, this is a sea fisher’s and a surfer’s paradise. It’s nestled away and isn’t easy to find, but boy, is it worth the search. Here’s a sneak preview of the treasure that awaits once you reach the crest of the hill on your way from Kilcummin Pier.
Kilcummin Pier has its own special history, of course, as it’s where General Humbert came ashore on his trip from La Rochelle during the French landing of 1798. Each year, a re-enactment ceremony is held to commemorate this momentous event in the history of North Mayo.
The Lacken Trails – Blue Loop
11km, moderate
This walk starts from the spectacular Lacken Strand, and takes you through minor and unpaved roads in this beautiful part of North Mayo.
You’ll pass Rathlacken Court Tomb, Rathlacken House, and the walk will bring you to the mysterious Gazebo, built on a hill overlooking Lacken Bay, the main strand and the Back Strand.
On a good day, you can take in views across the countryside as far as Sligo and Donegal. Bring your dog, but please keep on the lead.
