More rugged, more wild, more authentic.
If you’re planning a trip to the stunning Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, consider, instead, heading to this secret cliff walk in County Mayo.
The Portacloy cliff walk at Benwee Head offers a wilder, less crowded alternative, with higher cliffs and a more rugged feel.
The area around Benwee Head does not suffer from the large tourist crowds that visit the Cliffs of Moher, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience.
Read on to discover why stunning Benwee Head could replace the Cliffs of Moher on your bucket list.
A must see in Co. Mayo – the more authentic option to Moher
Situated on the remote north-west coast of County Mayo, Benwee Head is one of Ireland’s most spectacular, yet least-visited, coastal destinations.
This hidden gem offers dramatic sea cliffs, sweeping Atlantic views, and none of the throngs of tourists that visit the Cliffs of Moher.
Reaching a height of 836 ft (255 m) above the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs at Benwee Head are higher than the Cliffs of Moher. That already makes them more epic!
Forming part of the rugged Erris Peninsula, Benwee Head’s appeal lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its authenticity.
Unlike at the Cliffs of Moher, there are no stone barriers or fences separating visitors from the landscape. Instead, there are only open skies stretching towards North America and the power of the Atlantic crashing below jaw-dropping cliffs.
Portacloy Loop Cliff Walk, Co. Mayo – raw, real and rugged
One of the best ways to appreciate Benwee Head is by hiking the Portacloy Loop Cliff Walk. Starting and finishing at Portacloy Beach, it typically takes around 4½ to 5 hours to complete the 18 km (11 miles) loop. This gives you time to really immerse yourself in this wild Atlantic landscape.
The route follows quiet country lanes before crossing open bogland and grassy tracks. As you leave the road behind, the landscape becomes increasingly wild and remote, with sweeping views across the rugged Erris Peninsula.
The route gradually climbs towards Benwee Head, where the real highlight awaits. Standing atop the 255-metre high cliffs, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the distinctive Stags of Broadhaven.
These impressive sea stacks rise dramatically from the ocean. The views also stretch to Achill Island and parts of the Donegal coastline.
Away from the maddening crowds – a cliff walk where you can truly connect with the landscape
As more and more people seek quieter alternatives to overcrowded attractions, Benwee Head is gradually gaining recognition.
It remains wonderfully unspoiled, offering an experience that captures the true spirit of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Venturing off the beaten track will provide a memorable experience in one of Europe’s last great wilderness coastlines.
All you need to do now is pack your walking shoes, decide when you are going and send us a postcard.
Address: Portacloy, Ballina, Co. Mayo, Irlande
