Easy hikes and walks around Doon Lough
4.7
(17)
76
hikers
7
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Doon Lough traverse a landscape characterized by serene lakes, ancient woodlands, and rolling hills. The region offers varied terrain, from forest roads with views over the lough to paths through farmland and diverse mini-habitats. These areas provide accessible outdoor experiences, often featuring gentle gradients suitable for easy walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Doon Lough
- The most popular easy hiking route is Pound Lough loop from Ardara, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: October 31, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
7.29km
01:58
100m
100m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5
hikers
6.90km
01:45
50m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
4.10km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
4.99km
01:18
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.39km
01:12
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Maghera Beach and its famous caves are well worth visiting. It's simply magical how the passage between two dunes opens out onto the pristine sands. However, make sure you're aware of tide times, as low tide is the time to explore the caves safely.
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Maghery Beach is a long, quiet beach on the west coast of Donegal, enclosed between low dunes and the open Atlantic Ocean. From here you look out over the rocky islands and the rugged coastline towards Crohy Head. The beach feels wide and empty, with only the sound of the waves and the wind sweeping over the dunes.
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Iconic road, especially by bike.
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Crohy Head Sea Arch, locally also known as The Breeches, is a striking coastal formation on the rugged cliffs southwest of Dungloe. The arch seen from the cliff is actually the Bristi Sea Stack, one of several natural arches carved out here by Atlantic erosion. The silhouette — a narrow, tall rock with a hollowed-out passage — forms one of Donegal's most recognizable coastal sights. The surroundings consist of steep grassy slopes, dark rocks, and open views towards Maghery and Arranmore.
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Tucked away on Ireland’s rugged north-west coast, Tramore Strand is a wild and windswept beach backed by rolling dunes and sweeping Atlantic views. The broad sandy strand is popular for water sports, especially surfing, bodyboarding and kitesurfing when the coastal winds pick up.
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Here you'll find a scenic footpath running parallel to Tramore Beach, just behind the camping and caravan park. It weaves through a series of undulating grassy sand dunes, rich in wildlife and dotted with shallow pools of seawater that collect between the dunes, creating a unique coastal habitat.
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Enougth space, but costs 4eur per car.
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The waterfall is located right off the road, and there's a small parking lot nearby. From here, the path to the beach and the cave isn't far.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are featured around Doon Lough?
This guide highlights 3 easy hiking trails around Doon Lough, offering a variety of scenic experiences suitable for relaxed outings.
Are there any easy circular hiking routes around Doon Lough?
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular. For example, the Pound Lough loop from Ardara is a popular 4.5-mile (7.3 km) circular route that takes about 2 hours to complete.
Are the easy hiking trails around Doon Lough suitable for families?
Absolutely. The easy trails are generally gentle and well-suited for families. Areas like Doon Wood in County Clare, with its forest roads, and Kilmoylan Woods in County Limerick, with its flat looped walk, are particularly family-friendly.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hikes around Doon Lough?
Many trails around Doon Lough are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and open countryside. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, particularly in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to check for specific signage at trailheads.
Are there any waterfalls or notable natural features on the easy trails?
Yes, the Maghera Caves – Assaranca Waterfall loop from Maghera Waterfall is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) trail that features a beautiful waterfall. Additionally, the region around Doo Lough in County Mayo is known for Aasleagh Falls, which can be enjoyed on a leisurely walk along the riverbank.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes around Doon Lough?
The easy hikes around Doon Lough offer diverse landscapes. You can expect serene lake views, ancient woodlands with trees like birches and alder, and gentle paths through rural settings. Some areas, like Doo Lough in County Mayo, feature rugged mountain passes, while others, such as Kilmoylan Woods in County Limerick, showcase varied mini-habitats and farmland.
Is parking available at the trailheads for easy hikes?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, Doon Wood in County Clare offers a dedicated car park for visitors, making access to its forest walks convenient.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails around Doon Lough?
The easy trails around Doon Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil lake views, the peaceful atmosphere of the diverse woodlands, and the accessibility of the gentle paths through rural settings.
Are there any easy trails that lead through woodlands?
Yes, several easy trails traverse beautiful woodlands. The Lough Namanlagh & Bonny Glen Wood route is an easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) path that leads directly through woodlands and alongside Lough Namanlagh, providing a tranquil natural setting.
Can I find any historical sites or points of interest along the easy hiking routes?
Yes, the Doon Lough areas are rich in history. In County Clare, Doon Wood is home to the site of Doon Mulvihill, a former tower house built on an ancient fort. The discovery of 2,000-2,500-year-old submerged canoes also highlights the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into its past.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike around Doon Lough?
The duration for easy hikes varies, but many can be completed in a couple of hours. For example, the Pound Lough loop from Ardara typically takes about 2 hours, while the Maghera Caves – Assaranca Waterfall loop from Maghera Waterfall can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Are there any easy trails with sea views or coastal features?
While many Doon Lough trails focus on inland lakes and woodlands, the broader region offers coastal options. For instance, the Crohy Head Sea Arch – Maghery Beach loop from Maghery is an easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) hike that provides stunning sea views and coastal features.
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