Official launch of the Blueway will take place early Summer 23.
Leagan Gaeilge den suíomh ag teacht gan mhoill.
The coastal village of Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) is located on Co Donegal’s western seaboard and it is the gateway to the Islands of the Rosses. Located 3 miles from Ailt an Chorráin in the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, is the island of Árainn Mhór which is the largest of Donegal’s off shore islands.
For centuries, the Gaeltacht communities of Árainn Mhór and Ailt an Chorráin have shared a rich culture, language and marine heritage. The spirit and tradition of collaboration endures with the launch of The Árainn Mhór- Ailt an Chorráin Blueway, which encompasses a combination of land and water-based trails where you can plan your adventure, be it on land or on sea.
Walk, cycle, snorkel, sail or kayak on the Árainn Mhór-Ailt an Chorráin Blueway!
Experience peace, tranquillity & stunning landscapes, check in with your wellbeing whilst the unique and authentic Árainn Mhór-Ailt an Chorráin Blueway experience charms all of your senses.
Explore, Stay, Dine & Play on the Árainn Mhór – Ailt an Chorráin Blueway which has something for everyone!
1. Slí Árainn Mhór
Soak up all the coastal beauty of Donegal on this exceptional 14km island loop. Remote and rugged, this corner of the Wild Atlantic Way boasts seascapes galore and showcases the Donegal’s largest island.
Beginning and ending at the old pier, Leadhb Gharbh, Slí Árainn Mhór takes five hours to complete.
Moderate in grade, the loop follows tarred road and green track as it circles the island. The 14km loop treats walkers to breathtaking views in all directions.
2. The Old Railway Walk
This beautiful walking trail filled to the brim with spectacular scenery and woodland was originally the route taken by the train which connected Ailt an Chorráin – Burtonport to Letterkenny between 1903 and 1940. There are many features of the old railway remaining which you can view along the way including: stations, gatehouses, accommodation crossings—the pillars, cuttings, embankments, a bridge, rusty gates and much, much more.
3. Kinballycrowie Loop
This lovely looped walk takes you from Ailt an Chorráin- Burtonport harbour along the old railway corridor and back again via quiet country lanes and road. The walk is filled to the brim with spectacular views, a vast array of flora & fauna and a fabulous woodland of beautiful ash trees.
4. Crickamore Loop
This short looped walk takes you along a scenic stretch of the old Ailt an Chorráin – Burtonport railway corridor and back to your starting point at St Columba’s Community Centre via quiet country lanes. The walk has an abundance of flora and fauna which provides this trail with a splendid diversity of colour and sound that changes regularly with the seasons.
Getting to Árainn Mhór
Árainn Mhór Island is accessible in all seasons by passenger and vehicle ferries from Ailt an Chorráin/Burtonport
