Killary Fjord Walk

Walk guide

Killary Harbour is Ireland's only true fjord — 16km long, reaching 45m depth, marking the Galway-Mayo border. The walk follows the fjord's southern shore from Leenane village, with views across to Mweelrea (814m), Connacht's highest mountain. Leenane featured in Jim Sheridan's 1990 film The Field with Richard Harris. Salmon and mussel aquaculture cages are visible throughout the fjord. Killary Fjord Boat Tours operate from Leenane Pier for an alternative perspective.

Walk highlights

🏔️

Ireland's only glacial fjord — 16km, 45m deep

🌊

Mweelrea (814m) — Connacht's highest peak across the water

🦅

Leenane — filming location for The Field (1990)

🌿

Killary Fjord Boat Tours from Leenane Pier

Walk details

Distance14km

Duration4-5 hrs

DifficultyModerate

CountyGalway

Nearest hotelsClifden

Hotels nearby320

From€70/night

Recommended stay: Book eco-friendly hotels in Clifden through IMPT. Lowest price guarantee — same as Booking.com or better — 1 tonne CO² removed per booking.

Find eco hotels in Clifden →

🌿 Book eco-friendly hotels near Killary Fjord Walk — lowest price guarantee — same as Booking.com or better, 1 tonne CO² removed per booking.

Search Hotels →

Questions answered

About Killary Fjord Walk

What is Killary Fjord?

Ireland's only true glacial fjord, 16km long and up to 45m deep. Marks the Galway-Mayo county border.

Is there a boat trip option?

Yes — Killary Fjord Boat Tours from Leenane Pier. Worth combining with the walk.

How do I get there?

Leenane is on the N59, 1 hour from Galway. Bus Éireann services from Galway.

Is it suitable for families?

The Leenane end is gentle. Outer sections involve rougher terrain.

Where to stay?

Leenane (hotel, B&Bs). Clifden (40 min) or Westport (40 min) have more options. Book through IMPT.

More walks

Galway walking guides

See all Galway walks →

Eco hotels in Galway from €70/night →

Sustainable & green accommodation: IMPT lists eco-friendly hotels, green-certified stays, sustainable guesthouses, and responsible travel options — from carbon-neutral hotels and eco lodges to environmentally friendly B&Bs and net-zero accommodation. Every booking removes 1 tonne of verified CO₂ at the lowest price guarantee — same as Booking.com or better.