Achill Walks Festival 2003 | Saturday | Sunday | Monday
Sunday 16 March 2003: Traverse of Slievemore
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 Suitably warned, the group proceeded carefully along the north-east ridge of Slievemore. Although the incline is steep - and great care is needed underfoot - it can still be 'walked' rather than climbed.
The summit of Slievemore offers spectacular views north across Blacksod Bay to Belmullet and the now-deserted islands of Inishkea. To the south can be seen Clare Island and, on a clear day, Croagh Patrick and even the Twelve Bens. Inland to the east is the Nephin Range.
 The descent from Slievemore along its western ridge was much more comfortable than the ascent along its north-eastern ridge. As the picture (above, left) shows, this side of the mountain is characterised by a rounded aspect. This western elevation faces towards Croaghaun (688m) and Saddle Head (picture, right). Also visible in this picture is the silhouette of a fort, the remains of a Napoleonic watch tower. This was originally built by the British during the Napoleonic wars as part of a chain of look-out posts along Ireland's western seaboard.
 Sheltered under the south-facing slopes of Slievemore is the Deserted Village, a collection of over 80 abandoned stone cottages. In fact, as Tomás explained, this was actually three villages. It was also not simply a 'famine village' - the history of this village, and its abandonment, was much more complex than that. Nonetheless this settlement provided a dramatic and haunting insight into island life in former times. The walk continued along the length of the deserted village before moving down onto the roadway and returning back to Dugort for well-earned soup, sandwiches and maybe even a well-earned pint. Certificates of successful completion of the Walks were presented by the Chairman of Achill Tourism to all participants.
The organisers are now looking forward to next year's Achill Walks Festival - details will appear on this Web site. Please note that for safety reasons, numbers are limited so early booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.
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