Skibbereen to Lisheen Linear Walk
Type of Route | Arrows | Distance | Grading | Estimated Time | Total Climb |
Linear Walk | Red & Purple | 15 km | Moderate | 4 – 5 hrs | 100 m |
This option joins the Skibbereen to Kilcoe Linear Walk to the Becher Loop Walk, allowing the walker to travel from the Skibbereen Trail Head to the Lisheen Trail Head. Starting at the Heritage Centre, Skibbereen, follow the Skibbereen to Kilcoe Linear Route, the red arrows, for 5 km to a junction at in the townland of Reenmurragha (GPS: 51.5477, -9.33023). Here, continue straight on and follow the purple arrows. At the next junction turn left, then cross the N71 at Church Cross and continue straight until you join the Becher Loop at Goleenmarsh (GPS: 51.53351, -9.35324). The link between the two routes is 3 km and it is another 7 km to the Lisheen Trail Head.
As you walk by the marshy inlet of the Ilen River at Goleenmarsh take note of the wading birds, which are a common sight when the tide is out. Here, the increasingly rare curlew is regularly spotted and its distinctive call is often heard.
An alternative way to join the Becher’s Loop is to continue on walking by the river shore to the next junction (GPS: 51.52952, -9.35896). Along this route you will pass an old quay previously used to land coal and sand. At the junction take time to visit the nearby old Augahdown Church and Graveyard.