Croaghaun
Mountain Dramatic Atlantic cliffs on Achill Island, steep drops
On Achill Island, Croaghaun features some of Ireland’s highest sea cliffs and remote coastal routes. Hikers follow narrow trails for vertiginous views over the Atlantic and scattered farms below.
Croaghaun is a mountain on the western side of Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland, notable for its extremely steep coastal slopes that form some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The summit area towers above the Atlantic and provides expansive coastal views.
The terrain is remote and rugged, with steep approaches along the ridge and cliff edges. Hikes in the area are challenging and require good fitness and navigation skills, with routes that traverse high, exposed ground.
Geologically and geographically the mountain is part of Achill Island’s mountainous spine and has long been a landmark for mariners and island residents. It is prized for its dramatic coastal scenery rather than for extensive visitor infrastructure.
Croaghaun sits on Achill Island facing the Atlantic Ocean, on Ireland’s rugged west coast, and is reached from the island’s road network and hill tracks.
- Sea cliffs: Hosts some of Ireland's highest continuous sea cliffs, where steep coastal slopes fall directly to the Atlantic.
How to Get to Croaghaun #
Croaghaun is on Achill Island off the west coast of Ireland. The island is reached by road from the mainland via Michael Davitt Bridge; the nearest larger towns with services are Westport and Newport. Allow time for rural driving and variable weather.
Tips for Visiting Croaghaun #
- Bring windproof and waterproof clothing - the western Irish coast is famously changeable.
- For the best light and smaller crowds, aim for a late-afternoon visit in summer.
- Respect cliff-edge warnings and stay on marked paths; sections around Croaghaun include sheer drops and unstable ground.
Best Time to Visit Croaghaun #
Best in summer for safer access and longer days; always prepare for Atlantic weather even in summer.
Weather & Climate near Croaghaun #
Croaghaun's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1721 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (194 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (147 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (134 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (153 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (191 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (185 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (188 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
