Slievemore Deserted Village

Top choice in County Mayo


The bleak remains of more than 80 houses in this deserted village at the foot of Mt Slievemore are slowly being reduced to rock piles, a poignant reminder of the island's past hardships and a vanished way of life. Research into why the village was abandoned is ongoing; some historians think that the Potato Famine helped prompt villagers to emigrate or move closer to the sea and its alternative food sources. The adjacent graveyard compounds the desolation.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby County Mayo attractions

1. Mt Slievemore

1.15 MILES

Mt Slievemore (671m) can be climbed from behind deserted Slievemore Village for terrific views of Blacksod Bay.

2. Trawmore Beach

1.58 MILES

Running 3km southeast from Keel, beautiful, Blue Flag, golden-sand Trawmore is among Achill's most photographed beaches. Be aware that there are dangerous…

4. Silver Strand

2.4 MILES

Dugort's Silver Strand beach is a prime example of the island's many fine coves.

5. Dooega Beach

2.58 MILES

A sheltered Blue Flag beach that's easily accessible from the road.

6. Don Allum Monument

2.67 MILES

In the village of Dooagh's main car park sits a slender, inscribed stone noting the epic achievement of Don Allum, the first person to row across the…

7. Golden Strand

3.72 MILES

As the name implies – a ribbon of golden heaven; in the north of Achill Island near Dugort.

8. Achill Sea Salt

4.01 MILES

At the O’Malley's factory, tours reveal just how the family magics Achill's mineral-rich waters into flavoursome flakes of crunchy salt. After seeing…

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      "country": "Ireland",
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