Ard na Gaoithe
Overview
The lands were formally part of the Ashford Estate which were owned by the Guinness family until 1939. This is a very interesting site which combines scenic walks, historic buildings with forest and water. A section of the trail is along the shores of Lough Corrib, with its many beautiful islands. Close to the car park there is a swimming area, which is safe for bathing. This was a favourite amenity site which was first made famous by the Guinness family, who lived in nearby Ashford Castle up to 1939. Lord Ardulan erected a chalet here, overlooking the lake for his wife Olive, who spent many hours here reading and writing. Olive returned the compliment when he died, by erecting an obelisk to his memory, which still stands on the site. The chalet overlooks Ardulan island from where Lord Ardulan took his name
Things to do
Walk: A scenic loop walk, (2.3 Km, 1Hr, Easy). Starting at the car park, walk along the elevated path overlooking Lough Corrib. At the lake edge there is a seating area to enjoy the scenic views of Lough Corrib and its islands. This trail will take you through a wide variety of different woodlands and habitats. Species to see include ash, sycamore, beech, Norway spruce and larch. You will see water tolerant species such as alder and willow along the lake edge and wet areas of the forest. There is a rich under story of herbs and shrub species including fern, ivy, bracken, holly and some introduced bamboo.
Explore nature: There is a wide diversity of species and understory along the route of the trail.
Don’t miss our hidden gem
Guinness Chalet/Obelisk, and splendid views of Lough Corrib.