Nire Valley Trails - Coumduala loop

On a sunny September Sunday we set out to do the purple trail but - having detoured to the lakes - we reverted to the red trail as time and energy were running short. First off - it is a beautiful, tranquil and - mostly - very well signposted hike. The VERY worthwhile detour to the lakes comes much later than you'd expect - but it's better to follow the (blue) signs as the trail is far easier than hacking across the heathland. At the 'Gap' where Sli na Sochraid (the route of the funerals) crosses between the hills - you have a choice of onwards and upwards (the purple tail) or bear left and follow the red route home. The two routes meet again at a gate and it is here that - astonishingly - there is an incorrect sign. Pointing down hill is the (green) Gap Trail but Red and Purple are signed to bear right and uphill. After about 100 metres you are definitely lost. On a sunny clear day that was just a nuisance. Coming home in bad weather late in the day it could have been very risky. It needs to fixed IMMEDIATELY. Otherwise a wonderful day's walking will be spoiled. Well done to all who conceived and marked it.

Did this loop on 12th June. Previously we had hiked the circuit of the Nire Valley at high level so it was nice to do it from the lower level this time. It took four hours including a detour to Sgilloge Loughs which is well worth doing. Some wet terrain, so gaiters would be useful. Great panoramic views of the Nire Valley and beyond. Very well sign-posted. Each post, gate and style has a sign saying No Dogs Allowed - this is sheep country. You might update your website to take account of this.

Great loop for trail-running. The waymarks are great making it easy to stay on track. Nice challenging ascents and fast undulating sections as well as a great final descent (technical) down to the car-park. A 1 hour easy paced run. It would be great to see longer trails in the future.