This Week's Walk
What you need to know
Where
Tory Island
When
Saturday 27 June
Who
Tricia Rowan-Quinn
We'll be leaving Omagh at the earlier time of 08:30 and from Costa Coffee at the Retail Park on Great Northern Road due to roadworks near the leisure centre.
There are two walks: one on the Western side of the Island and one on the Eastern side.
Western Side: Tory Island Loop Walk.
Start at the Round Tower, follow the tarmac road to the Lighthouse, passing Loch ó Dheas along the way. From the Lighthouse continue around its western side for coastal views & the historic site of the graveyard containing eight sailors from HMS Wasp which sank off Tory Island in 1884.
The path then changes to a cobbled & gravel track past Loch ó Thuaidh & on towards the small hut associated with landscape artist Derek Hill. From here follow the coastal path back onto the road, back to the West Town, where the loop finishes in the village.
This walk is roughly 2 hours (including lunch) and is suitable for both C & B walkers.
Eastern Side: From the village continue along the road for half a mile before leaving it and heading towards the nearby cliffs.
Follow the cliff line for sweeping coastal views towards Dún Balair. At this point C walkers return directly to the village via the road.
B walkers (extended Option) If time allows, B walkers continue on for a longer but steady ascent over two modest hills reaching the summit area of Dún Balair. From the top you get wide views across Tory Island itself & out towards the Derryveagh mountains on the mainland. The descent is back towards Port Doon where you rejoin the road & follow it back to the village.
If we're lucky we might see a few puffins!!
Boots and poles if normally used. There could be showers so bring your waterproofs!
Toilets available at Magheroarty and Tory Island.
Directions: Omagh, Letterkenny, follow N56 Dunfanaghy, turn off (L) at the R255 signed Glenveagh National Park / Dunlewy Centre / An Earagail. After approx 8 miles turn (R) at the R256 signed Fal Carrach 13km. Coming into Falcarragh turn (L) at the crossroads back onto the N56. Follow the N56 for a few miles before bearing right onto the R257 (be careful as this sign could be easily missed) after a short distance Magheroarty is on the Right.
About our walks
Walks take place on alternate Saturdays and Sundays. Departing from Omagh Leisure Centre Car Park 9.30am where car sharing can be arranged.
Grade B - walks can involve ascending and descending on rough, wet ground with no defined paths. Suitable for walkers with a good level of fitness.
Grade C - walks are mainly on roads, paths or tracks. Suitable for most reasonably fit adults.
Note: Changes to walks and departure times may vary
