Mayo gears up for major international 4-day walk festival
The Castlebar International 4 Days’ Walk returns to Mayo next weekend to the delight of walkers and hikers
Walking enthusiasts from Mayo and across the globe are preparing to descend on Castlebar for the 2026 Castlebar International 4-Day Walks, taking place from 2–5 July.
Recognised as Ireland’s oldest and one of its most celebrated walking festivals, the event has welcomed international visitors since its establishment in 1967.
The festival will open with its traditional international flag parade on Wednesday, July 1 (at 6.30 pm at The Ivy Tower Hotel in Castlebar) before four days of walking, culminating in a medal presentation and the annual Blister Ball celebration.
Participants can choose between 10km and 20km road walks or the popular guided “Ramble,” which explores some of Mayo’s most spectacular landscapes, including Achill, Wild Nephin National Park, and Mulranny.
This year’s programme will take walkers around the Achill Greenway (Thursday, July 2), the Turlough Greenway (Friday, July 3), the Graffy More Loop (Saturday, July 4) and the Lough Lannagh - Raheenbar Loop (Sunday, July 4)
Regarding the “Ramble,” organisers warned that participants must have a good level of fitness and be properly equipped to handle the walks.
“Ramble” walks will take the most adventurous participants to Slí Grainne Mhaol on July 2, Mount Eagle on July 3, Kennagh Loop on July 4 and Mulranny on July 4.
All the walks depart from the festival HQ, The Ivy Tower Hotel in Castlebar, at 8.30 am.
Organisers say registrations have been strong, with walkers expected from more than a dozen countries.
After several decades, the Castlebar International 4 Days’ Walk continues to showcase the natural beauty of Co. Mayo while promoting health and friendship through walking.
Those who want to take part in the 10km, 20km or “Ramble” walks, either the four day or just one, can still register until Sunday, June 28 on the festival website.