Outdoors 

Cycle Routes

We have put together a basic map of the possible cycling routes that you may wish to bring children on around Bearna-Na Forbacha.

This is just a start, there are bound to be a few more in the area - so please let us know!

The ones included so far, though, are known to be relatively safe - quiet enough, not too much traffic. We have avoided using main roads at all.

However, with all public roads, please be mindful of cars and other vehicles - the speed limit is 80kmph. The 12 Pins Road (as it's known locally) is very busy, and has no footpath, so caution is definitely required there. It is marked in RED for that reason.

It goes without saying, these can also be used for walking. Wear high-vis jackets, when required, to give drivers the best chance of avoiding you. 

Barna Playground

The Playground is located at Barna Sports Park behind Thornberry, on the same site as the tennis courts. Parking is limited, but vehicular access is via the Paint Box Road (as known locally), take the first right after Supervalu (if coming from the city side of village). This lovely facility came about thanks to the great fundraising efforts by a group of parents in 2015. 

Coill Bhearna / Barna Woods/ Lough Rusheen Park

Bring the bikes, and let the children off to explore the twists and turns that Barna Woods-and the adjacent Cappagh Park has to offer. Parking is limited at the woods itself, so you could also park at Bearna Church or Cappagh Park. Challenge the children to find the laughing tree (above the old roadway/path on the church side of woods)! Read up about it in advance: https://galwaybiodiversity.com/barna-woods/.

Alternatively, head across the road to Lough Rusheen Park (behind Texaco), which is a bird sanctuary and is the home of the Galway and Claddagh Swan Rescue.

Walking

Definitely not one for the bike!

Take a seaside walk between Bearna Pier or Mags Boreen and Silver Strand (during good weather). This is best attempted at low tide, when there are some beautifully-secluded sandy coves to enjoy a dip, but it is really lovely at any time.

Either walk back the same way, or continue up the road at Silverstrand and loop back by the main roadway.

Scroll down for some advice and photographs!

Advice:

You’ll need to be a good walker, as some of the route is rocky and unstable underfoot.

It is secluded, that’s part of its charm, but you may feel more comfortable with company.

Don’t carry too much!

Wear supportive shoes!

Allow between 60-90 mins for the return trip.

Leave no trace!

Suggestions? Email us: BearnaBeo at gmail.com