September 2009
Ross Beach is located just a few miles outside the town of Killala
The facilities here are quite good. There’s a tarmacadamed car park with a couple of picnic tables and toilets. As well as steps down to the beach, this is one of the rare locations with a ramp for wheelchairs and buggies. Well done Mayo County Council.
Ross is a nice long sandy beach, backed by dunes. It’s not too wide and nor is it too open and windswept. The curved shape provides added protection. The water here looks and feels clear and fresh.
This is a good beach for a walk and it must be 4/5 kilometres long if you stroll back toward Killala.
Looking out to sea Bartra Island is a short distance away and this is where Nick Faldo was (is?) designing a new links golf course. Right across the bay is Sligo and the seaside town of Enniscrone
If it’s sunny, lie back and imagine a fleet of French ships sailing into Killala Bay sometime in 1798. Next time it might be the IMF?
Lifeguard are on duty during the summer months. Blue Flag beach.
Directions
From the town of Killala you take the road in the direction of Ballycastle. A few kilometres beyond the town watch out for a right turn signposted for Ross Beach.
Ordnance Survey Discovery Series Map No 24
Be sure to stay within the marked area, as there can be a strong pull out to the channel outside of that. Otherwise, it’s really safe and pleasant.
Thanks for the reminder to stay safe when swimming at this location.