Sligo Spring Walks Series (highly recommended)

People of all ages and fitness levels had have chance to put on their walking shoes and get active as part of the Sligo Spring Walks Series. Over a 4 week of February participants enjoyed 7 walks around Sligo. As one of participant I’d like to highly recommend for tourists use these information for your future walks' planning.  Walks are suitable for everyone who likes to enjoy beautifull landscapes and not scared of local weather!!!

ü  Killaspugbrone Coastal Trail -Strandhill

You can start from Strandhill promenade. Distance: 4km, 1.5 hours approx. This stunning coastal walk takes you through the scenic seaside village of Strandhill. The trail brings walkers through a variety of coastal habitats including sand dunes, salt marsh and pine woodland. It passes by Killaspugbrone Church, an early Christian site with historic and legendary associations. The route features some magnificent views of Benbulben and Knocknarea and out over Sligo Bay.

ü  Benbulben Forest Walk - Gortarowey

Walk departs from Gortarowey carpark (signposted Benbulben Forest Walk/ Barnaribbon off the N 15) Distance: 5.5km, 1.5 hours approx. This trail begins in a secluded forest area before opening out to provide breath taking close up views of Benbulben head. Later in the walk panoramic views of Donegal Bay are also available with the mountains of Donegal including Slieve League highly prominent in addition to Mullaghmore and Classiebawn Castle.

ü  Union Wood to Union Rock Trail

Distance: 5.5km, 2 hours approx. Walk departs from Union Wood Car Park (Take Sligo to Ballygawley R284 turn right at Union Foods and left straight away) The wood provides a range of walking opportunities through diverse woodland as well as access to Union Rock and its wonderful panoramic views of the North West of Ireland. The Union Rock trail can be strenuous at times as it necessitates a climb; however this effort will be rewarded with an excellent view of the surrounding countryside.

ü  Sruth In Aghaidh An Aird - Devils Chimney

Distance: 2.4km, 1 hour approx. Walk departs from Glencar waterfall. This wonderfully scenic trial begins with views of the well-known ‘kissing gate’ to the right of the trail head. This trail journeys through the glacial U-Shaped Valley with a ribbon lake situated within. Throughout this trail you can experience the spectacular views in Glencar valley which supports a wide variety of plants and animals with both the lake and land designated as a Special Area of Conservation due to their own rich ecological value.

ü  Mullaghmore Head Coastal Trail

Distance: 4.5km, 1.5 hours approx. Walk departs from Mullaghmore harbour front in village The trail takes you along the stunning coastline of Mullaghmore and captures the impressive sea and mountainous views along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy exceptional views of Slieve League, Benbulben and Benwiskin. The walk around Mullaghmore Head leaves only Inishmurray Monastic Island between you and America.

ü  Lough Talt - Gorterslin Walk

Distance: 7km, 2 hours approx. Walk departs from Ox Mountain Centre/ Joe Dan’s pub (from Tubbercurry take the R294 sign-posted Ballina) This attractive walk in South Sligo traverses along track, forest, lakeshore and hilly roadways and contains a gentle climb which enhances the scenic views of Lough Talt, the Gap and all the historical sites of interest.

ü  Sligo Way from Union Wood to Lough Lumman

Distance: 8.5km, 3 hours approx. Walk departs from Union Wood roadside lay-by (on R284 Sligo to Ballygawley road) This route begins with a woodland walk through leafy Union Wood. The trail follows the rambling forest track through the Ballygawley Wood, and onwards up the slopes of Slieve Deane. The mountain route then leads onto rugged country and past Lough Lumman, followed by some rough tracks which lead down to Slish Wood. Bring a packed lunch or snack with you.