- Benbulben Forest Walk (5.5 km, Moderate, ~1.5-2 hours: Starting near Gortarowey, this loop trail skirts the iconic Benbulben, Sligo’s table-top mountain, offering stunning views of its limestone cliffs and Yeats Country. The path winds through forest and open terrain, suitable for moderately fit hikers with sturdy boots.
- Knocknarea Summit Trail (6 km, Moderate, ~2 hours: This trail climbs Knocknarea (327m) near Strandhill, topped by Queen Maeve’s Cairn, a Neolithic passage tomb. The steady ascent rewards with panoramic views of Sligo Bay, Benbulben, and the Atlantic. Well-marked but steep in parts, it requires good footwear.
- Sligo Way: Lough Talt to Ladies Brae (10 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: Part of the 78 km Sligo Way, this section starts at Lough Talt and crosses the Ox Mountains to Ladies Brae, offering views of rolling hills and quiet valleys. The trail includes boggy and forested paths, ideal for fit hikers with waterproof boots.
- Carrowkeel Passage Tombs Walk (3 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1 hour: Near Castlebaldwin, this trail explores the Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery, with Neolithic passage tombs set in the Bricklieve Mountains. The gentle path offers views of Lough Arrow and historical insights, suitable for most walkers with an interest in archaeology.
- Union Wood Loop (5 km, Easy, ~1-1.5 hours: Near Ballysadare, this trail loops through Union Wood’s oak and conifer forests, with gentle paths along the Owenmore River. The family-friendly route offers peaceful scenery and chances to spot wildlife, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
- Strandhill Coastal Path (4 km, Easy, ~1 hour: Starting in Strandhill, this flat coastal trail follows the Wild Atlantic Way along sandy beaches and dunes, with views of Knocknarea and Culleenamore Strand. Perfect for families and casual walkers, it’s a scenic seaside walk with surfing vibes.
- Lissadell Coastal Walk (6 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1.5-2 hours: Near Lissadell House, this trail explores the estate’s coastline along Drumcliff Bay, with views of Benbulben and historic links to W.B. Yeats. The gentle path passes woodlands and beaches, suitable for most walkers seeking coastal and cultural charm.
- Lough Gill: Hazelwood Forest Trail (3 km, Easy, ~1 hour: Near Sligo town, this flat loop in Hazelwood Forest follows the shores of Lough Gill, offering serene lake views and connections to Yeats’ poetry. The well-maintained path is family-friendly, with lush woodlands and picnic spots.
- Inishmurray Island Walk (4 km, Easy, ~1-1.5 hours: Accessible by boat from Mullaghmore, this trail explores the uninhabited Inishmurray Island, featuring early Christian monastic ruins and rugged coastlines. The flat path offers Atlantic views and historical intrigue, but check boat schedules and tides in advance.
- Glencar Waterfall and Lake Walk (3 km, Easy, ~1 hour: Near Glencar, this gentle trail leads to the 15m Glencar Waterfall, immortalized by W.B. Yeats, and loops along Glencar Lough. The flat, family-friendly path offers serene views and lush scenery, perfect for a short, scenic stroll.
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