Description
The Benbulben Forest Walk, located at Gortarowey, is an exceptional outdoor path that runs along the base of Sligo's iconic flat-topped mountain. This scenic route serves as one of the best things to do with kids in Sligo for a refreshing nature activity. With a well-maintained gravel path beneath towering trees and magnificent mountain views, it provides an accessible and safe terrain for a memorable family trek.
As an open-air public trail managed by Coillte, there are no admission or parking fees required to enjoy the route, meaning prices start from £0. Families can spend a full morning or afternoon exploring the woodland trails and taking in the panoramic views without spending a single penny.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers breathtaking views and manageable walking conditions, this forest loop is an ideal choice. Children can spot local mountain wildlife, discover hidden mythical folklore, and safely stretch their legs in nature. It is a wonderful, active destination that introduces young adventurers to the dramatic landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Gravel Walking Path: A solid and smooth surface that runs the entire length of the loop, reducing the risk of slips.
- Panoramic Sea Views: Spectacular clear vistas extending over the Atlantic Ocean, Inishmurray Island, and Donegal Bay.
- Table Mountain Proximity: An immersive trail layout that brings families right up close to the steep, dramatic slopes of Benbulben.
- Deciduous Woodland Canopy: A scenic forest trail filled with native trees like oak, ash, beech, and mountain ash.
- Clear Waymarking: Excellent route navigation featuring bright red arrows to guide families effortlessly around the loop.
Detailed Highlights
- The Dramatic Northern Face View: The path starts slightly uphill before revealing the massive, vertical limestone cliffs of Benbulben towering on your right. This sudden perspective shift is awe-inspiring for kids, who can look up to spot sheep grazing safely on seemingly impossible, steep mountain ledges. It provides a fantastic backdrop for family photographs and a great opportunity to discuss how the unique landscape was carved out during the Ice Age.
- The Atlantic Ocean Panorama: As the trail winds through the trees and turns back towards the coast, it opens up to show incredible sea vistas across the bay. On a clear day, children can see all the way to the ancient island of Inishmurray and even look across to the distant Slieve League cliffs in Donegal. The combination of dramatic mountain walls on one side and the rolling ocean on the other makes this section exceptionally beautiful.
- The Gortarowey Forest Path: Winding safely through a diverse mix of native trees, this section provides an immersive sensory experience for younger children. Kids can hunt for giant black slugs on the path, listen to vibrant birdsong, and look for local woodland critters under the leaves. The trees also offer natural protection from the elements, providing a useful canopy if a sudden rain shower passes over the bay.
- Folklore and Fairytale Trails: This ancient landscape is steeped in classic Irish mythology and was famously celebrated in the poetry of W.B. Yeats. Parents can share enchanting local legends with their children about the mountain being a hidden gateway into the mythical fairy world. Imagining legendary warriors and mythical creatures roaming the slopes turns a standard walk into an exciting storybook adventure for young minds.
- The Cashel Loop Heritage: Families choosing to follow the slightly shorter historical branch trail can explore the ancient remains of a traditional Irish ringfort, known as a cashel. Complete with educational information panels, it gives school-aged children an interactive look into early historical farming life. It is an easy, educational add-on that adds a touch of archaeological discovery to your outdoor day.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Glencar Waterfall: Located just a short drive away over the county border, this famous waterfall features an easy, family-friendly pathway that kids love exploring.
- Mullaghmore Harbour & Beach: A beautiful coastal spot further north where families can enjoy sandcastle building, safe paddling, and views of Classiebawn Castle.
- Drumcliffe Churchyard: The final resting place of poet W.B. Yeats, featuring a visitor centre and a lovely gift shop for a peaceful historical stop.
16.65 miles
