Duneil River Walk

Duneil River Walk

Walk Category: Riverside Walk
Walk Grade: Easy
Walking Terrain: Country Roads
Waymarking: None
Trailhead: Roadside Parking

Length: 3km
Ascent: 16m
Time: 1hr
Suggested Gear: Sturdy Shoes
Longitude: 54.248866
Latitude: -8.871953

Directions to Trailhead

From Sligo, Take the N59 (signposted Ballina) for approx 32km. The trail starts from the main street in Dromore West beside Feeney’s filing station.

The Trail Map:- OSI Map Series 24

This is a beautiful riverside trail which links the village of Dromore West to the coast road. The trail follows the course of the Duneil river as it winds its way towards the sea through mature woodlands which contain many varieties of hardwoods and softwoods and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Look out for the recently restored Ballygilcash and Donaghintraine Bridges which date from 1836. The trail starts from the village of Dromore West on the N59 (just across from an Old Mill nestled in the trees beside a waterfall).

Duneill-River-Walk

The Route
Follow the footpath from the petrol station in Dromore West village. Continue through the small metal gate opposite the traffic island. Follow the path as its meanders its way through the trees and along the river. When you reach the public road, take a right. Follow the path along the left side of the road. When you reach the Flying Horse pub, take a right turn and walk along the footpath back into Dromore West village.

Did You Know?
The walkway was opened on 1st July and was delivered by a three way partnership involving the Dromore West Community Council, the Office of Community & Enterprise, Sligo County Council, and local land owners. Approximately two miles outside the village of Dromore West, there lies ruins of a workhouse which now houses an art studio.

Nearby walks you might like

Aclare Road and Forest Walk

Quiet country roads.

Lough Easkey

A peaceful and scenic lake
surrounded by forest plantations.

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2 responses to “Duneil River Walk”

  1. David

    I travel through Dromore West occasionally for work. I had stopped at the service station to grab lunch a few times and recently I had some time to kill so walked down the road a bit and found this walk by chance.

    I decided to take it and I was very glad I did. The setting of the river through the natural gorge at the beginning of the walk is spectacular. The mature trees and dynamic river are stunning and I was even fortunate enough to see a heron or egret take flight from the river towards me, before turning and flying away.

    It was a chance find that left me buzzing. I definitely recommend it if you are passing nearby. I only had time to do the first half, but I will make time next time to do the whole way to the coast.

  2. Sheena Spencer

    The Dunneill River Walk can be extended if you would prefer to walk a little longer.

    There is a second section of the River Walk which takes you down to the Coast Road (L2204).
    This is found by turning left once you meet the main road.
    Cross over the bridge at Orville Park.
    There will be another metal gate on your right.
    Follow this second meandering path until you meet the Coast Road.

    Once you reach the Coast Road, turn left onto the L2204 and walk up Ballygilcash Hill.
    At the junction with the Easkey Road, turn left again (onto the R297) and follow this road back to Dromore West Village.

    The route is even more beautiful if done in reverse, as the view coming down Ballygilcash Hill is stunning!

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