Directions to the Trailhead
This trail is located in the seaside village of Strandhill located 9km west of Sligo town on the R292. The route starts from the promenade at the sea-front (beside the cannon). Park at the nearby main public car park and walk down to the promenade from there. Alternatively, take the S2 bus across from Sligo Bus Station, which also drops you at the main car park. For timetables click here.
The Trail Map:- OSI Map Series 25
This is a stunning coastal walk through the dune system in the busy 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.
The Route
From the promenade at the sea-front, turn right along a path which leads through Strandhill Caravan & Camping Park. Keeping towards the shoreline, sandy trails lead through a kissing gate and the end of the runway at Strandhill Airport. From here the trail veers right towards Killaspugbrone Church and on to a beautiful crescent shaped beach. At the end of the beach a red and white marker stands, indicating where the walker should turn right, through some woodland and on to the estuary at Dorrins Strand. The stone path leads to a road, which makes its way uphill and into the village. From here, keep right and you return to the seafront.
Did You Know?
Killaspugbrone church was founded by Bishop Bronus, a follower of Saint Patrick in the fifth century. According to local folklore, when Saint Patrick visited the site he tripped on rough ground and lost his tooth. The gold relic is now preserved in the National Museum of Ireland (although the ancient relic has long been lost). The present ruins date to the period between 1150 and 1220.
Leave the car behind and enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way by bus.
Sligo Walks Podcast 008 – Sligo Walking Series
In the second walk of the Sligo Walking Series, nature expert Michael Bell of Nature Learn introduces the flora and fauna of the Killaspugbrone Coastal Walk to a group of local walkers. This podcast features Michael speaking about birds, insects, flowers and other things to keep an eye out for, as well as the increasing importance of engaging with nature and our environment to promote change and preserve our biodiversity.
Nearby walks you might like
Queen Maeve Trail – Knocknarae
All Weather Path, Boardwalk and Mountain Trail leading to Sligo’s most conspicuous landmark.
Garavogue River Trail
Riverside, Marshes and Parkland. Outdoor Gym Trail, Playground, Table Tennis and Lawn Bowls.
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