Raghly Loop Trail

The Trail Map:- OSI Series 16

The Raghly Loop Trail overlooks the sea in one of the most picturesque parts of the county. It provides almost 360 degree views over the Atlantic and is a short, easy and spectacular walk. New signage provides the visitor with all of the information they need to navigate the walk and to discover more about the local area.

The Route
From Sligo it will take approximately 20 minutes by car. Heading north for Donegal, turn left at Drumcliffe for Carney, where the road sweeps left again past the entrance for Lissadell. Continuing along this road until you reach Dunleavy’s pub and shop. Turn left here and continue on until just before Raghly Harbour, where roadside parking is available.

This is a looped trail, so you can take either direction, but we preferred going anti-clockwise for better views. So, heading slightly uphill past a row of houses on your left, you reach the entrance to the cliff walk on your right after a short distance. The walk brings you along a gravel path, with sheep grazing in fields to your left and unrivalled sea views to your right. The path is fenced in so you can feel as close as possible to the Atlantic without having any concerns about the proximity of the cliff edge. 

The famous blowholes are the most eye-catching feature (other than the sea views themselves). These blow water vertically, especially during stormy weather, as water gushes up through holes created over millions of years through the porous limestone rock.

Before you begin to turn inland, a low bench has been installed for you to take a breather and drink in those Atlantic views. As you turn away from the coast, you join a minor road, where you turn right, heading downhill towards the harbour. From here it is a short walk back to the starting point.

This walk is part of a countrywide network of high-quality, circular walks being developed by local community, local development companies, local authorities in collaboration with Fáilte Ireland, The Department of Community & Rural Development and Sport Ireland.
This walk has been developed with the kind assistance of local landowners and organisations. It is understood that if persons enter private land they do so by permission and with the consent of the landowners and no matter how often they enter, or in what numbers, they do not do so as of any right.

Think Safety!
A section of this route is shared with vehicles – be aware!
Keep Children under close supervision
Take adequate clothing, food and fluid
If you encounter any difficulties, contact emergency services on 999 or 112

Dogs permitted under supervision.