The Gleniff horseshoe is a nice 10km loop along quiet roads with spectacular views and dramatic and wild Dartry Mountains. The walk also provides dramatic views of the Donegal Bay and the Ulster County beyond.
The Route
Turn left at Centre for about 1.5km to junction. Veer left at yield sign southwards towards mountain for 1km to next junction. Continue straight following sign for Gleniff Horseshoe Valley.The 19th century Bartyes Mill Site is located on the left as you walk into the horse shoe. A lovely woodland walk has been developed at the Mill Site which takes you along under native Irish trees, babbling mountain streams and pretty waterfalls. It is a lovely spot to stop for a picnic.
The tall cliffs on the left after the road begins to turn back to the north are the Cliffs of Annacoona. As you emerge through the trees the legendary Diarmuid and Grainne’s cave becomes visible high up on the steep slopes, this is reputed to be the last hiding place of the ill fated lovers. Follow the loop around turning right at the T-junction after the decent to return to the Benwiskin Centre.
Did you know?
Truskmore Mountain on the east side of the road is Sligo’s tallest mountain at 647m (2113 ft).
If you look closely at the cliff face you will notice small mine entrances from where the mineral Bartyes was extracted. Bartyes is a heavy inert mineral which is used in a wide variety of industries including paints and plastics.
The walk and scenery is fantastic. Directions to the horsehoe though is poor with one sign on the main road and another one which is difficult to see on the road itself so it is difficult to find the starting position. The site itself we noticed contains absolutely no welcome signs but instead a litany of- Dont do this and that, keep out and no trespassing etc—very negative and off putting. Also some of the land has been planted which destroys part of the view and should never have been allowed. Sligo is a very beautiful county but doesn’t do itself any favours with very poor marketing of its assets in comparison to Galway and Mayo.
eddie@sligojazz.ie
One of the most breathtaking places in Ireland I would say!
This is a really nice walk. It is pretty flat and easy to do. There is no way marking but it is okay as it’s faily straightforward. The landscape is really picturesque. Would definitely do it again.
A magical hidden gem. Loved this walk.