Ben Bulben Forest Walk - Sligo Walks

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Ben Bulben Forest Walk (or Gortarowey looped walk, as it’s sometimes known locally) is located in Yeats Country in County Sligo, along the base of Ireland’s most iconic mountain, Ben Bulben.
The walk is located conveniently just off the main N15 national route between Sligo and Donegal, 8km north of Sligo town. A clearly marked signpost along this route guides motorists towards the car park, located 400m from the main road. From here, a series of finger post signs guides the walker along a choice of looped walks, ranging in distance from 3km-6km and with slight differences in levels of difficulty. However, all of the walks are suitable for those with even a moderate level of fitness and are particularly suitable for families, individuals and walking clubs and groups.
A slightly elevated ascent along the gravel path towards the mountain itself is the advised route to take to take full advantage of the magnificent views of Ben Bulben, Ireland’s best known table mountain. Part of the Dartry mountain range, Ben Bulben was formed during the ice age by massive glaciers segmenting the landscape, its striking shape almost unique among Irish mountains.
The mountain track evens out as the mountain comes into view. Those who continue along the main path will retain spectacular views of the mountain to their right, while forestry lines the route to the left of the path. Then the route dips into a meandering looped path under the canopy of the forest, brightening at the furthest point to reveal the mountain at its closest point, almost vertically towering over the path.
Views across the Atlantic over Donegal Bay towards Sliabh Liag, Ireland’s highest sea cliffs, become visible, before the walkers turn for home, where the path forks, providing the walker with a choice of routes on the homeward journey. Several park benches also populate the path, enabling the walker to take on refreshments, and to take in the spectacular views along the route.
Those choosing the longer route are rewarded with a raised stone cashel or keep from medieval times and is strategically situated the commanding views over the surrounding landscape. A mapboard within the cashel highlights the significant landmarks before your eyes and as you continue/return to the car park (15mins) you pass through interesting native woodland.
For maps, directions and downloads visit sligowalks.ie/...