An experience not to be missed! Breathtaking coastal scenery, views stretching out over the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic Donegal landscape, not to mention the magnificent cliffs themselves formed many millennia ago.
See the Atlantic Ocean as you've never seen it before!
Be prepared for an exhilarating experience as you embark on an incredibly beautiful walk to the top of Slieve League (600m) on Donegal's south-western Atlantic coastline.
What impressive scenery and sights you will encounter if you take the dramatic 16km coastal path connecting the little villages of Bunglass to Malinbeg at either side of Slieve League. Even from Bunglass, you can get classic views of the famous sea cliffs, which are the highest in Europe.
Each step will bring a marvellous view of the changing coastline. Along the way, pass the 'Eagles Nest' (320m) perched above vertical cliffs. Nearby is a unique habitat that has been identified as an area of international scientific interest for bird and plant life. Continue on past the narrow 250m 'One Man's Pass' which overlooks two lakes, believed to have been formed by the Ice Age.
Both place names evoke the adventurous features and rugged beauty of this special part of Ireland. Of course they also signal that walkers on this route need to take extreme care - it's a place for those with a good head for heights!
For the less adventurous, there is an alternative (although less spectacular) walking option of a trek from Carrick to the cliffs or just driving there directly. Whatever your choice, the end result is stunning.
Dramatic climb
Feel the excitement as you climb towards the summit of Slieve League (meaning Grey Mountain). The peak is marked by an Ordinance Survey cement triangle point. Imagine how these massive cliff rocks might have been laid down on the bottom of a long-vanished ocean half a billion years ago, as geologists indicate.
Marvel at the spectacular views of Donegal Bay, from beautiful Bundoran to Donegal Town and onto Glencolmcille. Watch the fishing boats bring home their catch to the famous port of Killybegs. Look with awe at the sight of the powerful Atlantic waves pounding the cliffs below.
For a completely different perspective on the dramatic cliffs, why not take a sightseeing boat trip on the waters below. These are available from Nuala Star Teelin, Teelin, Carrick. Please see details below.
For those starting their walk to Slieve League from Bunglass, it is worth noting that you can take a dramatic 6km drive beyond Teelin to Bunglass Point along roads with hairpin bends and steep drops to the sea.
| Attraction | Slieve League |
|---|---|
| Location | Between Bunglass and Malinbeg, on the nothern shores of Donegal Bay. |
| Special Note: | Because of the nature of the spectacular terrain and cliff face, visitors to the cliffs and particularly those taking the spectacular coastal walk there from Bunglass to Malinbeg, should take great care. |
| Directions | On the R263, the turn for Teelin is signposted at the Slieve League Bar in the village of Carrick. Just before the school in Teelin turn right for Bunglas and follow the rising road, which leads to a car park and viewing point at the Slieve League cliffs. |
| Attraction | Slieve League Cultural Centre |
|---|---|
| Location | Teelin, Carrick, Co Donegal |
| Opening Times | 10.00am-7.00pm Daily |
| Facilities | Coffee Shop Crafts Gallery Art Gallery Archaeological Walks & Tours Educational courses in archaeology for all ages Hill-Walking guiding is also available |
| Contact Details | Tel: 00353 (0) 7497 39077 Tel: 00353 (0) 8777 06334 Email: slieveleague@sliabhleague.com Web: www.sliabhleague.com |
For information on boat sight-seeing trips at Slieve League, please contact:
Nuala Star Teelin
Tel: 00353 (0) 7497 39365
Tel: 00353 (0) 87 6284688
Email: nualastarteelin@hotmail.com
For county profiles, suggested drives and great holiday ideas, click here
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information or on the county in general, please contact:
Fáilte Ireland North West
Aras Reddan
Temple Street
Sligo
Tel: 00353 (0) 7191 61201
Fax: 00353 (0) 719160360
Email: northwestinfo@failteireland.ie
Web: www.irelandnorthwest.ie