So, you’ve probably googled Slieve League Walk, right?
Did you know that Slieve League is one of the best natural attractions Donegal offers? It has numerous walking trails that are suitable for all levels (from beginner to advanced), making it accessible for everyone.
Some also call it “Sliab Liag,” one of Ireland’s highest sea cliffs.
The best part is that you will be rewarded with its spectacular view (some argue that it is far superior compared to its popular neighbor, the Cliffs of Moher – a famous shooting spot for the Harry Potter Film Series!).
So, get your walking gear ready, and let’s embark on this epic once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
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Apart from experiencing Donegal’s beautiful Slieve League, you can also try out other fabulous tours in Donegal that will leave you breathless :
& many more!
When you visit Ireland you want to be prepared because it can get COLD! And it also rains a lot O_O If you want to enjoy this charming country in comfort, make sure you pack some essentials that we ALWAYS pack:
- 2 base layer thermals (I love these!)
- 1 thick fleece jacket or puffer jacker
- Fleece lined leggings
- 1-2 sweater dresses.
- 2 pairs of fleece lined jeans or pants
- Winter Touchscreen Gloves
- 2-4 wool sweaters
- Super comfy scarf
- Super chic coat here and here
- Bonus– Excellent useful and authentic book on Ireland!
All You Need To Know About Slieve League Walk
Slieve League, which also goes by the name of Sliabh Liag, is considered to be one of the tallest sea cliffs in Ireland and Europe due to its height, which is around 601 meters (1,971 ft) above the level of the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition to these breathtaking panoramas, the Slieve League is indeed one of the best places in Donegal that has a rich history and a breathtaking panoramic view.
Price: Slieve League Entrance Fee
Here’s some great news! There is no entrance fee to access Slieve League (yes, it is FREE! – based on our latest finding in 2023).
Distance: How Long To Walk Slieve League?
On average, the Slieve League walk distance covers a distance of 2.8 km (1.7 miles) with an elevation gain of 420 meters (1,377 ft).
However, this distance may vary depending on which walking trails you take.
Duration: How Long Does It Take To Climb Slieve league?
Well, the answer depends on your fitness level as well as your hiking trail path, though if you do plan to go for a Slieve League cliffs hike, it will take on average 3 hours for a return trip.
Hence, we highly recommend you allocate at least 3 hours or more when exploring Slieve League
Location: Where Is Slieve League In Ireland?
It is actually near Shanbally, which is a small town in the southwest part of Donegal, Ireland.
In fact, here are a few of Slieve League’s nearest town that is also located on the stunning southwest coast of Donegal:
- 15-minute drive from Carrick,
- 20-minute drive from Glencolmcille,
- 30-minute drive from Killybegs
- 55-minute drive from Donegal Town
After a long day of Slieve League cliff walk, you can visit any one of these nearby towns for a bite or rest overnight.
Facilities In Slieve League
Since this is a popular attraction in Donegal, several facilities near Slieve League are for everyone’s use.
Facilities In Slieve League
| Carpark | €5 for 2 hours €15 for the day. | They have 2 car park spaces: Lower Car Park: If you hike up and return back to your car park, it would take close to 2 hours) Upper Car Park (Bungalow Car Park)Just beside the viewpoint, but parking is very limited and may not be available during peak periods. Note: Honestly, we do find that 2 hours of parking isn’t valuable and not worth spending as it is not enough time to enjoy Slieve League truly. |
| Shuttle Bus | €6 per adult€5 for Students€4 for kids €18 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 or more children). | The Slieve League Visitor Center also provides a shuttle bus service (great option if you don’t feel like spending €15 for a parking spot). You can book the shuttle bus service here. |
| Toilets | Unfortunately, there are no toilets available. | |
| Operation Hours | 24 hours ( Ideal time to visit Slieve League: 10 am – 4 pm ) |
The Guardians Of The Slieve League
The Mulhern family runs the Slieve League Cliffs Centre, which is a family-owned and operated enterprise.
They have spent more than three decades pursuing their interest in Irish tourism and work hard to preserve Ireland’s precious natural landmarks daily.
| What we like: | Family-friendly Dog-friendly Developed Tí Linn Cafe and other facilities for visitors’ convenience. |
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Best Slieve League Walking Route To Explore!
There are plenty of Slieve League walks that you can explore.
Some of these trails can be found on the Slieve League walk map, but if you’re looking for the top 3 popular Slieve League walks to try, then consider these trails!
- Slieve League Walk – Easy: Hike Up From Lower Car Park
The first Slieve League hike is likely the most popular one. This walk kicks off from the lower car lot and teases your heart for a good 45 minutes before ultimately reaching the Bunglass Point observation spot.
This walk shouldn’t be too hard for most, but if you have a poor fitness level, you may find the steep inclines difficult.
- Slieve League Walk – Moderate: The Pilgrim’s Path
Here’s another popular walk/hike on Slieve League, which is the Pilgrim’s Path.
However, we strongly suggest this walk only to those who have a good fitness level and experience in hiking, as this hike can be challenging at times due to its rocky terrain and occasional thick mist.
- On average, it may take a 4 hours return journey from The Pilgrim Path (starting point) to Bunglass Point and back to the starting point. (2 hours each way).
We also recommend that you take a picture of the Slieve League hike map before your walk (just in case).
- Slieve League Walk – Advanced: One Man’s Pass
At Slieve League, there’s a dangerously small trail dubbed “One Man’s Pass” (which is an extension of The Pilgrims’ Path).
Those who are afraid of heights or unstable on their feet should stay away from this walk as it has a razor-sharp path on top of these cliffs (fitting only one person, hence the name!). which is just a few hundred meters above sea level.
Important: Only the most experienced hikers should attempt this hike. (Seriously! One wrong move or a gust of strong wind may risk serious injuries or worse – death!)
Alternatively, if you plan not to get lost on this magnificent seacliff, you can also try the Slieve League guided walk tour (which may cost around €40 to €60, but it can certainly be a safer option as you will have an experienced guide to lead the way).
The choice is yours!
If you don’t feel like walking or hiking in Slieve League, you can always enjoy your time there by watching the Atlantic Ocean from the highest viewing point (Bunglass Point), just beside the upper Slieve League car park.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can enjoy Slieve League by taking a guided boat tour.
The History Of The Iconic Cliffs Of Donegal; Slieve League
These cliffs of Donegal were once an ancient pilgrimage destination where you can discover the ruins of an early Christian monastery on the summit of the mountain.
This was also the spot where an Irish Bishop, Áed mac Bricc used to stay and pray in isolation.
Slieve league Ireland is certainly one of the best places to visit, especially for Christian travelers, thanks to its rich history.
In fact, Slieve League also has other unique landmarks, such as the Carrigan Head, which is home to a number of historic structures, including a signal tower that was constructed during the time of the Napoleonic wars.
Slieve League vs. Cliff Of Moher
Both mountains have their own beauty and attraction, though it’s hard not to miss the staggering height difference between 2 iconic mountains that are part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Cliffs of Slieve League are 3 times as high as their Clare cousins, the Cliffs of Moher, and from the vantage point on the cliff, you get a breathtaking view of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
If you’re looking to hike up to the most extreme heights, then you ought to conquer Croaghaun, a sea-cliff mountain in Mayo County, which is known as the highest sea cliff in Ireland at a majestic height of 688 meters.
Here’s a snippet table, just to show some perspective!
| The Battle of the Irish Sea Cliffs | |||
| Contender: | Cliff of Moher | Slieve League | Croaghaun |
| Location | Clare | Donegal | Mayo |
| Elevation | 214 meters (702 ft) | 601 meters (1,971 ft) | 687 meters (2,254 ft) |
But with an upper parking level close to Bunglass Point (Slieve League viewpoint) at a height of 1,972 feet (601 meters), Slieve League continues to hold its title as the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe.
What You Should Bring During Slieve League Walk
Slieve League Walk can indeed be one of the most challenging yet rewarding paths to take, but no path is worth venturing into if you are not equipped well for the Irish weather.
Best Items To Bring For A Walk In Slieve League
Here are some of the best items that can certainly ease your experience and journey when you are on the Slieve League walking route.
- Bring 2 or 3 pairs of thick, comfy socks (especially the ones that will make your feet feel fuzzy).
- A good quality walking boots that protect your feet from any blisters and pain.
- A bright portable windbreaker jacket.
- A sturdy backpack to keep your belongings in so you can walk hands-free.
- An emergency survival kit in case of anything.
- A decent water bottle to keep you well-hydrated
FAQs On The Slieve League Walk
How Long Is The Slieve League Walk?
The length of the Slieve League Walk is 2.8 kilometres, with its highest point at 420 metres in height over its course. If you plan to walk or hike at Slieve League, it will usually take approximately 90 minutes for a full-round trip if you’re an average hiker.
If you are a seasoned hiker, you can likely complete the hiking circuit in a shorter time. At the end of the day, you don’t have to rush your way up to enjoy this magnificent sea cliff, just take one step at a time.
Is Slieve League Hard To Climb?
No, the Slieve League is not hard to climb. It is very easy to drive to Bunglass Viewpoint and view these stunning cliffs with minimal walking. In fact, it is extremely simple to travel to Bunglass Viewpoint, where one can see these breathtaking cliffs with very little walking. involved.
After passing the Bunglass viewpoint, park your vehicle and continue on foot up the trail to the summit of Slieve Leagues for an incredible walk along a high-altitude ridge that overlooks the ocean far below.
How Do I Get To The Slieve League?
One of the many ways you can get to the stunning Slieve League Cliffs, located in the isolated coastal southwest corner of Donegal, is to take a boat trip from Killybegs or join a guided coach day tour during the tourist season.
In fact, you can also drive up the road on your own by driving straight to Slieve League Cliff, but if you don’t feel like driving during your holiday, there’s also a car hire service that is available if you need it.
Is Slieve League Higher Than The Cliffs Of Moher?
Yes, Slieve League is twice as high as the Cliffs of Moher, which is located in Donegal, Northern Ireland. In fact, Slieve League, which is also known as Sliabh Liag, is known as the highest accessible sea cliff in Europe, with a towering height of 1,972 ft (601 meters), which is almost twice the height of the Eiffel Tower. On top of that, this incredible Irish mountain will greet you with the most breathtaking view of the wild Atlantic Ocean and Ireland’s mountainous wilderness.
So, is the Slieve League walk on your bucket list for your next Irish adventure?
Well, it certainly should be on the list!
Now that you have all the information and the best tips to truly enjoy this magnificent seacliff, then be sure to spread some love and share this article with those who are also joining you on this trip or planning to visit Northern Ireland soon.
If you feel like you’d want to hike or explore other places, fret not-I also have another article on the 21 best places for walking in Donegal.
All the best, and may the road rise up to meet you!
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