Gleniff Horseshoe is one of those places I explored with my friends; it is truly something from a postcard. We had a hike to the top of a waterfall that offered us views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding mountains.
You can also visit a cave, but we didn’t climb it up as it is steep and can be challenging to reach.
Gleniff Horseshoe, with its lush green fields and scenic landscapes, is a true manifestation of Ireland’s natural beauty. Explore this natural wonder with our detailed guide.
Detailed Guide to Gleniff Horseshoe
Location
The Gleniff Horseshoe is located in County Sligo, Ireland and is approximately 15 minutes away from Sligo Town. I put its exact location on Google Maps for easy navigation.
Parking
Parking at Gleniff Horseshoe is straightforward. You can park at Gleniff Barytes Mill Site and then start your walk. Or you can park at the roadside which is not as convenient as parking at Gleniff Barytes Mill Site.
Walking Experience
Gleniff Horseshoe is a scenic walking route that offers stunning views. One highlight of this walk is its waterfall which you can explore with breathtaking views of Donegal Bay.
There are mainly two walking trails that you can try.
The Benwisken Trail is a is a 13.6 kilometres walk that takes about 4 hours to complete. This trail starts from the Benwiskin Centre and you’ll be rewarded by spectacular views of the Donegal Bay and Dartry Mountains. This trail has moderate difficulty.
Another trail is shorter than at the Gleniff Barytes Mill Site (parking spot) is almost 9.1 kilometres and takes almost 3 hours to complete. The difficulty of this trial is also moderate. This trail also offers breathtaking views and unspoiled landscapes.
Driving to Gleniff Horseshoe
Your drive to Gleniff Horseshoe will be so scenic and enjoyable as you can explore one of the most beautiful pieces of nature in Ireland. The road is single-lane and well-maintained but can be steep and narrow in some parts.
Magic Hill or Gravity Hill is an amazing phenomenon that this drive offers you. The Magic Hill is located along the Gleniff Horseshoe Loop drive under Tievebaun Mountain. If you park your car here and put it in neutral and take off the parking brake or put your foot on the break then the car will appear to roll uphill which defies gravity.
Your drive will be 9 kilometres long and take around 30 minutes to complete. Please note, that there might be sheep or other animals on the road as the valley is rural, so please be cautious with them to avoid any accidents.
Safety Tips about the Cave
The hike up to the cave is very steep and challenging, with no fenced trail and only some experienced hikers can successfully climb it up. You should avoid hiking the cave in wet or icy conditions, as the trail becomes even worse. Especially if you’re scared of heights this will be very challenging for you.
Things To See Near Gleniff Horseshoe
The Devil’s Chimney
By just 30 minutes driving you can reach this unique waterfall. The Devil’s Chimney is considered Ireland’s longest waterfall (about 150 metres). However, it only flows after or during heavy rainfall, making it dependent on weather conditions.
Mullaghmore
Mullaghmore is just a 15-minute drive from the Gleniff Horseshoe. This picturesque seaside resort is known for its stunning coastal views. Watersports, such as surfing are popular in this town and there is a sandy beach that you can explore here. There are also hotels, restaurants, and grocery shops that you can enjoy.
Glencar Waterfall
Glencar Waterfall is one of those places that you should not miss out on. This waterfall is approximately 15 metres high. The walk to this waterfall is so scenic and along a paved path, making it suitable for almost all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bring my dog to the Gleniff Horseshoe?
Yes, you can bring your dog as the place is dog-friendly.
How do I get to the Gleniff Horseshoe?
It is located in North Sligo, between Bundoran and Sligo. It is about 20 kilometres from Sligo Town and 25 kilometres from Bundoran. Driving is the most convenient way that you can choose.
Can I hike in the Gleniff Horseshoe area?
Yes, you can hike and there are two main walking trails that you can choose from and enjoy spectacular views and landscapes along your journey.
Conclusion
Gleniff Horseshoe is a breathtaking landscape, with its rolling hills and lush greenery, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere that captivates the senses and soothes the soul.
I hope this information will be helpful for your travel. If you plan to visit the Gleniff Horseshoe, I would be happy to hear about your experience.
