For the hillwalker Glencolmcille is a paradise. Its stunning landscape and sense of splendid isolation combine to make walking here a special experience.

Fáilte Ireland has designated two walks in the area as part of the national walks network, known as the Glencolmcille loop. This walk is divided into the Drum and Tower loop and the staring point for each is at Ionad Siul.

The Glencolmcille loop walk takes you up to the Martello Watch Tower and you can continue along the cliffs to the deserted fishing village to Port. Situated beside a stony beach, its isolation is emphasised by the crashing of the sea against the sea gulls cries. Behind Port hill lies the deserted fishing village of Glenlough, the hill between them being another popular trek for walkers.

The 35 km stretch of coastline between Slieve League (Sliabh Liag) and Slieve Tooey offers the walker a rich diversity of spectacular scenery.

For the experienced walker, the challenging trek across Slieve League (Sliabh Liag), whose summit is reached by crossing the "One Man's Pass" provides breath taking views. At 1,972 ft, these are the highest sea cliffs in Europe and have to be seen to be believed.

Click here to download a printable version of the Glencolmcille Loop walk.

Additional walks: Arnamona Woods, Disert Trail.

For more information about experiencing these walks contact info@ionadsiul.ie.