48 hours in Sligo outdoor activities

From scenic coastal trails and peaceful forest walks to iconic mountain hikes, Sligo offers something for every explorer. Discover breathtaking views, rich history and unforgettable landscapes as you experience some of the North West's most popular walking routes.

Best Walks & Hikes Near Sligo Park Hotel 

Sligo is a walker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle woodland strolls to rewarding mountain hikes. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly walk, a scenic viewpoint, or an outdoor adventure, these beautiful routes are all within easy reach of Sligo Park Hotel.

Our Top Family-Friendly Walks

Hazelwood Forest Walk – Lough Gill

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: 10 minutes
  • Walk Distance: Approx. 3–4 km loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Family Friendly: Yes – ideal for families
  • Highlight: Peaceful woodland trails, lake views and picnic spots

A peaceful woodland walk along the shores of Lough Gill, Hazelwood is perfect for a relaxing stroll. With easy paths, beautiful lake views and picnic areas, it is a great option for families and those looking for a gentle walk.

Benbulben Forest Walk

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: Approx. 20 minutes
  • Walk Distance: Approx. 5.5 km loop
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Family Friendly: Yes – excellent for families

Enjoy a scenic woodland walk beneath the famous Benbulben mountain. This gentle trail offers spectacular views, peaceful forest paths, and is one of the best walks in Sligo for families and visitors of all ages.

Union Wood Walk

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: Approx. 15 minutes
  • Walk Distance: 4–6 km routes available
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Family Friendly: Yes

Explore one of Sligo’s most peaceful woodland areas. Union Wood offers a choice of trails through mature forest, with streams, wildlife and beautiful countryside scenery along the way.

Best Walks for Incredible Views

Knocknarea – Queen Maeve’s Cairn

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: Approx. 20 minutes
  • Walk Distance: Approx. 6 km return
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Family Friendly: Suitable for active families (best for older children)

One of Sligo’s most iconic hikes, Knocknarea rewards walkers with breathtaking panoramic views over Sligo Bay, Strandhill, and the surrounding countryside. The climb to Queen Maeve’s Cairn is steep in places but well worth the effort.

Gleniff Horseshoe

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: Approx. 40–45 minutes
  • Walk Distance: Approx. 10 km loop (shorter walks and viewpoints available)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best for: Families with older children, photographers and nature lovers
  • Highlight: Dramatic mountain scenery and one of Sligo’s most photographed landscapes

A hidden gem in north Sligo, the Gleniff Horseshoe is surrounded by dramatic mountains, cliffs and beautiful countryside. It is a perfect choice for photography, scenic drives and exploring one of Sligo’s most spectacular landscapes.

Caves of Keash Walk

  • Drive from Sligo Park Hotel: Approx. 30 minutes
  • Walk Distance: Approx. 1.5 km return
  • Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections)
  • Family Friendly: Best suited to older children

A short but rewarding climb leads to the ancient Caves of Keash, offering incredible views across the Sligo landscape. A fascinating walk combining history, archaeology and scenery.

Top Tips from the Hotel

  • 🚗 A car is recommended to make the most of Sligo's scenic drives, coastal villages and mountain trails.

  • 🚗 Allow extra time for scenic stops — Sligo’s landscapes are part of the experience

  • 🥾 Bring walking shoes — even the easier trails can be uneven

  • 🌦️ Check the weather before heading into the hills

  • 📸 Don’t forget your camera — Sligo is known as “Yeats Country” for a reason

 

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