“To the waters and the wild.”
The search for inspiration and the thirst for exploration led me to the amazing Glencar valley, home to two remarkable waterfalls. Stretching across the border between counties Sligo and Leitrim, this valley is definitely one of the most beautiful parts of both of them.
Many people mistakenly believe that the highest waterfall in Ireland is the Powerscourt waterfall located in Wicklow mountains. However, this title belongs to The Devil’s Chimney. Its original name is Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird that translates from the Irish language as Stream Against The Height. Located only 20 minutes drive from Sligo Park Hotel this spectacular 150 m cascade flows from the summit of Darty Mountains overlooking the Glencar valley and is recognised as the highest Irish waterfall.
It is believed that it got its name for an unusual ability to flow backwards. When a strong wind blows from the south, the stream is flown back over the cliff, revealing a definitely spectacular and even mystical sight.
The most impressive view Devil’s Chimney has is after a rainfall, when it is full of water. Yet its most surprising appearance can be caught in dry weather as it becomes completely dry as it’s shown on one of my photos.
Along with enjoying the breathtaking view of The Devil’s Chimney, visitors are more than welcome to hike the trail leading to the waterfall. The trail is 2,5 km long with an elevation gain of 130m and it takes around 1,5 hours to complete. The path goes through the forest and some parts are pretty steep. On the way you can stop and relax at one of the sitting and viewing areas enjoying unbelievable views of the Glencar lake.
A small car park is located beside the start of the trail, making it easily accessible.
Just 5 minutes drive from the Devil’s Chimney will bring you to a famous Glencar waterfall, where W.B.Yeats found inspiration for his poem “The Stolen Child”.
The poem tells the story of how fairies called the human child to go and live with them on their wonderful “leafy island" far away from the real world full of troubles. Sometimes, if you stay long enough looking at the waterfall and listening to an endless sound of cascading water, you may begin to imagine the voices of fairies living in this mystical universe.
Come away, O human child!
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world’s more full of weeping than you can understand.
This place looks equally enchanting in any kind of weather. On sunny days sunlight plays with falling water sparkling in thousands of tiny drops. On cloudy and rainy days the waterfall reveals its mythical side lifting the veil of a secret world behind itself.
The Glencar waterfall is easily accessible owing to a convenient car park located just a 5 minutes walk from it. Visitors will also find toilets here as well as a cozy cafe and kid’s playground. During the summer time an ice cream van is often parked here, making your experience even more enjoyable.
Locations:
Devil’s Chimney: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2ejZaY1K3kqdtWZb9
Glencar: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tPBTJYKRLVLvbx6aA
Directions from Sligo Park Hotel: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hnPRiKP99p3Mu9X68
