Rearing above the Dartry Mountains, Ben Bulben is an immense limestone rock formation that has been important to Irish culture and mythology for millennia. See the landmark peak dominating the county during your travels in Sligo or stroll along the network of trails traversing the mountain’s base and summit.
Ben Bulben appears through Irish legend as the playground for warrior tribes, giants and enchanted animals. Perhaps more famously, the glacially carved peak was an Irish icon to the homesick William Butler Yeats and was notably featured in the poet’s verse. Observe the Irish poet’s descriptions of the countryside coming to life as you stroll around what is now affectionately known as Yeats Country.
Discover the beautiful sights of Ben Bulben on a walk around the base of the emerald-colored mountain. Take a trail that loops around the mountain’s peak. The Gortarowey Loop Walk trails through pretty wooded areas and leads up the mountain’s gently sloping south side. Climb the easy ascent and you will be rewarded with magnificent views of Donegal Bay and the Atlantic Coast from the peak. Spot the Slieve League, Classiebawn Castle and Mullaghmore in the distance. You might see arctic alpine plants growing along the ridge, as well as wild hares, foxes and red-legged choughs that live in this region.
Enjoy a picnic in the pretty woods at the base of the mountain on your return or continue east along the mountain’s south face to reach the border of County Leitrim. Nearby is the Glencar Waterfall, flowing into Glencar Lough. Find the grave of the poet W. B. Yeats in Drumcliffe Churchyard, 4 miles (6 kilometres) from the loop walk trailhead.
Ben Bulben is located north of Sligo. Reach the mountain’s base within a 30-minute drive from the city. Local buses arrive at the area within 45 minutes. Visit Ben Bulben for free at any time of the day. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water if you embark on the walking trail. The loop takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.
