Description
The Gleniff Horseshoe is a spectacular, dramatic valley enclosed by the soaring peaks of the Dartry Mountains in north County Sligo, providing families with an unforgettable outdoor road trip. As one of the most visually stunning natural things to do with kids in Sligo, this famous single-lane loop road allows parents to explore ancient glacial landscapes directly from the comfort of their vehicle. Children can discover old folklore legends, explore a hidden forest mill trail, and look up at vertical cliff faces that have stood for thousands of years.
Prices start from £0.00, as this scenic mountain loop is a public highway and open-air natural landmark that is completely free to drive or walk at any time. Please note that while the attraction itself requires no admission fee, it is located in the Republic of Ireland, meaning local shops, fuel stations, and commercial facilities in the surrounding area operate in Euros (€).
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines wild Irish mountain scenery, magical local folklore, and accessible walking trails for little legs, this breathtaking mountain loop is a must-visit destination.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Top Features
- Glacial Mountain Horseshoe: Features a magnificent 10km single-lane loop road enveloped by towering, vertical rock faces and sharp mountain ridges.
- Mystical Local Folklore: Immerses visitors in the ancient romantic legends of Diarmuid and Gráinne, giving the landscape an enchanting historical narrative.
- Gravity-Defying Phenomenon: Includes a legendary natural trick spot known to locals as Magic Hill where vehicles appear to roll backwards uphill.
- Interactive Nature Trail: Complements the long drive with a short, sheltered forest walk featuring native trees, mountain streams, and waterfalls.
Highlights
- The Magic Hill: The ultimate highlight for children is a stop at the famous Magic Hill. Parents can pull the car over at the designated spot, release the handbrake, and watch the kids drop their jaws in disbelief as the vehicle naturally defies gravity and rolls upwards.
- Diarmuid and Gráinne's Cave: Perched incredibly high up on the mountain cliffside, children can view the dark entrance of the highest cave in Ireland. According to legend, this ominous opening was the final hiding place of the famous ancient Irish lovers fleeing a jealous king.
- The 19th-Century Barytes Mill Site: Located right near the entrance of the loop, families can step out of the car to investigate the historic stone remnants of an old mineral mill. It offers a fascinating historical look at industrial life in the valley before emigration and famine left it quiet.
- The Millsite Woodland Walk: Winding right through the old mill grounds is a beautifully developed, short nature trail. It is perfect for younger kids, guiding them under native Irish trees, across wooden bridges, and past bubbling mountain streams and pretty waterfalls.
- The Abandoned Schoolhouse: Nestled right along the roadside beneath the massive cliffs are the haunting, roofless stone ruins of an old valley schoolhouse. Kids can peek through the empty windows and try to imagine what it was like to go to school inside a wild mountain valley.
Beyond the Main Attraction: Beyond the loop road itself, families can discover plenty of secondary highlights scattered across north County Sligo. A short 15-minute drive north brings you to the coastal village of Mullaghmore, famous for its sandy beaches, safe harbor walks, and views of Classiebawn Castle. Alternatively, families can head south to visit Drumcliffe, the historic final resting place of the poet W.B. Yeats, which features a lovely craft shop and family cafe. For more outdoor magic, the spectacular flat-topped slopes of Benbulben Mountain offer dedicated forest walks nearby.
11.70 miles
