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Hill Walking

Standing watch over Lough Allen’s southeastern shores, the 585-meter-tall Slieve Anierin is celebrated as one of Leitrim’s most notable peaks. It’s widely recognized by its Irish name, Sliabh An Iarainn, meaning ‘the iron mountain’, which hints at its historical significance.

A timeless Irish myth tells of the Tuatha De Danann’s arrival in Ireland right at this location, emerging from a dense mist. Upon discovering iron, they crafted metal weapons. Equipped with their advanced armaments, they went on to vanquish the Formorian tribe in the battle of Magh Tuireadh.

Aghacashel serves as the gateway to the majority of hiking paths in the area, located on the route between Drumshanbo 

Sliabh An Iarainn Walk

The Sliabh an Iarainn (or Anierin) walk features a looped trail with options for a full day’s hike of 20 km or shorter half-day hikes of 9.5 and 9 km.

Stoney River walk

The route begins at William Corbett Scenic Reserve in Ōkato, traversing lowland bush beside Mangatete Stream, then through private land and farmland. Watch out for electric fences.

Arigna Walk 1

The Way follows a pleasant path over a footbridge and along the Arigna River.

Arigna Walk 2

The walk leaves Arigna via the old railway track to Mount Alien, crossing the R280 at McRann’s pub.

Overlooking the southeastern edges of Lough Allen, Slieve Anierin stands at 585 meters, marking it as one of Leitrim’s most notable peaks. Known locally as Sliabh An Iarainn, or ‘the iron mountain,’ this name hints at the mountain’s historical significance.

According to ancient Irish lore, this is where the Tuatha De Danann first set foot in Ireland, emerging from a dense mist. Upon discovering iron here, they crafted metal weaponry, which gave them a formidable advantage. Armed with their new weapons, they overcame the Formorian tribe in the pivotal Battle of Magh Tuireadh.

Aghacashel serves as the gateway to many of the area’s hiking paths, nestled between Drumshanbo and Ballinamore (take N3 to Ballinamore, N4 to Carrick on Shannon for access).

There are several marked walking routes around Slieve Anierin, which are detailed on a map board at Aghacashel Post Office. Walk Cards are also available at the shop/post office with the distance and time listed for each walk, brief notes on route finding and local and natural history. Walks ranging from a short stroll of 20-30 minutes to longer outings of a couple of hours

Walkers will stand in awe at the breathtaking panoramic views over the West and Midlands of Ireland, or wonder at the amount and variety of flora and fauna encountered; foxes, hares, rabbits, badgers, ravens and Peregrine Falcons.

Sliabh An Iarainn Lake Fishing
Poulthyclogher Cave – Co.Leitrim, Ireland
Paragliding Bencroy Leitrim Ireland
Arigna from the Air

Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain Walks

Overview:
Nestled in County Leitrim, Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain towers at 585 meters, providing breathtaking views over the west and midlands of Ireland. Its diverse wildlife and flora make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Walks are organized monthly, and advance confirmation is recommended.

Mountain Views Walking Festival – Sli Liatroma:
This 48km trek traverses the picturesque landscapes of northwest Ireland, from drumlin fields to the rugged uplands of Barlear. It offers a blend of old and new tracks for a brisk pace, with the route from Drumshanbo to Manorhamilton being particularly scenic.

The Miners Way & Historical Trail

The Miners Way:
A circuitous route starting from Arigna, passing through Keadue, Ballyfarnon, and Corrie Mountain, retracing the paths used by miners in the Arigna coal mines.

Historical Trail:
This loop diverges from the Miners Way at Keadue, extending to Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, Carrowkeel, Castlebaldwin, Highwood, and reconnecting at Ballyfarnon. A third loop links the Miners Way with Sli Liatroma, circling Lough Allen through Drumkeeran, Dowra, Drumshanbo, and back to Arigna.

Trail Specifications:

  • Arigna Miners Way: Covers 62 kms (39 miles), ascending 1300 meters.
  • Historical Trail: Spans 56 kms (35 miles), with an ascent of 850 meters.

These trails are perfect for a week-long adventure, offering flexibility to choose specific sections for walking. They also connect to the Cavan Way, which leads into the Ulster Way, allowing for extended exploration.

Hostel and Caravan Accommodation Options:

  • Hostel Rooms: We offer accommodation for 6 people per room at €16 B&B per person, per night, with group rates available. There are 8 rooms in total.
  • Caravan Spots: Caravan and camper spots are available at €20 per night, including access to showers and electricity.

Welcome to a Weekend of Walking:

You’re guaranteed a warm reception, engaging companionship, and enjoyable walks with us. Discover the essence of a weekend filled with leisurely walks and enriching conversations in Ireland’s stunning landscapes. This experience offers:

  • A refreshing escape that rejuvenates mind, body, and soul through fresh air, exercise, and excellent company in an idyllic setting suitable for all ages.
  • An opportunity to explore one of Ireland’s most captivating regions, known for its breathtaking beauty and mystical landscapes.
  • For non-native English speakers, a perfect environment to practice and improve your English in a casual atmosphere.
  • An incredible value that includes meals, accommodation, and all necessary transfers for seven days.
  • Insights into Leitrim’s history, culture, and geography, leaving you with a profound sense of well-being after a week of walking.
  • Guided/Escorted Walking Tours and Vacations in Leitrim tailored to various fitness levels and abilities, from leisurely walks amidst stunning scenery to challenging mountain treks for the more adventurous.
  • Tours that delve into the geology, history, and archaeology of Ireland.
  • Accommodations thoughtfully chosen to meet walkers’ needs, complete with maps, itineraries, airport transfers, and luggage transport services.
  • Flexible support for those preferring self-guided walks.

Join us for an unforgettable walking experience in Leitrim, where the landscapes are as enriching as the walks themselves.

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