Visiting Slieve League is a breathtaking experience, with panoramic views, rugged coastal scenery, and the option to hike the famous Pilgrim’s Path or take in the views from the Bunglass viewing platform.
One of the best kept secrets of the Wild Atlantic Way, Slieve League, Sliabh Liag in Irish (meaning Mountain of the Flagstones), is home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
These cliffs tower nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher ;0.
Once a place of early Christian pilgrimage, the cliffs hold centuries of history, with remains of an ancient monastic site and breathtaking as well as uncrowded views.
Standing at the edge, with the wild Atlantic stretching endlessly before you and the wind whipping around you, is a humbling and unforgettable experience that truly captures the raw beauty of Ireland’s northwest coast.
Slieve League is located in County Donegal where you will feel like you stepped into a wild, untouched corner of Ireland, where rugged cliffs, winding coastal roads, and charming little villages make you want to slow down, breathe in the fresh Atlantic air, and just soak up the beauty all around you.
The timing of our trip was centered around attending a Coldplay concert at Croke Park in Dublin on Labor Day weekend 2024 :).
Having a guitar playing Irish man as a husband, when I asked him in early 2024 if he would like to see Coldplay in Dublin – it took him less than 2 seconds to excitedly reply – YES :).
Side note – if you ever get the opportunity to see Coldplay in concert – DO IT!!! You will have zero regrets – I promise!!
Our entire August 2024 13 day trip itinerary as well as our first Ireland trip with our kids in 2009 is at the bottom of this post in case you are needing some ideas for how to schedule your time on the Emerald Isle ;).
It is worth noting that for our 2009 trip with our 3 kids aged 8-13, we stuck to the major tourist sights in southwest Ireland like Bunratty Castle and the Blarney Stone ;0.
That said, our 2024 itinerary included much more scenic stops with some STUNNING landscapes to enjoy ;).
Especially in County Donegal :).
In a rush?
Visiting Slieve League
The Little Details
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How to Get to Slieve League
Getting to Slieve League is part of the adventure, with the easiest way being by car, driving along scenic, winding roads from Donegal Town (about an hour away) or from Killybegs, the last major stop before the cliffs.
If you’re not up for driving, there are local tours and taxis that can take you right to the viewing point, but honestly, having your own car lets you stop along the way and soak in all the stunning coastal views at your own pace.
Just remember in Ireland, you drive on the left side of the road and the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car (opposite of what many U.S. and Canadian travelers are used to)!
This means you’ll also need to navigate roundabouts clockwise and adjust to looking right before pulling into traffic.
Take your time, drive cautiously, and enjoy the journey :).
Best Places to Stay Near Slieve League
When visiting Slieve League, staying at a small B&B or AirBnb in the nearby villages like Carrick or Teelin gives you that perfect mix of convenience and charm.
For a true off-the-beaten-path experience, a stay in a traditional Donegal cottage overlooking the wild Atlantic feels like stepping into a postcard—peaceful, scenic, and the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
However, if you are looking for something a little more upscale, Lough Eske Castle near Donegal Town offers a luxurious retreat with stunning grounds and a bit of history woven in.
Lough Eske Castle
Having made staying at castles in Ireland a top priority for this trip, I decided to spend one night at Lough Eske Castle after exploring Slieve League during the day.
Located about an hour from Slieve League in rural County Donegal, this particular castle fits its surroundings with not being as opulent or fairytale-like as Ashford Castle further south in County Mayo (where we stayed when exploring the Connemara area of Ireland – see our full itinerary below!).
Lough Eske Castle offers a more understated luxury, with cozy charm, a beautiful lakeside setting, and a focus on comfort rather than formality and is noted as the only 5* property in the vicinity of Slieve League.
Top Tips for Visiting Slieve League
Shuttle Bus Tours
Taking the relatively inexpensive shuttle from the Teelin Visitor Center is an easy way to get up to Slieve League if you don’t want to worry about driving the narrow, winding road to the upper parking lot.
And it lets you just sit back and soak in the views.
Because Slieve League is not one of the more popular Ireland sights (but it should be!), you can sign up for the shuttle at the visitor center when you arrive, or check their website for the latest prices, schedule and availability here.
There is also a small cafe and gift shop at the Cliffs Centre – which will be the last indoor dining you will run into before going to the majestic cliffs ;).
Parking
If you want to be on your own timeline and not rely on the timing of the above mentioned shuttles, it is easy enough to drive up the narrow road to the lower car park – a 15 minute drive from the visitors centre.
Just be prepared for a bit of a tight squeeze on the way up, especially if you meet another car, but the views are absolutely worth it.
Rates in summer 2024 for the lot are €5 for 2 hours, €10 for 4 hours, and €15 for a full day – credit cards and Apple Pay are accepted at the machines.
The lower lot is located about a mile and a half from the viewing platform – which can be about a 45 minute walk depending on how in shape you are (it is an uphill walk – and even steep in some parts – for the majority of the mile!).
We spent a total of 2 hours in the area once we parked the car in the lot but paid for the 4 hour option to give ourselves leeway…
During the winter months, my research shows you are able to drive the 1.5 mile road from the lower to upper parking lots or if you have mobility issues, they will open the gate at the lower parking lot for you to drive yourself up during peak season.
However, having visited in summer – I did not see anyone driving their private cars up to the upper parking lot…
There were a handful of souvenir trucks in the lot though :).
What Time to Visit and How Long to Stay
As mentioned above, we stayed in the area for a total of 2 hours – including the 1.5 mile walk up to Bunglass Viewpoint and then the walk back down to the parking lot.
Because we drove from Ashford Castle in County Mayo and didn’t leave that incredible property until around 12:30p then made a few stops along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, we didn’t arrive at Slieve League until around 4pm.
Since our visit was on the last Thursday in August – we had plenty of sunlight for our 2 hour evening visit :).
If you have more time – or are staying closer to the cliffs than we did the night before – I discovered with my research that Slieve League is rarely crowded and visiting anytime throughout the day will be enjoyable.
The weather will be hit and miss no matter what time of year or day you visit Ireland ;0.
The Uphill Walk
The walk from the lower parking lot to the Bunglass viewing platform at Slieve League is about 1.6 miles each way, with an elevation gain of roughly 900 feet.
It’s a steady uphill climb, but the views along the way are absolutely worth it, with the Atlantic stretching out endlessly and the cliffs revealing themselves bit by bit.
The road is paved, and while it can be a bit of a workout, taking it slow and stopping to soak in the scenery makes it an enjoyable trek.
Bunglass Viewing Platform
Standing at the Bunglass viewing platform, I was completely in awe of the sheer drop of the Slieve League cliffs plunging into the Atlantic below—it’s one of those places that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
The wind was strong, the air crisp, and as I took it all in, I couldn’t help but think that no photo could ever do this view justice.
The views from Bunglass viewing platform are a photographer, meditation lover, and nature appreciating travelers dream ;).
We were blessed with perfect timing to enjoy an Irish ballad from the shuttle driver who’s lyrics brought tears to the eyes of anyone that could hear him sing.
Additional Hiking Options
While we only walked a short portion of the Pilgrim’s Path past the viewing platform (the 3 miles of walking to/from the parking lot were plenty for us!), there are a couple other options if doing a serious hike is desirable – they are listed below.
Other options in the area:
- Slieve League Cliff Walk – This is the big one, a 7 km loop that takes you right up to the edge of those jaw-dropping cliffs. It is challenging, but the views of the Atlantic Ocean would be worth it.
- One Man’s Pass – For the more adventurous hikers, this steep, narrow path along the cliff edge is not for the faint-hearted, but the sense of accomplishment and the scenery are unforgettable.
Other Sights to See in County Donegal
Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal is an Irish drive through stunning stretches of rugged coastline, with dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and the kind of peaceful beauty that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden corner of Ireland.
Emerald Guitars
If you’re heading to the Donegal countryside, make sure to visit Emerald Guitars – it’s a real hidden gem, especially if you’re married to a guitar enthusiast like I am.
The drive out there is stunning, with the green rolling hills, but when you arrive, it’s like stepping into a guitar lover’s dream.
We made this worthwhile stop after our overnight stay at Lough Eske and before heading back to Dublin (see our itinerary below).
The craftsmanship of these instruments is beyond impressive.
And with a scheduled factory tour, we had the chance to not only chat with the folks who build them, we also saw first hand their unique guitar making process.
My husband was in heaven, testing out some of their creations, while I surprised myself by enjoying learning about how these unique instruments are made and hearing our tour guide, Jacqui’s, stories of growing up in tumultuous Northern Ireland (a short 10 minute drive from the factory).
Whether you’re a guitarist or just love hearing beautiful music, it’s a must-see stop in the area!
In 2024, Emerald Guitars started doing 5 day tours in northwest Ireland centered around traditional Irish music!! I imagine participating in this tour is in my future :).
Glenveagh Castle
Glenveagh Castle is a hidden gem surrounded by stunning views of the rugged countryside.
Built in the 19th century, it has a fascinating history, originally serving as a private estate for wealthy landowners.
Today, you can stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens, which bloom vibrantly in the spring and summer.
It’s the perfect spot to experience the peaceful beauty of Donegal, with a little history and nature mixed in.
Malin Head
Malin Head is the northernmost point of Ireland and County Donegal.
It’s got stunning views of the rugged coastline and the wild Atlantic Ocean that will take your breath away.
Historically, it was used during WWII as a base for the British Royal Navy and later for maritime radio communication.
The peacefulness of the area, combined with its rich history, makes it a perfect spot to reflect and soak in the natural beauty.
Malin Well Old Church
Scheildren Mor
What to Wear in Ireland
For spring, late summer, or fall visits to Ireland, pack layers, including medium weight sweaters, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes for changing weather.
Don’t forget a scarf and umbrella for added warmth and rain protection.
After our 3+ hour drive from Ashford Castle to Slieve League, I realized I accidentally left the TWO jackets I had brought on our trip in the Ashford lobby ;0.
Thus – I had to wear my husband’s extra jacket for our walk up to the Slieve League views ;0.
Because it will be a decent walk (hike) – make sure you have good walking shoes on (and a bottle of water!!).
Our Full August 2024 Ireland Day to Day Overview
DAY 1 | Fly from San Diego to Shannon via London on British Airways
DAY 2 | Arrive in Shannon 8:30pm | Drive to Dromoland Castle Hotel
DAY 3 | Drive to Galway with stops at Cliffs of Moher, McGann’s Pub in Doolin for lunch, Corkscrew Hill, Dunguaire Castle | Stay at The g Hotel and Spa for 3 nights
DAY 4 | Galway: Spanish Arch, City Museum, Long Walk, Galway Cathedral, Westend live music at Crane Bar
DAY 5 | Galway: day trip through Connemara with stops at The Quiet Man Bridge, Clifden for lunch at Guys Bar, then drive the Sky Road and explore Clifden Castle ~ spend night back in Galway
DAY 6 | Drive to Cong in Connemara – stay at Ashford Castle for two nights
DAY 7 | Kylemore Abbey and Murrisk Abbey since R335 scenic drive from Leenaun to Louisburgh was closed
DAY 8 | Drive from Ashford Castle to Slieve League (3 hours) ~ spend night in Donegal at Lough Eske Castle
DAY 9 | Drive to Dublin with stop at Emerald Guitars in Donegal (3 hours) | Stay 4 nights at The Westbury Dublin
DAY 10 | Dublin: Kilmainhaul Gaol Museum, St Patrick’s Cathedral, wander streets of Temple Bar, Christ Church, live music at Cobblestone Bar, St Stephen’s Park, shopping on Grafton Street
DAY 11 | Dublin: Trinity College, Coldplay concert
DAY 12 | Dublin: Guinness Brewery tour, Roe & Co Irish Whiskey Distillery tour, dinner at The Hairy Lemon
DAY 13 | Fly Dublin to San Diego via London on British Airways
Our Full April 2009 Ireland Day to Day Overview
DAY 1 | Fly LAX to Dublin
DAY 2 | Arrive Dublin 8:30am
DAY 3 | Dublin: Trinity College, Guinness Brewery Tour
DAY 4 | Drive to Cork with stop at Rock of Cashel and Waterford Factory | Overnight in Cork
DAY 5 | Drive to Killarney: Blarney Castle and drive short portion of Ring of Kerry | Overnight in Killarney
DAY 6 | Drive to Shannon with stop at Bunratty Castle | Overnight for 2 nights at Dromoland Castle
DAY 7 | Visit Cliffs of Moher from Dromoland Castle
DAY 8 | Drive to Dublin with stop at Clonmacnois
DAY 9 | Fly Dublin to LAX
I hope you found this post for visiting Slieve League in Ireland.
Visiting Slieve League is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve left—the kind of place that makes you pause, breathe it all in, and feel truly alive.
Whether you’re standing at the edge of the cliffs, taking in the endless Atlantic views, or just enjoying the peaceful beauty of Ireland’s wild coastline, it’s a reminder that some of the best moments in life come from simply being present.
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Life is short, the world is wide.
I want to make some memories.
~Mamma Mia
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Have a wonderful day my friend! I hope something makes you smile today ;).
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