On my recent trip to further exploring Western Ireland, I finally got to see the magnanimous Table mountain, Benbulben in the scenic County of Sligo. A mesmerizing creation in this picturesque county is hard to miss. It is also one of the most famous spot to visit in Sligo. When I got here, I tried looking for some unique places with spectacular views of Benbulben to escape the touristy crowd. Here are some spots to view Benbulben from!
As soon as you enter Sligo
It is hard to miss! As soon as you enter Sligo, you will get an uninterrupted view of it right in front of you. You can obviously not stop on the side of the highway as there is no space to pull over. However, if you drive a little ahead from the sign where it says Gleniff Horseshoe drive going towards Sligo Abbey, on the left you’ll see enough space to park on the side and admire at the first sight of this beauty. You could also take the Benbulben and Kings mountain loop walk which takes about half a day.
Gleniff Horse Shoe Drive
On your way to Mullaghmore, turn to the right at the sign board saying Gleniff Horseshoe drive. I would suggest not going all the way where the drive ends. This road is usually not very crowded and if you can take a chance, stop right after you cross the water treatment plant near the mountain on the side of the road. When I got here, there was no one behind me or miles away, so I stopped. Only 10 minutes later I had a couple of vehicles stop right behind me! This is the best view of the mountain in my opinion. The sun was shining right above it and as I drove closer just enough to avoid the sun, I got some really good pictures of it!
Benbulben Forest Walk
Follow the sign that says, Benbulben Forest Walk. I drove here almost after sunset and it still looked magnificent. This drive is pretty quiet, the road is narrow and unkept. I parked my car right in the drive way of a house on the way and walked on the road towards a good spot near the mountain. There are so many places and angles in which you can view this mountain. It will all be covered in the loop walk if you decide to do it.
While driving from Glencar Waterfall
Glencar Waterfalls are the most easily accessible and beautiful falls. But even more beautiful is the view of the mountain while drive back from the falls. You’ll get to see it from the right side once you leave the falls. The view of the Glencar Lake and the Mountain is pretty gorgeous. You can grab some tea or coffee in the cafe near falls and enjoy some secluded time by the lake with a gorgeous view of the mountain.
Mullaghmore Beach
Mullaghomore is a very small fishing village and a very popular tourist spot about 30 minutes away from Sligo. It is absolutely pristine and the view of Mt Benbulben from the beach is unimaginable. I didn’t think the mountain would be visible even from here. Now that is what makes this mountain so remarkable! A walk by this beach is one dreamy walk. With the view of the bay and the mountain on the right. On my way back just as I was leaving the village it took me through R279 towards N15 where the view of the Classiebawn Castle and Benbulben were unbelievable.
Streedagh Point
Apart from being a great spot for a walk, it is another one of my favorites to view Benbulben from. Benbulben sits right behind the beach. Around 20 minutes away from Sligo abbey, you get an uninterrupted view of it. It was a nice and sunny day when I got here and the sun was right above Benbulben which made it a little less photo friendly. However, close to the sunset time it got just better.
Strandhill Beach
Located to the west of Sligo, I absolutely loved this place. Not only do you get to see a lovely sunset but the humongous Benbulben on the right. I was amazed at the fact that I could see Benbulben right from the patio of my Airbnb. You could explore the Strandhill beach area and pick up your favorite spot to view or take pictures of Benbulben. On the right side of the beach, you’ll see the trail from the parking lot. If you keep walking straight following the trail a quaint view of the beach and Benbulben is awaiting.
Slieve League Cliffs
This one’s my most favorite, probably because these are my most favorite cliffs in Ireland. When I got here for the second time, the sky was clear and sun was shining and Benbulben was right in front of me! It was a beautiful sight and made me appreciate the creation of the World even more. Considering Donegal is about 3 hours drive away from Sligo to further North West, the cliffs wrap right in front of Sligo giving a spectacular view of Benbulben in distant on a clear day.
The closer vistas of Benbulben are sure captivating but the distant views are equally incredible and mind boggling. Hope you enjoyed my list of these sweeping spots to view Benbulben from. Do let me know how you find them, if you ever visit them!
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