Experience the Magic of Ben Bulben

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | August 4, 2024

A Hiker’s Adventure in County Sligo, Ireland

Ben Bulben

In the heart of Yeats Country, Ben Bulben stands as one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains, a majestic flat-topped giant in the Dartry Mountains range. Known also as Benbulbin or Benbulben, this striking formation rises 517 meters (1,696 feet) above the valley below, offering stunning views of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Getting There
Our journey to Ben Bulben begins from Dublin with a three-hour drive northwest. Along the way, you’ll pass through a portion of Northern Ireland, so keep your passport and some UK pounds handy. Once you arrive in Sligo, GPS navigation might guide you down narrow country roads, or “boreens,” which are charmingly rustic but not wide enough for two cows to pass each other.

Luke’s Bridge Ben Bulben

The Hike
Starting from Luke’s Bridge, 5 km north of Drumcliff, the hike to the summit of Ben Bulben is considered of moderate difficulty to the hiking crowd. A rewarding challenge. The path winds through glacial tracks, wild gullies, and babbling streams, showcasing the rugged beauty of the landscape. Hiking boots are essential; experienced tour guides will insist on them, as the terrain can be quite demanding, especially in the boggy sections.

Ben Bulben Ram Staying Out of the Rain

The Ascent
Once you cross Luke’s Bridge, you begin the ascent up a paved road for nearly a mile. You’ll cross meadows dotted with peat bags, ready for collection to heat local homes. Sheep roam freely, adding to the pastoral charm, with rams keeping a watchful eye. The initial path is gentle, but soon you’ll feel the incline and approach the boggy areas. Waterproof pants and sturdy boots are crucial here once you hit the bog.

The final push to the summit involves a steep climb, but the effort is well worth it. On a clear day, which we did not have, the views from the top are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of Donegal Bay, Slieve League, and the Blue Stacks Mountains in County Donegal. Even on a misty day, the experience is magical, with the fog and mist adding a mystical quality to the landscape.