Overview
Cloonacool (Irish: Cluain na Cúile, “the meadow at the back”) sits quietly 15 km southwest of Coolaney, at the foot of the rugged Ox Mountains. The village is cradled by the confluence of three rivers – the River Moy, the Mad River and the River Berna – creating a lush, river‑lined landscape that feels both secluded and connected. While the settlement itself is modest, its position makes it an ideal base for exploring the natural and cultural attractions of north‑west Sligo.
History & Background
The name Cluain na Cúile hints at the area’s agricultural roots; historically the meadow behind the village provided grazing for livestock. Over the centuries, the surrounding hills and river valleys have supported a farming community that still celebrates its heritage through events such as the annual Cloonacool Sheep Festival each September. Though the village does not host a medieval castle, the nearby Cashelore stone fort – a 5th‑10th century farmstead built to protect animals and families – testifies to the long‑standing human presence in the region.
What to See & Do
Walking & Nature
- Ox Mountains foothills – Gentle slopes rise immediately behind the village, offering several marked walking routes. The Cloonacool Loop (2 km, easy) follows the riverbanks and provides views over the three rivers. For a longer trek, the Ox Mountain Ridge Trail (8 km, moderate) climbs to a viewpoint overlooking the Moy valley.
- Ballintogher Walking Trail – A short drive north brings you to the Ballintogher trail, a hedgerow‑lined path dotted with information signs about native flora and fauna. The trail opens onto vistas of Slish Wood and the distant Lough Gill.
- Slish Wood (8 km) – Located 4.6 km from Ballintogher, this former oak forest now skirts the shore of Lough Gill. A looped lakeside walk, a small river, and a picnic area make it a pleasant spot for a relaxed afternoon.
- Lake Isle of Innisfree – About 6 km from Ballintogher, the island that inspired W.B. Yeats’ famous poem is accessible via the Sligo Way boardwalk. It forms part of the Yeats Trail (see the Yeats Trail No. 09 – Innisfree).
Heritage
- Cashelore Stone Fort – Just outside Ballintogher, a sign‑posted path leads to this well‑preserved cashel. Its 23 m east‑west diameter and 3 m thick walls offer a tangible glimpse of early medieval rural life. The site includes a partially blocked entrance and remnants of a souterrain discovered in an 1891 record.
Community & Culture
- Cloonacool Sheep Festival – Held each September, the festival showcases traditional sheep‑farming practices, local crafts, and live music. It is a community‑run event that provides an authentic taste of rural Sligo life.
- Ballintogher Traditional Music Festival – Though centred in the neighbouring village, this October/November celebration honours local flute player John Egan and features céilí dancing, set‑dancing nights and pub sessions.
- The Innisfree Bar – A well‑known public house in Ballintogher, offering live music and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
Outdoor Activities
Fishing & Angling
The River Moy is renowned for salmon and sea trout, and its upper reaches near Cloonacool provide easy access points for anglers. The quieter Mad River and River Berna are stocked with brown trout and are popular with families and novice anglers. Angling licences can be purchased at local tackle shops in Ballintogher or online via the Irish Angling website.
Cycling & Bike Week
Cloonacool lies on a section of the Sligo Bike Week route, a county‑wide series of rides that showcase Sligo’s scenic backroads and mountain‑bike trails. The village’s proximity to the Coolaney mountain‑bike trail (featured in the hero image) makes it a convenient stop for cyclists to refuel, stretch, and enjoy the riverside picnic area. The trail offers a mix of forest tracks and single‑track sections suitable for intermediate riders.
Family‑Friendly Trails
Most of the local walks are dog‑friendly and several routes, such as the Cloonacool Loop, are suitable for push‑chairs and strollers. The Ballintogher playground and nearby Friends of Lough Gill nature trail provide safe, low‑impact activities for young children.
Nearby Attractions
- Benbulben Forest Walk – A 5 km loop that circles the iconic tabletop mountain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. See the dedicated page Benbulben Forest Walk.
- Lough Gill & Hazelwood Forest – Just a short drive north, the lake and forest are ideal for birdwatching (especially the rare red‑billed chough) and gentle lakeside walks.
- Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – One of Ireland’s largest prehistoric sites, located 15 km east of Cloonacool. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Neolithic life.
- Accommodation – While Cloonacool itself has limited lodging, the nearby village of Ballintogher offers several B&Bs and self‑catering cottages, many within walking distance of the walking trails.
Practical Information
Getting There
Cloonacool is most easily reached by road via the Ballina road (R297) and the junction leading to Tubbercurry. Public transport is limited, but the TFI Local Link bus 566 runs between Sligo and Dowra, stopping at nearby Ballintogher. The service runs several trips daily.
| Service | Route | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bus 566 (Local Link) | Sligo ↔ Dowra (via Ballintogher) | Several trips daily |
For the latest timetable, visit the Local Link website.
Amenities
- Parking – Free roadside parking is available in the village centre and at the Ballintogher playground area.
- Playground – The Ballintogher playground, a short walk from Cloonacool, offers slides, climbing frames and swings, making it a convenient stop for families.
- Community Facilities – The Ballintogher Enterprise Centre provides a remote‑working hub, and the community hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
- Dog‑friendly – Most walking routes and the riverside picnic area welcome dogs on a leash.
Contact & Online Resources
- Website: Cloonacool page on Choose Sligo
- Phone: 074 974 1644 (Local Link information line)
- Wikipedia: Cloonacool – Wikipedia
Best Time to Visit
The village’s festivals – the Sheep Festival in September and the Traditional Music Festival in late October/early November – provide cultural highlights. Spring and early summer bring vibrant wildflowers to the surrounding hills, while autumn colours enhance the river valleys. Anglers favour late summer for salmon runs, and cyclists enjoy the milder weather of May‑June.
Cloonacool may be small, but its position at the crossroads of rivers, mountains and historic sites makes it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring County Sligo. Whether you’re tracing ancient stone forts, strolling along lake‑side paths, or joining a community celebration, the village offers a genuine slice of Irish rural life.