Overview
Glencar Valley stretches across the border of County Leitrim and County Sligo in north‑west Ireland. Carved by the last Ice Age into a classic U‑shaped glacial trough, the valley cradles two very different waterfalls: the intimate 15 m Glencar Waterfall that tumbles into a green pool, and the soaring 150 m Devil’s Chimney – Ireland’s tallest waterfall – which drops from the limestone cliffs of the Dartry Mountains. The cascade‑fed Glencar Lake (Glencar Lough) mirrors the sky, while the iconic Benbulben plateau looms on the horizon, completing a landscape that has inspired poets, painters and photographers alike.
History & Background
The valley’s geological story is ancient, with Carboniferous limestone cliffs and glacial deposits shaping today’s dramatic scenery. The Devil’s Chimney, known in Irish as Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (“stream against the height”), earned its modern name from a wind‑driven illusion that makes the water appear to rise like smoke. Historically the area is a Special Area of Conservation, protecting otters, peregrine falcons and yew trees that may be up to a thousand years old.
In the late 19th century W.B. Yeats visited the Glencar Waterfall, later immortalising the “wandering water” of the valley in his 1889 ballad The Stolen Child. The poet’s footsteps have become a literary trail that still draws writers and dreamers to the same moss‑covered rocks.
What to See & Do
- Glencar Waterfall (15 m) – A short, paved trail from the car park leads to an elevated viewing platform where the cascade’s roar can be heard up close.
- Devil’s Chimney (150 m) – Follow the 2.5 km loop (ascent 130 m, counter‑clockwise recommended) to the main viewing platform beneath the sheer drop. On windy days the water seems to flow upward, creating the signature “chimney” effect.
- Glencar Lake – Walk a few minutes from the falls to the lake’s edge for swan‑spotting, salmon‑fishing (permits required) or water‑sports. Local operators such as Sligo Kayak Tours and Sligo Bay SUP rent kayaks and paddle‑boards.
- Glencar Hill Walk – A 7 km moderate loop starting at the Doneen and Hudson Trailhead, offering sweeping views of Sligo Bay, Knocknarea and the Leitrim Hills.
- Bog Road Trail – A quieter 2‑hour circuit that weaves through peat‑land and opens onto panoramic valley vistas.
- Literary Trail – Follow the path that inspired Yeats, pausing at the waterfall platform to imagine the verses that were born here.
- Wildlife & Ancient Yews – Keep an eye out for otters along the streams, peregrine falcons overhead, and the twisted yew trees clinging to the steep slopes.
- Benbulben Forest Walk – Short walks from the valley give close views of the limestone monolith that dominates the skyline.
- TeaSHED Café – Situated beside the car park, it serves freshly roasted coffee, sandwiches and locally crafted pastries with outdoor seating.
- Picnic & Playground – Designated tables and a small children’s playground make the site ideal for family outings.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening | Open year‑round, free entry |
| Parking | Spacious free car park beside the main trailhead (fills quickly at peak times) |
| Main Trailheads | Glencar Waterfall car park (paved path to waterfall & lake) and roadside car‑park for Devil’s Chimney loop |
| Trail Markings | Devil’s Chimney loop marked with green arrows on a white background; includes a kissing gate at the start |
| Difficulty | Glencar Waterfall – easy, paved; Devil’s Chimney – moderate 2.5 km loop with 130 m ascent; Glencar Hill Walk – moderate 7 km |
| Facilities | TeaSHED Café, picnic tables, children’s playground, benches at viewpoints |
| Nearby Attractions | Yeats’s grave in Drumcliffe, Benbulben plateau, other Dartry Mountain walks |
Tip: The best time to view the Devil’s Chimney’s upward‑blowing water is after a strong southerly wind and following a good rain, when the stream is flowing.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Glencar Valley area, consider visiting these nearby Leitrim highlights:
- Acres Lake – Boardwalk and Visitor Centre – A scenic lake with a floating boardwalk and interpretive displays.
- Battlebridge – Riverside camping, a historic bridge, and outdoor adventure activities.
- Creevelea Abbey – Ruins of a 16th‑century Franciscan abbey set in tranquil countryside.
- Dromod – A charming riverside village with railway heritage and boat trips on the Shannon.
- Drumkeeran – A small village offering access to walking routes and local crafts.
Enjoy the blend of poetic heritage, dramatic geology and outdoor adventure that makes Glencar Valley a memorable destination in Ireland.