Overview
Lough Talt (Irish: Loch tÁilt) sits high in the Ox Mountains of south County Sligo, roughly halfway between the villages of Tubbercurry and Bonniconlon. Carved out by ancient glaciers, the lake rests at about 152 metres above sea level, spans nearly 79 hectares, and plunges to a maximum depth of 20 metres. Its clear waters eventually feed the Lough Talt River, which joins the wider River Moy catchment. Beyond its scenic setting, the lake plays a practical role as a primary drinking water source for much of south Sligo, a responsibility that has driven recent multi-year upgrades to the local water treatment plant.
Landscape & History
The lake forms the centrepiece of the Lough Hoe Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a protected expanse of montane bogland and oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) lakes. Archaeological surveys have located two crannógs – ancient artificial islands built for habitation – resting just beneath the surface, pointing to human activity in the area stretching back to the Iron Age.
The valley around Lough Talt also holds a quieter, more recent chapter of Irish history. In 1798, General Jean-Joseph Amable Humbert marched his French expeditionary force through the Lough Talt valley en route to Longford. At least three French soldiers perished in the rugged terrain and are buried at two local sites: one on the Old Gorterslin road overlooking the lake (known as French Man’s Grave), and another on the Bonniconlon side of the gap near a crossing called French Man’s Bridge. A plaque at the Gorterslin site commemorates those who died while marching to join Irish rebel forces.
Nature & Conservation
The lake’s nutrient-poor waters host a specialised aquatic ecosystem. Brown trout are the dominant fish, but the lake is also one of the few remaining habitats in Ireland for the threatened Arctic char. Three-spined stickleback, perch, and the critically endangered European eel have also been recorded. The surrounding marshes and clear shallows support a population of the endangered white-clawed crayfish, while otters are frequent visitors to the shoreline.
Birdwatchers will find swans, wild ducks, and dippers along the banks. Historically, one of the lake’s islands supported a colony of several hundred common and black-headed gulls, though numbers have since declined. The wetland snail Vertigo geyeri, considered threatened across Europe, thrives in the lakeshore marshes, underscoring the ecological importance of the SAC designation.
Walking the Lakeshore
The primary route around Lough Talt is an 8 km moderate walk that takes roughly two hours to complete, with a total ascent of just 70 m. The trail is unwaymarked but follows a clear lakeshore track for the majority of the circuit.
Starting from the roadside car park near the Lough Talt Inn, the first section hugs the water, offering uninterrupted views across the lake and the surrounding Ox Mountain peaks. Upon reaching the northern edge, the path briefly follows the R294 road before turning left onto a gentle uphill track. This section opens up to panoramic views over the bogland and distant valleys. A signposted right turn leads through a quiet forested strip, providing a shaded vantage point over the water before the trail descends back to the car park.
Tips for walkers:
- Wear sturdy hiking boots; the lakeshore track can be muddy, especially after rain.
- A short section of the route shares the R294, which can be busy. Stay alert and keep to the edge where no footpath exists.
- The forest detour is well-signposted and helps reduce time spent on the road.
- Dogs are welcome year-round, but keep them leashed near livestock and during ground-nesting bird season (roughly March to July).
Angling & Water Sports
Lough Talt is a recognised trout fishery and draws anglers targeting both brown trout and the elusive Arctic char. Fishing is permitted from the shore or small craft, but an Irish Angling Licence is mandatory. The lake also accommodates rowing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and open-water swimming.
For those bringing small boats, a modest launch point sits beside the Lough Talt Inn. There is no formal ramp; access is on foot, dropping roughly 5 metres to the water’s edge. It’s suitable for lightweight dinghies, kayaks, and paddleboards, but not for larger vessels.
Practical Information
- Trail length: 8 km (full circuit)
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Waymarking: None (follow the lakeshore track and road signs)
- Parking: Free roadside car park at the Lough Talt Inn (limited spaces)
- Facilities: No public toilets at the lake. The Lough Talt Inn offers refreshments and basic supplies.
- Getting there: From Sligo, take the N4 toward Dublin, then the N17 at Coolooney toward Galway. At Tubbercurry, turn right onto the R294 (signposted Ballina). After about 13 km, the lake appears over the brow of the hill. Turn left onto a narrow lane to reach the car park.
- Navigation: A GPX file is available on GPS-Routes.co.uk. The official trail guide can be found on Sligo Walks.
- Seasonality: Open year-round. Water levels may drop slightly in late summer, but the trail remains passable. Angling is most productive from spring through early autumn.
Mobile signal can be patchy in the Ox Mountains, so downloading a map or GPX file before setting out is advisable. If you plan to combine the walk with a visit to the nearby French Man’s Grave or the Gorterslin Road trail, allow an extra hour for parking and navigation.