Lough Talt – Glacial Lake and Scenic Walk in South Sligo

Overview

Lough Talt (Irish: Loch tÁilt) is a glacial lake set in the Ox Mountains of south County Sligo. Sitting at roughly 152 m above sea level, the lake stretches over about 79 ha and reaches a maximum depth of 20 m. The water drains via the Lough Talt River into the River Moy, linking the lake to a wider network of Sligo’s waterways. Its remote position between the villages of Tubbercurry and Bonniconlon makes it a natural focal point for walkers, anglers and water‑sport enthusiasts.

History & Landscape

The lake lies within the Lough Hoe Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a protected expanse of montane bogland and oligotrophic lakes. Lough Talt is the largest lake in this SAC and supports a range of sensitive habitats.

Archaeological surveys have identified two crannogs – ancient artificial islands used for habitation – on the lake’s surface, hinting at human activity dating back to the Iron Age.

A lesser‑known episode of Irish history unfolded in the valley that skirts Lough Talt. During the 1798 rebellion, General Jean‑Joseph Amable Humbert led his French forces through the area on the way to Longford. Three French soldiers fell in the Lough Talt valley and are buried at the Old Gorterslin road (often referred to as French Man’s Grave) and on the Bonniconlon side of the gap near the site known locally as French Man’s Bridge.

Nature & Conservation

The lake’s clear, oligotrophic waters support a diverse fish community: brown trout dominate, while Arctic char, three‑spined stickleback, perch and the critically endangered European eel also occur. White‑clawed crayfish have been recorded, and otters are regular visitors.

The surrounding marshes host the threatened wetland snail Vertigo geyeri. Birdwatchers can expect swans, ducks, dippers and, historically, large gull colonies that once nested on the islands.

Walking the Lakeshore

The 8 km Lough Talt Walk is graded moderate and circles the entire perimeter. The route begins at a roadside car park – often the same space used by the Lough Talt Inn – and follows a well‑marked lakeshore track. The first kilometre hugs the water, offering uninterrupted views of the lake’s glassy surface and the surrounding peaks of the Ox Mountains.

After the northern edge, walkers briefly join the R294 road before turning left onto a gentle ascent that rewards with panoramic vistas over the bogland and the distant River Moy. A short, sign‑posted detour through a forested strip provides a shaded perspective of the lake before the trail descends back to the starting point.

Alternative shorter loop

A 5.5 km (3.4 mi) loop is also popular; it starts from the southern car park, follows the western lakeshore and returns via a short road section. This option reduces the time on the R294 and is useful for families or those with limited daylight.

Suggested gear – sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket and, for dog walkers, a leash (especially near farmland).

Dog Friendly

The walk is dog‑friendly year‑round, but owners should keep pets on a leash near livestock and respect the wildlife, particularly during the breeding season for ground‑nesting birds.

Wildlife Watching

(See Nature & Conservation above for species details.)

Angling & Water Sports

Lough Talt is a recognised trout fishery. Anglers can target brown trout and the rarer Arctic char from the shore or a small craft. The lake also accommodates rowing, kayaking, stand‑up paddleboarding (SUP) and open‑water swimming. A modest boat launch is situated beside the Lough Talt Inn; the launch is accessed on foot (approximately 5 m from the water’s edge) and is suitable for smaller vessels – there is no formal ramp.

Nearby Walks & Attractions

The lake marks the southern trailhead of the Sligo Way, a long‑distance path that continues north‑east through the county and finishes in Dromahair, County Leitrim. For those seeking additional short walks, the Aclare Road and Forest Walk and the neighbouring Lough Easkey are both a short drive away.

Further afield, a visit to the expansive Lough Conn offers the atmospheric remains of the ancient Errew Abbey. The historic Carrowkeel Megalithic Complex lies a short distance to the north‑west and makes an interesting side‑trip for archaeology enthusiasts.

Practical Information

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) and follow it for about 13 km; the lake becomes visible as you crest the Ox Mountains. A left turn onto a narrow lane leads to the car park beside the inn.

Facilities – The car park is free and provides space for a handful of cars. There are no public toilets directly at the lake; the nearest amenities are in Tubbercurry. The Lough Talt Inn offers refreshments and a small shop where you can purchase basic supplies.

Seasonality – The walk is open year‑round. Water levels can fluctuate in late summer, but the trail remains usable. Angling is most productive from spring through early autumn.

Safety notes – A short section of the route follows the R294 road, which can carry fast‑moving traffic, especially on weekends. Walkers should remain alert and keep to the designated footpath where it exists. The forest detour, added in recent years, reduces the length of road walking to roughly 1 km.

Lough Talt delivers a blend of natural beauty, quiet recreation and a touch of Irish history, making it a rewarding destination for day‑trippers and seasoned walkers alike.