The cliffs at Slieve League (Irish: Sliabh Liag) tower almost 2000 feet over the Atlantic in County Donegal, and are said to be the highest in Europe. Less famous than the Cliffs of Moher located to the south in County Clare, Slieve League rises almost three times higher over sea. A trail follows the ridgeline summit, known as “One Man’s Path”, and is reputed to be one of the most remarkable walks in Ireland. While our visit to this site was shrouded in mist and clouds, it was nonetheless a stunning place to hike and a joy to photograph. This part of the Wild Atlantic Way indeed felt wild, remote, and spectacular.
A hiker takes in the amazing scenery from the Bunglas viewpoint.
A single photo cannot effectively convey the enormity and grandeur of Slieve League. This panoramic view was created using four images taken with a super wide angle lens and then merged together to capture this sweeping vista.
Sheep here seem to causally enjoy views of the misty cliffs from their high perches.
Another panoramic view taken from the side of the cliff close to a precipitous drop off.
Ferns, flowering shrubs, and other alpine-like plants cover the cliff top along the trail leading from Bunglas toward One Man's Path.
Several sheep were grazing near a small lake near the parking area at Bunglas.
Guardians of Slieve League?
We chose to spend the night in Teelin, a small village in a harbor known for fishing, diving, and traditional music. Our home for the night was "The Rusty Mackerel", a traditional Irish bar, restaurant, and lodging facility on the road way close to Slieve League.
When you enter the front door, you can go left into the bar (seen here) or you can go right into another bar room (seen below). The Rusty Mackerel seems a fitting name given its setting in a fishing village.
True to its reputation, the Rusty Mackerel was alive with a jam session of traditional Irish music all night, which did well to make us forget the gloomy weather that persisted all day long.
In what has become tradition for us when touring Ireland, a delicious Guinness awaits at the end of the day!