Slieve League

Slieve League is a mountain in County Donegal with sea cliffs that rise over 600 meters (2,000 feet) above the Atlantic, creating a dramatic natural wall along Ireland's northwestern coast. The granite rock face spans several kilometers and drops steeply to the ocean below, forming one of the tallest coastal cliff formations in the country.

The mountain paths lead to remains of early Christian sites, with stone structures from the sixth century marking ancient pilgrimage routes across the landscape. These religious remnants suggest the area held spiritual importance for believers traveling through the northwestern region.

Local residents maintain centuries-old traditions of sheep farming on the mountain slopes, contributing to the preservation of regional agricultural practices.

Several hiking trails with different difficulty levels provide access to various heights and coastal views along the mountain. The best time to visit is during warmer months when ground conditions are safer and the paths are easier to walk.

A natural amphitheater called Little Lough Agh on the mountain's north face shelters rare alpine plants in protected microclimates found nowhere else in the region. This isolated setting creates an unusual ecosystem with species typically found in areas much farther south.

Location: County Donegal

Elevation above the sea: 601 m

GPS coordinates: 54.65166,-8.70721

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:00