Sli na Rosann

​

Start/End Points: Dunglow (OSI Map 1, Grid ref: B769 114) Loop walk (This route goes through multiple towns so starting points may vary depending on individual preference.)

​

Access: Dunglow and other towns on this route are accessible by local bus services. Parking is also available in Dunglow, with most towns on the route (if not all) having parking facilities for those with their own transport.

​

Hike Distance: 65km 

​

Time to complete hike: 2/3 days

​

Difficulty level of Hike: Moderate. The vast majority of this hike is on roadways with only a small proportion on grass land. The route is also relatively flat and has only 890m of total ascents and descents. 

​

Accommodation: Accommodation ​is usually easily got in this part of Donegal as some of the towns you pass through (particularly on the western side of the hike) are popular with tourists. In the summer months some of these towns have festivals, so it is important to pre-book accommodation if your hike clashes with any of these dates. The eastern side of the route is sparsely populated so accommodation options are limited. Given that the majority of this walk is on road, wild camping options are also limited (again it is important to seek landowners permission before doing so). Dedicated camp sites are available though - Accommodation

​

Notable features and additional info: The route is marked with yellow way markers on a black background. Your trip itinerary and schedule will usually be based on where you decide to begin this hike. Most people begin in Dunglow and head in a clockwise direction travelling along the west coast of the Sli na Rosann.  

Although not the most spectacular of hikes as the majority of walking is done on local roads, this leg of the Sli Dhun na nGall is the perfect opportunity to take in some of Donegal's local culture. Pubs in many of the towns you pass through have live traditional music during most nights of the summer months. There are also some great restaurants to enjoy, in addition to having the option to get the ferry across to Arranmore island from Burtonport.  This may mean extending your hike by a day or 2, but is well worth it and allows your feet some respite from the road walking.

​

Appropriate hiking footwear and clothing is advised, weather is very changeable in Ireland so wet gear should also be at hand. Be sure to pack sufficient food and water for each leg of your hike and have the necessary navigational aids including appropriate maps (OSI Map 1) and compass. Spare clothing and emergency contact numbers are also advisable. Midges are a problem in Donegal during the summer months so it will likely be necessary to have the appropriate spray/cream at hand. More Info