Hidden gem cliffs ‘at the edge of the world’ ignored for famous neighbour | UK | Travel
Ireland boasts the Wild Atlantic Way, a remarkable 2,600 km coastal touring route stretching from Malin Head to Kinsale, and this location forms a truly magnificent section of it.
In Donegal, walkers can experience the splendour of the coastline on this route that provides a notable cliff walk. Slieve League comprises a collection of cliffs that rank amongst the tallest marine cliffs across Europe, with sections soaring beyond 600 metres in height.
It represents a considerably less busy portion of the magnificent route compared to destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare and the Ring of Kerry.
Upon reaching the summit, you’ll sense as though you’re positioned “at the edge of the world”, with the magnificent Atlantic Ocean’s waves thundering below you.
A visitor said on TripAdvisor: “There is a hike that requires a medium level of fitness that takes roughly 4 hours from the car park to complete. Or you can walk up to the viewpoint and back within 90 minutes.”
“The views all along are spectacular. The path is clear but gets close to the edge, and there is no barrier.”
The adventure starts at the Slieve League Cliffs Centre in County Donegal, where you can either opt to drive up to the primary viewpoint or use the car park and embark on your extended meandering trek up to the stunning cliff edge. Throughout the route you’ll encounter natural vistas that you’ll only see in Ireland, even before you arrive at the peak.
Upon arriving at the viewpoint, the landscape becomes somewhat rockier, making it essential to come equipped with appropriate footwear and attire. However, for seasoned hikers, tackling the route via Pilgrim’s Path is highly recommended, taking you across One Man’s Pass – whilst challenging, the vistas provide the ultimate payoff.
A recent visitor documented their journey, stating: “An amazing beauty to see! We did a three-day tour of Donegal, and this was a must-see sight! You are way up on a cliff, but for those afraid of heights, it is safe, and you can see a lot without being close to the edge of a cliff! Great family adventure for all ages!”.
For those less enthusiastic about trekking, worry not; the magnificent cliffs can be just as thoroughly appreciated from below, within the Atlantic waters. A Slieve League Boat Tour will navigate you around the cliff face whilst you discover the history embedded within them, stopping at hidden coves nestled beneath along the journey.
Accompanying you in the waters may well be sharks, dolphins and seals all enjoying the ocean. Whilst gazing upwards in wonder at the towering cliffs in their full majesty, observers peering downwards will see merely minuscule specks in the sea.
Following the boat excursion, one tourist commented: “Great way to spend a few hours; the views of the cliffs are spectacular. The crew and staff are really friendly and full of local knowledge mixed with the usual Donegal humour. Price is ridiculously cheap given the experience.”









