Attractions and Places To See around Cleggan - Top 18
Best attractions and places to see around Cleggan include a mix of natural features and historical sites. This picturesque fishing village on the Connemara coastline in County Galway, Ireland, offers diverse attractions. Visitors can explore significant landmarks and engaging cultural sites, alongside striking natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its coastal environment and historical monuments.
Best attractions and places to see around Cleggan
- The most popular attractions is Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), a trail that leads across impressive moorland to a summit plateau. The trail is about 7.5 kilometers and leads to 665 meters above sea level, offering wide moors and barren rocky landscapes.
- Another must-see spot is Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, a historical site featuring megalithic tombs. These monuments are known locally as "the giant's grave" and are part of a larger historical narrative.
- Visitors also love Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones, an incredible Stone-Age park with massive mythological sacred stones. This site offers technical trails and a unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
- Cleggan is known for trails, historical sites, and natural monuments. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient burial sites to scenic boardwalks.
- The attractions around Cleggan are appreciated by the komoot community, with 29 upvotes and 51 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Follow a wooden walkway that leads across the impressive moorland and up to the summit plateau. From the end of the boardwalk, it's about two kilometers to the tomb.
From the summit you either hike on the Ulster Way towards Gortalughany or turn around.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
Highlight • Parking
Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Florence Court
Highlight • Forest
The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
Tip by
Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Cleggan.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
0
0
Incredible Stone-Age park, with some technical trails. Massive mythological sacred stones worshipped over centuries, will follow you when adventuring into this unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
0
0
Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
2
0
Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
2
0
Strenuous but rewarding path on footbridges over the high moor. Pretty well known through insta, so sm best come first thing in the morning
1
0
Many of Ireland’s megalithic monuments—portal tombs, court cairns, or wedge tombs such as this one—are known locally as “the giant’s grave.” But this one, on a hilltop in Co. Cavan’s Burren Forest Park, has a giant story to go along with its name. According to Harold Johnson, from the nearby town of Blacklion, the giant, attempting to impress a lady, failed in his final attempt to jump the nearby chasm, which is, of course, called “The Giant’s Leap.” Harold Johnson relates this story in some detail, while seated on the Giant’s Grave, in the video, below right. Mr. Johnson also was our guide, and provided the narration, for our feature on the Killinagh Cursing Stones, located on the opposite side of the town of Blacklion. (https://voicesfromthedawn.com/burren-giants-grave/)
4
0
Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a wonderful Georgian mansion surrounded by picturesque countryside. The first house was built by John Cole at the beginning of the 18th century and named after his wife, Florence. The Cole family lived in the house for over 250 years. Today, the estate is managed by the National Trust. There are over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore the grounds. You can visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that reveal the area's industrial heritage. There's also a beautiful Irish yew tree, Florence Court Yew, which is one of two original Irish Yew discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens and forest.
1
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural attractions can I explore around Cleggan?
Cleggan is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the dramatic Cleggan Cliffs for stunning Atlantic views and seabird spotting. Sellerna Beach offers a beautiful spot for swimming, while Omey Strand provides an expansive sandy stretch connecting to Omey Island at low tide. The surrounding landscape is also characterized by unique blanket bog, supporting distinct plant species. For a more structured experience, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) offers a walk across impressive moorland to a summit plateau with breathtaking views.
Are there any historical sites or ancient monuments near Cleggan?
Yes, Cleggan boasts several significant historical sites. Explore the remains of a watchtower on Cleggan Head, built in 1816, offering panoramic views. The Cleggan Disaster Memorial Cross at Omey Strand commemorates a tragic fishing event. For ancient history, visit the Knockbrack Megalithic Tomb, a Neolithic wedge tomb behind Sallerna Beach, or the well-preserved Cleggan Court Tomb dramatically set on a cliff edge on the north banks of Cleggan Bay. Additionally, Omey Island, accessible at low tide, holds the ruins of Teampall Féichin, a medieval church.
What outdoor activities are popular around Cleggan?
Beyond exploring the attractions, Cleggan is a great base for outdoor activities. You can enjoy pony trekking on local beaches from the Cleggan Beach Riding Centre, or try deep-sea angling and island trips by hiring boats from Cleggan Pier. For cycling enthusiasts, there are various routes, including those detailed in the Cycling around Cleggan guide. Hikers can find trails like the Cuilcagh Way, with more options available in the Hiking around Cleggan guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Cleggan area?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy pony trekking at the Cleggan Beach Riding Centre, which offers rides on local beaches. Exploring Omey Island at low tide, either on foot or by car, is an adventure in itself, with its expansive strand and archaeological ruins. The beautiful Sellerna Beach is perfect for swimming. While not directly in Cleggan, Florence Court, a magnificent 18th-century country estate, offers lush parkland and woodlands with hiking and bike trails, and is considered family-friendly.
Where can I find unique geological or archaeological sites?
For unique geological and archaeological experiences, visit Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones. This incredible Stone-Age park features massive mythological sacred stones and technical trails within a distinctive forest landscape. Another fascinating site is Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, a historical site with megalithic tombs known locally as 'the giant's grave,' located in the Burren Forest.
What are the best viewpoints for scenic photography around Cleggan?
For breathtaking panoramic views, hike up to Cleggan Head, where you can see the village, surrounding islands like High Island, Crowe, Shark, Bofin, Turk, and Clare, as well as the Twelve Bens and the hills of Mayo. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) also leads to a summit plateau offering a spectacular vista over wide moors and barren rocky landscapes.
How can I access the islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk from Cleggan?
Cleggan serves as the main port for daily ferry services to the vibrant islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk. You can catch a ferry from Cleggan Pier to explore these popular tourist destinations.
Are there any challenging hikes or trails for experienced walkers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) is an intermediate trail that leads across impressive moorland to a summit plateau, reaching 665 meters above sea level. The trail is approximately 7.5 kilometers long and offers a strenuous but rewarding experience. More difficult hiking options can be found in the Hiking around Cleggan guide, such as the Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop.
What is the best time of year to visit Cleggan for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Cleggan for outdoor activities generally aligns with the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is more favorable for hiking, cycling, beach activities, and ferry trips to the islands. However, the dramatic coastal scenery can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a unique atmosphere.
Where can I find parking for attractions around Cleggan?
For attractions like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, dedicated parking is available at Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park. This is an ideal starting point for the hike, with spaces for various vehicles. A parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros is typically required, payable in cash to the steward. For other attractions, parking availability may vary, often found near village centers or designated areas for popular sites.
What is the significance of Cleggan Pier?
Cleggan Pier is a central hub in the village, originally built in 1822 and extended in 1908. It serves as a base for local fishing and boating activities. Crucially, it is the departure point for daily ferries to the popular islands of Inishbofin and Inishturk, making it a vital link for island visitors and a focal point of village life.
Are there any unique cultural events in Cleggan?
Cleggan is known for the annual and unique Omey Races, a horse racing event held directly on Omey Strand during low tide. This traditional event offers a distinctive cultural experience. Additionally, local pubs in the village often feature a lively traditional music scene, providing an authentic taste of Irish culture.
Most popular attractions around Cleggan
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
