Attractions and Places To See around Leitrim Upper - Top 20

Leitrim Upper is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Mourne Wall, a 35-kilometer stone wall built in the early 20th century, offering both historical significance and excellent ridge walks. Another notable historical trail is the Brandy Pad, an old smugglers' route through the Mourne Mountains. Beyond these, the region features sites like the beautifully restored 17th-century Parke's Castle on Lough Gill, the medieval Creevelea Abbey, and the unique Arigna Mining Experience, which offers an underground tour of a former coal mine.

Yes, Leitrim Upper offers several attractions suitable for families. While the Hare's Gap trail is listed as family-friendly, offering dramatic views, it can be challenging. For a more relaxed experience, consider the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Dromod, which provides a journey back in time with restored locomotives. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk in Drumshanbo is also a unique and accessible option for a stroll above the water, part of the wider Shannon Blueway.

The region boasts stunning natural beauty. Beyond the prominent peaks mentioned in the guide's introduction, you can explore Glencar Waterfall, immortalized by W.B. Yeats, which is particularly impressive after rainfall. Fowley's Falls in Rossinver offers a series of cascades. For expansive views, consider the wild and rugged Sliabh an Iarainn (Mountain of Iron) or the tranquil Glenade Lake and Valley, nestled among the Dartry mountain range. Truskmore, the highest point in County Leitrim, also offers unique alpine flora.

Leitrim Upper is a fantastic destination for hikers, offering a range of trails from moderate to difficult. You can find challenging routes like the Mourne Wall Challenge, which covers over 34 kilometers, or explore trails around Slieve Doan via Lough Shanna. For more options, including routes around Slieve Binnian, you can find detailed hiking guides at Hiking around Leitrim Upper.

Absolutely. The region around Leitrim Upper offers diverse cycling routes. You can find moderate routes like 'Route 6 - The Head Road Route' or 'The Head Road Route' itself, which are around 25-29 kilometers. For an easier ride, the 'Ballymartin to Longstone loop' is just over 13 kilometers. More cycling options are available in the dedicated guide: Cycling around Leitrim Upper.

For unique cultural insights, consider visiting The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney in Drumshanbo, where you can tour and learn about the creation of Gunpowder Gin. The Glenview Folk Museum in Aghoo, Ballinamore, houses an extensive private collection of historical items, including reconstructed shops. Additionally, the Fenagh Visitor Centre provides information and artifacts depicting local life and history, including ancient abbeys.

Visitors frequently praise the dramatic and beautiful landscapes, especially the views from mountain passes and summits. The historical significance of sites like the Mourne Wall and the Brandy Pad is also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the challenging yet rewarding hikes, often noting the 'magical' quality of the Mourne Mountains and the stunning scenery throughout their journeys.

While many trails in the mountainous areas can be challenging, the Shannon Blueway offers more accessible options. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk in Drumshanbo is a unique and easy stroll over water. For general information on trails and landscapes, you might find resources on Leitrim Tourism helpful, such as their 'Treasured Landscapes' section, though specific accessibility details for all trails vary. You can explore more at Leitrim Tourism - Treasured Landscapes.

To delve deeper into the local heritage, the Fenagh Visitor Centre offers insights into local life and history, including ancient abbeys and archaeological sites. Parke's Castle provides an audio-visual exhibition on Irish history. For a broader overview of the region's heritage, you can also consult resources like Leitrim Tourism's heritage section: Leitrim Tourism - Heritage.

Beyond the more famous attractions, Leitrim Upper holds several quieter natural spots. Pól An Eas Waterfall is a more secluded and tranquil beauty spot. The North Leitrim Glens, including areas like Glenfarne, Glenaniff, and Glenade, offer excellent walking opportunities through green valleys away from the main tourist routes. These areas provide a chance to experience the region's natural beauty in a more peaceful setting.

Yes, there are several running trails available, catering to different fitness levels. You can tackle challenging routes like the Mourne Wall Challenge, spanning over 32 kilometers, or opt for moderate runs such as the Carrick Little to Blue Lough run, which is around 4 kilometers. For a comprehensive list of running options, visit the guide: Running Trails around Leitrim Upper.