Glencar Waterfall

Glencar Waterfall featuring forests, a river or creek and tranquil scenes
Glencar Waterfall featuring tranquil scenes, a pond and forests
Glencar Waterfall showing forest scenes, a waterfall and a lake or waterhole


Follow a network of walking trails and discover a magnificent waterfall that plunges into a mossy niche from a rocky headland.

Glencar Waterfall is a stunning cascade tumbling over the rocky cliffs on the edge of County Leitrim. Extending from the sharp ridge of Ben Bulben, the cliffs drop away into the deep lake of Glencar Lough. The falls are particularly stunning after heavy rains. Admire the stunning waterfall on an invigorating walk along wooded paths and trails through the Dartry Mountains.

Select from three different walking trails. The shortest path leads directly to a mesmerizing vantage point beneath the falls. Take the easy stroll along the forest trail and enjoy beautiful forest views. The paved pathway is less than 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) long and concludes with a viewing platform. Enjoy views of the impressive falls, which drop dramatically from the cliffs 50 feet (15 meters) above. The Glencar Waterfall is at its most magical in wet weather, when the water thunders into a deep pool amid fine white mist.

Wander along the Lake Shore Walk to admire the tranquil scene of Glencar Lough, a long lake straddling the border of counties Sligo and Leitrim. This gentle stroll offers a special insight into the bird life and ecology of the lake’s waters and surrounding wetlands.

The most challenging walk is the 6-mile (10-kilometer) Bog Road, a meandering trail leading away from the lakeside and into the forest. Walk through dense woodland and across a stream to a pretty heather-covered hill rising 1,600 feet (500 meters) from the valley. Here, find a cliff’s edge offering a magnificent vista of Glencar Lough and the Swiss Valley.

Learn more about the lake’s wildlife and geology at the Glencar Waterfall information kiosk. Reward your hiking efforts with a stopover at the Glencar Waterfall teahouse for a hot drink and snack.

Glencar Waterfall is 9 miles (14 kilometers) west of Manorhamilton and 8 miles (13 kilometers) northeast of Sligo town. The falls have a small information kiosk, picnic facilities and free parking lot. The falls have free entry and year-round access. Wear sturdy shoes and appropriate clothing for the walk. Bring a bottle of water, especially if you take the rather strenuous Bog Road trail.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo

Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo

4 out of 5
Clarion Road, Ballinode, Sligo
Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo
The Address Sligo

The Address Sligo

3 out of 5
Quay Street, Sligo, Sligo
The Address Sligo
The Glasshouse

The Glasshouse

4 out of 5
Swan Point, Sligo, Sligo
The Glasshouse
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

4 out of 5
Ballincar, Rosses Point Road, Sligo, Sligo
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo
Riverside Hotel

Riverside Hotel

3 out of 5
Riverside, Sligo
Riverside Hotel
River Dale

River Dale

3.5 out of 5
Sligo
River Dale
St Angela’s Lakeside Aparthotel

St Angela’s Lakeside Aparthotel

3.5 out of 5
Clogherrevagh, Lough Gill, Sligo, Sligo
St Angela’s Lakeside Aparthotel
The Red Cottage & Stables

The Red Cottage & Stables

3.5 out of 5
Shannon Eighter, Sligo
The Red Cottage & Stables
Sligo Park Hotel & Leisure Club

Sligo Park Hotel & Leisure Club

4 out of 5
Pearse Road, Sligo, Sligo
Sligo Park Hotel & Leisure Club
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Glencar Waterfall

Near Glencar Waterfall, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including relaxing spa treatments, golfing, and swimming. For those seeking adventure, there are numerous outdoor pursuits available, such as hiking and cycling, allowing you to explore the stunning natural beauty of County Leitrim. Whether you're looking for relaxation or excitement, Glencar offers a delightful mix of experiences for every traveller.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit Quayside Shopping Centre, located 9.7km from Glencar Waterfall, offering a vibrant atmosphere with various shops and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, Surfworld Bundoran, located 16.1km away, is perfect for surf gear and beach essentials.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at County Sligo Golf Club, located 12.9km from Glencar Waterfall, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. For relaxation, indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at Voya Seaweed Baths, situated 16.1km away, where you can experience the soothing benefits of seaweed in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

Embark on a scenic hike at Gleniff Horseshoe, located 8.0km from Glencar Waterfall, where breathtaking views await. For a tranquil nature experience, explore the Garavogue River Walk, 9.7km away, or enjoy family-friendly activities at the Lakeside Centre, situated 20.9km from the waterfall.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Glencar Waterfall offers a blend of culture and fun. Enjoy a performance at the Hawks Well Theatre, just 11.3km away, for a romantic evening. Alternatively, unleash your adventurous side at Funnybones, 19.3km away, with its exciting arcade atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Glencar Waterfall

Visitors to Glencar Waterfall can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and historic sites that showcase the region's rich culture. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the stunning natural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and exploring. Whether you're interested in history or simply wish to relax by the water, Glencar offers a delightful blend of experiences for every traveller.

  • Ben Bulben: A majestic hill rising 6.4km from Glencar Waterfall, Ben Bulben offers breathtaking scenery and a perfect outdoor atmosphere for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Sligo Abbey: Located 9.7km away, Sligo Abbey is a fascinating ruin steeped in history and culture. Visitors can marvel at its medieval architecture while learning about the rich heritage of the region, making it a captivating stop for history buffs.
  • Glencar Lake: Just 483m from Glencar Waterfall, this serene lake is perfect for a romantic stroll along its beach. With stunning scenery and tranquil outdoor vibes, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and picturesque views.

Best time to go to Glencar Waterfall

The best time to visit Glencar Waterfall can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Glencar Waterfall falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Glencar Waterfall falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Glencar Waterfall

To save money on your visit to Glencar Waterfall, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book hotels about a month in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesdays are generally the least expensive days to stay. Utilise Expedia’s filtering options to find budget-friendly and eco-certified hotels. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into an Expedia package can lead to significant savings. Always look for cancellation options to ensure flexibility.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Glencar Waterfall are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Glencar Waterfall is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Glencar Waterfall is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Glencar Waterfall is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Glencar Waterfall hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia