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Bealanassa Waterfall

Bealanassa Waterfall is a peaceful hidden gem on the western side of the Ox Mountains. Surrounded by quiet countryside and lush greenery, this small cascade offers a tranquil stop for walkers and nature lovers exploring the region. Its gentle flow and secluded setting make it perfect for photography, picnics, or simply enjoying the calm of rural Sligo.

Following sustained rainfall, the waterfall surges with renewed energy, sending sheets of white water over the moss‑covered rock face and filling the surrounding air with mist. The sound is unmistakable — a deep, resonant roar that echoes through the trees and adds a sense of wildness to this otherwise tranquil corner of Sligo.


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Mass Rock

The Ox Mountains are home to several historic Mass Rocks, quiet and atmospheric places where local communities once gathered in secret to celebrate Mass during Penal Times. These hidden sites, often set among heather, bogland, and sheltered valleys, offer visitors a powerful sense of history and reflection.
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One of the best‑known Mass Rock locations in the Ox Mountains lies near Cloonacool, tucked into the foothills where the mountains rise toward Annatoran and Knockalongy. Surrounded by peaceful rural scenery, it remains a poignant reminder of faith, resilience, and the traditions that shaped life in this part of Sligo.

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Cloonacool Sheep festival

Nestled at the foot of the Ox Mountains, the Cloonacool Sheep Festival is one of County Sligo’s most charming rural celebrations — a four‑day showcase of local farming heritage, traditional skills, and vibrant community spirit. For visitors seeking an authentic slice of Irish country life, this festival offers a welcoming blend of culture, scenery, and family fun.

The festival centres around the region’s long‑standing sheep‑farming traditions. Visitors can experience:

• Traditional Sheep Shows Watch expert breeders present their finest stock, highlighting the craftsmanship and care behind generations of farming.
  
• Sheepdog Trials A highlight for many — skilled handlers and their dogs demonstrate the precision and teamwork required to manage mountain flocks.
  
• Local Music & Entertainment Enjoy lively performances from Sligo musicians, adding a festive soundtrack to the village throughout the weekend.
  

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Coolaney Mountain Bike Trails

Set against the rugged beauty of the Ox Mountains, the Coolaney Mountain Bike Centre is one of Ireland’s premier outdoor adventure destinations — and the only national mountain bike trail centre in the northwest.

​Whether you’re a seasoned rider or an enthusiastic beginner, Coolaney delivers a pulse‑pounding mix of forest singletrack, sweeping mountain views, and adrenaline‑charged descents. 

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Ox Mountain Scenic Drive

Starting in the peaceful village of Coolaney, this looped drive is one of County Sligo’s most varied and rewarding scenic routes.

​Over the course of 96 km, you’ll cross the Ox Mountains twice, follow a rugged stretch of coastline with views reaching all the way to Donegal, and explore some of the region’s most beautiful natural landmarks.

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Stargazing

With their remote uplands, heather‑clad slopes, and peaceful valleys, the Ox Mountains offer some of the best natural stargazing conditions in County Sligo.

​Far from urban light pollution, the night sky here opens up in spectacular fashion — a dome of stars stretching over wild bogland, ancient hillforts, and sweeping Atlantic views.

On a clear night, expect bright constellations, the Milky Way stretching across the sky, and occasional meteor activity. Autumn and winter often bring the crispest, clearest conditions.