Sligo's 3 forest cycle route

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The 3 forest routes brings you through 3 of Sligo's magnificent forests. If you are lucky , you might even see a deer grazing in one of the fields or forests.

Route Description

The Sligo's 3 forest cycle route takes in some of Sligo's forests and include a few hills which will keep you working.

From Sligo IT, leaving the grounds, turn left and go as far as the traffic lights. At the lights, turn right climbing the first small hill of the day. On your right is Sligo's General Hospital after which you will have to cycle up a steep hill called The Mall. Here you will find the Model (http://www.themodel.ie), art gallery and cinema. The Model is home to the Niland collection.

Carrying on, turn onto Bridge Street and cross the river Garavogue. Just after the bridge, turn left onto John F Kennedy parade.
From here, the road follows the Garavogue and will pass the amaing  outdoor fitness and sport complex which was implemented in the last few years.

Ones you pass the sport complex , the road climbs again and passes by Sligo horse racing track.
At the top of the hill, turn left at the Tjunction.
Another climb opens up amazing views towards the Garavogue and Hazelwood.

Once you reach the shore of Lough Gill, turn right towards Tobernalt Holy Well. The Tobernalt Holy Well is a place of reflection.
Cycle onwards until you reach the R287. turn left towards Dromahair. At the bottom of the hill, turn right and follow this road climbing steadily until you reach the R284. Turn left towards Ballygawley and prepare yourself for a long climb towards union Wood.

Union Wood is the first forest of the day where you will see a carpark on the right at Ballygawley lake. There are a few picnic benches here allowing you to take a well deserved rest.

Carry on as far as Ballygawley village where you get the opportunity to buy some refreshments in the local shop. At the shop, turn left  onto the road signposted for Ballintogher. 

Here, you cycle along the fantastic golf course of Castle Dargan towards the village of Ballintogher. Cycle through the town and turn left just after the corner shop.
From here, you will go back onto the R287, this time cycling towards Sligo town.
 After a few kilometers along a very straight stretch of road, you have the second forest of the day on your right called Slish Wood. The forest picnic area has a nice picnic area nearby a small stream.           
Carry on along the R287 until you reach Dooney rock forest. Dooney rock has some nice trails and gives you amazing views towards Lough Gill.
From here carry on towards Sligo until you reach Carraroe roundabout.
Take the second exit and cycle along pastures back towards Sligo and the IT.

Route Map

For further detail, click route number# 2.998.096 below map

Cycle Route 2998096 - via Bikemap.net - Open Route in Bikemap App