The best cycling routes around Lough Talt

Lough Cullin sounds like a really peaceful and ecologically important place, especially with its connection to Lough Conn and the River Moy system. I didn’t realize how directly it links freshwater habitats to the Atlantic—makes it even more interesting.https://www.metlifedentalproviders.com

Directly at the pier of Easkey you will find the impressive remains of Roslee Castle (Easky Castle), built in 1207. This robust tower has defied the fierce Atlantic winds for centuries and is one of the absolute highlights along this part of the coast. For the adventurers: via a hidden staircase in the wall you can (at your own risk!) climb to the top for an unforgettable view over the ocean. From the pier, also be sure to look down at the surfers who are mastering the famous 'left-hand break' here. A perfect place to get some fresh air and breathe in the salty sea air. dominated for centuries.

The Cliff Baths (also known as the Old Cliff Baths) are one of the most iconic and photogenic ruins on the Irish west coast. This striking, castle-like building was constructed in 1850 on the rocks on the north side of Enniscrone beach by the Orme family. During the heyday of Victorian tourism, wealthy visitors came here for the beneficial effects of warm seawater baths. Historically, the building was technically advanced: a rectangular basin was carved into the rocks in front of the door (now known as the 'Crab Pool'), which filled with every high tide to ensure a constant supply of fresh seawater even at low tide. Although the baths fell into disuse after severe storms and the opening of more modern facilities, the weathered walls remain a powerful symbol of Sligo's early spa culture.

The Black Pig Monument in Enniscrone is a striking tribute to one of the most fascinating legends of the Irish west coast. This four-meter-long, three-tonne sculpture, crafted by local artist Cillian Rogers, brings to life the tale of a mythical black boar said to have been possessed by an evil spirit. According to folklore, the beast first terrorised Donegal before crossing the sea and coming ashore at Enniscrone. After a ferocious chase, the magical sow was eventually slain in the nearby Muckdubh (Irish for "Black Pig Field"). Legend has it that the pig was so poisonous that anyone who touched her died instantly, forcing the villagers to bury her on the spot under a huge mound of clay and stones, which can still be seen in the landscape today. Nowadays, the monument is a beloved landmark along the coast road, not only honouring the region's rich mythology but also serving as the centrepiece of the annual Black Pig Festival.

Old, rural cemetery in Killanley (Co. Sligo), peacefully situated between fields and low hedges. You will find weathered gravestones, a simple enclosure and the quiet character of a former parish site.

On the grounds of Quirky Nights Glamping in Enniscrone lies one of Ireland's most bizarre sights: a decommissioned Boeing 767-200 from the former Russian airline Transaero. This enormous aircraft made headlines worldwide in 2016 when owner David McGowan had it shipped by pontoon across the Atlantic from Shannon Airport to the Sligo coast. The plane now forms the heart of a unique glamping project, accompanied by other converted transport vehicles such as a London double-decker bus and a police car. For passers-by and guests alike, the sight of a giant passenger jet in a green Irish field offers a surreal photo opportunity that blurs the line between aviation history and modern creativity.

Route along the main road with open views of the wide Moy estuary. You follow the river at some height, giving you long lines of sight over the water and the tidal flats. Less peaceful than the other side, but a clear, fast connection towards Ballina with continuous views of the estuary.

Church Village is a tiny hamlet next to the Yellow River. It is well placed on the Larganmore Loop as a place to rest, but don't expect to find much here. The views of the river and churchyard are very pretty though.