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Hazelwood Demesne Sligo

4.8
·571 reviews·Sligo, Ireland

A serene woodland escape with beautiful Lough Gill views, offering well-maintained trails and a unique sculpture trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Boats in the water

Hazelwood Demesne Sligo

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene woodland escape with beautiful Lough Gill views, offering well-maintained trails and a unique sculpture trail.

4.8
(571 reviews)

"Hazelwood Forest is such a beautiful place to visit, whether you’re with family, friends, or even on your own."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Well-Maintained Paths

Trails are clean and easy to navigate, ideal for family walks and running. :athletic_shoe:

🌳 Peaceful Nature Escape

A calming and relaxing spot perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. :deciduous_tree:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lough Gill Shoreline Path

Lough Gill Shoreline Path

Hazelwood Demesne

A scenic walk offering stunning views of Lough Gill, with gentle paths perfect for all ages.

Forest Walking Trails

Forest Walking Trails

Hazelwood Demesne

Explore diverse woodland paths, from easy loops to longer routes, immersing yourself in nature.

Sculpture Trail

Sculpture Trail

Hazelwood Demesne

Discover unique artistic installations scattered throughout the demesne, adding a cultural layer to your nature walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Nature Trails

Hazelwood Demesne offers well-maintained paths perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating runs. Explore the forest loops and enjoy the serene views of Lough Gill. Remember to check for local events, as the demesne occasionally hosts arts festivals.

Plan for Amenities

While Hazelwood Demesne is a natural paradise, be aware that public toilet facilities are not available on-site. Pack accordingly for your visit, especially if you plan a longer exploration or are visiting with family.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Nature awakens, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, vibrant foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Peaceful escape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hike & Eat, Co. Sligo. First up let’s hike Benbulbin Forest Loop an easy 5 km & next you need to fry Sweet Beats in Sligo town- their vegan burrito is 10/10 (I love all their dishes tbh!) Have a fun morning out #thehikelife #sligo
@thehikelife
5.1K likes • 91.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Well-Maintained Paths

Trails are clean and easy to navigate, ideal for family walks and running. :athletic_shoe:

🌳 Peaceful Nature Escape

A calming and relaxing spot perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. :deciduous_tree:

Назва парку/лісу : Hazelwood Demesne💙 #sligo #hazelwood
yana_boivan
34 likes • 732 views
On July 10th & 11th Hazelwood Demesne was delighted to host a special outdoor event as part of the Cáirde Sligo Arts Festival. Over two nights the Courtyard and Front Garden of Hazelwood House were brought alive with street theatre by award winning Catalan street theatre creator, Joan Català. Huge congratulations to the Cairde Festival for another successful festival which sees Sligo town and co...
hawksrockdistillery
30 likes • 1.5K views

🦆 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for ducks and various bird species along the paths and water. :duck:

📜 Historical QR Codes

Scan QR codes along the paths for interesting historical facts about the estate. :iphone:

Flowing through the heart of Sligo 🌊⁠ ⁠ The Garavogue River begins its scenic journey at Lough Gill, running alongside Hazelwood Demesne and winding through Sligo Town before reaching the vast Atlantic Ocean. ⁠ ⁠ Did you know that the Garavogue is Ireland's shortest river? What it lacks in length it more than makes up for in beauty; its meandering path showcases the stunning natural beauty and ric...
hawksrockdistillery
23 likes • 714 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Well-Maintained Paths

Trails are clean and easy to navigate, ideal for family walks and running. :athletic_shoe:

🌳 Peaceful Nature Escape

A calming and relaxing spot perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. :deciduous_tree:

🦆 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for ducks and various bird species along the paths and water. :duck:

📜 Historical QR Codes

Scan QR codes along the paths for interesting historical facts about the estate. :iphone:

🚫 No Public Toilets

Plan ahead as there are no public toilet facilities on site. :toilet:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(571 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hazelwood Demesne for its stunning natural beauty, well-maintained walking trails, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. While the lack of toilet facilities is a minor inconvenience, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit in Sligo.

"Hazelwood Forest is such a beautiful place to visit, whether you’re with family, friends, or even on your own. The scenery is stunning, the paths are very clean and well kept, and it’s such a peaceful spot to enjoy nature. Definitely recommend if you’re visiting Sligo."

lisi bacinello

"My favorite forest in Sligo!!!! Very calming, and so relaxing to take a walk around the forest! The first time i visited this place i already knew that Hazelwood will be my favorite place to revisit over and over again! So many duck and birds!! Love it! ❤️"

Rr Syahra Kansasabira

"Just a skip and a jump from Silgo, and you'll find this perfect wee forest park with well laid out paths through the forest of Hazelwood estate. Definitely full of historical facts if you scan the QR codes. Great for picnics , running and walking the family friend 🐕🦮🐈🐇. Two carparks to choice from but only thing is there no public toilets."

Mhairi Walton

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Clean, well-kept paths
Peaceful and calming atmosphere

What People Dislike

No public toilets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hazelwood Demesne is conveniently located just a short distance from Sligo town. You can drive there, with two car parks available, or consider it for a run if you're staying nearby. It's described as 'just a skip and a jump' from Sligo town. Reddit

While specific bus routes aren't detailed, it's close enough to Sligo town that local bus services might get you nearby. For the most direct access, driving is recommended. Reddit

There are two car parks available for visitors, making it easy to access the demesne by car. Reddit

The well-laid-out paths are suitable for walking and running, and cycling is generally permitted in forest parks, though it's always good to be mindful of other visitors. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a perfect, easily accessible stop for a refreshing walk and to enjoy nature during a road trip around Sligo. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Hazelwood Demesne is a forest park and is generally free to enter and explore, allowing for accessible enjoyment of its natural beauty. Reddit

As a natural park, Hazelwood Demesne is typically open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy it throughout daylight hours. Reddit

No advance booking is required for general access to Hazelwood Demesne. It's a public park open for all to enjoy. Reddit

Yes, Hazelwood Demesne has hosted special outdoor events, such as those during the Cairde Sligo Arts Festival, featuring street theatre. Instagram

Dogs are generally welcome in forest parks, but it's always recommended to keep them on a lead to respect wildlife and other visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Hazelwood Demesne features well-laid-out paths, including forest loops and a beautiful path along the Lough Gill shore. There are options for different lengths of walks. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's highly recommended for families. The paths are clean, well-maintained, and suitable for a relaxed stroll with children and pets. Reddit

The scenery is stunning, with beautiful woodland and picturesque views of Lough Gill. The sun peeking through the trees adds to the tranquil atmosphere. Reddit

There are no public toilet facilities available on-site. While there isn't a cafe, it's a great spot for picnics. Reddit

The Garavogue River begins its journey at Lough Gill, flowing alongside Hazelwood Demesne and through Sligo Town. It's known as Ireland's shortest river. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The shoreline path along Lough Gill offers beautiful reflections and scenic vistas. The interplay of light through the trees in the forest also provides excellent photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones, especially along the Lough Gill shoreline. Instagram

Look for the diverse birdlife, the reflections on Lough Gill, and the artistic sculptures along the trail for unique shots. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and respect privacy before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views of Lough Gill. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hazelwood Demesne is a fantastic destination for families. The well-maintained and clean paths make it easy for children to walk or run without much difficulty, and the forest setting provides a sense of adventure. The sculpture trail adds an element of discovery, keeping younger visitors engaged. It's a perfect spot for a picnic, allowing you to extend your stay and enjoy the natural surroundings. Just remember to pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the lack of on-site toilet facilities. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking for a scenic place to run, Hazelwood Demesne offers excellent options. The forest loops and the path along Lough Gill provide varied terrain and beautiful backdrops for your workout. The trails are well-kept, ensuring a smooth running experience. It's a great alternative to road running, offering a more natural and peaceful environment to push your limits. TikTokReddit

📸 Nature Photographers

Hazelwood Demesne is a photographer's delight, especially for those who love nature. The Lough Gill shoreline offers stunning opportunities for landscape photography, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The woodland interiors provide opportunities for capturing light filtering through trees and details of the forest flora and fauna. Don't miss the sculptures as unique subjects to incorporate into your shots. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Hazelwood Demesne

Hazelwood Demesne is renowned for its network of well-maintained walking trails, catering to various fitness levels. The most popular is the Lough Gill Shoreline Path, offering serene views of the lake and surrounding landscape. This path is generally flat and accessible, making it ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely stroll. For a more immersive woodland experience, the Forest Loops provide a chance to wander through mature trees, with options for shorter or longer circuits. These trails are perfect for a refreshing run or a peaceful walk, with the sounds of nature providing a calming soundtrack. TikTokReddit

Beyond the natural beauty, Hazelwood Demesne also features a Sculpture Trail, adding an artistic dimension to your exploration. Scattered throughout the demesne, these sculptures offer a unique point of interest and encourage visitors to engage with the landscape in a different way. Scanning the QR codes along the paths provides historical context about the estate, enriching the visitor experience with local heritage. Reddit

When planning your visit, remember that while the paths are excellent, there are no public toilet facilities on-site. This makes it important to plan accordingly, especially for longer visits or if you are with young children. The demesne is a natural haven, best enjoyed with a bit of preparation. Reddit

The Garavogue River: Sligo's Shortest Lifeline

The Garavogue River, though famously Ireland's shortest, plays a vital role in the Sligo landscape, and its journey is intimately connected with Hazelwood Demesne. The river's origin is Lough Gill, a beautiful lake that forms a significant part of Hazelwood's scenic appeal. As the Garavogue begins its flow from Lough Gill, it meanders alongside the demesne, offering picturesque views and contributing to the tranquil atmosphere. Instagram

This short but scenic river then winds its way through Sligo Town before eventually meeting the vast Atlantic Ocean. Its presence enhances the natural beauty of the area, providing a dynamic element to the landscape. For visitors to Hazelwood Demesne, the proximity to the Garavogue River and Lough Gill offers ample opportunities for enjoying waterside walks and appreciating the local ecosystem. Instagram

The river's journey, though brief in length, is rich in visual appeal and ecological significance. It's a reminder of how even the smallest waterways can shape a landscape and contribute to its charm. Experiencing the Garavogue River near Hazelwood Demesne offers a unique perspective on Sligo's natural heritage. Instagram

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