The Miner’s Way, Ballaghboy to Castlebaldwin section, Co Sligo

Where: The Miner’s Way, Ballaghboy to Castlebaldwin section, Co Sligo.

What: A 118km trail that encompasses both the Miner’s Way and the Historical Trail, this route makes up a figure of eight through the counties of Sligo, Roscommon and Leitrim. The route passes through areas of significant historical interest, from the Arigna Mines to the Boyle Abbey. On the section from Ballaghboy to Castlebaldwin you’ll pass Bricklieve Mountains and Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery, where you’ll find 14 passage graves and cairns dating back to 3,000BC. Go off route slightly to explore in more detail. Waymarkers can be a little hidden, particularly when growth is wild.

Start/Finish: Ballaghboy, around 30-minutes from Sligo town/finish at Castlebaldwin, on N4.

Get there: From Sligo, head down the N4 for around 33km, then turn right. You’ll need to arrange two cars or a pick up, as the route is linear.

Level: Best for country walkers.

Length: 13km.

Pack: A copy of The Miner’s Way & Historical Trail Map Guide, to help weave your way; download a map from irishtrails.ie or pick up OSI Discovery Series 25

Refuel: At McDermott’s Restaurant (mcdermottsrestaurant.com), Castlebaldwin, is a cosy spot serving food all day, every day.