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Hazelwood Forest
Sligo Town, Co. Sligo
Family friendly
Free to visit
Dog friendly
Free car parking
The Hazelwood Forest is 5km outside Sligo Town, located at Half Moon Bay along the shores of Lough Gill. It is known locally for its beautiful forest trails, mature trees, quiet picnic areas and magnificent lakeside scenery.

The Hazelwood Forest or Hazelwood Demesne in County Sligo, is located in an area between Lough Gill and the Garavogue River. This forested area of Hazelwood formed part of the Wynne Estate. Hazelwood was the seat of the Wynne family who owned the house and most of the surrounding lands for 300 years. The nature trail itself forms a loop of 3.2km, with multi access paths and two shorter alternative trails also available.

All trails are clearly marked, they begin and end at the Hazelwood car park, and follow along by the lakeshore lakeshore. The walks are suitable for all ages and levels of ability. A number of wooden sculptures from Irish and international artists can be found along the track, forming a sculpture trail through the forest. There are information panels displayed on the different mature tree types along the nature walk . Look out for red squirrels, ducks, geese and swans along the way. You can enjoy spectacular views from the trail towards Church Island, Cottage Island, Goat Island and Lough Gill.

Hazelwood House is a part of this enchanting woodland estate. The house was an 18th century Palladian mansion built for Lieutenant General Owen Wynne in 1724. It was designed by architect Richard Cassels, who was also responsible for buildings like Westport House, Leinster House and Powerscourt House. Hazelwood House is currently not open to the public.

Why we like it
  • Hazelwood Forest is a path and forest track through a great variety of trees, many of which are not native and were planted over 250 years ago.
  • Along the forest trail you can see views of Church Island, Goat Island, Dooney Rock and Cottage Island.
  • Sit and enjoy a picnic with family or friends while taking in the beauty of Lough Gill and the surrounding lakeside countryside.
Tips from locals

There are many wonderful photo opportunities here. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of Half Moon Bay, Goat Cottage and the wide expanse of Lough Gill.

Contact details
Kiltycahill, Sligo, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 2 hours here.

More to discover at Hazelwood Forest
Lough Gill

Lough Gill is a large lake, about 8 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide. There is public access to the lough from a pier on the south shore at the mouth of the Garavogue River, at Inishfree Pier and at Shriff Bay.

Family funHazelwood

This lakeshore loop in spectacular County Sligo boasts island views, pretty woodlands and even works of art over its easy 3km.

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