Geevagh: Landscape, Trails and Traditions

Geevagh can be pinpointed by its location, rivers and the Miner’s Way. The village lies about 25 km southeast of Sligo Town on the regional R-284 road, which leads to Ballyfarnon in County Roscommon.

Rivers and landscape

The Feorish River and the Camoge River are among Geevagh’s natural attractions. Nearby, the 458-metre Carran Hill rises above the village. Lough Nasool is also an unusual landscape feature: underground channels can drain the lake almost completely. The landscape is therefore characterised by rivers, a prominent hill and a lake with a distinctive drainage system.

Lough Bo lies near Geevagh and is well suited to trout fishing. The Féoris River also flows near the village; a historical account describes anglers fishing on its banks in summer. The two waterways are associated with different things: Lough Bo with trout fishing, and the Féoris River with a historical account of summer fishing.

Trails and traditional customs

The Miner’s Way runs along quiet country roads, paths across fields, open bogland and forest tracks. One section leads from Geevagh to Lynch’s Mountain. The variety of trail types gives a concrete sense of the route’s character, while the named section also highlights its connection with Geevagh.

Traditional customs also offer a glimpse into the area’s history. A Geevagh tradition tells that shamrocks were worn on St Patrick’s Day in honour of Saint Patrick. For 1 February, tradition recounts that a straw cross was made in honour of Saint Brighid and hung from the ceiling until the following anniversary. Both customs are recorded in historical tradition and link commemorative days with specific practices.

County Sligo: Archaeology and coast

Archaeology and medieval history are among the other cultural themes in County Sligo. Carrowmore is Ireland’s largest and oldest collection of Neolithic tombs; more than 30 surviving monuments are almost 6,000 years old. Sligo Abbey is a Dominican priory with extensive surviving medieval remains of its church, sacristy and chapter house. The region’s cultural themes therefore range from prehistoric tomb monuments to medieval monastic architecture.

The coast in County Sligo has its own distinctive appeal. Streedagh Beach is a three-kilometre sandy beach connecting Streedagh Point with Connor’s Island. Sand dunes and an estuary are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Surfing and windsurfing are possible in the coastal waters; stand-up paddleboarding takes place in the sheltered estuary. Check sea conditions before taking part in water sports. The Spanish Armada Visitor Centre at Streedagh Beach displays recovered artefacts and immersive exhibitions about the wreck and its only survivor. Check current opening hours before travelling.

Discover more destinations:

Drumcliff, Tobercurry, Cloghboley, Lavagh, Streedagh, Ballygawley, Cliffony, Barroe

For the overview of the wider area: County Sligo.