Lough Navar Forest: Magho Cliffs Walk

The initial part of the walk takes you across the top of the Magho Cliffs offering great panoramic views of the surrounding area. At the end of this path take a moment to rest on the bench provided and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The cliffs are an Area of Special Scientific Interest as they support an exceptional range of habitats and the abundance of wildlife is very evident, keep an eye out for the array of butterflies and birds feeding in the area. To continue the walk return back along the cliff top path and follow the black route way markers which will bring you down the cliff twisting and winding its way through the woodland with patches of open area providing great glimpses at the cliff escarpment. The escarpment consists of three distinct rock formations. On top is the Dartry Limestone, the same rock that the Marble Arch Caves are formed out of, and directly beneath that is the Glencar Limestone. At the very bottom of the cliff, obscured from view by scree and vegetation is the Benbulben Shale, the oldest of the three rocks. The distinctive cliffs and present day landscape are a direct result of the last glaciation, which ended around 13,000 years ago, when huge ice sheets moved across the landscape scouring out valleys and sculpting the cliffs. The lower slopes are covered by one of the largest semi-natural woodlands in Northern Ireland which is very diverse and contains the highest number of woodland species recorded at a single site. Rare species within the wood include the bird’s nest orchid and early purple orchid. This walk is situated in a working forest and may be subject to temporary diversion and closure. In such circumstances, please ensure that all safety signage is complied with. All Forest Service NI woodlands are sustainably managed and certified against international standards that demonstrate good environmental, social and economic principles.