What I love most about having the blog is that it gives me the inspiration and passion to discover new experiences. I believe in trying things out before I post about them, so I can genuinely recommend something I’ve done to my readers. If you’re looking for an authentic Irish experience, this is something you simply have to do. Just outside the village of Cloonacool (which happens to host a Sheep Festival every September), there’s a farm where you can go walking with some very special companions.
If you’re looking for a unique adventure in Sligo, this is it. From the moment I arrived, everything felt unhurried. No crowds, no noise, just fresh air, birdsong, and a feeling of pure relaxation.
Ann welcomed me to the farm, and me being me, I had forgotten my wellington boots, so she kindly lent me a pair for the walk (and I absolutely needed them!). It had rained a lot in the days leading up to my visit, so the wellies were essential. I also met John, the farmer, and his daughter Mairead – who is a legend on the farm. John told me her help is invaluable.
And then came the sheep.
Not just any sheep, but the famously adorable Valais Blacknose – all curls and character, with the sweetest little faces. You’re paired with one, given a lead, and off you go… although “go” might be the wrong word. Because this isn’t your walk. It’s theirs.
If they stop to snack (which they do, often), you stop. If they wander, you wander. And somewhere along the way, you realise that’s exactly the point. It’s the perfect way to relax. No agenda, no rush – just being present in the moment. Mindfulness without even thinking about being mindful.
John and Mairead accompanied me and pointed out lots of interesting things along the way. We saw a fairy fort, frogspawn, and even a kestrel!
What makes this so special isn’t just the sheep (although they are unforgettable). It’s the people. This is a real working farm, run with heart and pride, and you feel that straight away. There’s something incredibly warm about the welcome, it’s genuine, easy, and full of stories about the land, the animals, and life in this part of Ireland. No performance, no polish – just authenticity. And that’s what stays with you.
Sligo is often celebrated for its dramatic coastline and Wild Atlantic views, and rightly so. But this experience shows you a different side. A softer one. Here in South Sligo, beneath the Ox Mountains, life moves at its own pace. It’s deeply rooted in farming traditions, yet open and welcoming to those curious enough to step into it, even just for an hour or two.
Walking a sheep might sound unusual, and it is, but it’s also one of the most genuine ways to connect with the landscape and experience the benefits of being around animals.
There was something so special about my morning, and I absolutely loved it. After our walk, John told me the history of the farm and showed me the sheep “maternity unit,” as some of the sheep are about to lamb. I also got to meet Peter Pan, a lamb abandoned by his mother who has now been adopted by another sheep.
We came back to the house, and Ann had the kettle boiled, scones fresh from the oven, and homemade jam. This was an unexpected surprise, and a very welcome one. We had some lovely chats over a cup of tea; it really was the icing on the cake.
Sheep walking in Cloonacool is a wonderful experience, and it’s a truly unique adventure in Sligo. It’s also one of the best ways to experience an authentic Irish welcome.
When you’re in Cloonacool, I’d also recommend a visit to The Mill Café, this a community café that opens on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Another place where you’ll find a warm welcome.
Be sure to check out the birthplace of Seamus Burke too, he invented the cheese and onion flavour for Tayto crisps, and you can’t get more Irish than that!
Find the Sheep Walking Trips website here: https://walkingtrips.ie/
As this is a working farm, walks must be booked in advance. It’s a wonderful experience for all ages, and the walk is flat – no mountain climbing! So even if you’re not the fittest person in the world, you can still enjoy it.
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