Discover world-class adventure, great open spaces, stunning beaches, walking trails and much more in Co. Sligo along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
With special thanks to the Diocese of Elphin and to Sligo Social Services.
Sligo lies along the Wild Atlantic Way, an incredible coastline which stretches from Cork in the south to Donegal in the North. You’ll encounter moments of magic along one of the world’s most unforgettable coastal routes, and in Sligo you can take a dip in the clear Atlantic on one of several blue flag beaches, take a pony trek along the megalithic tombs at Carrowmore, before taking in a seaweed bath in Strandhill, and that’s before you head back to town for an evening of music – so much to do, you really should take some time to visit and experience some of the highlights which we’ve listed here.
1. Watersports – Sligo is famous the world over for its surf hot spots, from Mullaghmore’s big waves through to the gentler ones at Streedagh and on to the full-on experience at Strandhill. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a first timer, it’s fun you’ll never forget. Wetsuits, boards and tuition are supplied, so all you need is the spirit of adventure!
2. Queen Maeve Trail on Knocknarea – One of many excellent walks in the county, the Queen Maeve Trail is suitable for all members of the family, though, as always with any walk, a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk begins across from the entrance to Sligo Rugby Club in Strandhill and takes the walkers up through a clearly marked path to the top of Knocknarea, resting place for one of Ireland’s legendary figures, Queen Maeve of Connacht. The walk continues down the far side, before a looped section brings you around the base of the mountain and back to your starting point. Allow 2.5 hours for a leisurely walk.
3. Ceolaras Coleman – The Coleman Irish Music Centre is located in Gurteen, some 30 minutes from Sligo Town, and celebrates the life of one of Ireland’s most influential musicians, the legendary fiddle player Michael Coleman. Along with other notable musicians like James Morrison, Paddy Killoran dna James ‘Lad’ O’Beirne, Coleman was a central figure in bringing the Sligo Style of fiddle playing to the world through his gramophone recordings.
4. The Yeats Trail – Ireland’s greatest ever poet WB Yeats had strong links with Sligo. This means that everywhere you look, you’ll see signs for the Yeats Experience. Take in Lissadell, the poet’s grave at Drumcliffe, the Yeats Building on Hughes Bridge, and you won’t be able to ignore the incredible Yeats murals which have been painted around town.
5. Eagles Flying – Ireland’s largest sanctuary for birds of prey, and located a short drive from Sligo Town, you’ll experience some of the biggest birds of prey in the world as they fly overhead. One for all the family.
Visit www.sligotourism.ie