Things To Do In Sligo
Sligo
County Sligo boasts one of the most appealing stretches of coast on the Wild Atlantic Way. From its delightfully ´surfable´ waves crashing on broad golden shores, to the rolling green hills and misty mountaintops of the affectionately dubbed ‘Yeats country’, this is a county that attracts a distinct breed of adventure-loving traveller.
Mullaghmore Head
Land and sea come together to create something truly special at Mullaghmore Head. This is the home of big wave surfing in Ireland, and surfers come from all over the world to test their skills against epic waves. But there’s more to Mullaghmore. There are boat trips to the 6th century monastic ruins on Inishmurray Island; Classiebawn Castle dominating the surrounding landscape with its Gothic splendour; and nearby Ben Bulben, the flat-topped mountain famed in Irish mythology and the poetry of WB Yeats.
Streedagh Beach
With easy walking along its 3km stretch, it’s one of the most tranquil spots in the west, with the golden sands being a favourite playground for children. Don´t miss the site of the Spanish Armada shipwreck from 1588.
Surfing
From the big wave thrills at Mullaghmore and Strandhill’s consistent breaks, to the family- friendly swell at Enniscrone, no trip to Sligo is complete without a go on a surfboard. Surf schools can help newbies paddle out with confidence, while pros can hunt for secret spots.
Sligo Food Trail
Sligo Food Trail treats your palate to an abundance of culinary treasures. You can map your own route to choose the cuisine that you love best. Welcome to foodie heaven!
Benbulben
Benbulben is known as County Sligo’s ‘Table Mountain’ and is part of the Dartry Mountains. It was originally merely a large ridge, however the moving glaciers cut into the earth, leaving a distinct formation, now called Benbulben. It is possible to climb Benbulben as there is a looped access trail but it is strongly advised that you have a guide to hike Benbulben.
Coney Island
Coney Island is approximately 400 acres and is so named because of the vast quantity of rabbits which can be spotted on the island at any time. It´s accessible by driving or walking over the causeway (guided by the 14 pillars) at low tide.
Sligo Abbey
Looking for something to do in Sligo this weekend? The medieval Dominican abbey in Sligo Town offers a peek into an intriguing past, with artefacts, lore and a rich history dating back to 1252. It’s also one of the best places to see Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculptures.
Sligo Town
Discover Yeats county from the ideal base in Sligo Town, second only to Galway in size and boasting a compelling blend of past and present - from Hargadon Bros, the Michelin Guide-listed pub and eatery; to the stone bridges linking both sides of the River Garavogue.
WB Yeats´ Grave
Drumcliffe, County Sligo is set against the striking backdrop of the Benbulben Mountains. It is best known as the final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Found in the churchyard, his grave is marked with a simple headstone with the inscription, “cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman, pass by.”
Carrowkeel
The Neolithic cemetery complex at Carrowkeel is one of the finest examples of a passage tomb in Ireland, consisting of 14 cairns dotted across the beautiful hills of the Bricklieve mountain range in the south of County Sligo, near the County Roscommon border.
Eagles Flying
The Attraction For All The Family Excitement, Fun, Photo opportunities and much more. Nestled in the green hills of south Sligo, Ireland’s largest sanctuary for raptors and owls, the Irish Raptor Research Centre / Eagles Flying is situated on more than 27 ha of mature parklands near Ballymote. Currently it is the home of more than 100 eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. For the ones who prefer it more cuddly, there is also a large supervised Petting-Zoo, where visitors can get hands-on with guinea-pigs, pigs, rabbits, lambs, goats, donkeys, ferrets, and many more.