Co Sligo is steeped in history and literature and is framed by its stunning coastline and the unique silhouette of Benbulben. Renowned for its association with WB Yeats and Countess Markiewicz, it is a romantically beautiful place to visit. Sligo town is a bustling centre for shopping, dining and entertainment which retains the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of a much smaller town.
Ireland’s Hotel Planner has chosen to work with two hotels which offer superb facilities and are also close to both town and coast, attractions and sites.
If your group decide to make Sligo your next destination for a holiday in the west of Ireland then read on for Tara’s seven favourite places to visit in the county:
Drumcliff. W.B. Yeats’ burial place lies under the tree at the church door in Drumcliff, the same church where his father officiated. Tucked beneath the shadow of Benbulben it is a restful place.
Lissadell House & Gardens. This was the childhood home of Countess Markiewicz and visited by Yeats, the house and gardens are well worth a visit and have been beautifully restored by Edward Walsh, Constance Cassidy and their seven children, for whom this is now home.
Mullaghmore. A seaside village, Mullaghmore is surrounded by striking scenery including Classiebawn Castle and Benbulben mountain. The village itself offers several seaside cafes and bars allowing you to sit and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Archaeological sites. Co Sligo offers plenty to see for those interested in archaeology and even if it is not your particular interest you could not help but be wowed by the court tombs, cairns and ruins which are strewn across the landscape.
Lough Gill. You can visit the fully restored 17th century Parkes Castle or take a boat trip to view the Isle of Innisfree, made famous by the Yeats’ poem.
The beaches. The Sligo coastline and the wild Atlantic Ocean that breaks upon it have created stunning beaches for walking, swimming and watersports. These include Strandhill, Enniscrone, Easky, Rosses Point and Culleenamore, among many others.
Sligo Town. Sligo is just the right size for a day of browsing shops and enjoying lunch or a coffee at its riverside eateries. A lovely way to spend a day and a change from all that scenery!
