Staying in Co Sligo and the best places to visit during your stay

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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!

Active retirement group breaks at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon

Group hotel breaks in the heart of the Irish Midlands

Midweek Spring & Autumn Group Holidays to the Abbey Hotel Roscommon

 We can offer your Group, Club or Society a complete package from start to finish.  If travelling by train we are located just beside Roscommon train station only a short walk from the hotel or if travelling by coach or car we have ample free parking on-site. We offer you complimentary Tea/Coffee & Biscuits on arrival as part of our package.

Our packages are ideal for Active Retirement Groups, ICA Members, Probus Members & Senior Citizens Groups, Day Care Centre, Golden Year Groups to name a few.

Group Fab 50 Holidays include the following:

• Luxury accommodation

• Full Irish Breakfast each morning

• Delicious 4 course dinner each evening

• Located beside Roscommon Train Station – direct from Dublin

• Welcome Tea/Coffee & Biscuits on arrival.

• Entertainment on two nights & a History Talk & Walk in the historic grounds of the hotel.

• Full use of Leisure Facilities

• 1 free place with every 25 paying guests

• 3 Single Rooms without Single Room Supplement €15.00 supplement per room per night thereafter.

• Min 20 Paying Guests.

To receive a Quote for your group please call Tara on 087 0505773 or email tara@irelandshotelplanner.ie

Day tours can be arranged to local attractions. (extra fee)

Tourism and activities for visitors to County Roscommon

For those planning a stay at the 4*Abbey Hotel Roscommon this year, there are ample tourist and visitor attractions. Our Marketing Team will be happy to provide you with an itinerary or brochures for many of the tourist attractions close-by. The entire county is steeped in history and folklore, with many castles, stately homes, mythological tombs and ring forts to visit.

High Kings, Stately Houses, Subterranean Mine Tours and a jail in the Town Square reputed to have had the only hangwoman in Ireland - Lady Betty - are just a taste of what lies in store when you visit County Roscommon.

Highlights include boat cruises on the nearby River Shannon, Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Mote Park Forest Walks and Trials, Loughnenane Park, Arigna Mining Experience, Clonalis House, the ancestral home of the O’Connors of Connacht. Strokestown Park a furnished Georgian Mansion and a must-see attraction, whether for individuals, families, educational groups or coach tours.

A tour of the House gives an intimate insight into life in The Big House, upstairs and downstairs. The Irish National Famine Museum tells a different story and highlights the parallels between a tragic chapter of Irish History and contemporary global hunger.

King House Boyle is where you can explore this magnificently restored 18th Century Georgian Mansion and delve into the dramatic episodes of its history with stories of a tragic Irish romance, cattle raids and great banquets, family feuds, a murder trial. 

Derryglad Folk Museum, an award-winning institution is also close-by. There are also many beautiful parks and walkways for families. 
For holiday makers wishing to stay active, the area offers horse-riding, golfing at the nearby Roscommon Golf Course an 18 hole course, orienteering and fishing on the nearby River Shannon at Lanesborough only 10 minutes drive. 
The opening of Center Parcs Activity and Holiday Centre in Ballymahon County Longford, approx 30-minute drive from Roscommon is also a huge attraction for those visiting the Hidden Heartlands.  Roscommon is close to Ireland's Ancient East Trial and the Wild Atlantic Way is an 80-minute drive. We are 55 minutes from Knock Airport and 90 minutes from Dublin. 

Three great Westport Country Music Weeks at the 4 Star Westport Woods Hotel

Westport Country Music Weeks at the fabulous 4 Star Westport Woods Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre

Put on your dancing shoes and hit the road to the Westport Woods Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre located in the vibrant, cultural and historic town of Westport, County Mayo. Situated in the West of Ireland and along the Wild Atlantic Way, Westport Woods Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy everything that Ireland has to offer. You can climb Croagh Patrick, Cycle the Great Western Greenway or just unwind with some fine dining in the Lakeview Restaurant and relax in the Beech Club Spa in Irelands Greenest Hotel the Westport Woods.

What a line up they have for their 5 Day Country Music Week coming soon, dances take place each night in the Mulberry Suite. Package includes 5 Nights, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast and all entertainment

Westport Country Music Week

20th October 2019

Robert Mizell, Trevor Moyles, Nigel Livingston, Carmel McLoughlin, Declan Nerney

Christmas Country Music Festival

8th December 2019

Declan Nerney, Stuart Moyles, Nigel Livingston, Carmel McLoughlin, Mick Flavin

New Year Westport Country Music Week

2nd February 2020

Michael English, Stuart Moyles, Nigel Livingston, Declan Nerney, Carmel McLoughlin

About some of the acts………

Declan Nerney, Declan was born in the heart of Ireland in Drumlish Co Longford, at a unique period of time in the music scene worldwide. A revolution in rock and pop brought us The Beatles, Elvis, and the Rolling Stones, while here in Ireland the magnificent showband boom was about to explode.

A young man growing up at that time, Declan was being heavily influenced by these greats and indeed was getting the rare opportunity to see most of the top showbands appear in his native town of Drumlish. He would cajole his mother into seeing Joe Dolan, Big Tom, Philomena Begley, The Capital Showband, and many more perform when the appeared at the marquee at the end of May and early June. From his vantage point close to the stage, he would absorb every move made by the guitarist in the bands, watching his fingers slide along the strings, hoping that one day he might be up there performing just like Dan O’Hara or Seamus McMahon…

Stuart Moyles since the launch of his first album in 2013, Stuart Moyles’s career has gone from strength to strength. Growing up, Stuart was surrounded by country music and was first encouraged to play by his older brothers, who both sang and played guitar.

As a child, Stuart was first influenced by the likes of Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson, and also lists Declan Nerney, Mick Flavin and Big Tom. From a young age, Over the past couple of years the popular Mayo singer has played on music weekends and concerts for the likes of Nathan Carter, and he is constantly in demand for live gigs. He is also recording and getting plenty of airplay.

Mick Flavin, Mick Flavin and his Band are one of Ireland Best Entertainers. He recorded his first album in Athlone in June, 1986. His first big hit being "I'm Gonna Make It After All". Flavin has also recorded "Someday You'll Love Me", from Conway Twitty's album Even Now.

Robert Mizzell, Robert has made Ireland his home for over 20 years. He served his apprenticeship in Country Music since he first arrived here, and is now a top Country Artist in Ireland and the UK. He has released 12 solo studio albums and 2 full length DVD’s to date, and is constantly touring Ireland and the UK with his band “The Country Kings”. Robert was voted “Ireland’s Favourite Country Music Singer” in a poll conducted by RSVP Magazine.

Robert was born in Louisiana, the Bayou State and raised on the shores of Lake Bistineau near Shreveport. Robert’s early musical influences came from his parents – both performed in a Church Gospel group. At the age of 17, Robert moved to Connecticut where he worked with his father in the painting & decorating business. He then joined the US army where he served for a number of years. After his military service he moved to Ireland with dreams of a career in country music.

“Kick Ass Country” was Robert’s first major hit, but it was “Say You Love Me” that made him a household name in Ireland. Other hits include “Gone, Gone, Gone”, “She’s My Baby”, “”, “Mama Courtney” and “Two Rooms And A Kitchen”.

Why not relax during the day and avail of some great discounts in the hotels Spa, the hotel is on the door step of the 42km Greenway and the grounds of Westport House.  Just a moments’ walk from the bustling town centre with shops, pubs, theatre and the picturesque Quay Harbour.

To book call Tara on 087 0505773 or hotel directly on 0035398 25811

NEW - Turkey and Tinsel Break at the 4 Star Sligo Southern hotel

Turkey and Tinsel at the 4 Star Sligo Southern Hotel

FULLY BOOKED

Please call Tara to be added to cancellation list.

The 4 Star Sligo Southern Hotel in Sligo Town is a family owned and operated hotel with a blend of elegance and intimacy of a more gracious age, with the best of modern comforts. Originally constructed by the Southern Railways in 1928, as a resort hotel and then Great Southern Hotel was one of the first resort hotels in Ireland.
Located beside both the train and bus station in the heart of Sligo. The Sligo Southern Hotel is the only 4 star town centre hotel in Sligo with a full Leisure Centre & pool, a children’s pool, sauna, steam room and a fully air conditioned gym.

 Our rooms are tastefully decorated to the highest standards. Accommodation comprises of 93 well-appointed bedrooms and suites, with a direct dial telephone, multi-channel television, hair dryer, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary Wifi.

Sunday 24th November 2019

Sunday 1st December 2019

The package includes 5 nights, dinner, bed & breakfast with welcome mulled wine on arrival, traditional Christmas Dinner, lots of fun, festive nightly entertainment & free use of Leisure facilities. 

Price: €239.00 per person sharing.

To book call 071 9162101 or Call Tara on 087 0505773

tara@irelandshotelplanner.ie

Country Music Week at the 4 Star Westport Woods Hotel

Westport Country Music Week – April 7th 2019 at the fabulous 4 Star Westport Woods Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre.

Put on your dancing shoes and hit the road to the Westport Woods Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre located in the vibrant, cultural and historic town of Westport, County Mayo. Situated in the West of Ireland and along the Wild Atlantic Way, Westport Woods Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy everything that Ireland has to offer. You can climb Croagh Patrick, Cycle the Great Western Greenway or just unwind with some fine dining in the Lakeview Restaurant and relax in the Beech Club Spa in Irelands Greenest Hotel the Westport Woods.

What a line up they have for their 5 Day Country Music Break this April, dances take place each night in the Mulberry Suite.

Sunday Night see’s the start of the week and Declan Nerney takes to the stage, doors open at 9.30pm, Declan was born in the heart of Ireland in Drumlish, Co Longford, at a unique period of time in the music scene worldwide. A revolution in rock and pop brought us The Beatles, Elvis, and the Rolling Stones, while here in Ireland the magnificent showband boom was about to explode.

A young man growing up at that time, Declan was being heavily influenced by these greats and indeed was getting the rare opportunity to see most of the top showbands appear in his native town of Drumlish. He would cajole his mother into seeing Joe Dolan, Big Tom, Philomena Begley, The Capital Showband, and many more perform when the appeared at the marquee at the end of May and early June. From his vantage point close to the stage, he would absorb every move made by the guitarist in the bands, watching his fingers slide along the strings, hoping that one day he might be up there performing just like Dan O’Hara or Seamus McMahon…

Monday Night see’s Carmel Mcloughlin take to the stage a favourite among our dancing guests and she is guaranteed to play all those great tunes to get you up on the dance floor.

Tuesday night see’s Stuart Moyles lead the dancing, since the launch of his first album in 2013, Stuart Moyles’s career has gone from strength to strength. Growing up, Stuart was surrounded by country music and was first encouraged to play by his older brothers, who both sang and played guitar.
As a child, Stuart was first influenced by the likes of Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson, and also lists Declan Nerney, Mick Flavin and Big Tom. From a young age, Over the past couple of years the popular Mayo singer has played on music weekends and concerts for the likes of Nathan Carter, and he is constantly in demand for live gigs. He is also recording and getting plenty of airplay.

Wednesday night they have Nigel Livingstone who will take to the stage for the 1st time in the Westport Woods Hotel, he is popular with all age groups and plays a great selection of classics.

For the finale, it’s Mick Flavin

Mick Flavin and his Band are one of Ireland Best Entertainers. He recorded his first album in Athlone in June, 1986. His first big hit being "I'm Gonna Make It After All". Flavin has also recorded "Someday You'll Love Me", from Conway Twitty's album Even Now.

Why not relax during the day and avail of some great discounts in the hotels Spa, the hotel is on the door step of the 42km Greenway and the grounds of Westport House.  Just a moments’ walk from the bustling town centre with shops, pubs, theatre and the picturesque Quay Harbour.

To book call Tara on 087 0505773 or hotel directly on 0035398 25811

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Who said winter in the west of Ireland is a quiet time?

It has been a busy and a very interesting time. Hospitality and tourism in Mayo are vibrant sectors, where there is always something happening, and this is what helps makes my job so enjoyable.

Bridal Fashion Show and Wedding Fair

I was asked to be the MC at the Bridal Fashion Show as part of the recent Westport Woods Hotel Wedding Fair. It was great fun and made me remember the excitement of planning a wedding! The fabulous wedding clothes on show were from Eddie Murphy’s Menswear and Whitethorn Bridal, two local suppliers. There were also many wedding exhibitors from the Mayo area including Concord Wedding Band, Enchanted Wedding Company, Ribbons & Bows, Mayo Wedding Bells, Precious Days and Kayla McDonagh Wedding Music.

I took the opportunity to chat to some of the exhibitors present and came away with so many tips and hints that I now feel I could take up wedding planning!  There was a contagious air of excitement and anticipation at the wedding fair as soon-to-be married couples made plans for their big day. I could not help but share in their excitement.

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Destination Mayo

As you know, part of my business is selling Mayo and its many attractions to groups and societies from all over Ireland. I usually feel that I know my county and what it has to offer pretty well but then I find there is always more to discover. I am delighted to accompany visitors to our many tourist attractions – cultural, historic and scenic, and in the process learn more about this wonderful part of the country. This month I had the pleasure of doing just that with two groups of over 30 group leaders each, hailing from all over Ireland. One of the things we do really well in Mayo is our visitor centres. With such a rich and long history there is plenty for the visitor to discover not to mention a native like myself!

Michael Davitt Museum

Naturally I was very proud to start the day by bringing the groups to my home village of Straide, birthplace of Irish patriot Michael Davitt. The museum in his honour at the centre of the village is housed in a beautiful restored 17th century church and really is a treasure to visit. It has recently received a Travellers’ Choice Award and was also voted Number 5 in the Trip Advisor Top Ten Museums in Ireland. Michael Davitt was a hugely influential figure in both Ireland and Britain in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He was one of the founders of the Land League who fought for and succeeded in achieving land ownership for the Irish people. He was also a politician, a founding member of the GAA and a patron of Glasgow Celtic Football Club. He died in 1906 and is buried at Straide. On our visit to the museum we were given an excellent presentation to begin with by members of the staff who are a fountain of knowledge and very passionate about their subject. We even had the opportunity to hold a Gun (de-activated) from World War 1. This unique museum is definitely worth a visit whether you are from Mayo or simply have an interest in Irish history.

 Jackie Clarke Collection

Our next stop was the Jackie Clarke Collection which is located in Ballina. Collected over his lifetime by Ballina business man Jackie Clarke it was donated to the people by his widow Ann in 2005. It is the most important private collection of Irish history material in public hands, comprising over 100,000 items spanning 400 years. It includes artefacts associated with Theobald Wolfe Tone; letters from Michael Collins, Douglas Hyde, Michael Davitt and O’Donovan Rossa. It also contains rare books, proclamations, posters, political cartoons, pamphlets, handbills, works by Sir John Lavery, maps, hunger strike material and personal items from Leaders of the 1916 Rising.

You could easily spend a full day here and again the staff are superb and very informative. An introductory film is watched before you begin your journey through the house. The museum is located in a grand Victorian house, built in 1881 and previously the Provincial Bank. It is a fitting setting for such an important collection.

Foxford Woollen Mills

The final destination on this trip was Foxford Woollen Mills where we enjoyed a mill tour, providing us with the history of the mills and their importance to the local community since their inception in 1892. It is an extraordinary story and one of great courage and hope. The mill has moved with the times and nowadays master craftspeople produce contemporary designs that are exported all over the world. Tradition still exists as techniques have been handed down through generations to the present day. This is another great visitor centre in Mayo which is definitely worth your time. Following this the group had a meal and then there was even time for shopping to finish the day!

Network Ireland Mayo Branch

This month I was thrilled to receive an invitation to join the committee of the Network Ireland Mayo Branch. It is a superb organisation for business people like myself which allows us to network in many different ways as well as offering mentoring and training, I am delighted to be asked to be involved in the organisation of my local branch.

Who said winter in the west of Ireland is a quiet time?