Sligo, found along the Wild Atlantic Way, is well known for its strong link to William Butler Yeats. Yeats was a famous Irish poet and playwright, and one of the leading writers of the 20th century. Once you explore the Sligo countryside, you’ll understand why it inspired so many of Yeats’ most beloved works. Here are some of the top spots we can’t let you miss!
Visit Benbulben
Benbulben is one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains. You can spot it from all over Sligo, but the best views come from the Benbulben (Gortarowey) Loop Walk. The entire loop is about 4KM and has a scenic track which you can follow through the trees. It’s an easy and rewarding route for walkers of all levels.
Take a Seaweed Bath!
It might sound strange, but the Irish have been enjoying seaweed baths for centuries! Voya Seaweed Baths is situated on the sea front of Strandhill, right beside its beautiful sandy beach. Although at first it may feel a bit slimy, the bath will leave your skin feeling revived! In addition, the vitamins and iodine in seaweed helps to improve circulation and flush out toxins from the body.
Visit Parke’s Castle
Parke’s Castle is actually just over the border in County Leitrim, but only a short 20 minutes’ drive from Sligo Town. Located on the shores of Lough Gill, the castle was once the home of Robert Parke and his family.
Brian O’Rourke was one of the previous rulers, who took control by assassinating his older brothers. O’Rourke was known for helping survivors of the Spanish Armada, which angered the monarchy in England. He was then brutally hung, drawn and quartered as punishment. Today, the Castle has been beautifully restored, giving a real sense of life in 17th century Ireland.
Take a Boat Cruise on Lough Gill
Right beside Parke’s Castle, hop aboard the Rose of Innisfree for a scenic cruise along Lough Gill. Lough Gill inspired a number of poems by William Butler Yeats, most famously, the Lake Isle of Innisfree. You’ll also catch a glimpse Church Island, which hosts the ruins of a 13th century monastic settlement. Look out for Beezie’s Island, which is named after its sole resident, Beezie Gallagher who lived on the island alone until she died in 1951.
Picnic Beside Glencar Waterfall
Glencar Waterfall is about 15 minutes from both Sligo town and Parke’s Castle, so you could visit both attractions easily in one day. The waterfall is particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a short, wooded walk. There are plenty of lakeside tables and benches in the area, making it a lovely place for a picnic.
Visit Rosses Point
At the entrance to Sligo Bay, you will find the stunning coastal village of Rosses Point. Yeats spent many childhood summers here, staying in Elsinore House which is now in ruins. This quaint little village offers fresh seafood, some fantastic pubs and great traditional Irish music. Take a seafront walk to enjoy gorgeous views over Sligo Bay.
Visit Drumcliffe & Yeats’ Grave
Drumcliffe, just 8 km north of Sligo town, is the final resting place of W.B Yeats. In the church yard, you will find Yeats’ grave marked with the simple inscription ‘Cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman pass by.’ Before his death, Yeats said that didn’t want any conventional phrases on his gravestone. The site also features a high cross and the ruins of a 6th century monastery.
With its blend of nature, culture, and literary history, Sligo offers a little bit of everything. This underrated corner of Ireland won’t disappoint.
Get in Touch-
The best way to learn about Ireland is to visit yourself. Contact us today for a quotation including some or all of these locations today –
- USA TollFree 1800 963 9260
- AUS TollFree 1800 823 578
- UK FreeFone 0800 041 8833
- International +353 (0)69 77686