Off-The-Beaten-Path Ireland: County Sligo

Things to do in the Northwest of Ireland (County Sligo)

Kilcullens Seaweed Baths — Enniscrone — Opened in 1912, Kilcullens is famous for its seaweed baths. Imagine a hot bathtub filled with seaweed instead of bubbles. Sounds slimy and at first it feels that way, however, I love seaweed baths. Not only am I able to hear the ocean out the window, but my body is able to relax and release tension and toxins along the way. Be sure to stay hydrated after!

Strandhill - Strandhill is a small town that shouldn't be missed! Take the bus out for the day or park in the car park. Multiple walking paths that follow the ocean can be found. One path walks past the ruins of an old church where it said St. Patrick would come to get away from it all. Or if you’d rather go for height, you can hike up Knocknarea to Queen Mauve’s grave. If you’d rather take a yoga class, you can visit Kindred Studios or hit a round of 18 at the Strandhill Golf Club. Maybe you want to try your hand at surfing. Many come here for surf lessons and then they grab an ice cream at Mammy Johnston’s.

Gleniff Horseshoe — Whether you're walking (2.5 hours) or driving (30 min), it has some of the most breathtaking views, with potential sheep traffic, you may see in Ireland. Even on a rainy day, Gleniff’s mystery is magical. Be prepared to pull off to the ‘shoulder’ of the road and let other cars pass and wait for others who may be out taking photos as well.

Glencar Waterfall — It doesn’t sit too far off the road, is about 35 minutes from the Gleniff horseshoe and has a tea house. Walk up to the waterfall and bask in the splashes of water and then go get a nice meal or a cuppa while determining your next stop!

Ben Bulben Loop — Benbulben is Ireland’s famous table mountain. Drive down the lane to the car park and get started walking! This 5.5 km loop will offer you some of the best views of County Sligo and on a good day, County Donegal as well. Benbulben itself is a sight to behold! Make sure you get a picture of the wee white house at the beginning of the trail and then marvel at the views. Benbulben is stop number 5 on the Yeats Trail.

Yeats Trail — If you love poetry, this activity is for you! Yeats Trail is a walking route with 14 stops, which inspired some of his most famous poems. You can also stop by his grave at Drumcliff Church!

Breakast/Brunch/Coffee

Milligram (Sligo Town) - A simple, no-nonsense coffee shop with balanced americanos and rich lattes. You will definitely be instagramming this shop!

Rover Coffee Lab (Sligo town) - The Disneyland for coffee lovers. Rover’s baristas are knowledgeable about each of their roasting partners and which roast would be best for your specific drink. Tell them what you normally drink and you’ll get the best version of said drink. It’s definitely a must-stop before walking around town.

Shell’s Cafe (Strandhill) - Shell’s Cafe is an absolute gem of a breakfast/brunch/lunch place. Located across the parking lot from the ocean, the views are amazing with food better than the view. Not only is it a restaurant, but they have a little store as well, where you can pick up locally made items such as candles, jewelry and journals as well as a pastry and coffee. When in Strandhill, I visit at least three times before leaving. Put simply -it’s the best.

Lunch

The Pink Clover (Drumcliff) - Nestled in a little building just outside Drumcliff Church and Yeats' grave, you’ll find some of the best coffee and sandwiches County Sligo has to offer. The seasonal menu is ever-evolving and if it’s the weekend, there may be a little wait, but it’s worth it!

The Pudding Row Grocery (Easky) - Grab a few items for a picnic and drive to the ocean near O'Dowd's castle to eat. If it’s windy or raining, be a real local and sit in your car with the windows cracked and listen to the sea as you enjoy lunch.

Dinner

The Strand Bar (Strandhill) - I can't say enough good things about The Strand Bar. The pints are mighty and the roast beef with mashed potatoes can't be beat. If you're lucky, they’ll sit you in front of the open fireplace. Be warned, it will get busy, especially if there is a game on.

Bree’s Bar/ No Reservations Pizza (Strandhill) - More local, less touristy, this bar is next to the gas station just outside Strandhill. Order a pizza from No Reservations and walk inside for your pints. If you’re lucky, there will be live music around 9 pm.

Jalan Jalan (Sligo City) - JalanJalan is an Asian fusion restaurant tucked off a side road in Sligo town. They are open for lunch and dinner and make really great dishes if you are looking for something different than your typical Irish fare.

Walker 1871 (Sligo City) - I walked by this restaurant many times thinking it may be above my budget, and when I finally got the courage to walk in, I was immediately rewarded. The ambiance was second only to the food, which is locally sourced Irish fare with a twist. I went for a nice dinner out, but they do serve breakfast and lunch. I’d highly recommend.

Hooked (Sligo City) - Known for its local and Irish-sourced food, Hooked is known for its fish and chips. However, their menu is much, much more. They have everything from crispy pork belly to bao buns, and a Chick-fil-a Burger. Some menu items change with the season. Guests love to eat here morning, noon and night.

Pints (Sligo Town) - There is nothing in the world like joining the Irish at their local pub. In Sligo Town, make sure to visit Thomas Connollay or Shoot the Crows.

Pints (Enniscrone) B. Hopkins/Hopkins - One of the oldest pubs in the area. If you didn’t know it was a pub, you may think it was someone’s home. Last I knew, they don't serve food, so it’s a great place to sit and end your evening with Guinness.