Sligo Yeats Trail

 Hotels in Sligo

  

Nothing evoques the spirit of Old Ireland better than the sight of horse and rider silhoutted against the setting sun, and there is no better place to ride than the captivating coastline of Sligo, an area steeped in history and blessed with natural beauty.

 

Many operators cater for those who wish to indulge in what is now called the Yeats Trail.The preferred option for the experienced rider has to be a self guided tour riding between lodgings. A typical tour starts near the exquisite Streedagh Beach, which is your first chance to slacken the reins and experience the gallop of a lifetime along the wonderful long golden sands. If the tides are right it is possible to ride across to the magical Dernish Island, scene of many a shipwreck. A long soak in the bath, a hearty meal and a pint of the black stuff (Guiness) are your rewards at the end of a long day in the saddle.

 

The new day arrives with the sun rising over the towering rocks of Benulben. It is time to shake off any saddle-soreness and remount. This stage takes you along small tracks and down country lanes and then on to the magnificent white sands of Trawbawn. It is then but a small climb to Cullumore cliffs for an amazing view over Sligo Bay.

Having fed and stabled your horse and done the same for yourself, the final leg of the trip takes you towards Ardtarmon Castle, both sumptuos and rich in history. A ride along Lissadell Beach then takes you on the most challenging part of the trip as you climb steadily up the foothills of Benbulben.

HOW

On horseback

WHEN TO GO

Year round, but best in May and June when the wild flowers are in bloom.

TIME IT TAKES

Allow anywhere between a couple of days to a week.

HIGHLIGHTS

The long sandy beaches - the perfect place to ride.

Inishmurray Island - a monastic settlement founded about 500 AD.

Ardtarmon Castle - family home of Countless Markievicz.

Drumcliffe Churchyard - burial place of William Butler Yeats.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

Intermediate to advanced riding skills are required for this trip. Most operators also do not allow children less than 13 years old.

Hotels in Sligo

North Mayo Drive

Hotels in Mayo County

  

Drama underpins everything about North Mayo, whether it's the rugged landscape or its often-troubled history. Although only a few hours drive from Dublin or Belfast, it feels light-years removed from them. The area's population is now lower than it was before the potato famine and those who remain are among the hardiest and most welcoming people to be found anywhere.

The 173km (108 mi) North Mayo Drive takes you in a loop that starts and finishes in the county's largest town, Ballina. A choice of over fifty hostelries awaits you and good simple food is prepared in most of them. The drive, in essence, links ten communities, each with its own ditinct feel. In between there is ample opportunity to visit magnificent abbeys or simply wander along any one of many riverside trails.

 

Driving counter-clockwise, the road hugs the Atlantic coast before turning inlanf at Belderrig. From there it travels alongside the picturesque Carrowmore Lough, a perfect place to pull over and have a picnic. As the road swings round and you start the journey back towards Ballina, the peaks of the Nephin Beg Range dominate the landscape and the charming town of Bangor Erris demands that you stop and dwell a while. For those wishing to engage in more rugged outdoor pursuits, a well-appointed hiking trail leads off to the mountains.

 

This drive is a must for anyone who wants to experience the real Ireland. Around every corner there are symbols of martyrdorm and sainthood, of suffering and triumph. It is a land of desolate beauty, where the pace is gentle and the Craic is at its most genuine.

 

HOW

By car

WHEN TO GO

Year round, but the weather is best from March to October.

TIME IT TAKES

Three hours without stopping, but best enjoyed as a 2 or 3 day jaunt.

HIGHLIGHTS

The archaeological site of the Ceide Fields.

The glistening Lough Conn.

Rathfran Abbey - one among many.

The stretch around Lackan Bay and Downpatrick Head.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

Be prepared to be slowed down by agricultural activity on your way - be patient and remember that the gentler pace of life is part of the reason this area is so special.

Hotels in Mayo County