DONEGAL & SLIGO
Donegal & Sligo, the wild northwest of Ireland, is a land of towering sea cliffs, flat-topped mountains, and ancient myths, where the Wild Atlantic Way carves a path through rugged beauty.
This region is the heart of Yeats Country and a center for surfing, folklore, and Gaelic culture, offering an authentic Irish experience where landscape and legend intertwine.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Natural Landmarks:
Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs: Some of the highest and most spectacular sea cliffs in Europe, rising to over 600m above the Atlantic.
Benbulben: Sligo’s iconic flat-topped mountain, a distinctive geological feature dominating the landscape and inspiring W.B. Yeats.
Glenveagh National Park & Castle: A vast wilderness park in Donegal with mountains, lakes, and woods, home to a beautiful 19th-century castle.
Knocknarea: A Sligo mountain capped by a large, Neolithic passage tomb known as Queen Maeve’s Cairn.
Errigal: The tallest, cone-shaped peak in County Donegal, a popular, challenging climb offering panoramic views.
The Gleniff Horseshoe: A scenic driving or walking loop in Sligo with dramatic valley views and the spectacular Benbulben.
Glencar Waterfall: A beautiful, tranquil waterfall near Lough Gill, also associated with the poetry of W.B. Yeats.
Fanad Head Lighthouse: A stunning, working lighthouse on the Donegal coast, often voted one of the most beautiful in the world.
Ancient & Historic Sites:
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery: Ireland’s largest and one of its oldest collections of Neolithic tombs, dating back over 5,000 years, located in Sligo.
Grianán of Aileach: A magnificent, restored stone ringfort in Donegal, dating back to 1700 BC, offering panoramic views.
Sligo Abbey: A medieval Dominican friary in the heart of Sligo town, featuring Gothic and Renaissance carvings.
Donegal Castle: A restored 15th-century O’Donnell fortress on the River Eske in Donegal Town.
Glencolmcille Folk Village: A thatched-roof replica of a rural Irish village in Donegal, offering a glimpse into 18th-20th century life.
Carrowkeel Megalithic Site: A complex of Neolithic passage tombs in the Bricklieve Mountains of Sligo.
Doe Castle: A picturesque 15th-century castle on Sheephaven Bay in Donegal.
Fort Dunree: A historic coastal defense fort and military museum overlooking Lough Swilly in Donegal.
Coast, Culture & Towns:
Strandhill Beach (Sligo): A popular surfing beach and village known for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic views of Knocknarea.
Drumcliffe Church & W.B. Yeats’ Grave: The final resting place of the Nobel Prize-winning poet in Sligo, set against the backdrop of Benbulben.
Mullaghmore Head (Sligo): A headland famous for big-wave surfing, offering dramatic coastal views and the sight of Classiebawn Castle.
Malin Head: Ireland’s most northerly point in Donegal, known for its rugged landscape and the ‘ÉIRE’ sign visible from the air.
Lissadell House & Gardens: A grand Sligo manor, childhood home of Countess Markievicz and a place visited by W.B. Yeats.
Sligo Town Core: A vibrant town center with the River Garavogue, shops, traditional pubs, and The Model contemporary art center.
Bundoran (Donegal): A lively seaside resort town famous for its surf breaks and family-friendly atmosphere.
Inishowen 100 Scenic Drive: A spectacular 160km touring route around the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, taking in coastal views and attractions.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Slieve League Cliffs (Donegal): Experience some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, soaring up to 601 meters. Walk the path for incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Donegal Bay.
Surf the Wild Atlantic Waves (Sligo & Donegal): Take a surfing lesson in Bundoran (Donegal) or Strandhill (Sligo), renowned world-class surfing locations with consistent swell suitable for all levels.
Explore Glenveagh National Park & Castle (Donegal): Hike through the rugged wilderness, mountains, and woodlands of Donegal’s largest national park and tour the romantic, late-19th-century Glenveagh Castle on the shore of Lough Veagh.
Discover the Megalithic Tombs of Carrowmore (Sligo): Wander through one of Europe’s largest and most important megalithic cemeteries, with tombs and stone circles dating back over 5,000 years, older than the Pyramids of Giza.
Drive the Wild Atlantic Way’s Inishowen 100 (Donegal): Take on this scenic 100-mile driving loop around the Inishowen Peninsula, stopping at sights like Malin Head (Ireland’s most northerly point) and the spectacular Mamore Gap.
Visit the Iconic Benbulben (Sligo): Hike one of the marked trails to get up close to Sligo’s iconic flat-topped mountain, which dominates the landscape and inspired poet W.B. Yeats.
Climb Fanad Head Lighthouse (Donegal): Tour this beautifully situated, working lighthouse on the Fanad Peninsula, once voted one of the most beautiful in the world, and climb its tower for panoramic views.
Kayak on Lough Gill (Sligo): Explore “Yeats Country” from the water by kayaking or paddleboarding on Lough Gill, a tranquil lake central to the poet’s work, including the famous Lake Isle of Innisfree.
Experience Traditional Culture at Glencolmcille Folk Village (Donegal): Step back in time in this replica of a thatched-roof rural Irish village, offering a glimpse into daily life in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.
Find Solitude on Coney Island (Sligo): Drive or walk across the tidal causeway (check tide times!) to visit this quiet, rabbit-filled island between Rosses Point and the Coolera peninsula.
Explore Sligo Abbey and the Town Centre (Sligo): Discover the medieval ruins of this Dominican monastery, built in 1252, then explore the town’s vibrant streets, pubs, and the Yeats Memorial Building.
Tour Donegal Castle (Donegal): Visit the beautifully restored castle of the O’Donnell clan, once the seat of one of the most powerful Gaelic families in Ireland.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for Touring: To fully explore the rugged coastlines, national parks, and remote villages of both counties, a rental car is highly recommended. The Wild Atlantic Way drives are the main attraction.
Public Transport (TFI Local Link): While routes are expanding under the “Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan,” public transport remains less frequent and extensive than in urban centers. TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim operates a bus network connecting key towns like Donegal, Sligo, and Ballyshannon, and services are improving, offering some weekend and evening routes.
Bus Éireann Regional Services: The national bus company provides connections between the main towns and to other major cities in Ireland (e.g., Sligo to Dublin/Galway).
Train Services (Sligo): Sligo Town is the northern terminus for the Dublin-Sligo railway line, providing a fast and efficient connection to the capital. There are no train services in Donegal.
Cycling: Both counties offer excellent cycling opportunities, from scenic coastal roads to dedicated greenways. E-bike rentals are a growing option to tackle the more mountainous terrain.
Embrace the Weather: The North West of Ireland is stunningly beautiful, but the weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for all four seasons in one day—pack layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy footwear for the often wet and uneven trails.
The Power of Yeats: Sligo is deeply connected to the life and work of the Nobel laureate W.B. Yeats, who drew heavily on the county’s landscape and mythology. Referred to as “Yeats Country,” you’ll find monuments, buildings, and tours dedicated to his legacy, particularly in Sligo Town and around Lough Gill.
Traditional Irish Music (Trad Sessions): The North West has a strong traditional music heritage. Seek out a pub in towns like Sligo, Donegal Town, or a smaller village for a genuine “trad session,” often unadvertised and spontaneously enjoyed by locals.
The Gaeltacht (Donegal): Large parts of County Donegal are designated Gaeltacht, meaning Irish (Gaeilge) is the primary language. While everyone speaks English, you will see Irish on road signs and hear it spoken locally. Learning a few phrases in Irish, like Fáilte (Welcome) or Go raibh maith agat (Thank you), is a lovely gesture.
Surfing Mecca: Sligo’s Strandhill and Donegal’s Bundoran are internationally recognised surf spots. Don’t just watch; take a lesson. The surf schools provide all the necessary equipment, including thick, warm wetsuits.
Hidden Gems:
- The Devil’s Chimney (Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird): Ireland’s tallest waterfall, located on the Sligo-Leitrim border, is unique because on windy days, the water blows back up, making it flow “against the height.” Check if it’s flowing after heavy rain.
- The Grianán of Aileach (Donegal): This magnificent stone ringfort dates back to the 6th century (though the site is much older). Its hilltop location offers incredible 360-degree views across Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle.
- Seaweed Baths: A unique local wellness experience, particularly famous in Strandhill, Sligo. Soak in a hot bath of seawater and wild-harvested seaweed, renowned for its therapeutic and skin-nourishing properties.
- Donegal Tweed: In areas like Ardara (Donegal), you can visit workshops to learn how the famous handwoven Donegal Tweed is made and purchase authentic, locally made products.
Top Restaurants
The Beach Bar [$20-$35] – A truly authentic, 300-year-old thatched pub and restaurant on Aughris beach in Sligo, famous for its traditional charm, open fires, and hearty pub food, especially seafood.
Hargadon Bros [$25-$40] – A multi-generational, award-winning traditional pub in Sligo Town with a beautiful Victorian interior, offering excellent gastro-pub fare with a focus on Irish classics and local produce.
Olde Castle Bar & Red Hugh’s Restaurant [$25-$40] – A landmark gastropub in Donegal Town since the 1700s, specializing in traditional Irish cooking and freshly caught local seafood in a historic, atmospheric setting.
The Rusty Mackerel [$20-$35] – A vibrant, traditional bar and restaurant in Teelin, Donegal, near the Slieve League cliffs, known for its fresh seafood, traditional music, and a genuinely friendly, local atmosphere.
Davis’ Restaurant & Yeats Tavern [$25-$40] – A family-owned institution for over 35 years in Drumcliffe, Sligo, offering traditional Irish dishes with a focus on quality, local ingredients near the famous Yeats’s grave.
The Strand Bar [$20-$35] – The heart of Strandhill, Sligo, for over 100 years, this traditional family-run bar is famous for its lively atmosphere, pub grub, and views of the Atlantic.
Biddy’s O’Barnes [$15-$30] – A welcoming, historic inn nestled in the stunning Barnesmore Gap, Donegal, offering warm Irish hospitality and generous portions of comfort food in an old bar setting.
Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy’s Bar [$30-$50] – A pioneering ‘eat local’ restaurant in Sligo Town known for its modern take on Irish classics, especially fresh seafood and steaks, operating for over 20 years.
The Venue Bar and Restaurant [$25-$40] – Located in Strandhill, Sligo, this spot is highly regarded for its fresh seafood, steaks, and a menu that balances traditional favourites with modern presentation.
The Cook & Gardener Restaurant [$30-$50] – The main dining room at Rathmullan House in Donegal, priding itself on using fresh fruit and vegetables from its own walled garden, alongside local fish and seasonal meats.
The Railway Tavern & Firebox Grill [$25-$40] – Located in a former station house near Fahan Marina, Donegal, this venue is warm and welcoming, famed for its steaks and freshly prepared dishes using local produce like Donegal crab and lamb.
Harrison’s Bar & Restaurant [$25-$40] – An award-winning gastropub in Cliffoney, Sligo, that blends old and new with comforting dishes made from fresh fish, local beef, and Wild Atlantic Way ingredients.
The Lemon Tree [$40-$70] – A Michelin-recommended, contemporary Irish restaurant in Letterkenny, Donegal, known for its creative menu that changes seasonally to showcase the best of local produce.
Eala Bhán [$40-$60] – A relaxed yet elegant restaurant on the banks of the river in Sligo Town, specializing in high-quality, locally sourced seafood and 100% Irish beef steaks with a contemporary Irish twist.
Hooked [$30-$50] – A popular, quirky bistro in Sligo Town offering a menu of artisan, locally sourced food with a creative flair, famous for its high-quality seafood and modern dining experience.
The Mill Restaurant at Rathmullan House [$50-$80] – Located on the beautiful shores of Lough Swilly, Donegal, this hotel restaurant offers delectable dining options with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients in a low-key luxury setting.
The Old Stone Restaurant [$25-$40] – A charming spot in the heart of Donegal Town that combines family favourites and traditional food with modern presentation, catering to various dietary needs.
The Driftwood [$30-$50] – The restaurant/bar/cafe in a quirky, beach-house style hotel in Rosses Point, Sligo, known for a relaxed vibe and creative, locally-inspired seasonal menus and sharing plates.
Osta Café & Wine Bar [$20-$35] – A popular, contemporary spot in Sligo Town that focuses on local produce, offering crowd-pleasing brunches, excellent cakes, and a lovely wine selection.
Chandpur Indian Restaurant [$25-$40] – An award-winning, family-owned Indian restaurant in Donegal Town that uses local produce to deliver a delicious fusion of traditional Indian/Bangladeshi cuisine in a modern, colourful setting.
La Bella Donna Restaurant [$25-$45] – An authentic Italian restaurant near the bridge in Donegal Town, providing a warm, ambient atmosphere and an extensive selection of classic Italian dishes, pizzas, and fresh seafood.
Lough Eske Castle – Cedars Restaurant [$60-$90] – An elegant dining experience at the Lough Eske Castle Hotel in Donegal, offering an extensive grill and fusion menu that incorporates local meats and seafood in a contemporary style.
The Sandhouse Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in the Sandhouse Hotel in Rossnowlagh, Donegal, this award-winning establishment offers two dining rooms focused on fine local cuisine, outstanding service, and traditional hospitality in a splendid setting.
The Gallery Bar at Lough Eske Castle [$40-$70] – The second dining spot at Lough Eske Castle offers a more relaxed, but still refined, experience with culinary delights and authentic hospitality.
Waterfront Restaurant at Waterfront House [$50-$80] – A romantic dining option in Enniscrone, Sligo, often highlighted for its beautiful seaside setting and high-quality cuisine, perfect for a special occasion.
The Firebox Grill at The Railway Tavern [$40-$70] – While the pub is traditional, the Grill often focuses on high-quality Irish beef and modern presentations, providing a great high-end experience without the formal setting.
The Seashell Restaurant [$60-$90] – One of the two award-winning restaurants at the Sandhouse Hotel, offering a focus on locally sourced quality cuisine in an elegant setting.
The Glasshouse Restaurant [$60-$90] – The second award-winning restaurant at the Sandhouse Hotel, also committed to fine dining with local ingredients and exceptional service.
Arnolds Hotel Restaurant [$50-$80] – Overlooking Sheephaven Bay in Donegal, this stylish restaurant is a proud member of the Donegal Food Coast, showcasing the finest local ingredients, including fresh seafood and Horn Head beef, in a contemporary setting.
Shells Cafe [$15-$30] – A wildly popular, bright, and breezy café right on the seafront in Strandhill, Sligo, known for its awesome breakfasts, fantastic lunches, delicious cakes, and overall community-focused, relaxed vibe.
Ahoy Café [$15-$25] – A family-run spot located at the harbour in the busy fishing port of Killybegs, Donegal, perfect for stopping on the way to Sliabh Liag, famous for its excellent seafood chowder, homemade wheaten bread, and fresh local produce.
Flipside, Serious Burgers Sligo [$15-$25] – Voted as one of the best burger joints in Ireland, this Sligo Town spot focuses on quality, using 100% Sligo-reared Aberdeen Angus beef for its “serious burgers.”
The Olde Glen Bar [$30-$50] – A Michelin Guide-mentioned Irish bar in Glen, Donegal, that offers an exceptional culinary experience, blending traditional atmosphere with refined, modern cooking.
Nook Café & Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in Collooney, Sligo, this highly-rated spot provides a cosy, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on fresh, seasonal food, often highlighted for its creative brunch and lunch options.
Quay West Restaurant [$30-$50] – Situated on the waterfront in Donegal Town, this popular spot focuses on fresh seafood, steaks, and modern cuisine with beautiful views of the bay.
Bistro Bianconi [$20-$35] – Located in Sligo’s “Italian Quarter,” this long-established spot is renowned for its top-class, wood-burning oven pizzas and classic Italian pasta dishes.
Donegal Food Tours [Experience Price Varies] – Not a single restaurant, but a highly recommended food tour experience that allows visitors to meet local chefs and producers, sample local delicacies, and fully immerse in Donegal’s burgeoning food scene.
Sligo Oyster Experience [Experience Price Varies] – An unforgettable foodie experience where you can take a farm tour, learn about the local oyster production, and finish with a tasting session overlooking breathtaking Sligo views.
NORTH Sligo [$30-$50] – Part of a modern Irish experience chain, this Sligo eatery offers elevated casual dining using the best local produce with a focus on contemporary dishes and bold flavours.
Simple Simons [$10-$20] – A natural food deli and health shop in Donegal Town that is a popular local spot for homemade gluten-free cakes, breads, scones, and simple, healthy lunches.
The Harbour Restaurant & Bar [$25-$40] – Located in the heart of Donegal Town, this family-run restaurant serves a mix of fresh seafood, steaks, and traditional Irish cuisine with a clear vision of using fresh, local ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Lillies Cocktail Bar Sligo: Found in Sligo town, this bar offers a famous warm and cozy atmosphere in a vintage setting, known for its signature craft cocktails and regular live music performances.
The View Bar (The Glasshouse): Located on the first floor of The Glasshouse Hotel in Sligo town, it provides magnificent, contemporary views of the city and the Garavogue River weir, perfect for enjoying a classic cocktail.
The Blind Tiger (The Garavogue Sligo): Voted Connacht’s No1 Cocktail Bar (ICCA Awards 2018), this venue is part of a larger late-night destination situated on the banks of the Garavogue River in the heart of Sligo town, specializing in signature cocktails and gin serves.
Arnolds Cocktail Bar (Arnolds Hotel): This cozy Cocktail Lounge in the Arnolds Hotel in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal, offers a relaxing space to enjoy premium in-house cocktails by an open fire, with an extensive menu of classics and innovative creations.
Harvey’s Bar & Terrace (Harvey’s Point Hotel): Situated on the tranquil shores of Lough Eske in Donegal, this spot offers a unique lakeside experience with a funky octagonal bar, serving an array of tantalizing cocktails from classic favourites to innovative creations.
Jack’s Bar, Restaurant & Terrace (Ballyliffin Lodge): Located at the Ballyliffin Lodge in Ballyliffin, Inishowen, Donegal, this bar offers a full range of beverage options including classic, premium gin, and prosecco cocktails to suit any occasion.
The Central Bar (Central Hotel Donegal): Found in Donegal Town, this sophisticated bar harmonizes delectable cuisine with impeccably crafted cocktails, alongside a selection of fine craft beers and wines.
Gracie’s Bar Sligo: A vibrant, all-new live music and sports venue perfectly situated on Grattan Street in the centre of Sligo town, well-known for its delicious and creatively prepared cocktails.
McGinleys Bar: A highly-rated pub in Donegal Town renowned for having “the best cocktails,” a friendly staff, fab live music, and an amazing atmosphere.
Hargadons Bar: An historic pub in Sligo Town with a charming character, cozy snugs, and a specialty in Irish craft beers, but also offering a selection of spirits and wines in a traditional setting.
Dicey Reilly’s: A historic bar and microbrewery in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, primarily famous for its handcrafted beers (like Donegal Blonde) and an astonishing selection of over 600 wines and 350 craft beers, perfect for beer lovers.
The Abbey Hotel Bar: A well-known spot in Donegal Town featuring regular music, making it a great place for a drink before or after a meal.
The Corner Bar: A lively, old pub in Ardara, County Donegal, famous for its music, drawing locals and visitors alike for a traditional, friendly atmosphere.
Nancy’s Bar: A beloved, traditional bar in Ardara, Donegal, celebrated for its lovely staff, friendly locals, and a great pint of Guinness in a classic Irish setting.
Leo’s Tavern: Located in the village of Meenaleck, County Donegal, this world-famous establishment is known as the home of some celebrated Irish musicians, offering a genuine Irish pub experience with regular live music.