County Sligo, with its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and lush forests, offers a wealth of adventure tourism experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and thrill-seekers. From surfing waves to exploring mountain trails, the county provides a diverse range of activities set against its stunning landscapes.
Sligo’s Atlantic coast is a haven for water sports, particularly surfing. Strandhill Surf School caters to all levels, offering lessons and board hire on Strandhill Beach, where consistent waves draw surfers year-round. For those preferring calmer waters, Enniscrone Beach provides opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment available from local operators like North West Adventure Tours.
On land, the Ox Mountains and Knocknarea offer hiking trails with sweeping views. The Knocknarea summit trail, a 6km round trip, leads to Queen Maeve’s cairn, rewarding walkers with vistas across Sligo Bay. For longer treks, the Sligo Way spans 80km, weaving through forests and hills, with bike hire available for cyclists tackling sections of the route.
Eagles Flying, Ireland’s largest sanctuary for birds of prey, offers a unique adventure in Ballymote. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of falcons and owls in flight, with hands-on experiences for those keen to handle the birds. The centre also features a petting zoo, adding a family-friendly element.
For adrenaline seekers, Zipit Forest Adventures in Lough Gill provides high ropes courses and zip lines through ancient woodlands. The circuits cater to different skill levels, challenging balance and nerve while offering views of the lake. Nearby, Devil’s Chimney Adventures offers coasteering, combining rock climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping along Sligo’s wild coast.
Lough Boora Parklands, straddling the Sligo-Offaly border, features 50km of cycling and walking trails through bogs and wetlands. Bike hire is available, and the park’s open spaces suit families looking for a relaxed outdoor day. Angling enthusiasts can cast lines in Lough Arrow or Lough Gara, where boat hire and fishing guides enhance the experience.
Sligo’s equestrian scene thrives at places like Island View Riding Stables in Grange, offering beach and trail rides through coastal dunes. Lessons cater to beginners, while experienced riders can explore longer routes. For a cultural twist, Carrowmore Adventure combines outdoor activities like archery with guided walks through ancient megalithic sites.
Water-based adventures extend to the Garavogue River, where Sligo Kayak Tours provides guided trips through the town’s waterways, blending urban and natural scenery. For families, Waterpoint Aqua Park in Enniscrone offers indoor slides, climbing walls, and play areas, perfect for rainy days.
Sligo’s mix of coastal, mountain, and cultural activities creates an inviting playground for those eager to explore Ireland’s northwest.
Adventure tourism
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County Sligo:
Ireland’s county Sligo is renowned for its poetic heritage and coastal scenery, with the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery offering one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric sites. The Benbulben mountain provides striking hiking trails, while Strandhill’s beaches are ideal for surfing. Other attractions include the historic Lissadell House and its gardens. Sligo is Ireland’s 22nd largest county by size (1,796 square km) and seventh smallest by population (70,198). Population peaked at 180,886 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 50,275 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Sligo is Ireland’s 17th most visited tourist county with around 133,000 international visitors per year.
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