We're thinking of going to these two counties on our trip to the old country in Oct. I'm looking for some ideas about where to stay, in particular, but places to eat would be welcome as well, and any other experiences anyone wants to share. We're Ireland veterans, but have never been up that way.
Posted by
DeWitt, MI, USA
199 posts
Jim, since no one has yet responded, I'll give you my two cents. We've not been to Sligo, but did spend a night in Donegal Town. This was 6 years ago, before we discovered Rick Steves, and I don't know if his Ireland book covers Donegal. Donegal is a cute little town in a beautiful area. There are a few hotels in the center of town, and we stayed at the Abbey Hotel, right on the "diamond". It was nice and the room huge and well furnished. Our meal at their restaurant was awful.
Posted by
OP
Richardson, TX, USA
153 posts
Thanks. His Ireland 2007 book covers Donegal as a day trip out of Derry. I am interested in a more leisurely pace.
Posted by
wichita, kansas
484 posts
Jim, You might check out Ardara. It is a scenic area,has several good B&B's and several excellent restaurants in the area.
Posted by
OP
Richardson, TX, USA
153 posts
Re: Ardara - will check it out. Thanks.
Posted by
westminster, md, usa
196 posts
Outside of Sligo(town)- I think off of the N16 you can swing around to Glencar Lough/Waterfall. It is easier now to find then in the past. Then take the N15 to Drumcliff church; which has a famous resident in their cemetary - YB Yeats & an celtic cross. The entire area is fantastic. If you go down to the wall and look up you will see the start of Ben Bulben(my favorite view in all of Ireland). Out in Lough Gill is a tiny island; which is the "Isle of Innisfree", however, in october you will only be able to look at it from the shore. If you travel north up to Bundoran(summer seaside town) my mom and I found an interesting bit of ireland. After you go thru the town there a KFC on the left, yeah, a good ol' Kentucy Fried Chicken, minus many items we are used too. Anyway, we were having lunch when i noticed a sign outside for 'farie bridge' - just ask a local & they will direct you - it is basically a stone bridge over the bay.
Posted by
westminster, md, usa
196 posts
Continued: Ballyshannon is further up the road. Then onto Donegal.
One thing I always wanted to see in Donegal were the Slieve League - highest cliffs in all of Europe.
You could always gander out to Tory Island and meet the 'king'.
have fun