Discover Sligo, a rugged coastal town shaped by waves, music and poetry
Hotels in Sligo offer literary heritage and coastal adventure, from riverside townhouses in the heart of Yeats Country to beachfront retreats near championship surf breaks and country estates overlooking Benbulben’s iconic table mountain. You’ll find everything from Victorian guesthouses to contemporary spa hotels, all positioned for exploring ancient megalithic tombs, walking trails that inspired Ireland’s greatest poet, and Atlantic beaches where world-class waves meet golden sand. Whether you’re here for literary pilgrimages, surfing adventures, or simply enjoying northwest Ireland’s wild beauty, there’s a stay to match your visit.
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Central Sligo
Where to Stay in Sligo
Sligo spreads along the Garavogue River between mountains and sea with distinct areas from the medieval town centre to coastal villages. Your choice shapes whether you wake to town bustle or Atlantic waves.
Sligo Town Centre – The historic heart with medieval lanes, O’Connell Street shopping, riverside walks, and pubs with traditional music. Perfect for first-timers wanting walkable access to attractions and literary sites.
Rosses Point – A coastal village 8 kilometres northwest with championship golf, sailing club, beaches, and Ben Bulben views. Ideal for golfers and beach lovers wanting seaside atmosphere.
Strandhill – A surfing village 8 kilometres west with Atlantic beach, surf schools, seaweed baths, and laid-back coastal vibe. Appeals to surfers and wellness seekers wanting beach culture.
Riverside and Doorly Park – Residential areas along the Garavogue with peaceful walks, park access, and proximity to town centre. Suits families and those seeking quieter surroundings near amenities.
Surrounding Countryside – Rural areas within 10 kilometres with country house hotels, mountain views, and access to Benbulben and Glencar Waterfall. Great for nature lovers and scenic base seekers.
Rosses Point, Sligo
Best Hotels in Sligo
Sligo’s hotel scene celebrates Yeats heritage and coastal charm, from riverside townhouses to surf-side retreats and country estates with mountain vistas. Whether you’re after literary atmosphere, surf break proximity, or simply a warm base near ancient sites, there’s a stay to suit every traveller and budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in Sligo
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Sligo (4-star) – A contemporary riverside hotel with spa, leisure club, ballroom, and central location overlooking the Garavogue. Perfect for spa lovers and business travellers wanting modern comfort.
The Glasshouse Hotel (4-star) – A striking modern hotel with colourful design, riverside terrace, Swan Bar, and contemporary elegance. Ideal for design enthusiasts and couples wanting stylish town centre stays.
Castle Dargan Hotel (4-star) – A country estate hotel with golf course, spa, lakeside setting, and peaceful location 10 minutes from town. Suits golfers and those seeking countryside luxury.
Best Town Centre Hotels in Sligo
Clayton Hotel Sligo (4-star) – A modern hotel near the train station with leisure facilities, conference rooms, and central convenience. Great for business travellers and families wanting reliable comfort.
Sligo Park Hotel (4-star) – A family-run hotel with gardens, leisure centre, restaurant, and edge-of-town location. Perfect for families and touring guests wanting facilities and parking.
Riverside Hotel (3-star) – A central hotel on the Garavogue with traditional Irish hospitality, restaurant, and walkable town access. Suits travellers wanting affordable town centre location.
Best Coastal Hotels in Sligo
Strandhill Lodge & Suites (4-star) – A contemporary hotel at Strandhill Beach with sea views, spa, restaurant, and surf village location. Ideal for surfers and beach lovers wanting modern coastal comfort.
Yeats Country Hotel (3-star) – A Rosses Point property with golf course views, traditional character, and coastal village atmosphere. Great for golfers and those exploring northern coastal routes.
Best Country Hotels near Sligo
Temple House (4-star) – A historic country mansion 20 minutes from Sligo with estate grounds, lake, elegant rooms, and heritage atmosphere. Perfect for romantic getaways and history enthusiasts.
Coopershill House (4-star) – A Georgian country house with period furnishings, woodland estate, fine dining, and peaceful rural setting. Suits couples and those wanting authentic Irish country house experience.
Best Guesthouse Hotels in Sligo
Tree Tops B&B (3-star) – A welcoming guesthouse with comfortable rooms, home-cooked breakfast, and residential area location. Appeals to budget travellers wanting traditional Irish hospitality.
Aisling Guesthouse (3-star) – A friendly B&B near the town centre with cosy rooms, hearty breakfast, and local knowledge. Great for couples and solo travellers seeking personal touches.
Best Budget Hotels in Sligo
The Benwiskin Centre (hostel) – A budget hostel in town with dorms, private rooms, shared facilities, and backpacker atmosphere. Perfect for solo travellers and groups exploring the northwest.
Railway Hostel (hostel) – A basic hostel near the train station with simple accommodation and convenient transport links. Ideal for backpackers and budget travellers.
Local B&Bs – Numerous family-run bed and breakfasts throughout Sligo offer budget-friendly stays with full Irish breakfasts and warm welcomes.
Top Things to Do in Sligo
Benbulben Mountain – The iconic flat-topped mountain visible throughout Sligo with hiking trails, Yeats connections, and dramatic geology. A must for walkers and photographers.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – Ireland’s largest Stone Age cemetery with passage tombs dating to 3700 BC and mountain backdrop. Perfect for history buffs and ancient site enthusiasts.
Strandhill Beach and Seaweed Baths – Championship surf beach with Atlantic waves, traditional seaweed bathing houses, and coastal walks. Great for surfers and wellness seekers.
Yeats Memorial Building and Grave – Explore the poet’s legacy at the memorial building and visit his grave in Drumcliff churchyard beneath Benbulben. Appeals to literary fans and cultural travellers.
Glencar Waterfall – A 50-foot cascade in a wooded glen that inspired Yeats’ poetry with walking trails and scenic beauty. Ideal for nature lovers and short walks.
Mullaghmore and Classiebawn Castle – A coastal village with sandy beach, harbour, and the castle made famous by Mountbatten history. Perfect for coastal scenery and historical interest.
Classiebawn Castle
Getting to and Around Sligo
By Train: Sligo Railway Station connects to Dublin Connolly in 3 hours with scenic routes through Irish countryside and convenient town centre location.
By Bus: Bus Éireann operates services to Galway, Dublin, Donegal, and surrounding towns with the bus station centrally located near the train station.
By Car: Sligo sits on the N4 from Dublin (220km, 2.5 hours) and N15 from Donegal with easy access to Wild Atlantic Way coastal routes and countryside attractions.
Getting Around: Sligo town centre is compact and walkable within 15 minutes, though buses serve Strandhill and Rosses Point. A car is useful for exploring countryside and coastal areas.
When to Visit Sligo
Spring (April to May) – Warming weather, blooming countryside, and moderate crowds make this ideal for exploring before summer peaks. Hotel prices are reasonable with comfortable walking and touring conditions.
Summer (June to August) – Peak season with warmest weather, busy beaches, surf camps, traditional music festivals, and highest hotel rates. Expect crowds during July and August school holidays.
Autumn (September to October) – Comfortable temperatures, golden landscapes, Yeats Summer School aftermath, and thinning crowds create atmospheric conditions. Mid-range hotel prices with excellent touring weather.
Winter (November to February) – Cold, wet months with stormy Atlantic swells attracting big-wave surfers, lowest hotel rates, and cosy pub sessions. Perfect for budget travellers and storm-watchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sligo good for surfing beginners?
Yes, Strandhill Beach offers excellent beginner and intermediate conditions with multiple surf schools providing lessons, equipment hire, and safe instruction year-round.
Can I visit Sligo without a car?
Sligo town is walkable and buses serve Strandhill and Rosses Point, though a car is highly recommended for exploring Benbulben, Glencar, Carrowmore, and countryside attractions efficiently.
Is Sligo worth visiting for non-Yeats fans?
Absolutely, Sligo offers surfing, ancient megalithic sites, dramatic mountain scenery, and coastal beauty beyond its literary heritage, making it appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Are Sligo hotels cheaper than Galway?
Yes, Sligo generally offers better value than Galway with similar quality hotels costing 20-30% less, making it an affordable Wild Atlantic Way base.
Do Sligo hotels arrange surf lessons?
Many Sligo and Strandhill hotels recommend local surf schools or arrange lessons with operators offering equipment, instruction, and pickup services from hotels.
Can I book Sligo hotels through easyStay with free cancellation?
Yes, most easyStay listings include flexible cancellation. Look for “Free Cancellation” before confirming your stay.
Book Your Stay in Sligo Today
From riverside elegance to surf-side retreats, hotels in Sligo put you at the heart of Yeats Country and Wild Atlantic Way beauty. Whether you’re chasing literary inspiration, Atlantic waves, or simply exploring ancient Ireland, there’s a perfect northwest base waiting.
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