Irish Holiday Hostels of Ireland
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COUNTY SLIGO
What's on in Sligo
Yeats' country, from which the famous Irish poet, W.B. Yeats, drew so much inspiration.
East Sligo
Main attractions:
Sligo Abbey
Sligo Abbey was founded in 1253 by the Dominican Order. It was destroyed by fire in 1641 but has since been restored. Open from Easter to October.
Sligo Art Gallery
Open all year round from Mondays to Saturdays.
Sligo County Museum
Sligo County Museum has a significant collection of Yeatsian memorabilia, including local artifacts and paintings by Jack B.Yeats, brother of William. Open daily from October to May, Tuesday to Saturday (afternoons only).
Model Arts & Niland Gallery
Displaying rotating exhibitions of major Irish and International Contemporary Art. Open from Monday to Saturday.
Lough Arrow
Lough Arrow is a popular destination for sailing and trout fishing with spectacular views. Open from May to October.
Hostels:
Eden Hill Holiday Hostel
Ashbrook,
Pearse Road,
Sligo Town.
Tel 071-9143204
ehomepage.eircom.net/~edenhill
Mail. edenhillhostel@eircom.net
Harbour House
Finisklin Road,
Sligo.
Tel. 071-9171547
Fax. 071-9171547
www.harbourhousehostel.com
eMail. harbourhouse@eircom.net
White House Hostel
Markievicz Road,
Sligo Town.
Tel. 071-9145160
Fax. 071-9144456
North Sligo
Main attractions:
Rosses Point
Five miles from Sligo town, Rosses Point is a well-known landmark from which you can see Coney Island and Strandhill.
Church Of Drumcliff
This small Church of Ireland church was built on the site of an early monastic settlement founded in the year 575AD by Saint Colmcille.
Lissadell House
Lissadell House is a late Georgian Mansion built in the 1830's for the Gore-Booth family who contributed much to the region during the Famine. The most famous member of the family, Constance Gore-Booth, later Countess Markievicz, was a leading revolutionary who took part in the 1916 Rising. She was the first woman to be elected to the British House Of Commons and later went on to become Minister for Labour in the first Irish free-state government. Open from June to September, Monday to Saturday.
Creevykeel Court Tomb
This classic court tomb has two main burial chambers. It was built by a Stone Age farming community who settled in this area between 3000 and 3500 BC.
Glencar Waterfall
An impressive display, especially after heavy rains.
South Sligo
Main attractions:
Keshcirran Hill
On the west side of Keshcirran Hill there are seventeen small caves to be found. Legend tells that Diarmuid, the infamous lover of Grainne, lived here at one time. On the summit of Keshcorran is another passage tomb, and superb views of the surrounding area.
Isle of Inisfree
This romantic spot was immortalised by a homesick Yeats in his poem 'The Lake Isle of Inisfree'. The best view is from Ballinafad Head, from which you can see Ballinafad Castle. The Carrowkeel Passage Tomb Cemetery, with 14 Neolithic passage graves, occupies a remote and eerie spot in the Briecklieve Mountains to the north.
West Sligo
Main attractions:
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
More ancient monuments are to be found here. There were once up 150 tombs, but today only 40 remain. A typical tomb is surrounded by circular kerb of large stones, has a large burial chamber with a roof cap and would have been built to house cremated bones.
Knocknarea
Known as Queen Meabh’s Grave, Knocknarea is a cairn made up of 40,000 tons of rock placed here by neolithic farmers. It is the place of which Oisin speaks to St. Patrick in ‘The Wanderings of Oisin’.
Culkin’s Emigration Museum
In Dromore West, you can discover how Daniel Culkin helped those in the area who had no choice but to emigrate during Ireland's troubled history.
Easky
Two fine Martello towers remind us of the fear that existed at the beginning of the nineteenth century that Bonaparte was planning to invade Ireland. As history tells us, this fear was unfounded as he soon became preoccupied with what were to become the Napoleonic Wars.
Enniscrone
Enniscrone is a popular seaside resort where you can walk along the miles of sandy beaches; treat yourself to a relaxing and energizing seaweed bath in Kilcullen’s nineteenth century bath house; and visit Nolan’s Castle.
COUNTY LEITRIM
What's on in Leitrim
 | County Leitrim is often overshadowed by better-known tourist attractions, nevertheless, it has its own beauty and charm, which has been left to a few discerning visitors to discover and enjoy. |
The area was colonized in 1622 by the English and Scottish acendency during the plantations, when various O’Rourke estates, the biggest landowners of the time, were seized and given to the new owners by the English crown.
South Leitrim
Main attractions:
Lough Rynn Estate
Lands acquired by the Earls of Leitrim in 1750 surround the Lough Rynn Estate. The grounds hold numerous attractions; ornamental gardens, water meadows, lush woodland and an arboretum with California redwoods and other exotic trees. There is also a ruined sixteenth century castle and a Neolithic burial site. Open daily from April to mid-September.
Mohill
Mohill was once the site of a sixth century abbey founded by St. Manchan. Today it is a popular centre for coarse angling.
O’Rourke Castle
Only the ruins of this magnificent building are left to remind us of this once strategic stronghold.
Carrick-on-Shannon
Costello Chapel, the second smallest in the world, was built in1877 by a local businessman, Edward Costello, for his wife after her untimely death. Open from April to September. www.leitrimtourism.com
North Leitrim
Main attractions:
Parke’s Castle
Captain Robert Parke built this Plantation manor house in 1609. There are photographs and archaeological finds on display and various historic and prehistoric sites in the area. Open daily from mid-March to October, 10am-6pm.
Creevelea Abbey
This sixteenth century Franciscan abbey was the last to be founded in Ireland before Henry VIII embarked on his famous dissolution of the monasteries throughout England and Ireland.
Kinlough Folk Museum
Kinlough Folk Museum tells us the story of rural life in days gone by. Definately worth a visit.
COUNTY DONEGAL
What's on in Donegal
| The supreme appeal of Donegal lies in the natural beauty of its coast, with endless golden beaches, windswept peninsulas and precipitous cliffs. |  |
Donegal has played an active role in Ulster's history through the years. The O’Donnell Clan held sway over most of the county in the Middle Ages, but fled to Europe in 1607 following their ill-fated stand against the English alongside the O’Neills. Protestant settlers moved on to land confiscated from the two clans, but left much of the poor soil of Donegal to the native Irish. It is one of the most remote parts of Ireland, and it is no coincidence that Donegal boasts the country’s largest number of Gaelic speakers.
Donegal Town
Main attractions:
Donegal Castle
Donegal Castle, recently restored, incorporates the gabled tower of a fortified house built in the fifteenth century. Open from Easter to June, Saturday and Sunday; and daily from June to August.
Donegal Abbey
Built in 1474, little now remains of the abbey except for a few Gothic windows and the cloister arch.
Donegal Craft Village
Donegal Craft Village is a showcase for the work of local craftspeople. Open from May to September, Monday to Saturday; and daily from June to August.
Hostels:
Donegal Town Independent Hostel
Doonan,
Donegal Town.
Tel. 074-9722805
eMail. lincunn8@eircom.net
www.donegalhostel.com
Ballyshannon
Situated on the River Erne, Ballyshannon was in the past an important centre for the county, and is the birthplace of the legendary blues guitarist Rory Gallagher who died in 1995.
Main attractions:
Abbey of Assaroe
The Abbey of Assaroe was built in the twelfth century by the Cistercians, and was a centre of learning and prayer for over four hundred years. Two water wheels installed by the monks have been restored and there is a heritage centre and cafén the grounds. Open daily from July to August.
Bundoran
Bundoran or as it is known in Irish "Bun Dobhrain" which means the foot of the little water was actually up until over a century ago two separate villages. Bundoran was the village west of the bridge over the River Bradog, this area is now known as the West End. East of the bridge almost a mile away, was the village of Single Street. In between these two separate communities lay the historic townland of Drumacrin. The area of Drumcacrin is now part of what is todays town centre. It was only after the opening of the railiway station in 1866 which was called Bundoran that the two distinct communities developed and merged to what we know nowadays to be Bundoran.
The first official mention of Bundoran was in 1777 when Viscount Enniskillen built Bundoran Lodge, his summer residence. This building still exists to this day and is now known as Homefield House.
Bundoran grew in popularity as the favoured resort of the leisured classes. They came from all parts for the "splendid sea-bathing and bracing health-giving air".
Bundoran is a lively resort town on the shores of the broad Atlantic and nestled against a backdrop of the historic Ben Bulben mountain range. Its rambling coastline, dramatic cliffs, blue flag beach and wealth of entertainment possibilities place it among the most favoured seaside destinations in Ireland.
It is an ideal base to explore the stunning beauty of the Donegal coast and it’s impressive highlands, the scenic lakelands of Fermanagh and Leitrim, and the rich cultural and literary heritage of Sligo.
The area surrounding Bundoran offers a whole range of activities to the visitor such as golf, fishing, surfing, hill walking, horse riding and much more.
Hostels:
Homefield Hostel
Bayviews Avenue,
Bundoran
Tel. 071-9841288
Fax. 071-9841049
eMail. homefield@eircom.net
www.homefieldhouse.com
Dungloe
The Rosses
The Rosses is one of the most picturesque areas in Donegal and a Gaelic speaking area. Nearby at Maghery Bay is a glorious sheltered beach, five miles in length, with caves, arches and unusual cliff formations. Open from June to September.
Ardara
In Ardara, famous for its weaving tradition, you can buy local tweeds and hand-knitted sweaters. There are several pubs well-known for Irish music sessions.
Glencolumkill
Folk Village Museum
The Glencolumkill Folk Village Museum describes the rural Donegal lifestyle through the ages. There has traditionally been a high rate of emigration from this region. The folk village shop sells local produce and has a good stock of wine. Open daily from Easter to September.
Hostels:
Malinbeg Hostel
Malinbeg,
Glencolumkill.
Tel. 074-9730006
Fax. 074-9730965
Rossnowlagh
eMail. malinbeghostel@oceanfree.net
www.malinbeghostel.com
The cliffs at Rossnowlagh
The cliffs at Rossnowlagh are a hiker's paradise for exhilarating coastal walks. Open from April to October.
Main attractions
Donegal Historical Society Museum
A house built in the 1950s, in the grounds of a striking Franciscan friary. Open daily.
Grianan of Ailigh
This spectacular circular stone fort stands at the neck of the Inishowen Peninsula, perched on a hilltop. The solid structure that can be seen today is the result of extensive restoration in the 1870s. A few minutes walk away is an attractive church, dedicated to St. Aengus and built in 1967. Its circular design echoes that of the Grianan.
Letterkenny
Letterkenny is Donegal’s largest town, the commercial heart of the county. It straddles the river Swilly between the Sperrin Mountains to the east and the Deryveagh Mountains to the west.
Main attractions:
St. Eunan’s Cathedral
A Neo-Gothic cathedral built in the nineteenth century with Celtic-style stonework, a rich marble altar and vivid stained-glass windows.
County Museum
The County Museum has expanded in recent years and offers informative displays on local history from the Stone Age to the twentieth century. It houses a collection of archaeological artifacts found in Donegal, some dating from the Iron Age. Open from Monday to Saturday during the summer, public holidays, and for ten days at Christmas.
Tory Island
The turbulent Tory Sound separates this windswept island from the northwestern corner of mainland Donegal. Most of the islanders speak Gaelic and they even have their own monarch. You can explore the ruins of a monastery founded by Saint Columba and enjoy the island’s dramatic cliffs and seabird rookeries.
Main attractions:
Dixon Gallery
During the 1970’s the Irish government tried to resettle many of the islanders on the mainland, but they refused to move. The Tory school of Primitive artists, inspired by James Dixon in 1968, led the campaign of resistance. The school of artists has drawn a growing number of tourists ever since. Open daily from Easter to September.
Killybegs
Killybegs is one of Ireland’s busiest fishing ports. The Ulster Gaelic dialect spoken here differs somewhat from that of Connacht and Munster.
Main attractions:
Slieve League
This, the highest cliff face in Europe, is a spectacular sight. Each evening at sunset the rock is streaked with changing shades of red, amber and ochre.
Derryveagh mountains
Errigal mountain in the Derryveagh mountain range attracts keen hikers, and its tallest peak, at 751m (2,466 ft), is the one of the high spots to visit.
Main attractions
Glenveagh National Park
Covering 16,500 hectares, the Glenveagh National Park includes Lough Veagh and Poisoned Glen, a marshy valley enclosed by dramatic cliffs. This park protects the largest herd of red deer in the country.
Glenveagh Castle
This splendid granite building was constructed in 1870 by John Adair, notorious for his eviction of many families from the area after the Famine. Open daily from March to November.
Glebe House and Gallery
Inside this modest Regency mansion you can see William Morrris wallpapers and Islamic ceramics. The gallery contains works by, among others, Picasso, Renoir and Jack B Yeats. Open during Easter and from May to September, Thursday to Saturday.
Colmcille Heritage Centre
The illuminated manuscripts at the heritage centre trace the life of Saint Columba, known as Saint Colmcille in Gaelic. Open during Easter and daily from May to September.
The Inishowen Peninsula
Inishowen, the largest of Donegal’s northern peninsulas, is an area rich in history, ranging from early Christian relics to strategically positioned castles and forts.
Main attractions
Malin Head
Looking out onto the Atlantic from the highest point of Malin Head, known as Banba’s Crown, stands a tower built in 1805 to monitor shipping. There are hundreds of semi-precious stones to be found here such as coral, jasper, opal, agate and topaz; and a stone unique to the area known as the ‘Malin pebbles’.
Gap of Mamore
Enjoy breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside from the Gap of Mamore.
Hostels:
Derrylahan Independent Hostel
Derrylahan,
Kilcar.
Tel. 074-9738079
Fax. 074-9738447
eMail. derrylahan@eircom.net
Shamrock Lodge
Main St., Falcarragh
Letterkenny
Tel. 074-9135057
Fax. 074-9135192
Corcreggan Mill
Near Dunfanaghy
Tel. 074-9136409
Fax. 074-9136902
eMail. millhostel@corcreggan.com
Sandrock Holiday Hostel
Port Ronan Pier,
Malin Head,
Inishowen.
Tel. 074-9370289
eMail. sanrockhostel@eircom.net
Malin Head Hostel
Malin Head,
Inishowen.
Tel. 074-9370309
homepage.eircom.net/~malinheadhostel
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