Soaking up the lush greenness of the fields as the road cuts through farmland from Knock Airport we pass stone clad walls, cattle, lochs and plenty of hills in the distance on our way to Sligo. While the trees are naked of leaves and the grey sky broods under the weight of threatening rain the ‘wild, wet, west of Ireland’, as our guide describes it, rolls before us striking a stunning backdrop.

We are on our way to the adopted home of WB Yeats to witness what it was he loved so much that gave him inspiration to write some of his most memorable poetry. Images of a small and sleepy Irish town are soon banished thanks to contemporary art spaces, stylish restaurants and, of course, the warm Irish welcome in every bar and pub we enter. Mix in a touch of breathtaking scenery and a surf-able coastline nearby and Sligo offers a perfect base for a weekend escape.

Lunch at The Oarsman
Bridge Street, Carrick-on-Shannon
www.theoarsman.com
From the outside it looks like we might be crammed onto a tiny table but the deceptive frontage of this Carrick-on-Shannon gastro pub actually turns in to a sizeable venue. The smell of Seafood Chowder is the first thing to hit the senses and it seems pointless looking at the menu from here-on-in; i’ve already decided. With a stella reputation and a host of accolades (including membership to Good Food Ireland and part of the 100 Best Restaurants in Ireland) it is a perfect cosy place for a cold winter feed up.

Meet the birds at Eagles Flying
Eagles Flying, Portinch  Ballymote, Co. Sligo
www.eaglesflying.com
Owned by German scientists Eagles Flying is as a research centre that fast became a popular attraction amongst visitors to the county. You’ll get a chance of real close-up interaction with some beautiful birds of prey including Eagles, Hawks, Falcons and even vultures as they land right next to you. With the bird’s huge wing span sweeping above your head as they come in to land you’ll learn a thing or two about the biology of the birds as the team answer questions.

Learn to cook Lobster Thermidor at Source 
1/2 John St. Sligo
http://sourcesligo.ie/
Having the luxury of being so close to the coast it is no wonder seafood is such a big hit in the county. Locally sourced produce is massive in the area and no more so than in Source. Set over three floors the restaurant on the ground is a contemporary space with a host of recyclable items used to new effect - upside down baskets and mixing bowls used as lamp shades were my particular favourite.



The second floor hosts music accompanied by Tapas, wines and champagne (perfect for a glass of something sparkling after a gorgeous meal downstairs) while the third floor is set up for the cookery school. All month the team teach groups with their classes from a taste of Venison to breadmaking and vegan cooking.

Check out contemporary art at The Model
themodel.ie/
The Mall, Sligo
With a recent addition of artist studios and a healthy rotation of residencies Director and curator Seamus Kealy brings contemporary visual and conceptual art from across the globe to Sligo. Regular music and film events make the space one of Ireland’s leading art venues.

Hear about the Myths and Legends of Ireland with Michael Quirke
Wine Street
Woodcarver Michael Quirke carves his way through the legends of Sligo from his father’s old Butcher Shop. Telling the tales of mythical kings and warriors he brings the stories to life with the medium of carving and will even carve an animal of your choice as a memento. 

Spoil yourself at Voya Seaweed Baths
Strandhill, Sligo
voyaseaweedbaths.com/
Several times a week the owners of Voya can be found along the Sligo Coastline picking fresh seaweed for the baths. The organic seaweed skincare experience is simple; just lie in a warm bath of the slimy stuff and let it do its work. With detoxifying properties (we were told good for hangovers also) and the ability to deeply moisturise the skin it helps relax the muscles and your mind leaving your skin soft.

Where to stay

www.theglasshouse.ie
The Glasshouse is a perfect central location to the bars, restaurants and shops of Sligo. Its contemporary style and ship-like shape is a contrast to the stone buildings making it stand out from its Garavouge River location. The interiors, rooms and dining areas are brightly decorated in citrus tones while illustrations are placed around walls and corridors complete the look.

The facts

Leading low cost airline bmibaby flies direct from Birmingham Airport to Ireland West Knock up to four times a week.  Fares start from just £14.99 one way including taxes.  bmibaby offers customers many benefits including allocated seating, online check in and the opportunity to join bmi Diamond Club - the UK’s most generous frequent flyer programme. 

bmibaby has recently launched bmibaby holidays giving customers the chance to secure an ATOL protected holiday package including flights, accommodation and transfers for as little as £100pp deposit.  bmibaby’s Fly, FlyPlus and FamilyFly bundles provide customers with a wide range of added extras, benefits and savings for one set price.  For lowest fares and to book a flight, visit www.bmibaby.com  and for any information on visiting Ireland please visit www.discoverireland.com.