Strandhill Beach

Strandhill Beach is a beautiful beach, approximately 11 kilometres long,  with magnificent views of Knocknarea Mountain, Benbulben, Sligo Bay, and Coney Island. It is very popular for surfing and renowned for its impressive sunsets. It is located just 5 miles west of Sligo town.

The beach is very popular for surfing and renowned as one of Europe’s best and most consistent surfing breaks. Strandhill village runs along the beachfront. It is a popular holiday spot with restaurants, shops, pubs, a golf course, and a large camping site.

The Cairn or Tomb of Queen Méabh (Maeve, or Meadhbh) is on Knocknarea Mountain, inland a little from Strandhill Beach.  The tomb, which looks like a mound of stones, is said to be 5,000 years old (older than the pyramids) and is an easy 2.5 kilometre walk from the car park to the summit at 327m, taking about 1 hour.

The Queen is remembered as warlike and strong and best known for waging a war against Ulster, most notably in the infamous Cattle Raid of Cooley, where she fought against the legendary warrior, Cú Chulainn.

The walk is worth it not only to visit the ancient landmark but also for the fantastic views of the Ox Mountains and Benbulben.

Just 10 minutes from Strandhill, you will find the largest group of megaliths in the country at Carrowmore. These tombs, some of which are dolmens, where standing stones support a horizontal capstone, are believed to be over 4,000 years old.