Rural tradition and creativity in "Yeats Country"
In the shadow of Sligo's tabletop mountain, Ben Bulben, is a farm run by the Feeney family in Streedagh. The Feeneys bought their first sheepdog pup in 1977, and at Atlantic Sheepdogs visitors can now watch the collies do what this breed has done for centuries – herd sheep.
To Yeats, Sligo was "The Land of Heart's Desire" – the place that inspired his most beautiful poetry, reflecting the sense of peace and serenity he felt whenever he was here. Yeats himself is buried at Drumcliffe Cemetery, and at Broc House, you can dine out on some of the finest local organic produce, crafted lovingly by the hosts, before spending an evening by the fireside, as you're regaled with some of the Nobel Laureate's best-loved poems.
If you have more time
Treat your body and your soul at Voya Seaweed Baths in Strandhill. Or if you love the humble spud, drop into Lissadell House, where you'll find a staggering 180 varieties of potatoes lovingly tended in the Victorian kitchen garden.