Whether you're visiting Sligo in order to take time out from the ordinary workings of society; to seek creative inspiration; or to experience a time of rest and reflection, there are a myriad of inspiring and enriching locations dotted around the county.

Dominating the Sligo skyline is the tower of The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, which is a much-admired Cathedral to Sligoans and visitors alike. Set against a striking Ben Bulben backdrop, with its pyramid-capped tower, which reaches a height of 70 metres, the Cathedral is a focal point in Sligo town offering a reflective and prayerful environment for people of all ages.

Sligo Abbey, which was founded in the mid-13th century by Maurice FitzGerald, is another enigmatic building worthy of a visit. The site contains a wealth of carvings including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculpture and the only sculptured 15th century high altar to survive in any Irish monastic church.

Sligo town is also renowned for its love of music and culture, and certainly there is no shortage of either in this vibrant town. Hawk's Well Theatre for example, has a wonderful summer line-up that will appeal to the discerning theatre goer, while the
Model Niland Arts Centre is widely regarded as one of Ireland's most important contemporary arts centres with an extensive and vibrant programme of visual and performing arts.

Meanwhile, just 12 miles from Sligo town lies Dromahair, a village steeped in history and built on the banks of the Bonet River which flows into Lough Gill. It was the seat of the O'Rourkes, the ancient High Kings of Breifne, one of the old Celtic kingdoms. The ruins of O'Rourke's castle and banqueting hall are a focal point in the village. W.B. Yeats, a regular visitor to Dromahair, referred to the village in his poem The man who dreamed of Faeryland.

If you're looking to while away an afternoon, Inishmurray, a magical island off the coast of Sligo is a truly unique location. Inhabited for centuries but now deserted, the island contains the most complete remains of an early Irish monastic settlement.

Aside from all these well-known sights of Sligo, the county plays host to numerous tranquil locations, which are ideal for those looking for some peace and quiet.

Quaint village pubs, as well as more modern establishments in Sligo City itself, will appeal to students looking for the renowned Irish "craic", as well as families who want to relax in a welcoming atmosphere, and lecturers who simply want to sit back and enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Those seeking out traditional Irish pubs with lively music and a warm atmosphere will be spoiled for choice in Sligo. Old-fashioned pubs with woodburning stoves and local musicians dropping in for a "session" are plentiful throughout the city, while bars that broadcast major sporting events and offer karaoke nights are also dotted around Sligo.

A selection of discos and nightclubs will also ensure that the young, and the young at heart, can dance the night away.

One of the most popular past times in Sligo is going for a round of golf, and certainly there's no shortage of top-class golf courses to choose from. County Sligo Golf Club in the wonderful location of Rosses Point; Enniscrone Golf Club, which is regarded as one of Ireland's finest links courses; Strandhill Golf Course, which has been called "the jewel of the West" by golfing legend Christy O'Connor; and the newly opened Castle Dargan, designed by Irish golfer Darren Clarke, to name but a few.

Hill-walking and horse-riding are also popular outdoor pursuits for all ages. Sligo's countryside is dotted with wonderful trails such as the well-known Ladies' Brae, or the imposing Benbulben, for the more adventurous walkers. Meanwhile, Sligo's many beaches make ideal locations for horse-riding, with Culleenamore Strand, Ballysadare Bay and Streedagh the more notable choices.

One of the world's fastest growing sports, surfing, has emerged as a fashionable leisure activity in Sligo, where experienced surfers and novices alike can "catch a wave" at beaches such as Strandhill, Enniscrone, Bundoran and Rosses Point.