You simply can’t visit Bundoran without walking Tullan Strand. Here you have a 360-degree panoramic view encompassing Mullaghmore, Sligo and across Donegal Bay, to the magical Slieve League Cliffs. On a sunny day it’s stunning and just a five minute drive from the centre of Bundoran. This is Bundoran’s discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way. If you have a bought a Wild Atlantic Way passport, you can get it stamped at Bundoran Post Office.
Due to the peculiar rock formations around Tullan Strand, a series of natural blow holes exist. These cause the sea water to crash through the rock and blow water upwards in a dramatic fashion. For hundreds of years these have been rumoured to be haunted and the work of the fairies. They’re known locally as The Fairy Bridges. Also to be found at Tullan Strand is the Wishing Chair. This is a manmade chair, carved from local standing stone – O’Flaherty’s stone. It’s believed to mark the grave of a local chieftain known as O‘ Flaherty. It is thought that the chieftain himself sat here to contemplate and survey his land. You make a wish when sitting in the chair but it must be kept private.
Classiebawn Castle, a stunning period building dating back to 1874, on the Mullaghmore peninsula in Sligo, is well worth a visit and is just 15 minutes drive away from Bundoran. This beautiful building was formerly owned by Louis Mountbatten, a member of the British royal family, who was assassinated close by in 1979. The grounds surrounding it, with views of the Ben Bulben mountain range in the background, are breathtakingly beautiful.
The breathtaking Glencar Waterfall and lake are just 34 minutes drive away from Bundoran and well worth seeing. The waterfall is particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. There are more waterfalls visible from the road. You will find a car park, a picnic area, a playground and tea rooms on site.
Fans the Yeats will know that he’s buried in the churchyard at Drumcliffe in County Sligo, just under the Ben Bulben Mountains. This is just a 20-minute drive from Bundoran. The graveyard has the remains of a round tower and a high cross dating back to the 11th century. The Drumcliffe Tea House and Craft Shop offers mouth-watering home-made cakes and desserts, and a fine selection of local crafts.
The picturesque fishing village of Killybegs, is just a 50-minute drive from Bundoran and makes for a lovely day out. Start with a tour of the Donegal fishing village. The Killybegs heritage trail will fill you in on its history. Stop for a cup of tea and a freshly baked scone at Ahoy café on the Shore Road. Afterwards some freshly caught seafood at The Turntable Restaurant, overlooking Killybegs Harbour.