Overview
Aughris Head is a striking headland on the Wild Atlantic Way, marking the most south‑westerly point of Sligo Bay in County Sligo. The peninsula is framed by two pristine beaches – Aughris Beach and Dunmoran Strand – and backed by rolling pasture, marshland and 30 m sea cliffs, the highest in the county. From the headland you can see Sligo Bay, Knocknarea, Benbulben and, on clear days, Slieve League in Donegal. The site is a short 30‑minute drive from Sligo town or 20 minutes from the coastal village of Easky, with a modest car‑park beside the historic Beach Bar.
History & Background
Aughris has long been a focal point for community, politics and defence.
- The name derives from the Irish eachros – “horse headland”, hinting at pre‑Christian roots.
- Archaeological surveys have identified a cliff‑edge ring fort, suggesting early medieval occupation, and a later ancient fort & earthworks visible on the coastal walk.
- In the late 19th century the headland hosted political rallies led by Charles Stewart Parnell; on Garland Sunday, 27 July 1901, an estimated 8,000 people gathered for a nationalist rally, and a separate Irish‑language rally addressed by Douglas Hyde also drew thousands.
- The area was a centre for summer Lughnasa celebrations – Garland Sunday, Garlic Sunday, Aughris Sunday and the Sunday of the New Potatoes – with dancing, matchmaking and rounds around St Patrick’s Holy Well.
- Early 20th‑century Templeboy Races were held on Ruball Sionnagh, adding a sporting tradition to the headland.
- During World War II a emergency coastal lookout post was erected on the cliffs; its remnants remain and can be visited on the walk.
What to See & Do
Beaches & Water Sports
- Aughris Beach – a long, stony strand dropping into the Atlantic, with a sheltered harbour at Aughris Pier for swimming, surf, stand‑up paddle‑boarding and fishing. The pier is a popular spot for catching mackerel and pollack.
- Dunmoran Strand – protected by high dunes, ideal for beginner surfers and wind‑surfers. The gentle slope makes it a favourite for lessons.
- Surf School – local surf instructors operate from the Beach Bar during the summer months, offering group and private sessions for all ability levels (see the Beach Bar for contact details).
Hidden Beach & Rock Formations
A short detour from the main loop leads to a black‑sand hidden beach tucked behind the dunes – a quiet spot perfect for a solitary walk or a quick dip. Along the cliff edge walkers often point out a large lichen‑covered rock that locals liken to a giant’s footprint; folklore says it marks the passage of Finn McCool. The rock and the secluded beach are highlighted in several visitor blogs and make a memorable photo opportunity.
Coastal Walks
- The Aughris Head loop is a 4–4.5 km moderate walk that starts at the Beach Bar car‑park, follows red‑arrow way‑markings and takes roughly an hour.
- Key highlights:
- Sea‑cove and caves – a crystal‑clear cove with two small sea caves (≈700 m from the start) and larger caves reachable by kayak.
- Ring fort & ancient cliff‑edge fort – offering 360° panoramas of Sligo Bay, the Ox Mountains and Benbulben.
- World War II lookout post – perched on the cliffs with sweeping ocean views.
- St Patrick’s Holy Well – a quiet, flower‑fringed spot reputed to have been visited by the saint; the well is surrounded by fresh‑blooming wildflowers in summer.
- Remains of a deserted village – hinting at a once‑thriving settlement.
- Wooden bridge to Dunmoran Strand – completing a scenic loop back to the car park.
- Black‑sand hidden beach and the giant‑footprint rock – off‑the‑beaten‑path features mentioned by walkers.
- The walk is sign‑posted as a Wild Atlantic Way discovery point, making navigation straightforward for first‑time visitors.
Surfing & Lessons
The headland’s Atlantic exposure creates consistent swells, especially from September to April. The Beach Bar runs a seasonal surf school that provides board hire, wetsuits and instruction. Beginners are welcomed on Dunmoran’s gentle rollers, while more experienced riders head to the exposed break at Aughris Beach.
Wildlife & Culture
- Marine life – dolphins and seals are frequently seen surfacing near the cliffs; seabirds such as gulls, puffins and razorbills nest on the higher crags.
- The Beach Bar – a 300‑year‑old thatched pub on the sand, serving hearty Irish fare, drinks and B&B rooms. Its beer garden offers unrivalled sunsets and was highlighted in the “Irish Pubs with a View” guide. The Bar serves food from 1 pm to 8 pm in summer (see Irish Day Tours).
- Loveen’s Tasty Treats – a local stall at the end of the walk serving ice‑cream and pastries.
- Local arts – occasional live music sessions are held in the Bar during summer evenings.
Flora & Fauna Highlights
Late spring brings a carpet of wildflowers across the dunes and pasture, making the walk a photographer’s delight. In addition to the marine mammals mentioned above, the cliffs support colonies of razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes during the breeding season. Seals often haul out on the rocks at low tide, and curious dolphins can be spotted riding the swell.
Accommodation
While the headland itself has no dedicated visitor centre, a few nearby options make an overnight stay easy:
- Aughris House B&B – located a short walk from the Beach Bar, offering simple rooms and a hearty breakfast. The owners are happy to provide surf‑school contacts and local walking tips.
- Cawley’s Guesthouse – situated a few kilometres inland, this family‑run B&B promotes the Aughris Head walk and can arrange meals at the Beach Bar for guests. Both establishments are mentioned on the Wild Atlantic Wayfarers site and are popular with surfers and walkers looking for a convenient base.
Nearby Islands & Boat Trips
For a change of scenery, consider a short boat trip from Sligo town to Coney Island (subject to weather and tide conditions). The island is a haven for bird‑watchers and offers a quiet beach for a picnic. Although Inishmurray Island is currently closed to visitors, the area’s marine life – especially seals and occasional dolphins – can often be seen from the water during a charter.
Practical Information
- Access: Free entry. Reachable via a narrow single‑track road; turn off the N59 at the Aughris junction.
- Parking: Roadside spaces and a small car‑park beside the Beach Bar – free of charge (as confirmed by recent visitor guides).
- Facilities: Beach Bar (food, drink, accommodation), Loveen’s stall, public toilets at the car‑park, surf‑school equipment hire.
- Opening hours: The headland is open all day year‑round; the Beach Bar operates from 1 pm to 8 pm in summer (check seasonal times). The surf school runs May‑September.
- Tides: Sea‑cave exploration is safest at low tide – consult a tide table before setting out.
- Accessibility: The loop walk includes uneven and steep sections; not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
- Safety: Keep to marked paths, watch for slippery rocks near the cliffs, and respect nesting wildlife.
- Dog‑friendly: Dogs are welcome on the beaches and on the walk, but must be kept on a lead near the cliffs and during the bird‑nesting season.
Seasonal Tips
- Surfing: Best waves from September to April; summer offers gentler conditions for beginners.
- Wildlife watching: Seals and dolphins are most active in late spring and summer.
- Flora: Late spring brings a carpet of wildflowers across the pasture and dunes – a great time for photography.
- Events: While the historic Garland Sunday rallies are no longer held, the area still hosts occasional community music sessions in the Beach Bar during the summer months.