2-Hour Surf Lesson and Guided Walking Tour of Coolera Peninusla from Strandhill Village

2-Hour Surf Lesson and Guided Walking Tour of Coolera Peninusla from Strandhill Village

There is much more to Strandhill village than just the surf. Strandhill is at the centre of an ancient prehistoric ritual landscape, so come explore and learn more with our friendly and informative local guides. After an invigorating morning surf, join a local surfer and historian and learn about the history of Strandhill Beach and the Coolera peninsula. Find out who was the first surfer in Strandhill, who founded the fifth century religious settlement of Killaspugbrone, which ancient Queen is reported to be buried on top of the majestic Knocknarea, the secrets of the Carrowmore megalithic cemetery (the largest in Europe!) and appreciate why the poet WB Yeats was so inspired by the Sligo landscape.

Our group tours begin with a two-hour surf lesson to awaken the senses. Our surf lessons generally take place at 10 am or 2 pm (times may change according to conditions). After our surf session we get changed and regroup for a coffee before we head off on a guided walking tour that will broaden our mind.

North along Strandhill beach and the sandhills. Hear about Strandhill's origins and the curse of the 'shifting sands' that buried the cottages of local villagers. Find out about the marine archaeology of Strandhill beach and why Knocknarea has fossilised seafloor on its summit. Beyond Walkers Banks and Sligo airport is Strandhill's archeological gem, Killaspugbrone. Here we will explore the ruins, hear about Saint Patrick's visit to Strandhill and about the religious centre he founded. Next we will visit Walkers Lodge, one of the area's 'big houses' before arriving to Dolly's Cottage, a preserved 18th stone cottage. Here we can stop for tea, listen to the story of Dolly's Cottage and maybe even hear some music or song. Then we make our way back to the seafront, passing various sites of interest until we reach the famous Strandhill cannon. (Terrain: Uneven in places, strand, shore, rocks, road. Duration: 1hour 30 minutes)