Lonely Planet included surfing spot Mullaghmore, Sligo in its new book, 1000 Ultimate Adventures which lists top tens for adventurers. Walking across Ireland was also included in the new book as one of the best coast to coast missions.

Lonely Planet listed Mullaghmore as one of the Best Spots to Catch a Wave. Last year surfers there rode waves measuring 15 metres high. The Independent quoted Lonely Planet, “High winds, choppy surfaces and blinding rain can present obstacles, but the heavy, long tubes make up for the conditions.”

The boost in publicity augments Ireland’s own efforts to attract adventures. Tourism Minister Michael Ring told the Irish Mirror, “In recent years the Government and the tourism agencies have been working hard to develop Ireland as a strong adventure tourism venue and get the word out across the world. Ireland was once the best kept secret in activity tourism but increasingly, due to the great product we have to offer, the word is getting out.”

Meaning “the great summit,” Mullaghmore has a sandy beach that makes it well suited for swimming, windsurfing and other water sports. The small fishing town also has several good restaurants and bars. It was listed as an easy coastal walk in Sligo Walks.

Mullaghmore and walking the coast were not the only suggested activities to do in Ireland. The book also recommended climbing Croagh Patrick and riding horses at the Castle Leslie estate. Croagh Patrick was on a list alongside the Hajj in Saudi Arabia and the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Castle Leslie was recommended for its historic house, good horses and “a touch of eccentricity.”

Situated near the picturesque town of Westport in Co Mayo, Croagh Patrick is a popular destination for hikers and pilgrims. St. Patrick is said to have fasted for forty days on the mountain and pilgrims climb to the top of the mountain where Mass is celebrated in a modern chapel. The mountain also holds archaeological interest since a hillfort from the pre Christian era is located at the base.

Castle Leslie is a castle turned hotel with miles of green fields for its guests to ride. Lessons and events are offered for riders of all levels including children over the age of five.

Lonely Planet’s 1000 Ultimate Adventures lists a hundred different top ten lists for various activities and destinations for adventurers. Hopefully the book will be helpful for tourists visiting Ireland. Failte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn said, “Hiking, cycling, water sports and other activities are all becoming increasingly popular with overseas travellers- particularly Europeans and especially in one of our key markets, Germany.”

Lonely Planet commented on Ireland as a whole, “Ireland is a country that refuses to be rushed and this meander has done it justice.”