CONNEMARA - ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way spans seven of Ireland’s counties and provides a dramatic landscape of sea inlets and beaches which wiggle along the Atlantic coast, overseen by the beauty of the Connemara National Park....Two thousand hectares of scenic mountains, heaths, flora, woodlands and diverse wildlife. Small but interesting heritage sites and stop off points will complete your experience...... The landing point of the first non-stop transatlantic flight and the first high power transatlantic long wave wireless telegraphy station.

Taster Tours

Connemara National Park - www.connemaranationalpark.ie - The Visitor Centre provides information on the Park‘s history, geology and fauna. Accessed by the walkways of Diamond Hill which offer stunning views, wildlife and flora, all from your chosen trail ( 0.5 to 4km). Choose one which reflects your needs  and pace. Kylemore Abbey beckons  in the distance, an invitation to explore or maybe on another day. Kylemore Abbey - www.kylemoreabbey.com - A 1,000 acre oasis built in 1860, now owned by the nuns of the Benedictine Order. Self wander or join the various escorted tours and walks to learn of the history surrounding the woodlands, walled gardens and church.The final stop needless to say could be taken in the Tea House, with the near by temptations of the Craft and Design shop and Pottery studio. Clifden - The characterful relaxed town, provides a great base from which to explore the surrounding area. A range of out door activities are on offer and there to tempt! An abundance of small cafes, restaurants and quaint shops, burst with displays of local crafts, all guaranteed to stimulate your interest. Take a picnic of local delicacies down the hill to enjoy the peace and wildlife of the delightful small harbour.

Time to Linger

Whistlestop in Market Street has interesting gifts and items to enhance your place back home. Alan Gillard at stoneware pottery studio is a mere 2 km drive on the N 59 Westport Road. When hungry Mitchell is at Market Street and the Steam Café Yard will tempt those hungry tastebuds with local produce.