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There is no place that compares to the sheer stark beauty of Connemara and Ireland’s vast western coast. Windswept and unspoiled, Oscar Wilde famously called it a savage beauty. We think it’s that and much more. There are endless Atlantic views, wild landscapes, peat bogs, traditional farms and thriving wildlife. It’s here you’ll find the essence of Ireland. Irish language, song, dance, literature and lore abound here, and old ways from sheep shearing to smoking fish or distilling whiskey still seem perfectly natural things to do.
We’ll meet in Galway and travel north to begin walking in Cong and beside beautiful Lough Corrib. Next, we’ll enjoy otherworldly views of the Twelve Bens and the Maumturks mountains. Moving to the coast, we’ll explore seafaring Clifden, then ferry to the Isle of Inishbofin, Ireland’s western most landscape. All species of birds breed here, including rare Corncrakes. Traveling further north, we spend a day at Killary Fjord, our path clinging to the water’s edge. And finally, to Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest site honoring its patron saint. We say farewell in Westport, a lively market town and the perfect place to return to the real world.
Meet at our hotel in the heart of Galway City for a Welcome Dinner and Introductory Talk.
Galway, The Hardiman
The day begins with a guided walk of Galway before transferring to Cong, the picturesque village made famous in John Ford’s Oscar winning film “The Quiet Man”. An easy afternoon walk takes us through the grounds of the 12th Century Augustinian Abbey and into the ancient forest of Cong. We’ll discover the secrets of its limestone caves before arriving at our hotel at Ashford Castle.
Cong, The Lodge at Ashford Castle
A short transfer takes us into the county of Connemara and our first magnificent view of Loch Corrib. We’ll walk along a classic boreen (aka country lane) following the contours of the landscape with Spectacular views of the Loch. We arrive for lunch in Clonbur, a pretty village with a traditional Irish pub. Afternoon Options: The Western Way leads us between the two magnificent mountain ranges, The Twelve Bens and the Maumturks, both well loved for their untamed beauty. Although it is a valley walk, this is a continuous 3.5 hour walk which can be exposed to the elements. OR A visit to the gothic lakeside abbey of Kylemore for those who prefer a more leisurely afternoon.
Letterfrack, Rosleague Manor
After a brief transfer, explore the old seafaring town of Clifden before departing by ferry for the Isle of Inishbofin. We arrive on the island in time for the catch of the day and lunch on the waterfront. This afternoon, walk along the island’s shore and follow the seals and corncrakes busily enjoying the day. It’s the perfect spot for the kind of storytelling for which Ireland is famous, including our favorite bit of Irish folklore, the legend of Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s Pirate Queen and friendly foe of Queen Elizabeth I.
Letterfrack, Rosleague Manor
This morning we’ll make our way to Killary Habour fjord, a special place where the mountains meet the sea, offering magnificent views the full length of the estuary. This glacial fjord is a natural border between counties Mayo and Galway, but it’s the mountains of Connemara that dominate. Looking towards the sea, we are likely to see dolphins in search of salmon, alongside the lobster pots and mussel beds.
Morning Options: The morning walk has some rocky sections and uneven ground, therefore may not be suitable for anyone with balance issues. OR a 90 minute cruise along the estuary for those who a prefer a more leisurely morning.
Lunch is in the village of Leenaun, which may be familiar to those who saw the film adaption of John B Keane’s play ‘The Field’ starring Richard Harris, John Hurt and Tom Berenger. After lunch, we have a gentle 90 minute walk, again with extensive views of the Fjord. On the way to our next hotel in the bustling town of Westport, we’ll stop at the famous Aasleagh Waterfall for a photo opportunity.
Westport, The Wyatt Hotel
Today we join part of the original Irish ‘Celtic Camino’ towards the sacred mountain of Croagh Patrick. Although we do not actually climb the mountain dedicated to St Patrick, the peak will always be in our sights as we make our way back to bustling Westport. We’ll have lunch at the harbor overlooking the bay, then continue walking, taking the route through the grounds of Westport House back to our hotel. Take time to explore Westport before meeting the group for a wonderful farewell dinner tonight.
Westport, The Wyatt Hotel
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Westport Railway Station for onward connections by rail or bus to either Dublin or Galway (the latter for connection to Shannon Airport).