Itinerary
Cultural Connemara & Wild Atlantic Way
Collection from Galway Train Station in time for lunch and a cultural tour of Connemara. The drive along the Wild Atlantic Way will introduce you to tiny coves and fishing villages against a backdrop of iconic mountains - the Twelve Bens.
After time to settle into accommodation, we'll have a welcome dinner to discuss our plans and activities for the week ahead.
Diamond of Connemara & Kylemore
After a sumptuous breakfast, we will begin exploring the region with a visit to Kylemore Abbey - the jewel of Connemara. Originally built in 1867 as a romantic gift, Kylemore Abbey and the surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history. Learn of tales of tragedy, romance, engineering initiatives and royal visits as you saunter around the Victorian Walled Gardens and Estate.
Later we will visit Connemara National Park to hike the "Diamond Hill" of Connemara, – a glistening quatzite peak and part of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
Fjord Walking, Shepherding & Seaweed
Today we will hike along Ireland’s only true fjord, forming the border between Galway and Mayo, this area boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the west of Ireland. This poignant and beautiful walk weaves Irish history in a tranquil and remote setting as we journey past deserted stone cottages and quaint fishing harbour where fresh water meets the salty air of the Alantic ocean.
Our day will include a demonstration of traditional sheepdog herding by a local 3rd generation shepherd, upland farmer, and dog trainer.
After all that sea air, you can enjoy a hot seaweed bath to completely relax your mind and body in natural nutrients and minerals.
Croagh Patrick, Westport & Foxford
Today our journey moves further north as we bid Connemara farewell and head to county Mayo; Ireland’s adventure capital and wildest county.
Along the route, we will stop by the sacred site of Croagh Patrick Ireland's "Holy Mountain" and explore the rich heritage and archaeology at the edge of the Atlantic. We visit Westport House & Gardens, home of Grace O'Mally "Pirate Queen" of Clew Bay, and Foxford Woollen Mills where we'll learn about the master craftspeople of Mayo and the techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Cycling Lakelands of Mayo
Today we switch to two wheels to discover a tapestry of quiet country lanes, rolling hills in between the lakelands of North Mayo. The bicycle is an ideal way to explore this beautiful landscape, enjoying the views of the iconic Nephin mountain as you cycle along the shores of Lough Conn at your own pace. Later we will visit a traditional pub in Lahardane - a tiny village with a Titanic reputation, due to its connection with the ill-fated liner.
Sea stacks, Neolithic Fields & Downpatrick Head
The North Mayo coastline epitomises the beauty of Ireland. A combination of natural and human history, the picturesque landscape is full of heritage monuments, mythology and folklore.
Walking in the footsteps of our ancestors, we will visit the most extensive stone age field system in the world, the Céide Fields, which date back 2,000 years before the Egyptian Pyramids. With a 1,000 year old round tower from the Viking era and sea stacks from over 300 million years ago - hiking in this area is literally a step back in time!
This evening we'll enjoy a delicious meal together, prepared using the finest local produce and vegetables from local organic gardens. Afterwards we will gather round the fireside with a glass of 'uisce beatha' (whiskey), for a magical evening of storytelling and maybe a song or two.
Ireland's Salmon Capital, Ballina
It's time to bid farewell to the Wild Atlantic Way but not before we take a leisurely morning to enjoy the cultural surroundings of the market town of Ballina on the banks of the River Moy (Ireland's Salmon capital).
We'll have you at your departure point in town by midday.
