Discovering Authentic Ireland
The western region, described as the most “Irish” in Ireland, is composed of towns and landscapes uniquely its own. On the west side resides the Connemara, a landscape characterized by peat bogs, mountains and rugged coastline. Off this coast you will find the Aran Islands, accessible by boat or plane. The Aran Island known as Inishmore houses one of the best Stone Age forts in Europe, called Dun Aenghus. Visitors are transported around the island by local busses. While you’re there pick up a famous Aran sweater. Each sweater is unique to every other sweater and were originally knitted for the sailor in the family.
Peat Bogs in the Connemara, County Galway, Ireland
Interesting features of the western Ireland landscape include the peat bogs. The peat bogs were always important to the inhabitants of Ireland. As there are few forests left on the island, peat was used as a fuel source for heating one’s home. If you visit during the cooler months, you’ll find it is still used today in fireplaces throughout the countryside. Occasionally you will still find people cutting the peat with flat shovels, then placing the cut peat on the ground to dry before using it for their fire.
Kylemore Abbey, County Galway, Ireland
One of Ireland’s revered attractions and most often photographed estates is the Kylemore Abbey in Connemara. This Abbey, originally an estate, was built during the 19th century to house the Henry family. After the death of the owner’s wife, the property was sold to the Catholic Church and became home to the Benedictine Nuns who have owned the property since 1920. You can visit the Kylemore Abbey, take a tour of the estate and stroll through its Victorian Walled Garden. While you’re there, enjoy a cup of tea with their renowned scones or a hearty meal of traditional Irish cuisine overlooking the spectacular views of the Connemara National Park.
The Burren
Another interesting landscape is called the burren. This rugged land developed over the centuries of strong storms and winds. Nestled between the protruding rocks you’ll find grasses and wild flowers holding onto life. There’s no place like it on earth.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Past the burren, you’ll find the majestic Cliffs of Moher gracefully curving into the sea. These famous cliffs draw in tourists from around the world who hold their beauty in awe. You can view these spectacular cliffs from the land and by boat.
Contact us to plan your trip to Ireland, whether on the west coast or not, Ireland is a dream trip. Our clients rave about their travels here and how we make it special for them. Call us today and we’ll start working on your Ireland trip.