Where West from the Connacht Tribune Newspaper Group by Declan McGuire

hard lands, warm hearts:

Awaken your curiosity:

THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Walking the west

West Where ... summer 2019, ISSUE 02

shopping | entertainment | food | tours | tracks & trails

discover the real beauty of the west DON’T MISS WHAT’S NEW ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

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30 The Atlantic Ocean is an immensely valuable resource, supporting a rich and diverse range of ecosystems — from tiny phytoplankton to blue whales. From trade routes to tourism, fishing to leisure activities, the Atlantic Ocean has huge benefits to the economy and to our health and wellbeing. Dr Peter Heffernan CEO of the Marine Institute said, “As an island nation on the edge of the Atlantic, we all have a direct link to the marine environment in Ireland. The Atlantic Ocean influences our lives in many different ways, from our climate, environment, to providing a source of food, a gateway for shipping and transport, as well as supporting marine life. Our location in Ireland and in Galway, places the Marine Institute in a unique position to contribute to and lead transatlantic collaborations on ocean research in the Atlantic.” To better understand the Atlantic Ocean, a formal alliance between the European Union, United States and Canada was launched in 2013 by the signatories of the Galway Statement. The Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance (AORA) has a shared vision for an Atlantic that is healthy, resilient, safe, productive, understood and treasured. Dr Margaret Rae, Director AORA-CSA said, “We recognise the importance of the Atlantic Ocean to us, to our citizens and to our prosperity. To build and improve our research and knowledge, we need to unite forces and pool our research infrastructures and resources to deepen our knowledge of the changing Atlantic Ocean, jointly tackling the grand challenges facing us.”

Since its creation, over 500 research teams have contributed to AORA’s cause. AORA initiatives include ocean observation, food from the ocean, a healthy and plastic-free ocean, increasing ocean awareness and mapping the Atlantic Ocean floor. Under AORA, the Atlantic Ocean floor will be charted, making it the best-understood ocean on earth. AORA calls this “the Last Great Exploration campaign on Earth.”

Many expeditions on the Marine Institute’s RV Celtic Explorer have traversed the Atlantic Ocean and joint endeavours have discovered previously unknown undersea volcanoes and mountains on the sea floor, coral reefs and many other findings of fish, shark and marine mammals.

In 2011, previously unknown Moytirra hydrothermal vents along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, were discovered by Irish scientists. The deepestknown cold water coral reef in Irish waters was discovered during an expedition along the Porcupine Bank and Continental Shelf in 2017. And whilst investigating Ireland’s deep ocean territory in 2018, a team of marine scientists discovered a very rare shark nursery 320km west of Ireland. Discover more about the Atlantic Ocean at the Marine Institute’s interactive exhibition ‘The Wild Atlantic’ at SeaFest 2019. There will also be talks, screenings, and fun activities for kids. The RV Celtic Explorer will be open for tours, where visitors can meet scientists and see marine species found in Irish waters. SeaFest 2019 will be held in Cork from 7th to 9th June 2019.

58 elcome to the second edition of our ‘Where West’ magazine jointly published by the Connacht Tribune and The Clare Champion, created to incorporate all that is great along the Wild Atlantic Way in both counties Galway and Clare. The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route. It’s inspiring, renewing, relaxing and invigorating – and a lot of it is on our own doorstep. From sightseeing, walking, hiking, cycling, shopping, food, drink, day trips and overnight stays, this magazine is designed to showcase businesses and events throughout counties Galway and Clare encompassing all that is best along the Wild Atlantic Way. The Connacht Tribune and The Clare Champion newspapers have combined their circulation strengths to offer customers and readers this unique opportunity to indulge themselves in planning where best to spend a day, a weekend or even more within one hour’s drive from either Galway or Ennis. Where to dine, where to walk, where to cycle, where to drive, where to see what is happening in both counties – this is your ultimate guide to planning your holiday break along the west coast of Ireland. The Connemara Coast, the Aran Islands and County Clare are renowned for their natural rugged beauty, rich folklore and stories and we hope our magazine will inspire visitors to stay longer and visit more often. From the unique landscape of the Burren to the unspoilt beaches in Connemara, both coastal counties are brilliant holiday destinations where one can immerse themselves and engage with the true essence and stories of the region. Eat, sleep and explore your local Wild Atlantic Way with the assistance of ‘Where West’ from your best local paper.

Building Ocean Knowledge Delivering Ocean Services

marine.ie

20 hard lands, warm hearts:

Awaken your curiosity:

THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Walking the west

Where ... West summer 2019, ISSUE 02

shopping | entertainment | food | tours | tracks & trails

CREDITS Project Managers: Declan McGuire and John Galvin Production: Seán Fitzmaurice, Production Manager, Clare Champion Production Co-ordination Connacht Tribune: Philip Smyth

discover the real beauty of the west DON’T MISS WHAT’S NEW ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

Editorial content: Declan McGuire, John Galvin, Dave O’Connell, Judy Murphy, Declan Tierney, Thomas Hackett, Lorraine O’Connell, Jessica Quinn, Carol Byrne, Austin Hobbs, Dan Danaher, Gerry McInerney, Peter O’Connell and Owen Ryan. Photography: Tourism Ireland, Joe Shaughnessy and John Kelly Advertising: Corinna Hurley, Dee Maxwell, Kieran Rabbitte, Alan Kelly, Leo O’Connor, Alan Harvey and Julie Carr. Advertising Design: Ivan Morgan, Pat Griffin, Judy Prendergast and Seán Fitzmaurice. Where West concept by Declan McGuire. © Connacht Tribune and Clare Champion.

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Wild atlantic way EXPLORE GALWAY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AND DISCOVER MAGICAL HIDDEN GGEMS Adventure seekers, art aficionados, and culture vultures; County Galway has something to delight everyone! From its buzzing streets and vibrant festivals of Galway City to its hidden bays, wild terrain, wide open skies and unforgettable island escapes County Galway is the perfect choice for your Wild Atlantic Way getaway. To inspire your next trip, here is a guide to explore Galway off the beaten track.

HIDDEN HIGHTLIGHTS Start your adventure on The Connemara Greenway, a dedicated 6km cycle and walk route which runs through the beautiful Ballynahinch Estate. While you’re there, visit Ballynahinch Castle Hotel and book a tour with walking guide Noel, who will share stories and secrets of this captivating area as you journey through woodlands, by lakeshore and river, with stunning views of the Twelve Bens and Maumturk Mountains.

Connemara, long recognised as one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland, is famed for its wildness as much as its warm welcome. This landscape, rich in contrasts, is best enjoyed by getting off the beaten path and seeking out your own experiences. A great way to do this is on a bike. All Things Connemara Bike Hire operate from the region’s largest town, Clifden, and is a great starting point for your Galway adventure. Pedal at your own pace and explore the many quiet cycle routes through the surrounding blanket bog. Take in some historical sites along the way including Derrigimlagh, now one of the fifteen Signature Discovery Points on the Wild Atlantic Way, a site where pilots Alcock and Brown safely crash landed after the first non-stop flight across the Atlantic in 1919.

FAMILY FUN Killary Adventure Centre is a longtime favourite with thrill seekers and families alike. The centre offers over 20 of the most exciting adventure activities to choose from, including SUPing, archery, kayaking and abseiling, all based in one of Ireland’s most stunning locations, Killary Fjord. A recent addition to the centre is the family friendly Killary Coastal Walk, a 1km walking trail suitable for all abilities. It features sculptures along the way as well as designated swimming spots and stunning scenery perfect for capturing the ultimate family photo. While you’re there make sure to visit Tom at Killary Sheep Farm, where you can shear sheep, feed baby lambs and watch sheep dog demos. ► Continued on next page

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FRESH FARE

ADVENTURE AWAITS

3 FESTIVALS NOT TO MISS

After working up an appetite stop by one of Connemara’s newest hidden gems, the Misunderstood Heron food truck, who recently featured on Neven Maguire’s Irish Food Trails on RTÉ One. Located at the entrance of Killary Adventure Centre and run by husband and wife team Reinaldo Seco and Kim Young, they use local, fresh produce and take inspiration from the landscape of Connemara, where Kim grew up, as well mixing flavours from around the world.

Experience the ultimate Galway get away adventure with a trip to an Island. Inishbofin Island lies 7 miles off the coast of Galway and is accessible by ferry from Cleggan Pier. This small island offers lots to do for all the family including three official looped walkways and two Green Coast Awarded beaches. Explore the island on horseback with the Inishbofin Equestrian Centre on a special trek taking in stunning vistas and many historical sites along the way. Get up close and personal with the creatures of the deep in the clear Atlantic waters surrounding the Island with Island West Dive School.

With a long tradition for music and the arts it’s no surprise that Galway offers a wide range of excellent festivals throughout the year. The Galway International Arts Festival is Ireland's largest annual arts festival taking place from July 15 to 28 in various venues across Galway City. The festival is well established as a vital showcase for Irish arts. Internationall collaborations with artists and companies throughout the world produces and presents an international programme of theatre, spectacle, dance, visual arts, music, literature and comedy involving hundreds of artists and performers. A real highlight for food lovers is the annual Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival which takes place over the last weekend of September every year. Running since 1954 it is the world’s oldest oyster festival and highlights include The World Oyster Opening Championship, foodie

talks and tasting events in some of Galway’s best restaurants. The Festival Marquee - Mardi Gras style Gala Event along with family activities, live music and cooking demonstrations. This year taking place September 27 – 29. The Clifden Arts Festival is the longest running community arts festival in Ireland. Now in its 42nd year the festival will take place from September 19-29 and yet again promises to have something to excite everyone in the 2019 programme. Audiences can expect a very high quality artistic programme which will have the community arts of Clifden and the surrounding hinterland as a central focus with creative writing, music, theatre and film workshops and performances taking place in the local schools for the duration of the festival.

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► For more inspiration and ideas for a getaway on the Wild Atlantic Way, please visit www.wildatlanticway.com

Beauty and tradition, from Galway through Clare to the north Kerry coast he land is hard, the soul is not…” So says Lonely Planet about the Wild Atlantic Way’s Cliff Coast, where Ice Age landscapes meet West coast warmth and music is a way of life. This striking seaboard is a place for cliff-top walks, island-hopping, cosy pubs, rich waves of traditional music and soul-stirring views. The natural surroundings of Loop Head are home to colonies of puffins and you can observe bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon estuary. The stony beauty of Flaggy Shore in County Clare was evoked by Seamus Heaney in his poem Postscript where he said it can “catch the heart off guard and blow it open”. And then there’s the otherworldly Burren – a vast, limestone pavement spotted with rare flora, ancient roads and a surprisingly tasty selection of food. Travel further South and savour the epic beaches at Banna and Ballybunion in North Kerry and get a great sense of towns like Listowel, full of traditional music and craic.

CLIFF COAST HIGHLIGHTS From famous vistas to ancient natural treasures, don’t skip these top spots for Cliff Coast discovery.

CLIFFS OF MOHER The iconic Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. Stretching for 8km along the Atlantic coast of Clare, the cliffs reach 214m at their highest point at Knockardakin. Midway along the cliffs you’ll find the environmentally friendly visitor centre set into the hillside. Here, you can also discover O’Brien’s Tower, a 19th-century viewing tower, and access 800m of protected cliff-side pathways with viewing areas. There are many vantage points from which to admire the aweinspiring Cliffs of Moher. From the main platform, you can see the south cliffs toward Hag’s Head, a natural rocky promontory that resembles a seated woman. From the North Plat-

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form, you can spot An Branán Mór sea stack, home of guillemots and razorbills, as well as the Aran Islands and, if the conditions are right, the famous surfing wave known as ‘Aileen’s’. Continue on about 5km from here and you’ll arrive in the village of Doolin.

LOOP HEAD At the western tip of County Clare, where the calm waters of the Shannon Estuary turn into the powerful waves of the Atlantic, you’ll find Loop Head Peninsula. Travel along Loop Head Drive to the western end of the peninsula to see its famous lighthouse, which sits on land dotted with colourful wild flowers. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in splendid views that stretch from County Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher. At the very end of the peninsula there is also a relic from WWII: large white letters spelling É-I-R-E, which let pilots know they were entering neutral airspace.

SPANISH POINT Spanish Point has a beautiful long sandy beach within a sheltered location making it a family friendly shore, perfect for shelling and sandcastlebuilding. The beach is located on the northern side of the village and has ample parking. Its high waves rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean are popular with surfers and swimmers alike. Surfing schools operate here in summer.

FLAGGY SHORE The Flaggy Shore is one side of a small peninsula that stretches from the village of New Quay to Finvarra Point, and is one of the most northerly parts of County Clare. It’s famous for the limestone pavements and fossils that are embedded in the rock. The shore itself is most beautiful but what makes the Flaggy Shore so distinctive is the wonderful views to the west and north to Galway Bay and the mountains beyond.

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OVER

S IN B USINE

AQUA PARK N OW OP E N

Dolphin Watching Trips This 2 hour boat trip is one of the most enjoyable and exciting activities to be had while touring the Wild Atlantic Way. Discover the Shannon Dolphins from Kilrush Marina sailing onboard MV Dolphin Discovery. Tours starting May bank holiday weekend. Daily sailings posted on website. Prior booking advisable.

Tours depart from Kilrush Marina, Kilrush, Co. Clare T: 065 905 1327 E: info@discoverdolphins.ie W: www.discoverdolphins.ie

18+

UNDER 18

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THE MARINA, KILRUSH, Co. CLARE - 087 9543000

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Life on the bus is just the business! t was once a school bus working the busy streets of London, but hard work and vision turned an old double-decker into luxury accommodation with all the attributes of a classy hotel… a stone’s throw from the Wild Atlantic Way. THOMAS HACKETT meets the proud owner. A 7kw wood-burning stove occupies the heart of the Wild Atlantic Bus, with hardwood floors and fine upholstery throughout to ensure it’s a cosy refuge from the west’s unforgiving climate – all parked up overlooking Lough Corrib, outside the village of Oughterard. Where once schoolkids jumped over seats, there is now a living space that can comfortably fit six people, with three bedrooms, a toilet, bath, washer and dryer – and a laptop friendly workplace. Richard Barton is the owner and operator of the Wild Atlantic Bus, and the man responsible for its reinvention. “It’s alternative living, but sure you could live in it,” he says. And while he is clearly a man with a vision, the irony is that the Wild Atlantic Bus was not originally intended to act as guest accommodation at all. Instead, Richard converted the old bus in order to have room for his two daughters when they came to visit – but after much encouragement from those around him, he soon came to realize the potential the bus had as a boarding house for guests. “People were telling me how amazing it was and how it would be

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tHOMAS hACKETT a grand Airbnb or rental, so I said yes, let’s create an experience,” he says. The conversion was no easy task however. “It was really labour of love,” said Richard. “It took me about a year; a lot of time went into it and I did probably 98% of it myself.” All the carpentry and electrical work in the bus was carried out by Richard, but the design process was a team effort. “I have two fabulous daughters and they love interior design so they were brilliant.” Its owner believes that he now boasts the first guest lodging in Ireland to incorporate a bus into its design – and although he expended much effort on the interior of the bus, Richard did not neglect its surroundings either. As the owner of a landscaping business and a number of flower shops for many years, he knew a thing or two when it comes to creating a beautiful garden. “I had a very successful horticulture business in the south Dublin and Wicklow area, but I just turned to my family one day and said ‘let’s go, the West of Ireland is calling’,” he explains.

But blending his background with his dream, he developed a magnificent garden that features a wooden deck, bamboo furniture, a wooden storage cabin and a fire pit where one can cook BBQ on a warm summer’s day. And one of the star attractions of the Oughterard double-decker is the outdoor shower that has panoramic views of Lough Corrib’s beautiful banks. “I lined the shower with cedar wood, which has natural oil in it, so when the water hits the wood you get a fabulous scent.” Richard has had a passion for carpentry since his school days, and that passion would come in handy time and again during the arduous refurbishment process. “I may not have been very enthusiastic about school, but I always loved carpentry,” quipped Richard. Despite the scale of the task at hand, Richard has much experience in the restoration department, having previously restored five Volkswagen camper vans. And although his most recent project is quite the undertaking, a penchant for mechanics runs in the genes. “Both my father and grandfather were involved in the motor trade and that goes all the way back to 1927,” said Richard. “So I would definitely have that in my background.” Richard originally bought in the 28 year old Volvo bus from England and, after many years on the beat, the former school bus was put out to pasture in the idyllic fields of Connemara. However, not everyone was on board with Richard’s vision. “The man I bought it from nearly died when he saw where it was

Richard Barton

going,” he laughs. While the Wild Atlantic Bus has now permanently retired to the shores of the Corrib, it can still leave camp if given enough notice. “Those Volvo engines are just bulletproof,” says the owner. “They really are amazing engines.” The Wild Atlantic Bus has only been in operation since September but the reception from guests has already been more than positive. “The reviews have been great and guests just love it,” says Richard. “People that like this sort of stuff, they don’t want a B&B, they don’t want to rent a cottage, they are looking for something different.” Guests have come from America, France and the U.K to spend a night in the Wild Atlantic Bus; Richard has even had people come from as far afield as South Africa. “I have had some really great guests and those that come embrace the whole experience of it.” The Wild Atlantic Bus has gone from strength to strength since its launch in September and it shows no signs of slowing down. Richard, who is a mountain climbing and fishing enthusiast, is planning on offering fishing trips and tours of Connemara to his guests in order to broaden their experiences and to show them what the West has to offer. “Tourists coming to Ireland and particularly our part of the world really love that kind of stuff.” ■ Further information on the Wild Atlantic Bus and everything it has to offer is available at ww.wildatlanticbus.ie.

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Visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden for the perfect day out, just over one hour from Galway City. History, Spirituality, Gardens, Exploration, Dining and Shopping.

Follow the Connemara Loop for an ever changing majestic journey he Connemara Loop is situated in breathtaking North West Connemara, County Galway and part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Follow the Loop and be taken on a journey through an ever changing landscape of majestic mountains, spectacular beaches, the wild Atlantic, mist covered lakes, pre-historic bogs and shady glens. A landscape peppered with quaint but lively villages where all the convenience of the modern day is available alongside an opportunity to step back in time to a more relaxed and friendly era. The Connemara Loop is the perfect year round holiday destination for a week, a weekend or a month for families, couples and back-packers of all ages

ACTIVITIES ALONG THE CONNEMARA LOOP There are many activities along the Connemara Loop, some requiring more energy than others, these include Abseiling, Adventure Activities, Archery, Angling, Beaches galore, Boat Cruises, Body Boarding, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Cycling, Dance Movement, Deep Sea Fishing, Hill Walking, Holistic Ventures, Horse Riding, Island Hopping, Kayaking, Kite Sports, Massage Therapies, Mountain Climbing, Museums, Park, Reiki, Sailing, Sean nós Dancing, Scuba Diving, Sight-seeing, Swimming, Windsurfing, Zip Wire and much more.

WALKING AND HIKING Some of the many pleasures of Connemara are best sampled by walking and as you walk the road and some of the forestry trails, you will see the golden gorse, red and purple fuchsia, the scarlet of the Rowan, the pink of the Rhododendron and the white of the Hawthorn. You will be able to pick out the lazy beds, as they were called, where tenant farmers mainly grew potato crops, and they are the only sign that is left, maybe, from pre-famine times (1845-1849), of the days when the population far exceeded that of the present. Two of the Maamturk mountain range walks are the Western Way and the Máméan Walk to St Patrick’s Bed, which on your return walk has panoramic views right across to Erris-

1,000 acres to explore!

www.kylemoreabbey.com E:bookings@kylemoreabbey.com P: 095 52001

beg Mountain by Roundstone. Over many of the bogs, which are still used by locals for fuel in open fires and ranges alike, there are tracks which can be walked with due care. Guided Walks are available throughout the area. Take advantage of the pathway walk up Diamond Hill walk within the Connemara National Park at Letterfrack. Coillte (www.coillteoutdoors.ie) also provide great walks in Connemara both on and off the Connemara Loop.

CYCLING THE CONNEMARA LOOP As an example you could commence your trip at Maam Cross and cycle along the Loop towards Maam (8km) then onto the village of Leenane (14km). Here take the left-hand road towards Letterfrack and you will come across

the main section of the Killary Fjord (5km). Take a right turn for Lettergesh through to Tullycross. At Tullycross take a right to Tully and continue to Renvyle (4km) continue past the gate of the Renvyle House and follow the road to the end of the peninsula (4km). Just before Renvyle Castle, take a left and cycle up hill to the next left continue straight on. This will take you around the base of Tully Mountain and down to Derryinver (4km) keeping to the left passing Ocean’s Alive until you reach a T-junction, take a right back to Letterfrack (4km). At the crossroads at Letterfrack take a left towards the magnificent Kylemore Abbey (4km) and after the Kylemore Pass Inn take a right turn (signed to Recess) and you enter the Inagh Valley and onto Recess (21km). From Recess you can return to Maam Cross (13km). There is a great 40km mountain bike trail (MBT) at Derroura, situated on the N59 between Oughterard and Maam Cross. Of all the Coillte MTB Trails, Derroura is the most natural and has the most variable terrain. ► Continued on next page

Freeney’s on High Street

OFF SALES Large selection of Old Irish Whiskeys & Bottles to go with selection packs

Part of Galway Whiskey Trail – The Latin Quarter 19 HIGH STREET, GALWAY Tel: 091 562609

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HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY

MAAM

LEENANE

KILLARY

LETTERGESH

The Church of the 7 Daughters is located in the old part of Renvyle Cemetery in Ardnagreevagh. The ruin is a small medieval type church easily found from the graveyard that surrounds it and which is still in use today. The Gothic Church at Kylemore Abbey is a church which has been restored to its former glory in recent years. Its beautiful interior and exterior design and structure is well worth a visit. Renvyle Castle. This 12th-century tower house was taken over by the O’Flaherty Clan in 1546. The Standing Stone Alignment in Derryinver (aka ‘Fairy Fingers’) consists of six standing stones, 3 of granite and 3 of local conglomerate and these align with the Winter Solstice. There are numerous Megalithic Tombs dating back to 3,500–2,000 BC as well as a variety of sites from the Bronze Age 2,000–500 BC.

When you start the Connemara Loop you enter Joyce Country the name originating from one of the Galway tribe families who settled there in the thirteenth century. On the right hand side of this drive is the Partry Mountain range and on the other are the Maamturk range (meaning ‘the pass of the wild boars’). There is an angling centre in this magnificent valley where the Failmoren, Bealanabrack and Joyce’s River come together on their way to Lough Corrib. The Kilmeelickin Church at Maam (Maum) houses the stained glass window of St Brendan (1950) by Dublinborn Evie Hone (1894–1955). On the way to Leenane, you will see a signpost for ‘Leaba Pháraic’ (Patrick’s bed) which marks a place of pilgrimage: these were traditionally visited on the first Sunday in August. The well was believed to cure cattle disease as well as some human ills.

Be prepared to hold your breath in awe as the approach to Leenane is spectacular from all directions. Leenane (An Lionán in Irish) means a ravine, referring to the geographical landscape of the sea as it makes its way through the narrows of the fjord. This pretty, old world village lies nestled between Mweelrea, Devil’s Mother and Maamturk mountains and faces onto Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only fjord which on occasion held concealed the whole Channel fleet. You will step back in time to the era of Bull McCabe (the anti-hero of John B. Keane’s play The Field which was made into a film, starring the late Richard Harris, by Noel Pearson). The local Cultural Centre in Leenane provides plenty of information on the history, culture and geography of the area. With beautiful walks and scenery, Leenane is well worth a visit. There are plenty of establishments providing excellent fresh food and a good variety of accommodation.

Killary is situated on the southern shore of Ireland’s only fjord with unrivalled views of the spectacular bay and across the shore to the Mayo Mountains. There is plenty to see and do here for the visitor with amazing walks, an adventure centre and a boat cruise on the fjord and, if you’re lucky, you may even see some playful dolphins. This part of Connemara was badly affected by the famine in the 1840s and some evidence of the poverty of this area remains. The Killary Famine walk brings you into some beautiful scenery. The local people in return for food constructed this famine relief road, dating back to 1856. The fjord is alive with activity with mussel farms and other fishing activities. You can go down to the shore to collect your own fresh mussels from the rocks if you wish.

Lettergesh is deservedly renowned for its beaches, each one more spectacular than the next. If it is white expanses of sand and turquoise water you are after, this is the place for you. There is a choice of beaches and bays to explore along this stretch of coastline. The adventurous at heart can do their exploring under water at the dive centre, which caters for beginners and experienced divers in some of the most diverse and interesting waters in Europe. There is plenty here for anglers, both amateur and professional, from deep sea fishing to lake angling on the beautiful lakes, Lough Fee and Lough Muc. The scene is completed by the surrounding Twelve Bens – mountains that loom over the beaches and lakes, and the views over to the Mayo Mountains.

► Continued on next page

SPIRITUAL HERITAGE SITES MAM EAN – experience the path walked by our ancient pilgrims. The ‘PASS OF THE BIRDS’ is one of the two main passes through the Maumturk range of mountains. Annual gatherings at Mam Ean predate St Patrick and Christianity. It is now an established place of Christian pilgrimage with a modern chapel, stations of the cross, a statue of St Patrick, all of which marries well with the ancient Holy Well (Tobar Phadraig) and St Patrick’s Bed (Leaba Phadraic). Altogether a truly peaceful, spiritual place with magnificent views over South Connemara. It gives a whole new meaning to ‘The last place God made’, a reference often used in the past about Connemara, most probably dating back to Cromwell’s dictum – “To hell or to Connacht”. All along the Connemara Loop and the islands of Crump, Inishbofin and Inishshark there are many sites of interest which include: Holy Wells, Mass Rocks, Burial Grounds, Megaliths and churches.

BOATING, CRUISING AND ISLAND HOPPING On the Connemara Loop: Western Explorer boat trips from Derryinver to Inishbofin around the Bay. Cat na Mara boat excursions and sea angling from Letterfrack Ocean’s Alive Sea Tours: John Mongan’s Boat Cruises and Fishing Derryinver. Ireland’s only glass bottomed boat. Killary Cruises, a spectacular trip along Ireland’s only fjord accompanied by interesting information on the geology and history of the area and perhaps spotting a dolphin or two along the way. Off the Connemara Loop: Information on Inisbofin and Inisturk. A ferry may be taken from Cleggan to the Island of Inishbofin. At the entrance of the harbour at Inishbofin you will see the impressive ruin of the historic Cromwellian Fort. There are beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, food and accommodation on this island. The Brazen Hussey boat trips and deep sea angling trips depart from the pier at Derryinver. Inisturk is another beautiful, unspoiled island off the Connemara coastline. There are beautiful walks, small sandy beaches and accommodation available on the island.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES There are numerous amenities and activities geared towards families along the Connemara Loop. A number of these run courses or special events for children during the Summer months:- The Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. Walk up to the top of Diamond Mountain or visit the centre to find out more about the geography, flora and fauna of the area. Children’s activities run throughout the Summer. Cruise on Killary Fjord, Killary and if you’re lucky you’ll get to meet a few dolphins Drama and Dance Workshop and Theatre Productions with Tegolin Tales, Tully. Horse & Pony Trekking, Diamonds Equestrian Centre, Tully. A pony club is run during the Summer months. Killary Adventure Centre. Killary has something for teenagers as well as parents and great fun. Kylemore Abbey, Gothic Chapel and the Victorian Walled Gardens at Kylemore are well worth a visit. Ocean’s Alive Sea Tours, Derryinver: Short inshore sea angling boat trips that can be enjoyed by the family. Ocean and Country Museum at Derryinver. Find out about the aquatic life in this region.

Ceol Na Mara Summer School for Strings is run by Oonagh Keogh during the Summer months. Connemara English School in Letterfrack runs English language courses for the whole family from the ages of 3 years and upwards. Golf Courses On the Connemara Loop: 9-Hole Golf Course: Renvyle House Hotel, Renvyle Off the Connemara Loop, Ballyconneely – Connemara Golf Club (½ hour off the Connemara Loop), Oughterard Golf Course (½ hour off the Connemara Loop), Westport (¾ hour off the Connemara Loop). Entertainment & Festivals Traditional music is played in pubs most nights along the Connemara Loop.

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MAAM CROSS Maam Cross is a settlement on a crossroads surrounded by mountains and lakes and is buzzing with local life and character. The crossroads is the hub of activity and customs survive which have lasted down the centuries from sheep farmers making deals at the bar counter to sheep and pony fairs held at the crossroads throughout the year. These fairs culminate in the big October fair.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

abundance of rhododendrons; the massive purple flowers are surreal at times and the purple reflections on the lakes are a scene to behold. You may notice, as you pass the lakes, the hills on the far side are indented with ridges. These steep, rocky hillsides were planted with potatoes before the famine (1840s), when local people sought out a means to feed their families. Kylemore is equally renowned for its lake fishing and walks and enthusiasts have flocked to this area for centuries! There is a good choice of accommodation and refreshment in the area.

Lettergesh is a great place to visit at any time of year and has a good choice of places to stay from the camp site to B&B and self-catering. You can stock up on supplies at the local shop and post office or stop for a cup of tea at the camp site shop.

TULLYCROSS Tully Cross, Tulach na Croise (cross on the hill). The traditional thatched cottages add to the beauty and tranquility of this little village. The local church, with its stained glass windows by the renowned artist Harry Clarke, overlooks the square. A notable feature of this village is the ‘Ogham Stone’, the ancient script spells out the name of the town land “Gurteenaclough” meaning the little garden of stones. There is a great sense of a thriving community in Tully Cross and the village is well serviced. The Connemara Mussel Festival is held there each May Bank Holiday and has plenty to do for all the family including tons of mussels to eat your way through. Don’t miss a night out there; the ‘craic’ is always mighty!

INAGH VALLEY Get your camera out as you are about to embark on one of the most scenic drives in the world. There is a photo opportunity at every turn as the Inagh Valley road winds its way through the magnificent heather covered mountains and around the picturesque lakes. The valley is flanked by the majestic Twelve Bens Mountains on the west and the Maamturk Mountains to the east. The lake itself is widely known for its

fishing and businesses along this route provide the opportunity to avail of this. The valley is covered in a blanket bog and turf is cut from it for fuel for local families. You will see the turf stacks drying as you pass by. In 1986 a Bronze Age stone alignment was discovered where over 3,000 years ago people would gather to celebrate the midwinter solstice.

CLIFFS of MOHER and THE BURREN TOUR Puffins

Dunguaire Castle

Irish Pub

Kylemore Abbey

RECESS Recess is a traditional stopping off point on the way from Galway. The village is situated on the edge of the beautiful fishing lake Glendalough. The holy shrine of Máméan is near-by and is a magical place to walk both for the beauty around you and the sense of a bygone era. The pitch and putt course in Recess is also worth a visit as you would be hardpushed to find a more scenic location for a game of golf. You will find all the supplies you need at the local shop, post office and petrol pumps and there is a good range of places to stay, both B&B and Self-Catering.

O’Brien’s Tower

Monk’s Cottage, Cong

CONNEMARA, CONG and KYLEMORE ABBEY TOUR Ross Errily Friary

Random Lambs

Tom Playing with Sandy

The Plassy Shipwreck

Ancient Ruins

Sunken Church

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TULLY AND RENVILLE Tully is a quaint seaside village on this Peninsula. The little beach ‘Trá na mBan’ (White Strand) is only a stone’s throw away from the village, and its small pier, sheltered corner and rock pools provide a fun place for children and adults to spend the day exploring. There is plenty to keep you busy at Tully, beautiful walks, a horse riding centre, bicycle hire, evening family entertainment, pubs, restaurants and a good selection of accommodation. The Renvyle Peninsula is steeped in history. Archaeological sites include a Stone Alignment (a Bronze Age Solar Calendar) and one of the finest 4,000year-old forests entombed in peat in Europe. The O’Flaherty Castle, which was once home to the Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley (Granuaile) while she was married to Donal O’Flaherty. Another historic building is Renvyle House, on the sea at Trá na Duirling (or Pebble Beach) which was home to the Blake Family (one of the fourteen tribes of Galway and then to poet, statesman and surgeon Oliver St John Gogarty and was a favourite retreat of poet W.B. Yeats and artist Augustus John. Watching the sunset on a fine Spring or Summer evening from Renvyle Point as the sun slowly turns the sky crimson and violet behind the

ruins of Renvyle Castle is as beautiful a sight as you might see. Renvyle is home to some spectacular beaches in particular ‘White Strand’, a long expanse of white sand with stunning views across the aquamarine ocean which would rival any beach worldwide. This magical place has inspired writers and artists and draws them back time and again. Archaeological sites such as the Promontory Fort, Well of the Seven Daughters at Cashleen and Ardnagreevagh Chamber Tomb enhance wonderful walks. Fishing (lake and shore) and golf are also available to visitors in the area. With a great variety of accommodation and eateries, you will be well looked after on this glorious peninsula.

DERRYYINVER Derryinver can be found on the serene and tranquil Renvyle Peninsula. A hauntingly beautiful coastline etched out by the ebb and flow of countless tides. It contains the archeological site of a Six Pillar Stone Alignment which would have been built to line up with the Winter Solstice. Derryinver Bay an inlet of the beautiful, natural and well-protected Balli-

nakill Harbour, is home to a large number of seabirds – wild duck, cormorants, herons, gulls, terns, oystercatchers, guillemots and curlews. It is also home to a small colony of grey seals and porpoises and dolphins are frequent visitors.

LETTERFRACK Quakers John and Mary Ellis founded the small vibrant village of Letterfrack on the crossroads in 1849. The village is near the sea and has a village green surrounded by trees and overlooked by the majestic Diamond Mountain and the Connemara National Park. The village is renowned for its live, traditional Irish music and hosts three festivals a year: Féile Bride, the festival of St Brigit in February, Bog Week during the last full week in May and Sea Week during the last week in October, where musicians and music lovers congregate for a programme of talks, poetry readings and music as well as hill walking and discussions on environmental matters. The village also has a variety of places to eat and drink and a great selection of accommodation. The Connemara National Park hosts workshops for children in July and August, it also has an interactive exhibition and audio visual

centre and hosts guided walks to experience this ancient landscape first hand. The Furniture College holds an exhibition every summer of the fine woodwork and design produced by its finalyear students. You can take a boat trip from Dooneen pier to fish or watch the porpoises and dolphins. Letterfrack is a great place for families as all premises are child friendly and special family days are held on the village green during the summer months. Don’t forget to tune into the local radio at 87.8FM and 106.1FM for the latest news and to find out what is happening in the area.

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KYLEMORE Kylemore (Coill Mór – The Big Wood). This splendid valley, renowned worldwide for its breathtaking beauty, is dominated by Kylemore Abbey and Garden. It was built in 1864–1871 as a token of love by Englishman Mitchell Henry to his wife Margaret. The building is now a Benedictine Abbey and has many attractions for visitors including the renovated Gothic Chapel and the Victorian Walled Garden. In late Spring and early Summer, anyone walking or driving through Kylemore will be overwhelmed by the

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Miltown Malbay RENOWNED FOR SINGERS, DANCERS AND MUSICIANS iltown Malbay is situated in West Clare and is one of Clare’s musical and cultural homelands. Traditionally, the town was a hub for local farmers who brought their grain to be milled. The town originally had five corn mills although only three can be seen today. Although Miltown Malbay is not on the coast, it takes its second name from ‘Mal Bay’. The town is renowned for its singers, dancers and musicians – most especially the famous Willie Clancy. Each year in early July the festival ‘Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy’ is held in celebration of the music and tradition of Clancy. A good way to immerse in the Miltown Malbay story of traditional music,

Galway’s Best Beaches G

alway has an abundance of beautiful beaches close to the city, and some of the best beaches on the west coast of Ireland within its county. Salthill is only a short walk from the city centre along the promenade, which starts in The Claddagh area. There are three separate beaches in Salthill which are very popular with visitors and residents during the summer and many of the more resilient locals continue their swimming all year round when the weather is less forgiving. The diving board at Blackrock at the end of the Salthill promenade is a magnet for swimmers and dares brave souls to test their mettle against the swirling Atlantic sea below.

SALTHILL BEACH The beach at Salthill is actually several small beaches separated by rocky outcrops. Some of the beaches are sandy and some pebbly. It is located in Galway city and overlooking Galway Bay, a Special Area of Conservation. The beach is lifeguarded from mid-May to the end of September from 11 am to 7 pm. Salthill beach has been a blue flag beach and enormously popular in fine weather during the summer.

SILVER STRAND BEACH

Silver Strand has a safe, shallow, sandy beach sheltered on one side by a cliff and the other by rocks. It is particularly popular with and suitable for young families. It faces directly into Galway Bay giving spectacular views. There is a promenade with parking capacity for about 60 vehicles. It is suitable for swimming at low tide but the beach is largely covered during high tides. It is lifeguarded during the summer months.

DOGS BAY / GURTEEN BAY Dogs Bay and Gurteen Bay are two of the most beautiful beaches in County Galway and probably in the West of Ireland. They are situated only two miles outside the picturesque village of Roundstone in Connemara, Co. Galway. Dogs Bay and Gurteen Bay make up one of the finest stretches of coastline in Connemara, offering uncompromising views of Errisbeg and the surrounding countryside. Dogs Bay is a spectacular horseshoe shaped bay with more than a mile long stretch of white sandy beach. Similar to Gurteen Bay, the sand is not comprised of traditional limestone but rather made entirely of fragments of seashells which give it a pure white colour. Both beaches are well sheltered from currents and are considered safe

for swimming and other watersports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. The are also wonderful destinations for walking.

CORAL BEACH, CARRAROE

Carraroe beach, which is also known as Trá an Dóilin, is an area of great natural beauty. The beach is noted for its very fine coral. The beach is lifeguarded and has toilets throughout the bathing season. There are lots of little rock pools to explore along with good snorkling and is usually less busy than the city beaches.

KILMURVEY BEACH, INIS MOR Kilmurvey Beach is a magnificent sandy beach with blue flag status on Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands. It is perfectly safe for swimming for those of all ages as there are no strong currents, unlike some of the more hidden and inaccessible beaches. The white sand contrasts beautifully with the blue water on a sunny day. There are some perfect picnic spots on the dunes and toilets near the roads. When the tide is right you can jump off the old pier into the clear water.

song and dance is to experience the West Clare Music Makers’ Visitor Centre. Here you can read first-hand accounts about renowned musicians, enjoy an 8-minute film on the stories behind the music as well as learn about the origin of the instruments used and the people who played them. The centre is open each day from May to September. There are many types of accommodation available in Miltown as well as in the close by Spanish Point – from hotels to comfortable B & B’s. The pubs in town provide a wide variety of entertainment with traditional music. White Strand, Miltown Malbay, is located just slightly inland from the

MOHER HILL OPEN FARM AND LEISURE PARK ituated overlooking Liscannor Bay, Moher Hill Open Farm and Leisure Park is much more than a fun family filled day out. This 14 acre open farm, which has been featured on RTE programmes, ensures that children and adults alike have an opportunity to learn about and interact with their favourite animals in breathtaking surroundings. The many facilities and activities on the farm include: • A wide variety of animals: ‘Leroy’ the llama, ‘Andy’ the alpaca and ‘Ozzie and Opal’ the ostriches and many more such as emu, rheas, deer, miniature donkeys, many different breeds of ponies and sheep, pot bellied pigs, kune kune pig, rabbits and many more. • Bouncing castle • In-door and out-door go karts • Ball pool • All weather out-door play area • Miniature golf course • Coffee Shop

Moher Hill Open Farm allows children and adults to learn about animals in a safe environment where education and

fun combine for an exciting and unforgettable experience. Whatever the weather, there's lots of fun to be had at 'Award Winning' Moher Hill Open Farm; the friendliest, family-run 'open farm' in Co Clare. Winners of the FBD ‘Best Tourism Hospitality Award’ 2013, 2014 and 2015 A Birthday Party at Moher Hill Open Farm is very affordable and a special treat. With access to the whole farm and our all-weather playbarn included, it is sure to be a fun packed party. Leave the books in the classroom, at Moher Hill Open Farm, children can learn about the animals by looking and interacting with them (many of the animals are safe to feed and stroke). Moher Hill Open Farm is the perfect location for school, crèche, and Montessori groups. ► Opening Times - Summer Season Mon to Sat, 10am to 6pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 6pm. April and October weekend opening only. Guided tours and birthday parties can be arranged by appointment.

Spanish Point in County Clare. White Strand Beach is a relatively small sandy beach with a rocky shoreline. It has been awarded the prestigious

Blue Flag award on a number of occasions. This means there are all the facilities you’d need, including lifeguard cover during the summer months.

Enjoy a fun filled day out for all the family...

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Things to do in Galway – for little or nothing t’s been said that summer in Galway is really just one long festival; they just change the name of the event to the next one, once the last one is over. We’ve always had the Galway Races, and for many years now that’s predated by the Galway International Arts Festival and then followed by the Oyster Festival – but there’s the Theatre Festival, the Film Fleadh, Cúirt, Babaro…the list goes on and on. And yet there’s so much more to the city than its festivals – because, any time of the year, Galway offers loads to do…and it costs little or nothing to do them. A stroll from Eyre Square down Shop Street and onto the Spanish Arch with a detour down the Long Walk will while away an hour or two…but you don’t have to limit yourself to the great outdoors. The Galway City Museum is one of the city’s treasures – and it’s free. For those familiar with the iconic statue of Padraic Ó Conaire (now replicated on Eyre Square), the original is safely on display here, and there’s a Galway city hooker to see close up as well.

by dave o’connell

There is always an exhibition in the gallery spaces, and the history of the City of the Tribes is told in a way that will engage adults and children alike. You couldn’t visit Galway and not drop into St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, with its rich history dating back to the 14th century and boasting the legend that this was the last port of call for Christopher Columbus before he headed across the Atlantic in 1477. All are free to visit – and if you time it right, you can also take in a concert or a music session for a small fee, which will allow you to experience the spine-tingling acoustics of this iconic church. Galway Cathedral doesn’t boast anything like the same long history but has been an integral part of the city skyline for over half a century – and it can claim to be the last stone cathedral of its kind to be built in Western Europe. Of course if you want to get the expert take on the city, you’re spoiled for choice on walking tours; from the straightforward history tour to food and drink versions or a cycling excursion that allows you to cover a lot more ground, it’s a

small investment for an overview of all the place has to offer. That may bring you to the pubs where plenty have music for free – and the price of a pint will only allow you to enjoy it all the more! No one can truly say they’ve experienced Galway unless they’ve walked the Prom and kicked the wall; on a clear day you can see the coast of Clare and the Aran Islands – but even on a wet and windy day, it’s a bracing preamble to clear the sinuses! You won’t tour Connemara for free, because you’ll either have to drive or get a tour bus – but you’ll get far more than you have to give, as you wallow in its wild and rugged landscape. And if that hasn’t satisfied your soul, the Burren is only a short run in the other direction which will also allow you to stop off in Kinvara where there’s always something going on. Best of all, as Galway’s year as Europe’s Capital of Culture comes into view, that jewellery box of free attractions is going to hit new highs – meaning there will never be a better time to enjoy the City of the Tribes and all the world around it.

▲ Galway International Arts Festival.

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CLIFFS OF MOHER, CO CLARE

MEET THE MUSIC MAKERS OF WEST CLARE Miltown Malbay, Co Clare Tel: +353 (0)65 7085785 Email: eolas@oac.ie Web: www.themusicmakers.ie Discover the magic of traditional Irish music, song and dance in the home of renowned uilleann piper Willie Clancy, at The Music Makers of west Clare Visitor Centre. Read first-hand accounts of the area’s renowned musicians and watch a specially commissioned film showcasing the locality’s most accomplished musicians playing the tunes most beloved by Clare’s great musical masters. Nestled between Loop Head and the Cliffs of Moher, you’re also guaranteed some wonderful sounds and scenery.

TAKE A DIP IN THE POLLOCK HOLES Kilkee, Co Clare A renowned spot for outdoor swimming, Kilkee’s Pollock Holes consist of three sea pools which are only revealed at low tide. While the Atlantic waves may batter the rocks that lie about 100m beyond you, these pools remain a calm and protected swimmer’s haven. Take a dip in seawater teeming with starfish, crabs and tiny creatures, while seagulls and oystercatchers linger overhead. Enjoy this unusual Atlantic adventure before indulging in a tasty reward of tea and hot scones in the town.

LOOP HEAD, CO CLARE

THE BURREN NATIONAL PARK, CO CLARE Tucked away on the southeastern corner of the magnificent Burren, the Burren National Park encompasses a remarkable 1,500ha of limestone pavement, calcareous grassland, hazel scrub, woodland, turloughs, petrifying springs and cliffs. Originating from the Irish word ‘Boíreann’, meaning rocky place, the Burren boasts a unique environment with an unusual lack of soil cover, yet an abundance of exposed limestone pavement and nutrient-rich floral species. In 1651 a Cromwellian Army Officer remarked, “Of this barony it is said that it is a country where there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury them. This last is so scarce that the inhabitants steal it from one another… the grass grows in tufts of earth of two or three foot square which lies between the limestone rocks and is very sweet and nourishing.”

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of Clare and Galway. With a dynamic mix of activities, this hands-on experience leaves you with lasting memories and some great photos too.

The iconic Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. Stretching for 8km along the Atlantic coast of Clare, the cliffs reach 214m at their highest point at Knockardakin. Midway along the cliffs you’ll find the environmentally friendly visitor centre set into the hillside. Here, you can also discover O’Brien’s Tower, a 19th century viewing tower, and access 800m of protected cliff side pathways with viewing areas. There are many vantage points from which to admire the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. From the main platform, you can see the south cliffs toward Hag’s Head, a natural rocky promontory that resembles a seated woman. From the North Platform, you can spot An Branán Mór sea stack, home of guillemots and razorbills, as well as the Aran Islands and, if the conditions are right, the famous surfing wave known as ‘Aileen’s’. Continue on about 5km from here and you’ll arrive in the village of Doolin. And if you’d like to see the puffins that reside on Goat Island instead, head for the south Platform.

At the western tip of County Clare, where the calm waters of the Shannon Estuary turn -into the powerful waves of the Atlantic, you’ll find Loop Head Peninsula. Travel along the Loop Head Drive to the western end of the peninsula to see its famous lighthouse, which sits on land dotted with colourful wild flowers. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in splendid views that stretch from County Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher. At the very end of the peninsula there is also a relic from WW2: large white letters spelling É-I-R-E, which let pilots know they were entering neutral airspace. This area is a wildlife haven too, with thousands of seabirds making their nests on the rock ledges and an estimated 160 bottlenose dolphins living in the mouth of the Shannon River. If you’d like to see these majestic animals up close, you can take a boat trip from Carrigaholt, or follow the road from Kilrush to Aylevarro Point to see them playing just offshore.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

Discover the secrets of the Wild Atlantic Way – Clare

The park’s highest point is Knockanes (207m), which continues as a curving terraced ridge right down to Mullaghmór. East of this ridge visitors can observe lowlying limestone pavement and semi-permanent lakes, while west of it sees the pavement sweep up and down. Visitors will be awed by the park’s truly mesmeric landscape. Additional facilities include parking areas, guided walks, free bus service from the information point in Clare Heritage Centre, Corofin, Co Clare. See www.burrennationalpark.ie for more information.

HANG OUT ON AN ATLANTIC CLIFF FACE Ben’s Rockclimbing, Fanore, Co Clare Tel: +353 (0)86 8448622 Email: info@benssurfclinic.com Web: www.benssurfclinic.com/rockclimbing The ideal spot for climbers of all levels, Ballyryan, on the edge of the Burren, boasts impressive sea cliffs with phenomenal Atlantic Ocean and Aran Island views. With more than 300 climbing routes in the area, it’s the secret jewel of rock climbing in County Clare. Scale the impressive cliffs with Ben’s Rock Climbing Clinic. No experience is required, all equipment is provided and all instructors are fully qualified and insured. With two-hour lessons, you’ll know the ropes in no time.

CATCH A WAVE IN FANORE

RUN WILD ON KILKEE’S ATLANTIC COAST ROAD

Aloha Surf School, Fanore, Co Clare Tel: +353 (0)87 2133996 Email: enquiries@surfschool.tv Web: www.surfschool.tv Remote and picturesque Fanore Beach is a surfer’s hideaway, and you can enjoy the space, sea and scenery of this little known County Clare gem. Perfect for those looking to escape the usual crowds and learn to surf, Aloha Surf School offers a unique Atlantic adventure. With professional instruction for learners of all ages and abilities, no experience is required and all equipment is provided. So you can get on with grabbing a board and catching that wave.

Kilkee, Co Clare This amazing cliff run from Kilkee takes you south along the coast road towards Loop Head Lighthouse, taking in the breathtaking sea cliffs and sea stacks en route. In summer the long coastline provides safe breeding and wintering grounds for a large number of birds from Europe and Africa, including the common yellowthroat, Canada warbler, and red-eyed and Philadelphia vireos.

GO SKY TO SEA ON A BURREN TOUR Burren Way Mountain Bike Tours, Doolin, Co Clare Contact: Patrick & Kelly O’Regan Tel: +353 (0)85 1195489 Email: burrenwaymountainbiketours@gmail.com Web: www.burrenwaymountainbiketours.com Explore the unparalleled beauty of the rugged Burren on the Sky to Sea Mountain Biking / Kayaking Tour. Discover this famous landscape from a new perspective with fantastic coastal views, fun off-road cycling and a great paddle to top it all off. The ideal energy-burning day out, the tour also showcases incredible panoramas

EMBRACE THE VIEW FROM KNOCKNAGARHOON HILL Kilkee, Co Clare Just off Loop Head Drive between Kilkee and Cross, discover a spectacular vantage point known locally as Knocknagarhoon Hill. Embrace exceptional vistas all the way to Loop Head Lighthouse, some 20km away, and the unique views of the nearby villages, townlands and the mouth of Ireland’s longest river, the Shannon. With these unrivalled panoramas, stunning Atlantic cliff scenery and a welcome slice of tranquil seclusion, you’ll find that Knocknagarhoon Hill is a special spot indeed.

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Western Herd Brewery, where the character and charm of our beer is matched only by that of our surroundings

Kilcloher, Kilmaley, Co. Clare T. 086 163 7575 Available in McHugh’s Bar, Ennis and Flanagan’s Lahinch

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GET CREATIVE AT LOOP HEAD SUMMER HEDGE SCHOOL Loop Head, Co Clare Tel: +353 (0)86 8197726 Email: ctmadigan@eircom.net Web: carmelmadigangallery.com/hedgescheventbooking Combining an exploration of the unusual flora of the Loop Head Peninsula with food foraging, poetry, art and creativity workshops, visitors can revel in this unique hedge school experience. Under the guidance of artist, author, native, naturalist and tour guide Carmel Madigan, discover the difference between the Loop Head’s flora and that of the Burren, or taste fresh leaf and berry tea combinations foraged directly from the peninsula’s hedgerows. Expect shoreline poetry readings, philosophy and art sessions, explorations and guided botanical walks.

GO TWO BY TWO TO THE LITTLE ARK Kilbaha, Co Clare When 19th century landlords refused to give a site for a Roman Catholic church in Kilbaha, Fr Michael Meehan had a spark of imagination. He began celebrating mass on the seashore, considered no man’s land. Fr Meehan had a wheeled wooden box that contained an altar – a little ark – which was rolled onto the beach for the next five years to celebrate mass. When a site was granted, the preserved wooden ark was stored inside the church, where it can still be seen today.

WALK IN THE VIKINGS FOOTSTEPS ON SCATTERY ISLAND Kilrush, Co Clare Tel: +353 (0)65 6829100 (Ennis Friary) Email: scatteryisland@opw.ie Web: www.heritageireland.ie Located approximately 1.5km off the Kilrush coastline, Scattery Island is home to a monastic settlement founded early in the 6th century by St Senan who was

born locally. Visit the ruins of six churches and one of the highest round towers in Ireland (approx 40m) with the unusual feature of its door at ground level. Scattery was subjected to many invasions down through the centuries; the Vikings invaded during the early 9th century but Brian Boru later recaptured the island. It is believed that Scattery is a derivation of the Norse word for treasure, which is ‘scatty’.

SEE THE ROCK OF THE LEAPING LOVERS, DIARMUID AND GRÁINNE Loop Head, Co Clare Just north of Loop Head’s magnificent headland you’ll find a ruggedly majestic sea stack known as Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Rock. The imposing rock is named after two lovers from Irish mythology, Diarmuid and Gráinne. The couple are said to have leapt from land’s end onto the sea stack while escaping the mighty warrior Fionn Mac Cumhaill, to whom Gráinne was betrothed. With romance, Celtic legends and one incredible view, there’s plenty to discover in the wonderful wilds of west Clare.

Enjoy old world charm & good old fashioned Irish Hospitality in the famous Black & White Pub of the year Cruises.

The Cruises Bar Menu inspired by local ingredients and seasonal produce at a reasonable price.

Abbey Street, Ennis Tel: (065) 682 8963

Week-end Entertainment- Irish traditional music played every weekend and a band until late. We show all matches including GAA, football, rugby and Hurling.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

SEE THE SALMON LEAP AT AASLEAGH FALLS

impression. The boat was custom-made by traditional craftsmen from An Cheathrú Rua (Carraroe) and was named in honour of the last King of Claddagh village, Máirtín Oliver. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00am 5.00pm, and also on Sundays during the summer from 12.00 noon - 5.00pm.

Leenane, Co Galway On the County Mayo border just outside the village of Leenane, these awe-inspiring 6m high waterfalls are quite a sight. Nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxing picnic and during the summer, the perfect place to watch the salmon leaping up the falls after they have returned from far flung feeding grounds in the Faroe Islands and Greenland. The waterfall also featured in the 1990 movie The Field, starring the late Richard Harris

KILLARY HARBOUR (SOUTH), CO GALWAY Located in the heart of Connemara, Killary Harbour (‘An Caoláire Rua’ in Irish) is a fjord that forms a natural border between counties Galway and Mayo. Here, you will find some of the most dramatic scenery in Ireland. From the northern shore of the harbour rises Mweelrea, the highest mountain in Connacht at 814m. To the south you can see the Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Bens. There are two small communities in the vicinity: Rosroe on the southern side and Leenane to the east. In the former, you’ll find a hostel that was once a residence where philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein stayed for some time after WWII, using it as a quiet place to write. Nearby you can also explore the so-called Green Road, a route that travels eastward along the side of the fjord toward Leenane. This road stretches for 9km and was built in the 19th century as a famine relief project. Additionally, this area is known for aquaculture, with a salmon farm operating at Rosroe and mussel rafts commonly spotted to the east.

STROLL THE SHORES OF GLASSILAUN BEACH Lettergesh, Co Galway Located on the coast road between Tully / Renvyle and Leenane is the peaceful hamlet of Glassilaun. This idyllic horseshoe beach is a firm favourite with families and watersport enthusiasts alike. At low tide, take a stroll to the tiny island at the end of the beach and discover an old lobster holding pool, a little wall built be tween rocky granite outcrops, which is a great place for a dip when sea temperatures are low. Serene and sheltered, you’ll be enamoured by these sandy shores.

ROAM CROMWELL’S BARRACKS Inishbofin Island, Co Galway Discover the remarkable and imposing star-shaped, 17th century fort at the entrance to Inishbofin Harbour. Walk from the old pier, where you can spot the barracks, and follow the coastline right around to the entrance. Built by Cromwell’s regime, it housed captured Catholic clergy from all over the country after the English Statute of 1655 declared them guilty of high treason. The barracks were later used as a defensive strategy and saw service during the 1691 Jacobite War.

TREK THROUGH CONNEMARA ON A CONNEMARA PONY Errislannan Manor, Clifden, Co Galway Telephone: +353 (0)95 21134 Email: errislannanmanor@eircom.net Web: www.connemaraponyriding.com The sure-footed Connemara pony – the only horse breed native to Ireland – is the perfect form of transport across the region’s blanket bogs and dazzling beaches. Legend has it that the ponies are descended from Arab stallions that swam ashore when the Spanish Armada sank off the Connemara coast in the 16th century. The pony treks take place hourly each morning from Monday to Friday. Private groups and longer treks can be arranged but booking is essential.

Discover the secrets of the Wild Atlantic Way – gALWAY

A SLICE OF IRISH HISTORY AT PEARSE’S COTTAGE Inbhear, Rosmuck (Ros Muc), Co Galway Tel: +353 (0)91 574292 Email: tanphiarsaigh@opw.ie Web: heritageireland.ie/West/PatrickPearsesCottage Pearse’s Cottage is a small, restored house overlooking the spectacular Connemara landscape. Irish political activist, teacher and Easter Rising leader Patrick Pearse first visited pictorial Ros Muc in April 1903, and the place made such an impression on him that he built his beloved holiday cottage there. Pearse used the cottage as a summer residence and summer school for his Dublin pupils. The cottage interior has been completely reconstructed and houses an excellent exhibition. Open Easter and May to September.

Dearbhaill Standún, musician and native speaker, and Charlie Troy, natural scientist and teacher, offer oneof-a-kind immersion in Irish culture, nature and heritage through Connemara’s lively traditions of music, song, storytelling, céilí dancing and food.

KICK THE WALL ON THE SALTHILL PROM Salthill Promenade, Galway City, Co Galway Overlooking beautiful Galway Bay on the fringes of Galway City, walking the Prom, Ireland’s longest seaside promenade, is a proud local tradition. Take a stroll and be sure to kick the wall across from the Blackrock diving boards, before turning around and going all the way back again. No one knows just where the tradition of kicking the wall started, but it’s now considered to bring good luck and fortune to those who kick it. So why not give it a go?

EXPERIENCE REAL IRISH CULTURE IN THE GAELTACHT

GET GALWEGIAN AT THE GALWAY CITY MUSEUM

Cnoc Suain, Spiddal, Connemara, Co Galway Tel: +353 (0)91 555703 Email: info@CnocSuain.com Web: www.cnocsuain.com For an authentic dose of Irish culture and west of Ireland charm, Cnoc Suain (‘Restful Hill’) is your first port of call. A restored, 17th century hill-village set upon 80ha of ancient bogland in the heart of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area), its raw beauty is unrivalled.

Spanish Parade, Galway City, Co Galway Tel: +353 (0)91 532460 Email: museum@galwaycity.ie Web: www.galwaycitymuseum.ie Galway City Museum is a terrific place to spend an afternoon, not least for its incredible views of the Claddagh, where the River Corrib’s waters meet Galway Bay. With a full-sized Galway hooker sailboat suspended from the museum’s atrium, it makes quite the

DERRIGIMLAGH, CO GALWAY You can hire a bike in Connemara’s largest town, Clifden, and set out on one of the area’s cycle routes which brings you through the townland of Derrigimlagh on quiet country roads. Your journey will take you by the blanket bog, a stunning mosaic of tiny lakes and peat, where you can stop and view two sites of international historical significance. First, you’ll pass the scattered remnants of the world’s first permanent transatlantic radio station. It was built more than a century ago by Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi and transmitted the first transatlantic radio signal in 1907. At its peak, the station employed several hundred people who helped transmit news across the ocean. It burned to the ground during the Irish War of Independence, but you can still view the vast site where many foundations of the buildings and workers’ houses remain. Nearby you’ll also come across a white memorial in the shape of an aeroplane wing, which pays tribute to John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown. In 1919, Alcock and Brown were the first pilots to fly non-stop across the Atlantic, before they crash-landed (safely) in Derrigimlagh Bog.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

ENJOY OPULENT OYSTERS AT MORAN’S OYSTER COTTAGE The Weir, Kilcolgan, Co Galway Tel. +353 (0)91 796113 Web: www.mornasoystercottage.com This cosy traditional thatched cottage is more than 250 years old and is well into its 7th generation of the family with Catherine Moran now at the helm. Renowned the world over for its superb seafood, the restaurant has long delighted diners with its combination of fresh Galway oysters, delicious home-baked brown bread and of course, a cool, creamy pint of Guinness. A traditional dish in this cosy setting is one temptation that’s simply too hard to resist.

CELEBRATE THE GATHERING OF THE BOATS

CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK, CO GALWAY Nestled right in the heart of Connemara, Connemara National Park covers some 2,957ha of impressive bog, heath, grass and woodland, as well as striking mountain scenery. Four of the park’s mountains are also part of the famous Twelve Bens or ‘Beanna Beola’ range, known for their sharp quartzite peaks. Explore the exceptional landscape on one of the many scenic walking and nature trails that begin at the park’s visitor centre. Admire the stunning vistas from the 400m Diamond Hill, including the distant islands of Inishbofin, Inishturk and Inishshark, and the turreted Kylemore Abbey. A diversity of wildlife calls the park home, including lively Connemara ponies, regal red deer and an enormous variety of bird life, such as skylarks, stonechats and peregrine falcons. In the visitor centre you can enjoy exhibits such as ‘The Man & the Landscape’, a multi-lingual audiovisual display, and relax in the pretty, seasonal tea room. Additional facilities include car park, picnic areas (indoor and outdoor), nature trails, children’s playground, walks, toilets and tea room. See www.connemaranationalpark.ie for more information.

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SAY ‘I DO’ TO THE CLADDAGH RING MUSEUM Quay Street, Galway City, Co Galway Contact Jonathan Margetts Tel. +353 (0)91 566 365 Email: info@claddaghring.ie Website: www.claddaghring.ie Tucked away inside Thomas Dillon’s Jewellers, the original manufacturers of the world-famous Claddagh Ring, is this unique, bijou museum. Housing some of the very first Claddagh rings made by 18th century goldsmiths Nicholas Burge, Richard Joyce and George Robinson, here you can also see the world’s smallest Claddagh ring, perched remarkably atop a tailor’s pin. Learn about the various stages of ring production, from wax blanks to the finished product, and peruse fascinating photographs of the historic former fishing village of Claddagh.

TRY AND SPY A SEA MONSTER Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Co Galway The Wormhole or ‘Poll na bPéist’ in Irish, is a striking natural rock formation on the southern coast of Inis Mór (Inishmore). This large, almost perfectly rectangular hole in the rocky coastline demonstrates the sea’s incredible force wearing away the limestone, and reveals the joints and right angles that form limestone itself. The ‘péist’ (worm) in question is the reptilian sea monster of Irish folklore. The water that rushes into the hole during high tide or stormy weather is said to conceal the mythical creature.

LITERATURE AND LANDSCAPE ON INIS MEÁIN

Kinvara, Co Galway Web: www kinvara.com/cruinniu Come see the gathering of the boats at Kinvara’s annual Cruinniú na mBád Festival. The sturdy hooker, a boat synonymous with Connemara and south Galway, was used for 200 years to transport turf from the Connemara bogs to the stunning Aran Islands and Burren. The hooker’s last voyage was in 1962, carrying turf across Galway Bay from Connemara to Kinvara. Join in the spectacle and celebrate Ireland’s maritime heritage, with singing, dancing, music and more.

Inis Meáin, Aran Islands, Co Galway On the beautiful island of Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) sits Teach Synge, celebrated playwright JM Synge’s beloved coastal cottage. Retreating there on the advice of WB Yeats, the 300-year-old house is now restored as a museum dedicated to his life and work, including his 1907 masterpiece ‘The Playboy of the Western World’. About 1.5km from the cottage is a stone chair on which Synge spent many an hour staring out at the epic Atlantic Ocean.

THE BURREN NATURE SANCTUARY

TEAMPALL CHAOMHÁN (ST KEVIN’S CHURCH)

Cloonasee, Kinvara, Co Galway Contact: Mary Bermingham. Tel: +353 (0)91 637444 / (0)87 4129701 Email: info@bns.ie Web: www.bns.ie Discover a place where rare orchids, Alpine, Mediterranean and Arctic plants flower side by side, at the Burren Nature Sanctuary. With idyllic Burren walks leading you through unique limestone terrain, past the rare turlough or ‘disappearing lake’ that fills and empties twice a day, and an array of beautiful botany, this landscape never fails to awe. Young ones can also visit the farm animals and go wild in the adventure playground, making it a sanctuary for everyone.

Inis Óirr, Aran Islands, Co Galway Nestled on idyllic Inis Óirr (Inisheer), the smallest of the Aran Islands, are the stone ruins of St Kevin’s Church dating back to at least the 10th century. Atlantic storms regularly coat the little church in mountains of sand, which locals clear away each year. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the grave of St Kevin, the patron saint of the island, or to celebrate his annual feast day there on 14 June. Explore this island haven for an intriguing dose of history and Atlantic panoramas.

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awaken your curiosity alway is spoilt for choice when it comes to walking in the countryside. With spectacular mountain ranges, pristine beaches and stunning scenery around every bend, Galway is a natural centre for walking and hiking. And with such a variety in landscape, thousands visit Galway each year on walking holidays.

Galway Walking Trails 30

CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK Spanning nearly 3,000 hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths and woodlands, Connemara National Park is a fantastic spot for walking and hiking There are actually 3 walks to do within the park. The pathways are well marked out and signposted and the walks are planned to suit everyone, from the novice to the well-seasoned walker. You also have the added comfort of having Park Rangers on hand, just in case you get into any difficulties. Starting point: Letterfrack

WESTERN WAY This 50km route starts at Oughterard and finishes at Leenane. On route you’ll also take in Maam, Maumeen, Inagh and Toorenacoona, as well as the Maum Turks, the Twelve Bens, and the banks of Lough Corrib. The terrain consists of quiet roads, bog roads, open moorland, forestry tracks, mountain paths and about 3km of timber bog bridge: some parts of the route can be very wet and boggy, particularly after a rainy period, when there is a fast run-off from the Connemara mountains. Starting point: Oughterard

SUCK VALLEY WAY This is a 10km walk that will take you through boglands, lowland farms, and the “9 friendly villages” Ballygar, Creggs, Glinsk, Ballymoe, Ballintober, Dunamon, Castlecoote, Athleague and Mount Talbot. The area is also rich in history, and offers an almost unique opportunity to experience the life of rural Ireland, a glimpse of its history and the rich bird and plantlife of the boglands and callows. It’s a marked walkway, just look out for black posts with yellow direction arrows. Starting point: Ballygar

KNOCKMA HILL If nothing else, this walk will awaken your curiosity – to see if you could find the burial site of Queen Maeve of Connaught. The famous Queen is supposed to be buried on top of Knockma Hill. This partially wooded hill contains examples of the famous Burren flora, the Spring Gentian and the Purple Helleborine to name but two species. From the summit of Knockma may be obtained one of the grandest panoramic views in Ireland. This walk starts at Castlehackett and is approximately 4km long. Starting point: Castlehackett

MOUNTBELLEW WOODLAND The trail at Mount Bellew Woodland, a 5km walk, isn’t too hard on the legs. Look out for Sika deer, along with a museum that used to be a forge, a tug boat (around 900 years old), the Herd's House and a flour mill (now in ruins), and magnificent oaks, sitkas and Norway spruces. The River Shevin flows through the area and an artificial lake adds to the beauty of the woodlands. Starting point: Mountbellew

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

GAELFORCE WEST A UNIQUE PERSONAL JOURNEY

THE ORIGINAL CLADDAGH RING 1 Quay Street, Galway. Tel: 091 566 365 www.claddaghring.ie Est:1750

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Saturday 22nd June Gaelforce West is still the original and the most unique adventure race in Ireland – the event that everyone wants to complete with many returning to do it again and again! Take on a 67km linear course starting at dawn on Glassilaun beach in Connemara and ending in Westport town. This is a personal journey which will see participants crossing the line triumphant, and with a huge sense of achievement. Cycling, running on trails, kayaking across Killary Fjord and climbing Croagh Patrick are all part of this incredible journey. Taking you along part of the Wild Atlantic Way this is a fantastic way to see the most remote, rugged and unspoilt areas of the west coast of Ireland. There is only one distance so everyone completes the same course – it is a huge challenge and requires training and effort. For more details or to take part, please see event website. VENUE: Leenane, Galway Ireland ORGANIZER: Gaelforce West PHONE: +353 95 42006 WEBSITE: www.gaelforceevents.com

ŠKODA TOUR DE CONNEMARA 2019 he ŠKODA Tour de Conamara 2019 will be held on Saturday 25th May 2019 starting and finishing in Clifden, Connemara. The event offers participants the choice of 140km or 80km routes and will travel through some of the finest coastal, lakelands, valleys and mountainous landscape in Ireland. If you took part in one of the ŠKODA Celtic Cycle Series events in 2018 you will have had an option to register for the event before it opened up to the public. Last year the event was sold out in 48 hours. The entry fee for the event is €40 per cyclist. If you are not a member of Cycling Ireland you will have to pay for a day licence. This is a €5 fee payable to Cycling Ireland. The entry fee is subject to online booking charges. Your 2019 registration fee will include: 1. 2019 ŠKODA Tour de Conamara gift* subject to early bird entries

2. Access to on route feed stations 3. Access to on route refuel stations 4. Bike and medical back up supports 5. 2019 Finishers Medal 6. Finishers BBQ & Cyclists Massage Area 7. Entry to draws for great cycling prizes 8. ŠKODA Pasta party at Monaghans Tuam Road with bike mechanic for final bike tune ups 9. A great day out in Connemara! 10. First event to complete the ŠKODA Triple Crown Tour de Conamara is the largest mass participation cycling event in the West of Ireland and is proudly supported by Monaghan & Sons, Main ŠKODA Dealers in Galway and Mayo. Recognised as the most scenic cycling event in Ireland, Tour de Conamara offers an unrivalled view of coastal, lake and mountain scenery.

Created by cyclists for cyclists, the event emphasises quality with a broad range of innovative features included from start to finish. As part of the Celtic Series the event has a very international feel with growing numbers of visitors from across Europe, USA and the UK tackling the event. The Celtic Series Tour de Conamara routes were selected by former International cyclist and TG4 cycling commentator Pádraic Quinn. The routes in the 140km and 80km events are chosen to accommodate and test all levels of cyclists and will avoid busy roads implementing a rolling road closure so riders can enjoy the sceneryin a more secure setting. To keep up to date or for more details please visit our news section or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for more frequent event updates.

SEAFOOD BAR AND RESTAURANT ROUNDSTONE, GALWAY. TEL 095-35809

lising Specia ocal L h s e in Fr od Seafo

Overlooking Roundstone Harbour Fresh Fish Delivered Daily

FAMILY RUN SEAFOOD BAR RESTAURANT & COFFEE SHOP Georgina Campbell Pub of the Year 2017 Galway Gastro Pub of the Year 2017 & 2018

Seafood Chowder a Speciality

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

Ennis street art draws a crowd HEN it comes to drawing tourists, Clare’s county capital of Ennis has it down to a fine art. Throughout the town’s historic streets, lanes and bow-ways, visitors can experience a wide variety of public art and all of it for free. From works of historic significance to more modern sculptures and street art, there is something to suit all art lovers. One of Ennis’ most eye-catching statues is the O’Connell Monument. Looking down on the streets of Ennis, the impressive column is synonymous with the county capital. It was erected on the site of the old courthouse where Daniel O’Connell was declared MP for Clare in 1828. The statue was executed by James Cahill of Dublin, while visitors can see a larger than life bronze statue of former President of Ireland, Eamon de Valera sculpted by the renowned Jim Connolly near the Courthouse. A more unusual monument of Ennis’ past is Steele’s Rock, on the banks of the River Fergus. Consisting of three irregular blocks of limestone, on one of which is carved a shield bearing a lion passant, it is said that Tom Steele, a close friend of Daniel O’Connell, used to sit there hoping to get a glimpse of the lady he loved. Throughout the town, sculptures designed by many acclaimed artists as part of the Ennis Sculpture Initiative can be appreciated. The initiative, which began in the late ’90s, has installed numerous sculptures as well as creating street furniture in the town centre. The trail takes many forms, depicting cultural, historical and sporting events as well as more abstract pieces. The project initially saw sculptures mainly installed along the riverside in Ennis. However, more have been added over the years. Among the acclaimed sculptors involved in the initiative were Carmel

by Jessica Quinn

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Doherty, Colin Grehan, Barry Wrafter, Diarmuid Twohighk, Marcel Twohighk, Shane Gilmore, Fiona O’Dwyer and Josie Croft.

For more than a decade, Ennis has been home to the annual Ennis Street Arts Festival organised by Ana Bella Alvarez. Each year for one week in July Ennis is transformed, with engaging, entertaining and exciting arts and cultural events for the whole family. The festival has also left a legacy of street art throughout the town, including the creation of a vivid mural by Spanish artist Eva Mena on Barrack Street. Ana Bella was involved in the Wall Candy street art initiative, which drew together artists and designers with diverse skills to create pieces of art on walls and buildings around Ennis. Hidden gems of art are dotted throughout the town, in many cases where you least expect it. A Russian doll has been created from a street bollard in Westby’s Lane, a Dalek has invaded Friary Bow, while surprising artworks can also be seen at Shank’s Lane and Arthur’s Row, among other locations.

Coole Park Gort C NATURE RESERVE AND MUST SEE VISITOR CENTRE

oole Park, now a nature reserve, was once the home of Lady Gregory, dramatist, folklorist and co-founder of the Abbey Theatre with William Butler Yeats and Edward Martyn. Yeats, Shaw, Synge and O'Casey among others all came to experience its magic; their initials are carved on the Autograph Tree. The Seven Woods celebrated by Yeats are part of a nature trail taking in woods, river, turlough, bare limestone and Coole lake. Attractions include a Visitor Centre with multi-media presentations and tea-rooms, all fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. Admission to the park is free. Location: 3km north of Gort on the N18 Galway - Limerick road. Bus Routes: Galway - Limerick buses and the Galway Limerick train stop in Gort. Taxi or walk from Gort - total distance from Gort is 3 km. Guided Tours: For pre-booked groups only. Duration: Forty minutes to one hour. Tel. No: +353 (91) 631 804

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» The Town Hall » Poet’s Corner Bar » Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

experience the real wild Ireland

gaholt, Kilkee, Doonbeg, Quilty, Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Lahinch, Liscannor, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin Ferry to Aran Islands, Lisdoonvarna, Ballyvaughan and ending in the Galway village of Kinvarra just across the border.

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DINE IN THE HEART OF ENNIS

The Wild Atlantic Way in Clare he Co Clare stage of the Wild Atlantic Way is 230km long starting from the Killimer Tarbert Ferry and ending in the village of Kinvarra on the Galway border. This section of the Wild Atlantic Way is packed with attractions from the world famous Cliffs of Moher and cliff top walk, to the Burren National Park, stunning beaches like Kilkee, to trips with Dolphins and top surf spots. This Wild Atlantic Way drive along the Clare coast takes at least two days to complete. However, you should try to spend at least two weeks visiting the top attractions below, meet the local people and experience the real Wild Ireland. Some of the best towns, villages and islands to visit on the Clare stage of the Wild Atlantic Way traveling south to north include Kilrush, Carri-

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The following is a list of the top 20 Attractions and ‘Things to See and Do’ on the Wild Atlantic Way from south to north starting at the Killimer Ferry with plenty more not mentioned here: 1. Kilrush - Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre

2. Kilrush - Scattery Island Monastery boat trip 3. Kilrush - Vandeleur Walled Garden 4. Doonaha beach, lighthouse and fort 5. Carrigaholt Castle and Rinevella Beach 6. Loop Head Lighthouse 7. Kilkee - Beach and swim snorkel the pollock holes 8. Doonbeg beach, fort and Golf Club 9. Kayak to Mutton Island 10. Spanish Point Beach 11. Surfing and Links Golf in Lahinch 12. Cliffs of Moher and cliff walk from Liscannor to Hags Head and Doolin 13. Doolin Aran Islands ferry and Doolin Cave 14. Lisdoonvarna - Horse Riding and Match Making Festival 15. Fanore Beach 16. The Burren National Park Europe's largest Karst Landscape

Live Traditional Music in Poet’s Corner Bar Thursday to Sunday

T: +353 65 682 8127 E: sales@oldgroundhotel.ie 17. Burren Way Long Distance Walking Trail 18. Birds of Prey Centre and Aillwee Cave, Ballyvaughan 19. Poulnabrone Ancient Dolmen, Ballyvaughan 20. Bishop's Quarter Beach The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s new long distance scenic driving route along the entire west coast of Ireland from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. If you are looking

for a holiday itinerary from a few days to several weeks, look no further as the Wild Atlantic Way route has it all. From cliff top views to great hikes and from historic cities to picture perfect coastal villages and some of the best surfing in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way drive caters for tourists of all ages and tastes. Slow down and experience the real Ireland.

www.FlynnHotels.com

- Bay View Hotel O’Connell Street, Kilkee, Co. Clare Tel: 065 905 6058 | Email: bayview3@eircom.net www.bayviewkilkee.com Bay View Kilkee is a Victorian townhouse turned hotel in the heart of the seaside resort of Kilkee. This family business comprises luxurious accommodation, an award winning locally sourced restaurant, and a lively public bar. All our rooms are tastefully decorated and have private bathrooms. All rooms also come with their own smartphone and tea and coffee facilities. Some boast spectacular views of the Kilkee Bay. Opened in 2013, our in-house dining experience, The Pier Restaurant looks out on Kilkee Bay in two verandas perfect for private bookings, family get-togethers, and intimate candlelit dinners, and a 20-seater dining room, tastefully decorated with original parquet wooden floor. Using all locally sourced ingredients, freshness & traceability is at the heart of our operation. Our motto is Farm Fresh, Ocean Fresh, Market Fresh. We serve lunch from 12.30pm to 5.00pm daily, and dinner is served from 5.00pm to 8.30pm each evening. We also have Daily Specials and a special menu for Sunday Lunch. The real life and soul of our Business is Hickie’s Bar. With a blend of traditional and contemporary design, hosting Live Music every Saturday and 5 nights a week during summer, live sports played across 5 large screens, and a seemingly never-ending list of gins, whiskeys, and cocktails to sample, you may never wish to leave once you step inside.

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POETRY IN MOTION t has been said that the Irish have a way with words – and we’ve been blessed with poets, past and present, whose musings have lifted the collective soul. On a quiet day around Galway, there’s a magical path you can follow, stopping off at irregular intervals to absorb a whole plethora of poetry, modestly mounted on the walls and paths across the city. It’s called the Galway Poetry Trail, organised jointly by Kennys Bookshop, Galway City Council and Cúirt International Festival of Literature – and it’s a project that has grown from a single offering in 2005 to over 20 poetry stops today. The poems – cast in bronze or engraved in stone and all located in an environment that reflects its content – are the work of a whole world of Irish and international poets, living and dead, some more famous than others. You might stumble upon one of them by happy accident, or you might set out to discover the entire anthology – by which stage you will also have taken in most of the city and Salthill on your route. And all for absolutely free.

by dave o’connell

Poet Gerald Dawe unveiling the plaque of his poem, the Tribune, as part of the Cuirt Festival

It began with YB Yeats’ ‘At Galway Races’, which obviously hangs in Ballybrit and among the more iconic contributions are James Joyce’s poem “She Weeps Over Rahoon”, which is placed on the wall of Rahoon Graveyard, and Seamus Heaney’s ‘Girls Bathing, Galway 1965’ which is on the Prom facing the ‘Ladies’ bathing area – written by Heaney on honeymoon in Galway. There are contributions from Mairtín Ó Direáin, Pádraic Ó Conaire, Walter Macken, Louis MacNeice, Kevin Faller, Gerald Dawe, Rita Ann Higgins, Gerard Hanberry, Paul Durcan, Little John Nee and Terry McDonagh – just for starters Each plaque aims to offer the reader a moment of quiet contemplation with words to lift the soul in a busy urban environment. Gerald Dawe’s contribution, the Tribune, is mounted just outside the office’s front door, and in essence it’s also the story of the Connemara bus dropping ‘the country edition’ of the newspaper to rural shops at every stop which ends with the wonderful line that gives us all hope – “News that travels is never late” Moya Cannon’s Bright City overlooks the Claddagh and captures the colour of one of Galway’s iconic views: “In a blast of morning light which has turnedcanal, river and estuary to mercury,even the cars on the Long Walk are transfigured.” Terry McDonagh’s UCG by Degrees, mounted within sight of the famous Quad, will have a resonance with anyone who passed through those hallowed halls – or drank in the student establishments like Smokey Joe’s or the Cellar during days that you never really forget. “I was completely college till I bagged my belongings but I still wear the profile well” The Crane Bar by Tom French, home in the middle of the afternoon to ‘a handful of souls, pacing themselves, minding their own business’. Men with Tired Hair by Rita Ann Higgins, which is on the wall of Richardson’s Bar at the bottom of Bohermore and opens with the lines: “On a bank holiday Monday in Galway, you can see old men, sitting on window sills in Prospect Hill.” Louis McNeice’s poem, ‘Galway’, was written when he was here at the outbreak of World War II. He was at the end of Nimmo’s Pier when the idea came to his mind – so that’s where his poem is located. Patricia Burke Brogan’s poem ‘Make Visible the Tree’ is about the Magdalen Laundry – and it was – unveiled on International Women’s Day in 2009, together with Mick Wilkins’ limestone sculpture of a Magdalen Woman, located on Forster Street, close to the site of the former laundry. And thus this unique trail reflects the brightest and darkest days of our past and present; it also provides a different way of embracing the city on foot – revelling in its words as well as the vision. It will lift your soul – and even your tired soles will thank you for it!

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Seamus Heaney - “Girls Bathing, Galway 1965” Máirtin Ó Direáin - “Fear Lasta Lampaí – Gaillimh 1928” Walter Macken - “Rain on the Wind” Extract Louis MacNeice - “Galway” Roger McGough - “Uncle Philip” Moya Cannon - “Bright City” James Joyce - “She Weeps Over Rahoon” Gerald Dawe - “The Tribune" Rita Ann Higgins - “Men With Tired Hair” George Moore - "Hail and Farewell" (Extract) Gerry Hanberry – “The ‘Kasbah’ on Quay Street” Pádraic Ó Conaire - “Deoraíocht" (Extract) Patricia Burke Brogan - "Make Visible The Tree" W.B. Yeats - “The Galway Races” Kevin Faller - “Home Town” Máire Holmes - "Margadh" Arthur Colohan - "Galway Bay" Little John Nee - "The Road to Galway" Haiku Paul Durcan with John Behan Illustration "The One-Armed Crucifixion" Terry McDonagh - "UCG by Degrees"

Ballynahinch Castle, Connemara Enjoy riverside strolls, fishing, cycling & hiking, explore the walled garden or simply relax by an open log fire. The award winning Owenmore restaurant & Fisherman’s Pub serve the best of local produce for lunch & dinner daily & afternoon tea at weekends.

Kennys Bookshop

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alway is a perfect base to explore the wide range of attractions dotted outside of the city. Within a short distance by bus or car you can visit any of the places listed below. So make sure you see at least a few of these places on your next visit.

Moher. The themed zones of Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man present the setting, geology, wildlife and human stories associated with the cliffs.

ARAN ISLANDS The Aran Islands are located about 48km (30 miles) from the mouth of Galway Bay. Inishmore (or Inis Mór) is the largest of the three islands which measures just 14km (9 miles) in length and 4.8km (3 miles) at its widest point. The islands are famous for their prehistoric and Christian monuments including the spectacular Dún Aengus fort that is one of best examples of this type of fort in all of Europe. Other ancient stone forts worth visiting include Dún Eoghanachta and the crumbling Dún Dúcathair. The unique landscape of the islands exhibit a crosshatch of thousands of miles of stone walls and visitors flock to the islands to enjoy the cliff-top walks and spectacular coastal scenery.

The Burren, in County Clare is a barren place, famous for its unique rock formations and exceptional diversity of flora and fauna. There are also large numbers of historic sites contained within The Burren, making it a popular visitor attraction for the region. Covering an area of approx 300 km2, its boundaries are clearly defined to the north and west by Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, with the villages of Ballyvaughan, Kinvara, Tubber, Corofin, Kilfenora and Lisdoonvarna situated at its edge. Among the archaeological sites of importance are tombs, burial chambers and the celtic high cross in Kilfenora. The well-preserved Corcomroe Abbey is one of the most popular sights in the area. Many visitors also come for the walking, sea-angling, photography and caving that make this corner of Ireland such an attraction.

CLIFFS OF MOHER

CONNEMARA

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions. Situated in North-West Clare between the villages of Liscannor and Doolin, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular natural wonders. Over 700 feet tall at their highest point, the shale and sandstone cliffs drop almost vertically to the Atlantic ocean far below. From the top there are views, on a clear day, to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, the Maum Turk and Twelve Bens mountains in Connemara to the north and Loop Head in Co Clare to the south. The grass roofed Visitor Centre is set into the hillside and offers an all weather experience. The Atlantic Edge Exhibition Area brings to life the story of the Cliffs of

The distinct region of Connemara is located in the north west corner of County Galway. Connemara's breathtaking landscape is a mixture of unspoilt rivers, lakes, woodlands, rich meadowlands, rugged hills, dramatic mountains and stunning coastline of sandy beaches and crystal blue waters. Connemara is a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area, rich in Irish culture, heritage and traditions. The main town in the Connemara region is Clifden. It has lots of quirky shops, restaurants and traditional Irish pubs to explore. Throughout the region there are many very interesting attractions like Kylemore Abbey, Connemara History & Heritage Centre in Clifden, Glengowla Mines in Oughterard, the 40,000 acre Connemara National Park and the set of the film 'The Field' in Leenane, which was directed by Jim Sheridan in the 1990s. Connemara is the ideal place to visit if you want to experience all things Irish.

THE BURREN

KYLEMORE ABBEY A trip to the West of Ireland is not complete without experiencing the beauty and tranquility of Kylemore Abbey and Gardens. It has an abundance of nature trails, woodland and a beautiful walled garden that will bring you back to the Victorian era. Facilities include a visitor centre, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants. Open all year round.

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GALWAY THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE THE HISTORIC TREASURES OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY ORANMORE CASTLE

PORTUMNA CASTLE

Oranmore Castle dates back to the 15th century and was originally stronghold of the De Burgo clan. Known as 'An Cáislean Mór' or 'The Castle of the Well' it played a major role in the defence of Galway during the Confederate Rebellion in the 1640s when provisions were transported from the castle to the besieged fort of Galway. The castle was abandoned in the mid-1800s until it was purchased in 1945 by Lady Leslie for her daughter, the writer Anita Leslie, whose own daughter, Leonie currenty lives in the castle with her well known husband, the musician Alec Finn of De Danann. A visit to the castle is highly recommended as it offers an enchanting, inviting immersion of art, music and history. Oranmore Castle is open to the public from June to August 10am-2pm (closed Mondays).

Portumna Castle was built in 1616 by Richard Clanricarde, then governor of Galway. The Castle is a symmetrical threestorey mansion built over a basement. It was built with beauty and comfort in mind and offers a breathtaking view of Lough Derg. Inside the Castle, a series of exhibits tells the story of the house and the Clanricardes. Outside, a walled forecourt has been rebuilt and the Portumna Castle gardens are laid out with geometric paths and formal enclosures.

COOLE PARK Coole Park outside Gort was the home of Lady Augusta Gregory, dramatist and co-founder with Edward Martyn and W.B. Yeats of the Abbey Theatre. The garden of the house, with its yew walk and autograph tree is preserved. Carved on the autograph tree, among others are the signatures of John Masefield, George Bernard Shaw and Seán O'Casey. The area is also a National Nature Reserve due to its great wildlife importance with its native woodlands and turloughs.

DUNGUAIRE CASTLE Dunguaire Castle is a magnificent 16th century castle overlooking the village of Kinvara and Galway Bay. From April to September the castle comes alive with medieval banquets, which feature theatrical performances involving rhyme, verse music and song. Part of the lore about Dunguaire's Castle is that the Lord of the castle was very generous and he continued this generosity into the afterlife. Today, if a person stands at the front gate and asks a question, they will have an answer to their question by the end of the day.

AUGHNANURE CASTLE Aughnanure Castle was built in the 16th century as a stronghold of the O'Flaherty clan, and is renowned for its

unusual double bawn. It lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. In 1546, the O'Flaherty's motto "Fortune favours the strong" and the powerful Mayo O'Malley's Motto "Powerful by land and by sea", were joined in the marriage of Donal an Chugaidh O'Flaherty and Grainuaile or Grace O'Malley. Standing on what is virtually a rocky island, the Castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. In addition, visitors will find the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, bastions and a dry harbour.

GLENGOWLA MINES Glengowla Mines is a historic 19th Century silver and lead mine situated west of Oughterard in County Galway. Guided underground tours every 20 minutes - last tour 5.30 pm - and an exhibition of all the tools originally used in the mine. The tour explores large marble chambers and caverns studded with lead and silver pyrite and veins of calcite and quartz in addition to other precious materials. A unique heritage attraction being the only one of its kind in the country.

INCHAGOILL ISLAND Of all the 365 islands on Lough Corrib, Inchagoill is the most famous and most visited. The name Inchagoill comes from three Irish words "Inis An Ghaill" meaning the Island of the stranger. Situated approximately half way between Cong, Co. Mayo and Oughterard, Co. Galway (4.5 miles from each) this special island is home to a number of ancient monastic ruins, some dating back to the 5th Century.

RINVILLE FOREST PARK Rinville Forest Park is located only five minutes from the picturesque village of Oranmore. It is a wonderful amenity, created around an ancient castle, a stately home and a fine estate demesne, which dates from the 16th century. With an extensive network of walks through woodlands, open farmland and by the sea, the park offers a recreational facility of outstanding quality and beauty. There is access to Rinville Point and Saleen Point, where views of Galway Bay, Galway City and the Burren of Co Clare, can be enjoyed. Raven, grey heron and otter are numbered among the fascinating fauna which can be observed, while the flora includes cultivated and wild flowers, shrubs and trees. The park has picnic areas and a children's playground, is open year round and admission is free.

CLONFERT CATHEDRAL The beautiful round arched west doorway at Clonfert Cathedral is a lovely relic of Irish Romanesque decorative architecture built in A.D. 563. Monasteries flourished as centres of learning and sent missionaries to many European countries, bringing with them the classical literature of Greece and Rome. Reports in the 9th century suggested that anyone who spoke Greek on the continent was an Irish person or had been taught by an Irish person.

KILLARY FJORD No visit to Connemara would be complete without a visit to Killary Fjord. The nine mile long inlet boasts some of the finest scenery in the West of Ireland, and because of its sheltered nature, its waters are always calm, ideal for taking one of the daily scheduled cruises which depart from Leenane village. Step back in time as you sail past the many deserted villages, abondoned since Famine times, which dot the Northern shore of the Fjord. Admire the rugged landscape of Mweelrea, the highest mountain in Connacht.

WOODVILLE WALLED GARDEN Woodville Walled Garden (www.woodvillewalledgarden.com) is located in Kilchreest at the foot of the beautiful Slieve Aughty mountains in south-east Galway. Dating back to the 18th century, the walled garden has been restored to its former glory and when you visit you will journey back in time. It opens daily from 11am-5.30pm.

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KYLEMORE ABBEY OFFERS THE VISITOR A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO STEP BACK IN TIME o visit to North Connemara would be compete without visiting Kylemore Abbey, set into the side of a mountain, overlooking Pollacappul Lake, and just a couple of miles from the village of Letterfrack. Kylemore Castle was built by Englishman Mitchell Henry as a love token for his wife Margaret – its foundation stone was laid in 1867. The couple had honeymooned in Connemara in the late 1840s and although poverty and famine had stalked the land at that time, Mitchell Henry realised the potential for economic development locally. Also, the couple fell in love with the place. Kylemore Castle’s cutting-edge design featured 33 bedrooms, four bathrooms, four sitting rooms, a ballroom, billiard room, library, study, school room, smoking room, gun room as well as offices and staff accommodation. Even today, it’s a remarkable building, in a remarkable setting. The gardens, walks and woodlands of the Mitchell Henry estate eventually covered 13,000 acres and included a sheltered six-acre walled garden, one of the last to be built in the Victorian era. These gardens make Kylemore an even more special experience, especially for visitors interested in history or horticulture. Its high walls, built of East-Galway stone, protected plants from prevailing winds and from local livestock. All except the northfacing wall were lined with red brick imported from Scotland. This retained heat, and the fruit trees that were espaliered along these walls benefited – they still do today. At its peak, 40 gardeners were employed there and exotic fruits and plants grew in its 21 heated glasshouses. The heat was provided by three boilers and a complex system of underground hot-water pipes. Mitchell Henry loved experimenting

by judy murphy

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and trees from all over the world were trialled in Kylemore. The estate provided great employment in the Mitchell Henry era and it still does, with many local families working there. Currently, during peak season, more than 100 people are employed in the house and gardens. When the Benedictine nuns moved here after their house in Belgium was destroyed during World War I, they made their own mark on Kylemore, establishing a renowned boarding school there. The vegetable gardens continued to be cultivated, meaning they were largely self-sufficient in terms of food. However, over the decades, the gardens generally became overgrown and the glasshouses fell into disrepair. Then, in the mid-1990s, the nuns began a project to restore this beautiful space and, today, the gardens offer special insight into the world of Victorian horticulturalists. Only plants from the Victorian era are grown here and their vibrant colours which change dramatically throughout the year, are made even more impressive by the wilderness of the contrasting mountains. A mountain stream divides the six-acre space into two sections; the formal flower area and the fruit and vegetable garden. Traditional farming methods are employed, with seaweed, farmyard manure and green manure being used as fertiliser. Cardoon (globe artichoke), and various varieties of salsify grow here, as do many heritage varieties of common plants such as potatoes, carrots and cabbages. There’s a herb garden with culinary and medicinal plants. The gardens are a mile from the house and when Mitchell Henry’s family lived here, they enjoyed days out in the walled space. Its gateway was wide enough to accommodate a horse and carriage and when a bell at the gate signalled their arrival, staff would melt into the background. The head gardener’s house was located within the walls, as was accommodation for other staff. These spaces have also been sensitively restored – the head gardener’s house is a beautiful dwelling, those in lesser positions didn’t have such comfortable accommodation, but at a time of great poverty this was still a place that offered security and stability. Beside the

accommodation, a large shed contains a huge variety of antique gardening and farming implements used in Victorian times. Margaret Henry died in 1874 at the age of 45 after falling ill while the family were holidaying in Egypt. Her grieving husband built the neo-Gothic Church close to the house in her memory and both of them are buried in a mausoleum in the woods. The couple are remembered fondly in Connemara as good landlords and good employers. Mitchell Henry represented Galway in the House of Commons for 14 years. A Home Rule supporter, he campaigned in Westminster for a more enlightened approach to Ireland. The nuns’ restoration of the gardens that he and his wife had created are a rare chance in the West of Ireland to step back in time and see the world through the lives of these privileged people. The fernery – a feature of Victorian walled gardens – is especially lovely, semi-wild in an area that’s mostly cultivated. While the vegetable and fruit section of the garden is principally a show area, demonstrating plants that were popular among Victorians, it does supply some vegetables and salads to Kylemore’s popular tearooms. Every Spring there’s a tree-planting week

& LEISURE PARK

involving pupils from local national schools and creches – this year’s event took place in March. Every garden has its own challenges, and being located in a boggy area with heavy rainfall, flooding can be a problem at Kylemore. In 2017 there was 2.2 metres of rain and last year was even wetter, at 2.8. There are plans to tackle this, showing that that some 150 years after they were established, these gardens are still evolving and developing while retaining their Victorian character. The Abbey and the Gardens are continually being improved and recent works includes extensive landscaping around the Abbey. The existing restored rooms have also been upgraded and there’s improved access and interpretation for visitors.A full multi-media experience and reconfiguration of the west wing of the Abbey will open in June. Admission to the Kylemore Visitor Centre and Estate is open daily from 10am-5pm. There’s a shuttle bus from the Abbey to the garden, and it runs regularly from 11am-5pm. The garden closes at 5.45pm. More information at www.kylemoreabbey.com.

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Turoe Pet Farm recently received a coveted award much to the delight of The Corcoran Family at an event held in The Crowne Plaza, Dublin. The Irish Hospitality Awards “celebrate everything in the hospitality industry by recognising and rewarding the best in the business”. Claiming top spot as “Outdoor Venue of the Year” among company such as The Irish National Stud, Kia Ora Pet Farm and Ailwee Cave was no mean feat and on accepting the Bward, David Corcoran alluded to “the team of hardworking staff and a set of very loyal customers”. Their outdoor facilities truly complFment their state of the art indoor facilities making it the perfect choice of venue for all. Tel: 091 841580 Email: info@turoepetfarm.com Web site: www.turoepetfarm.com

OPENING TIMES: OPENING TIMES: Every Saturday & Sunday 12noon to 6pm Spring Mid Term Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. 12noon to 6pm Easter Holidays every day 12noon to 6pm May Bank Holiday 12noon to 6pm – June, July & August every day 10am to 6pm Halloween 7 days 12noon to 6pm – Extra opening for Christmas.

Bullaun, Loughrea, Co. Galway. Tel: 091 841580

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by Austin Hobbs

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FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR INISCEALTRA PLANS

OPEN TO THE FORE IN NORTH CLARE ORTH Clare has so many iconic locations with names tripping off the tongue, such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Doolin, Ennistymon, Kilfenora, Lisdoonvarna and Lahinch, so there’s plenty to do and see. From walking the many well-defined road and forest trails to potholing, abseiling and water sports, the region is ideal for both a day trip or longer holiday. On the Wild Atlantic Way, Lahinch, one of the country’s best-known seaside resorts, draws thousands upon thousands of visitors each year, many in the off-season due to its popularity among surfers and day visitors. The eyes of the world will be focussed on Lahinch from July 4 to 7 for the Irish Open, with Ryder Cup player and manager Paul McGinley as host. Now a Sky Sports TV golf analyst, McGinley has been front and centre in promoting the event, the golf links and the surrounding area. Leading the Irish challengers will be three-times major champion, Pádraig Harrington, who won the title in 2007, and Shane Lowry, who won the Irish Open in 2009 as an amateur. In January, he won the Abu Dhabi Championship. Popular English players, Lee Westwood, Tommy Fleetwood and Danny Willett, will also be in the field. The Irish Open has provided a timely opportunity for the business sector in the immediate adjoining communities of Lahinch and Ennistymon to redouble their efforts to work in unison to maximise the financial return they can achieve from the event. Thousands of additional golfing fans will be drawn to Lahinch for the tournament and there will be a trail of

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XCITING things are happening in East Clare with plans that bit further along in developing Iniscealtra (Holy Island) as an anchor visitor attraction for the area. Clare County Council secured funding this year for Iniscealtra [Holy Island] under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. This will see €920,500 invested in a detailed design for a visitor centre, a design for a new boat landing point, including visitor trails, and the production of an interpretation strategy for the island. Local tourism provider and committee member with Tourism East Clare Vera O’Rourke said, “For a long time we were in a position where it wasn’t clear what was happening with Holy Island and now with this news it’s great and hopefully it will kick-start the project and hopefully it will move it on and things will happen quickly from now on.” She said while many people believe this is a lot of money towards planning and design, “it is an important stage and it is very important that it be done correctly”. “We were unhappy that it has taken this long from the time the island was initially bought. We thought it would move much faster than it has. Now with this €920,500 for the planning stages, that will move it forward much faster,” she said.

events to follow in hotels, pubs and restaurants, with street entertainment in Lahinch and Ennistymon. However, it is anticipated that the real benefits from the Irish Open coming to Lahinch will be the foundations it will lay for a major tourism boost in the years ahead. The area has a great head-start, with the Cliffs of Moher drawing close on 1.5 million visitors annually. Keeping people there is the challenge being seriously addressed by tourism promoters in the country. On a visit to North Clare, you could also take in the restored 15th Century Dysert O’Dea Castle. Dysert O’Dea Church, which stands on the site of an early Christian monastery, dates mainly from the 12th century. Heading further north, you arrive at Kilfenora, home of the internationally-renowned céilí band, which celebrates its 110th anniversary this year. Built in 1189 on the site of an early monastery, Kilfenora’s famed cathedral was dedicated to St Fachtnan. The cathedral is of architectural interest and contains some fine carvings on grave slabs and on windows and doorways in the form of stone heads. Kilfenora, known as “the city of the Seven Crosses”, boasts one of the greatest concentrations of high crosses in Ireland. Should you wish to see what lies beneath the Burren, a visit to Aillwee Cave or Doolin Cave to view the incredible stalactites and stalagmites is a must. Doolin is synonymous with music in the local pubs and it is also gateway to the Aran Islands, with two ferry companies operating frequent services throughout the year.

by Carol Byrne Once the ball is firmly rolling she said, “It will be great not just for Mountshannon but for the whole East Clare area for tourism and attracting tourists. Now that people can see there is going to be a development, it will attract more curiosity to the area.” As well as all that Lough Derg has to offer, further inland visitors to the region can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, for instance they can take in an event at Kilkishen’s Cultural Centre, which has been developed at the old Protestant Church in the village. They can visit Feakle, the home of one of the world’s finest traditional musicians, Martin Hayes, and catch a tune in any of the local public houses.

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I still wasn’t flattened I began to think I could actually complete the cycle. Shortly after Poulnabrone, I fell in beside Seán Kelly and we had a chat. He told me he’s a regular at the Tour de Burren and in fact it was he who encouraged his then sponsors, An Post, to concentrate on sportives like this instead of races in order to attract more entrants. His plan for the tour is to lead off as many events as he can, cycle with the group for a while and then return to cycle with the next group. He rides about 80km typically on events like these. At Lemenagh, we turned towards Kilfenora and on to Lisdoonvarna, another long slog. I was fairly happy once we reached the Spa town as I figured we had the back broken by now but I was brought sharply down to earth when Ballyvaughan was signposted as 31km away. I felt like turning back at this point. I felt even more like going home when just after Ballinalacken Castle on a treacherous downhill stretch, a bike skidded right in front of me and the rider went down. I couldn’t brake hard in case the same thing happened to me. I had

Cycling with a legend in The Burren

bikes to my right and I felt it would be frowned on to plough into my fallen comrade. There was a nice grassy ditch to my left so I steered for that and came to a gentle halt. Then, I forgot to remove my shoes from the pedals and I slowly fell to the road in a pratfall worthy of Charlie Chaplin. I knew straight away that my hand was hurt but I didn’t realise until I was back in Ballyvaughan that my knee was also badly gashed. To come off a bike so stupidly was bad enough but to do it in front of Seán Kelly was mortifying. By Fanore, I was beginning to flag but there was always someone around to give an encouraging word or a shove in the back to get me going again. I got a second wind once I glimpsed Ballyvaughan in the distance but I was never so glad to see Monks, where breakfast was waiting for us. This year’s Tour de Burren, organised by Burren Cycling Club and featuring an appearance by Sir Bradley Wiggins, takes place on Saturday, June 22 with circuits from 14km to 135km so there’s something to suit any cyclist.

Cycling with a legend in North Clare. John Galvin with Seán Kelly.

and THEATRE COMPANY

In association with Galway International Arts Festival and Kilkenny Arts Festival present The World Premiere of

CLEFT

Written by Fergal McElherron Directed by Lynne Parker │Starring Simone Kirby & Penny Layden hen my editor sent me to cycle 60km around Ballyvaughan early on a Saturday morning, I feared for our future professional relationship. I don’t do mornings, particularly on Bank Holiday weekends. There were extenuating circumstances as this was no ordinary cycle. It was a cycle led off by none other than cycling legend, Seán Kelly. Suddenly, I was interested. My brothers and I grew up through the era of the twin cycling supernovas. Kelly and Stephen Roche divided the spoils between them seemingly at will through

by john galvin

the 80s. While Roche won the big one, the Tour de France, and got to meet Charlie Haughey on the Champs Élysées, in our house, it was the quiet man from Carrick who was the big hero. Although he started with the reputation of just being a sprinter, he became a consummate all rounder, able to lead a breakaway or power up a mountain pass. The results speak for themselves: Vuelta a Espana, Giro di Lombardia, Milan - San Remo, Paris – Roubaix, Liege – Bastogne – Liege and seven victories in a row in the Paris – Nice event. My cycling story isn’t quite so impres-

sive. I haven’t done much on a bike since buying a new racer last year and promptly hurting my back. I’d been on the new bike only about half a dozen times before arriving at Ballyvaughan and I still wasn’t used to the gears or my shoes, which were now firmly attached to the pedals in approved racer style. Mercifully, the weather wasn’t that hot. In fact it was quite cold as forty or so of us set off from the pier to tackle the climb up to Poulnabrone. Psychologically, it was best to get this out of the way first and I was surprised how well my legs held up. As we passed Aillwee Cave and

glór, Ennis Previews Thursday 6 June 8pm Runs Friday 7 - Saturday 8 June 8pm Tickets €20/€18 Conc. 065 6843103 and www.glor.ie

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

CLIFF-TOP COURSE IN KILKEE K

ILKEE Golf Club is a wonderful amenity for all of West Clare. Have you ever thought about taking up golf? Maybe you are thinking of rejoining the sport. Now is your chance. At Kilkee Golf Club, we welcome all new members with a special introductory rate of only €165. Kilkee Golf Club is an 18-hole clifftop championship course with breathtaking views on the Wild Atlantic Way. Maybe you want a challenge on a new course with green fees at only €25pp; why not come and see for yourself? There are special rates for societies and groups on enquiry. Our junior club is now up and running for the summer period and junior membership is €50 per

Bringing the Shannon Estuary Way to life ÁILTE Ireland has unveiled 11 new viewing points along the Shannon Estuary Way, the first of a series of Wild Atlantic Way looped drives, to encourage visitors to explore other parts of the region, thereby driving economic growth in local communities. The Shannon Estuary Way, developed with an investment of €225,000 from Fáilte Ireland, takes visitors on a drive through areas of remarkable unspoilt beauty, across the Shannon Estuary on Shannon Ferries, encouraging them to explore the many delightful towns and villages from Clarecastle to Knock on the Clare side of the estuary. The Shannon Estuary has so much to offer the visitor from history and heritage to beautiful views and the Shannon Estuary Way looped drive will encourage visitors to get off the beaten track and discover the surrounding areas. The new viewing points on the looped drive are Ringmoylan Pier, Ballysteen Pier, Boland’s Meadow, Kilteery Pier and Glin Pier on the southern shore and Knock Pier, Labasheeda Quay, Kildysart Pier, Covraghan Pier, Clarecastle Pier and Tullyglass Point on the Clare side. Minister of State at the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Patrick O’Donovan said the Shannon Estuary Way will provide a significant opportunity for Limerick and Clare to benefit from the Wild Atlantic Way, opening up the region’s inland hinterland to visitors. Developed with stories and imagery from local communities across the region and constructed from locally-sourced materials, the concept for the design of the viewing points was Big Skies

by Gerry McInerney

and Sheltered Waters. A motif for the viewing points was created to celebrate the traditional wooden fishing boats unique to the River Shannon, the gandelow. Fáilte Ireland’s Head of the Wild Atlantic Way, Miriam Kennedy said to keep the current growth momentum of the Wild Atlantic Way going, their aim is to spread visitors across the region. “The Shannon Estuary Way was designed to encourage visitors to explore the area around the Shannon Estuary, which has an abundance of things to see and do. With the support of Clare and Limerick County Councils, the new viewing points will enhance the visitor experience and increase dwell time in the area, supporting revenue generation and job creation in local communities across the region,” Ms Kennedy maintained. Fáilte Ireland is working with Clare Local Development Company and businesses along the Shannon Estuary Way to maximise the tourism opportunities for Clare presented by the Shannon Estuary Way. Mayor of Clare, Councillor Michael Begley believes the Shannon Estuary Way will contribute significantly to developing the tourism product in Clare.“The route enhances the visitor experience with appealing interpretation that tells the unique stories of the many intriguing places along its route. The signage is reassuring for visitors to keep them on track. The Shannon Estuary Way, a looped driving route, will assist in supporting rural jobs and enterprises in our small villages and rural areas along the magnificent Shannon Estuary. I am pleased to see that two new accommodation providers have already opened their doors for business and I have no doubt that many more will follow,” he maintained.

child, capped at €100 per family. Coaching is available for all age groups in July, which can be done in groups or individually. We are hosting a golf classic on July 21 and 22, open to all with GUI handicaps. Teams of four, any combination, are only €120, including a goodie bag and lots of prizes to be won. Bookings can be made though the office/shop. Our award-winning Lir restaurant, with panoramic views of the Atlantic, is the perfect venue for any occasion, with options for a light lunch or al a carte menu in the evening or watch the sunset while enjoying a signature Lir cocktail on the front patio.

THE BURREN CENTRE, KILFENORA ID you know that the concept of interpretation of the Burren landscape originated in Kilfenora, a rural village on Ireland’s west coast? Back in the mid-70s there was relatively little resource material on the Burren region, except for the work by antiquarian Thomas J Westropp and his 37 years of work on the Burren proved an invaluable study resource. With the help of outside experts and local people, a Steering Committee was established in the mid-70s and out of these discussions, the concept of environmental interpretation was born. Thanks to their foresight, visitors to the Burren gained a deeper appreciation and respect of this stone-carved land and the need to understand the fragility of our environment and the importance of its protection and this approach has latterly become known as “environmental” tourism. It was over a decade later when other visitor centres, including State-run facilities, were still no more than a series of soundless slides and still photographs. It is difficult to imagine how advanced in its thinking the people of Kilfenora were and what great visionaries to open the Burren as a haven for study, conservation and exploration. Thanks to local agencies working together, people are more environmentally aware and visitors to the Burren are conscious of reducing the impacts of their actions on the natural environment. The Burren Centre is an important business in the UNESCO Geopark and is one of its main tourism attractions. It is the oldest visitor centre in the region and is quite unique, in that it is managed by a commu-

nity co-operative. The Burren Centre has done so much to promote the wonderful heritage of the Burren and its current exhibition is the most comprehensive and informative of all the visitor centres, in that it presents all relevant topics (geology, botany, archaeology, history, local culture and so on) to the visitor in multimedia formats. The centre is also an information point for the geopark and has been fully supportive and participative of the geopark’s remit since the geopark’s inception in 2011. The centre is a member of the Burren Ecotourism Network, thereby showing its commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

THE KILFENORA CÉILÍ BAND PARLOUR In olden times, the parlour was the most important room in the house where guests were entertained. The Kilfenora Céilí Band Parlour contains a selection of memorabilia and displays in a comfortable and intimate setting, with súgán chairs and table to give a warm and welcoming feeling to the room for the music of the famed Kilfenora Céilí Band. By means of panels and projectors showcasing archival material, visitors and locals can explore the history and music of the band in an imaginative way. Enjoy a virtual tour of the history of the band and their music and become immersed in the sounds of the music from the new and old bands. The Burren Centre and The Kilfenora Céilí Band Parlour open daily from 10am to 5pm.

COURSE DEVELOPMENT CLASSIC 21ST & 22ND JULY 2019 TEAM OF 4 - ANY COMBINATION €120.00 (GOODIE BAG INC.) LOTS OF PRIZES TO BE WON - ALL WELCOME me able l elco s W es Avai e i t t ie Soc oup Ra €€ East End, Kilkee, Co. Clare €€ Gr cial €€€€€€ Spe Phone 065 90 56 048

SPE Gift CIAL O Vou C CA c Enq hers Av SION uire a Tod ilable ay

E-mail: Kilkeegolfclub@eircom.net Web: www.kilkeegolfclub.ie

“Trace the music & history of The Kilfenora Band at The Burren Centre.”

The visitor centre in the historic village of Kilfenora boasts a fantastic exhibition, audio visual film theatre, local craft show and tea room. Explore the ﬂora, fauna, archaeology & natural history of the Burren in the Burren Centre. Services: Tourist Information Point, Free parking, Beside Kilfenora High Crosses, all Burren reference Maps & Guides available in craft shop.

Opening times: Mid March to May 10am to 5pm; June, July & August 9.30am to 5.30pm; September to October 10am to 5pm; Last Admission 30 min before closing BURREN CENTRE, KILFENORA, CO. CLARE

Telephone: 065-708 8030 Fax: 065-708 8102 E-mail: info@theburrencentre.ie Website: www.theburrencentre.ie

Kilfenora, Co. Clare. ✆ 065–708 8030

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

BLUEWAY GENERATES ECONOMIC SPLASH ON LOUGH DERG HE launch of a new multi-activity recreational trail around Lough Derg is creating a major economic splash, according to a local hotel manager. Clare County Council has predicted that the Blueway will generate the equivalent of 90 full-time jobs and will attract an extra 5,000 visitors to Lough Derg in 2019. Eoin Little, who is a member of the Lough Derg Marketing Group, believes the new Blueway has played a major role in generating additional trade for local tourism-related businesses. The general manager of a local hotel in Killaloe, explained that the hotel is already 80% occupied for the summer, with overall bookings ahead of last year. In addition to promoting the Blueway on a dedicated page on the hotel website, Mr Little outlined that the hotel has teamed up with other local businesses to create different packages for visitors. These include a two-day boot camp at the University of Limerick Activity Cen-

by Dan Danaher

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tre at Ballycuggeran and a river cruise with the Spirit of Killaloe. Tourists are also offered a variety of water-based activities, such as kayaking and different walking routes under the Blueway brand. “The introduction of the Blueway has helped encourage people to stay longer in the area because they have more activities to do. People have got to know Lough Derg as a destination for waterbased activities. We have people coming to the area who enjoyed the Blueway in other regions. Staff have gone on familiarisation trips, which has helped them to promote and sell activities much better. “The Blueway has helped increased business from all demographics; in particular we have seen a lot more families coming to the area. We are seeing the spin-off from the Blueway since it was launched last summer,” he said. It has also generated more publicity for Lough Derg. In January 2017, local

businesses were featured on RTÉ’s Nationwide, outlining what the lake has to offer for tourists. Mr Little said he always encourages hotel guests to visit restaurants and bars in Ballina and Killaloe, as they stay longer when they sample different hostelries, who in turn recommend the hotel as part of tourism cross-selling. The introduction of the Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands tourism brand has also helped to attract more international visitors to Lough Derg. Mr Little attended a recent Meitheal trade show in City West, Dublin, where 350 international buyers met 600 suppliers. He is confident that it will lead to groups of up to 50 people from China coming to stay in Killaloe and enjoying a boat trip and artisan products such as Wilde Irish Chocolates. The hotel is looking forward to a successful summer, with its new 16-bedroom waterfront five-star development scheduled to open in May.

(Formerly Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel) Opened March 2019 following exciting refurbishment

NEW ABERDEEN BAR & RESTAURANT Open Daily from 12.30

Special Spring Opening offer €79 for one night Or €119 for a two night stay including breakfast each morning for two guests in our newly designed Aberdeen Restaurant.

Catering for Private Parties and Group Celebrations

SHANNON MUSEUM OFFERS INSIGHT INTO WORLD OF AVIATION HEN Shannon is mentioned anywhere in Ireland, or often far beyond our borders, the airport is usually the first thing that comes to mind. There is no doubt that Clare’s airport has a rich and significant aviation history, with it catering for its first transatlantic flights way back in 1945, while in 1947, it became the world’s first duty free airport. For years, it was the gateway between Europe and the Americas, with few aircraft being able to make the distance without a refuelling stop in the Banner. Given the local heritage, it is probably not surprising that the town is home to Atlantic AirAdventures, an exciting and interactive aviation museum, an aviation education centre and flight simulator centre at Smithstown. More than just a fun attraction, it is also a learning hub, with educational and fun activities for young and old, who want to learn a little more about the fascinating world of flight. It is home to a B737-800NG flight simulator, allowing visitors to experience the world through the eyes of an airline pilot. The ex-Canadian Air 737 logged more than 72,000 landings during 30 years of use. While it was finally scrapped in Florida, it was brought to Canada to be rebuilt and subsequently

Telephone +353 (0) 65 7081100 info@lahinchcoasthotel.ie Web www.lahinchcoastdhotel.ie

T: 087 7857569 | T: 087 6183894 | E: burrenwest@eircom.net | E: info@linnalla.ie

by owen ryan brought to Shannon, where it has proved a popular attraction over the last 10 years. The centre’s collection features eight complete aircraft, while there are also a number of cockpits and jet engines for perusal on its premises. A social enterprise, the income that is generated by visitors goes back into running the facility. At the moment, it is running a crowdfunding campaign for extension and renovation, with a target of €40,000 and €5,650 raised at the time of writing. The museum operates with the help of volunteers and therefore it can only guarantee guided museum tours at specified booking times, which it recommends for all over seven years of age.

Cafe Linnalla based on the western end of the Flaggy shore, in New Quay North Clare, serving real ice cream, made freshly here on our farm from the milk of our shorthorn cows. We are the most westerly ice cream parlour in Europe and were nominated one of the “50 secrets of the Wild Atlantic way” by Failte Ireland. We serve great coffee, mouth-watering desserts, muffins, cakes and brownies. Enjoy a coffee and an ice cream sundae while taking in the breath-taking views of Galway bay. It is an ideal stop on your walk on the flaggy shore as it is the midway point on the looped walk. Indoor and outdoor seating is provided and a children’s playground.

€1 OFF

a scoop of ice cream with this advert.

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Galway Bay Golf Resort

VISIT THE BEST VISITOR ATTRACTIONS IN

CONNEMARA

Irish PGA Championship Course 2018

For those interested in local sightseeing, attractions and history there are many attractions to choose from. Below is a selection of Connemara’s best visitor attractions. In Connemara there are a host of things to do and places to see suitable for all ages.

CONNEMARA HERITAGE & HISTORY CENTRE This award winning heritage centre is situated on the N59 approximately 5 miles from Clifden-the capital of Connemara. It offers a unique insight into the history and heritage of this most beautiful part of the West of Ireland. History presentation ‘Connemara through the ages’ in Irish and English. Audio visual available in English, Irish, German and French. Reconstructions of a crannóg, a ring fort and a clochaun. Dan O’Hara Homestead & Pre famine farm. Guided tours for groups with turf

cutting and other demonstrations on request. Craft shop with a large selection of knitwear, marble, jewellery and other gifts to choose from. Restaurant serving teas, coffee, cakes, scones, lunches. Special deals available for groups Open from April to October. Off season on request. 7 days 10 am to 6pm Lettershea, Clifden, Co. Galway Website: www.connemaraheritage.com Phone: +353 95 21808

KYLEMORE ABBEY & VICTORIAN WALLED GARDEN At Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden, there is so much for all the family to enjoy. Visit the restored rooms of the Abbey and learn about its history and tales of tragedy and romance. Explore the 6 acre Victorian Walled Garden with its magnificent restored buildings. Discover woodland walks, lakeshore walks, nature trails and childrens play trail throughout the 1,000 acre estate. The beautiful Gothic Church is a short walk from the Abbey, nestled nearby is

the Mausoleum where Mitchell and Margaret Henry are buried side by side. Children will enjoy making a wish at the Giants Ironing stone. Enjoy delicious home baking and home cooked food at Mitchell’s café or The Garden Tea House and finish your visit with a spot of shopping at our lovely Craft and design Shop. Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, Kylemore, Co.Galway Website: www.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie Phone: +353 95 52001

Open Days Every Friday – Golf & Lunch €50

VISITORS WELCOME 7 DAYS A WEEK Call 091-790711

G A LWAY B AY G O L F R E S O RT R E N V I L L E , O R A N M O R E , G A L WAY Contact

091 790711 or see our website www.galwaybaygolfresort.com

CLIFDEN CASTLE Clifden Castle was built by John d’Arcy in a Gothic Revival style in the 18th century, about 1750. The house was only lived in for about 90 years before it was abandoned in the 1840s. Few photographs remain of this one time noble house but they can be seen in some of the local history books or in the town’s library. Just ask for them. The house fell into ruin and was stripped bare of anything that could be

sold by the locals in order to feed themselves. One of the interesting features of this property are the standing stones. D’Arcy had these stones erected to mimic other standing stones around Ireland. Today little remains of the house but its shell. You can walk through the house through an entrance through the back garden, as the front entrance is inaccessible because of a steep drop into the structure.

CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK Situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,957 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the Park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980. Much of the present Park lands formed part of the Kylemore Abbey Estate and the Letterfrack Industrial

School, the remainder having been owned by private individuals. The southern part of the Park was at one time owned by Richard (Humanity Dick) Martin who helped to form the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals during the early 19th century. The Park lands are now wholly owned by the State and managed solely for National Park purposes. Connemara National Park, Letterfrack, Co. Galway Website: www.connemaranationalpark.ie. Phone: +353 95 41054

THE SHEEP AND WOOL CENTRE The Sheep and wool museum offers an insight into the importance of sheep and wool in Connemara’s past. Learn the history of sheep farming, local woollen industry and the process of how sheep’s fleece is made into cloth through technology, displays and demonstrations. Marvel as sheep’s wool is made into yarn at daily carding, spinning and weaving demonstrations, practiced on wheels and looms from the turn of the last century. Listen to interviews from

those who remember the past. Enjoy quirky slide shows and allow children to discover what their role would have been in the 1900s through hands on experience. You can also meet a sheep and admire the art of hand shearing by a local farmer in July and August. The Sheep And Wool Centre, Leenane, Co.Galway Website: www.sheepandwoolcentre.com. Phone: +353 95 42323

ROCK & GEM SHOP • GUIDED UNDERGROUND TOURS SEISMOLOGY • GOLD PANNING • MINING MUSEUM SHEEP HERDING • TURF CUTTING & MORE...

Connemara’s Hidden Gem

We are open daily, March to October 10am – 6pm (Last tour 5pm). Glengowla Mines, Oughterard, Co. Galway. Email: info@glengowlamines.ie Phone: +353 (0) 87 252 9850

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ARAN ISLAND FERRIES ARE THE WAY TO GO enture off the west coast and immerse yourself in the strong traditional culture of the Aran Islands. Aran Island Ferries are an award-winning, family run business, sailing yearround to all three Islands. Operating a fleet of four state-of-the-art vessels, the ferries offer maximum comfort and excellent amenities, including bar service on board. Daily sailings depart from Ros a’ Mhíl Port, with an average sailing time of 45 minutes. The shuttle bus ser-

vice from Galway City, brings passengers through idyllic villages in Connemara. Rent a bike or hop on a bus tour to explore some of the country’s oldest monuments, forts and monastic dwellings. Live music, seasonal food produce and the Aran Island Sweater Market are highlights of any trip. Isolated by the forces of weathering and erosion, many visit the Aran Islands to escape the pace of modern life. Book a return journey online and get a 10% discount.

GETTING THERE

Get away from it all with a spell-binding visit to the

Aran Islands

f you want to get a glimpse of the real Gaelic Ireland, then a visit to the Aran Islands is a must. They sit on the very edge of western Europe, just off the coast of Galway and draw visitors from far and wide to see their unique beauty, culture, history and heritage. So spell-bounding are these islands, that they have been ranked as number seven in the top island destinations in the world by National Geographic in December 2007. The Aran Islands are a group of three islands situated in Galway Bay, just about 45km off the coast of County Galway in the west of Ireland. These islands are very special places as they have remained one of the last remaining parts of the country, which still bear a very strong sense of Irish culture and language. The islands are ‘Gaeltachts’ (Irish-speaking areas) and their location has helped them to preserve and protect these traditions against foreign influences on the mainland down through the years. The largest of the three island is Inis Mór which is just 12km by 3km in size and has a population of about 900 people. It is one of the most popular island destinations in Ireland. It’s of huge historical interest with over 50 different historic monuments dotted all over the island, the largest and most impressive being Dun Aengus. Dun Aengus is a prehistoric fort built during the Bronze Age at the top of a 100 metre high cliff. The fort is a fantastic example of a stone fort which is thought to be over 2000 years old! Dun Aengus is said to have been built by Aonghusa who was a chief of the Fir Bolg - so it translates as the 'Fort of Aonghusa'. The impressive stone fort has three enclosures to defend against

the three, so if you really want to get away from it all, head here. It has superb views of the Cliffs of Moher and has become a popular destination for diving due to its clear unpolluted waters. It has a share of historical attractions and an unusual flora and fauna similar to that of the Burren. The island has a population of about 200 people and depends largely on fishing and sheep rearing which is important for making the famous woolly Aran Island jumpers. Inis Oírr is the smallest of the islands and has a population of about 300 people. It has a distinctive charm about it and the local folk on the island still very much live a traditional Irish way of life. The little village on the island has a popular Irish pub, which is a great spot to enjoy a traditional Irish music session at its best!

Getting to these offshore islands is a pleasant experience. Aran Island Ferries operates a year-round ferry to Inis Mór from Rossaveal. The crossing takes about 35 minutes. Rossaveal is 40 kms west of Galway City. A direct bus services is available from Queen Street in Galway City Centre to the Rossaveal ferryport 1.5 hours prior to sailings. From May-September Aran Island Ferries also operates from Inis Mór to Inis Oírr and Inis Meáin. For more information see the Aran Island Ferries website (www.aranislandferries.com). An alternative route to the islands is available from Doolin, Co Clare and are operated (April to October) by Doolin Ferries (www.doolinferries.com) and by O’Brien Line Ferries (www.obrienline.com). You can also reach the islands by air using the Aer Arann Islands service from Connemara Regional Airport at Inverin, 30 kms west of Galway City. The flight is only 10 minutes but provides a scenic view of Galway Bay during the flight. For more see the Aer Arann Islands website (www.aerarannislands.ie)

GETTING AROUND On arrival, you may consider exploring the islands by bike and there are a few local operators on each island, usually based close to the pier. On Inis Mór, Aran Bike Hire, located by the pier provide a good choice of rental bikes for almost all requirements, see (www.aranislandsbikehire.com) The islands are also easily explored by foot and are a paradise for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, diving, surfing or birdwatching. You can also travel by horse and cart and you'll see the operators lined up by the pier from May to September.

the enemy. If you look closely enough at one of the walls you will notice vetical, jagged rocks protruding at an angle for optimal fortification. The island has unspoilt sandy beaches with clear blue waters, green fields with stone walls, beautiful cliff walks and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean – it’s really no wonder that it has been the setting for a movie and the inspiration for many writers and artists who frequent the island regularly. The main village on the island is Kilronan, which is where visitors to Inis Mór disembark. It’s a lively spot during the Summer months, so pop into the local pub for a creamy pint of Guinness and mingle with the locals who will enthral you with the island folklore – which they are very proud of. Inis Meáin is the middle island and the less visited of

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INISHBOFIN ARTS FESTIVAL

Take a scenic drive along the majestic west coast The Burren and Connemara regions along the west coast are renowned for their majestic scenery. And although new and well maintained roads and motorways connect the towns of Galway, there are some spectacular alternative routes to explore the lesser seen, idyllic beauty spots around the Galway.

LOUGH CORRIB Leave Galway by the N59 for Moycullen continuing on to the busy market town of Oughterard, one of Lough Corrib's main angling centres. Leaving Oughterard, drive westward towards Maam Cross, the famous central Connemara market cross roads. Turn left and as you drive the landscape changes dramatically. Greenery gives way to mountains, moorlands and lakes. Turn right at Maam Cross, and as you drive north you will be surrounded by wonderful mountain scenery. At Maam Bridge, take another right, and drive along by Lough Corrib. Continue through the lively village Cornamona and take in the beautiful views until you reach the village of Clonbur. It's just a short trip to Cong from here. You cross the border to County Mayo to reach this village, which was the setting for the film "The Quiet Man". From Cong return to Galway passing through Cross, and on past Glencorrib. The ruins of Ross Errily Abbey are on the right by the Galway/Mayo boundary. Headford is another angling centre and a busy town. Here you can detour right to visit Ross Errily. Return to Headford and then to Galway, with a possible detour to the right to Annaghdown on Lough Corrib, with its ecclesiastical ruins. Distance: 113km Duration: 2 hours approx.

SKY ROAD, CLIFDEN

LEENANE TO DRUMMIN

The Sky Road drive in Clifden is a popular route in the Connemara region and has been described as being one of the most impressive coastal drives in the country. The steep ascent along the coastal edge provides a wonderful vantage point with panoramic views of Clifden bay and its many islands. Distance: 15.2km Duration: 15mins approx

The road from the picturesque village of Leenane via Doo Lough to Drummin provides an unforgettable driving experience through the Connemara countryside. The road, which is on the Wild Atlantic Way driving route, winds its way in spectacular fashion along the northern side of Killary Fjord, through a series of valleys between the peaks of Ben Creggan and Ben Gorm. Panoramic landscapes abound on all sides as you travel north looking out over a sylvan landscape which surrounds the loughs and their small islands along the way. Distance: 26.7km Duration: 25mins approx

BEARNA TO LETTERMORE INAGH VALLEY TO KILLARY HARBOUR The Inagh Valley road winds its way through majestic heather covered mountains and around picturesque lakes. The landscape is ever changing from day to day as the slightest change in weather is reflected beautifully in the lakes and mountains. Continue through the valley until you meet the N59, take a sharp right then turn left signposted Rossroe. This journey along the south side of Killary Harbour is one of the best drives in Connemara and is part of the Wild Atlantic Way route. The ‘harbour’ is actually a fjord-like sea inlet, dominated by the mountain of Mweelrea. Distance: 26.4km Duration: 30mins approx

Driving westwards from Bearna, is Ireland's largest Gaeltacht region. The area between Galway and Lettermore is considered Galway's cultural heartland and is rich in Irish heritage, culture and folklore. Driving along the coast road, there is a striking variation in the landscape. On the left is the powerful Atlantic where the three Aran Islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are in clear view. To your right is Connemara, a scenic vista of bogs, valleys and lakes whose spectacular intricate coastline encloses the dramatic Twelve Pins (Na Beanna Beola) and Maamturk Mountains. Quiet little roads wind through the majestic landscape and lead you from village to village. Distance: 48.3km Duration: 55mins approx

Friday, May 3 - Sunday, May 5 Set in the stunningly scenic and historic backdrop of Inishbofin, the Inishbofin Arts Festival is a colourful and eclectic mix of music, visual art, craft, heritage, dance and fun family activities. As usual the festival will showcase the best of Irish talent as well as island-

based craftspeople and performers. Inishbofin is an ideal, intimate setting for live music and creative arts. With a limited supply of tickets, and to guarantee a memorable and unique weekend, book your tickets for Inishbofin Community Arts Festival now. Website:http://www.inishbofin.com/eve nt/inishbofin-arts-festival-2017/

TOUR DE LOUGH CORRIB Sunday 9th June The 25th Tour de Lough Corrib charity cycle will take place on Sunday June 9th 2019. This fun cycling sportive is the biggest charity cycle in the West of Ireland. Cyclists will have a choice of a 45KM or a 120KM route through the picturesque setting of Connemara. Roadside assistance, support vehicles and plenty of refreshment stops will be provided on the day. All cyclists must sign in on the morning at the NUIG Regional Sports Pavilion, Dangan, Galway between 7.00am – 8.00am, with the first wave for 120km starting at 8.15am second wave at 8.25am and the 45km cycle starting at 8.30am. Cyclists must return their sponsorship/donation at this time. Starting at the NUIG Regional Sports Pavilion in Dangan, the 120KM Riders

will turn left onto the N59 and ride along Newcastle Road. At the Traffic Lights, turn left onto the Quincentennial Bridge and follow the signs to Headford. The Route then follows through Headford, onto Cong, Maam, Maam Cross, Oughterard, Moycullen and will finish at the Croí Heart & Stroke.

INISHBOFIN MARITIME FESTIVAL Friday, August 9 - Sunday, August 11 The Inishbofin Maritime Festival will take place on the weekend of August 9th to the 11th this year. This weekend will expand on the successes of the recently rejuvenated Inishbofin Currach Regatta, extending the programme to include yachts, púcáns, sailing dinghies and much more! Be sure not to miss what promises to be an incredible weekend of all that is best about Inishbofin’s seafaring heritage!

The 45KM Riders will turn right onto the N59 and travel out to Oughterard and back to the finish at the Croí Heart & Stroke Centre. Each route is fully supported with food stops on the 120km at Headford, Cong, Maam, Oughterard (45km food stop) and once home to Croi House you can rest and enjoy our famous race hospitality – home baked goodies, tea, coffee and sandwiches! PHONE: +353 91 893773 WEBSITE: www.croi.ie

INISHBOFIN HOUSE HOTEL www.inishbofinhouse.com

INISHBOFIN HOUSE HOTEL A LOCATION LIKE NO OTHER T he intimacy of Inishbofin Island really offers you a location that is like no other - it offers guests a lifetime of memories. Relax unwind and let the team at Inishbofin House Hotel look after you. A warm welcome awaits all of their guests. This exquisite experience starts from Cleggan, where you hop on board the ferry to experience the wonders of travelling out of Ireland. With a possible viewing of our many dolphins along the way before arriving at Inish-

bofin Pier to be met with friendly staff who will take you and your luggage in hand up to the front door. If you prefer to walk, they are only a 5 minute stroll along the cobbled road with views that will take your breath away. Sea view rooms offer stunning views of rugged mountains and blue Atlantic waters. Relax the afternoons away in the Pier bar surrounded by spectacular harbour views. Enjoy live traditional music with local musicians.

Inishbofin Island, Co Galway. Our unique setting on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, nestled into a peaceful harbour, surrounded by amazing scenery, coupled with our high service standards, excellent food and guest accommodation all come together to create a unique island getaway.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

THE TOP FIVE TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN

BURREN BIRDS OF PREY CENTRE As well as the amazing animals on display at the Birds of Prey Centre one of the biggest attractions here must be the backdrop to the show, the Burren, a karst landscape 350 million years in the making. This is a truly amazing landscape spread over 250 kilometers, famed for its unique flora and fauna, geological beauty and historical structures such as the Poulnabrone dolmen. The Burren Birds of Prey Centre has been educating and entertaining visitors with dynamic flying displays since 2008. Their mission is to aid the conservation of birds of prey through visitor awareness and education, whilst actively fund raising for raptor conservation monitoring efforts within Ireland. For more information visit www.aillweecave.ie.

COUNTY CLARE ounty Clare, the Banner County, is chockablock with beauty and inspiring attractions. From the Cliffs of Moher to the Burren, ancient archaeological sites, stunning wildlife and breathtaking coast – this wild and wonderful county has a wealth of attractions. Water is certainly what defines the boundaries of the county, with the River Shannon to the southeast, Lough Derg to the northeast, the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Galway Bay to the north. The history of the county dates back to prehistoric times with several ancient tombs scattered across the land. Most famously in the Burren, at the Poulnabrone dolmen, where the remains of the people inside the tomb have been excavated and dated to 3800BC. From wildlife, to history, seascapes to beautiful rolling hills you’ll be spoiled for choice in this southwest county.

Here’s our rundown of the top five most popular attractions:

CLIFFS OF MOHER The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with over one million visitors every year. The cliffs are also a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way route, along the west coast of Ireland. They stretch for 5 miles, as the crow flies, along the coast reach 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point at Knockardakin, just north of O’Brien’s Tower. An environmentally friendly visitor center set into the hillside, The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, is located at almost the midway point along the cliffs. For more information visit www.cliffsofmoher.ie.

We accept the FREE TRAVEL PASS

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KILKEE CLIFF WALK

BUNRATTY CASTLE AND FOLK PARK

This circular walk from the west-end of the town of Kilkee, protected from the Atlantic Ocean by the Duggerna Reef, displays some outstanding Irish coastline. Along the walk visitors pass the Pollock Holes, the quartz-filled Diamond Rocks and a natural stone amphitheater formed by the waves. Moving on visitors arrive at Intrinsic Bay, named after a ship, the Intrinsic, which sank along with all 14 hands on board in 1836. The trail continues up a steep climb for about 200 meters arriving at a coastal path turning inwards to Dunlicky Road. There are also shorter walks mapped out for the less adventurous and be aware that some areas are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. For more information visit www.loophead.ie.

Dating back to 1424 Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is now a tourist attraction where the history of Ireland comes to life, literally. From the everyday working life in Ireland, from Viking times to great banquets, in the evenings, in the castle itself. The castle and park are in the center of Bunratty village and are a major tourist attraction. Both the castle and Bunratty House are open to the public. The castle is famous for its medieval banquets, offered since 1963, at which the "Bunratty Castle Entertainers" perform today. "Bunratty Folk Park" is an open-air museum featuring around 30 buildings, including the Ardcroney Church of Ireland church, which was relocated to the park in 1998. For more information visit www.shannonheritage.com.

DOOLIN CAVE Known as the Doolin Cave or Pol an Ionain, this is a limestone cave near the colorful and lively town of Doolin, on the western edge of The Burren. This great cave is home to the Great Stalactite, one of the world's longest known free-hanging stalactites, reported to be 7.3 m (24 ft) in length. This amazing structure was formed by single drops of water over thousands of years. Above land there is also a charming Farmland Nature Trail that takes a looped walk around the cave setting. The nature trail is home to indigenous species of flora along with rare and miniature breeds of animals. For more information visit www.doolincave.ie.

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Knockma Hill a treasure to nurture and appreciate n extension to an already popular North Galway walking trail has resulted in it attracting well over 2,000 walkers on a weekly basis â€“ it boasts some of the most spectacular views in the country. Walkers â€“ and indeed a considerable amount of joggers â€“ who enjoy the challenges posed by the mythical Knockma Hill at Castlehackett can now avail of the panoramic views that have been provided as part of an extension to the trail that was completed towards the end of last year. Up until then, the hundreds who walk the trail had very restricted views of the

by declan tierney

countryside around them but then land was acquired which allowed the pathway to be extended to the top of the hill. The extension, which was facilitated by a local voluntary committee, allows walkers the pleasure of some panoramic views of the West of Ireland and beyond. The vista from the summit stretches from Knockdoe Hill near Abbeyknockmoy to the hills of Clare, Galway Bay, Lough Hackett, Lough Corrib, the Connemara mountains and Croagh Patrick.Â It now means that the looped walk has been extended from around four kilometres to almost six kilometres and presents a challenging climb for those who utilise this popular facility. But walkers of all abilities are catered for because part of the development at Knockma Hill also includes the provision of a one kilometre flatter walk. The committee behind the extension was chaired by Cllr Billy Connelly who explained that back in 2013 they looked

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Our tradition of excellence is continued upstairs in our restaurant )ere you can enjoy a glass of wine and a tasty dish from our menu where we have a strong preference for local artisan produce. We are all about a casual atmosphere with great food! Breakfast is served from 8.30am, lunch from 12noon. Sundays BSF Brunch dayâ€Śserved from 10am. Please see our website for our detailed opening hours.

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Tom Craddock, Councillor Billy Connelly, Bernard Geraghty, John Higgins (Forest Ranger) and Minister Sean Canney on the summit of Knockma Hill.

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at how to develop the walk and the invaluable facility there. The lands required for this were not in public ownership at the time and with the help of Galway County Council and the National Parks and Wildlife, they were acquired and a design was put in place for the upwards extension to the

walk. The project was put out to public tender and a contractor was appointed. The works were completed around the middle of 2018 and opened to the public a couple of months later. â€œIt has been a phenomenal success story since the new extension was

developedâ€?, said Cllr Connelly who added that the car parking facilities were also doubled while three bus-parking spaces have also been provided. Knockma is also known as the Hill of Maeve and is located along the main Tuam to Headford road around two kilometres from Belclare. It is reputed that the legendary Queen of Connacht is buried in the cairns on the summit of the so-called â€˜fairy hillâ€™. Research and studies by archaeologists shows that it was a significant ceremonial area dating from Neolithic times. It is also said to be the place Finvarra, the King of Connacht Faeries, held court. The hill is not alone attracting walkers and visiting groups but it is also playing host to schools who use it for educational purposes â€“ whether it be the

mythical aspect of the location or the fact that it possesses some extensive examples of flora and fauna. Caherlistrane-Kilcoona Community Council believe that the existence of this challenging walk will bring a lot more visitors to the area and provide a boost for the local economy. The amenity is currently being marketed under the Hidden Heartlands of Ireland and it is also evident that word has spread about the extensive views from the top of Knockma which has resulted in car numbers arriving there at weekends have increased significantly. Billy Connelly said that the benign weather conditions at Christmas meant that the car park was full every day over the festive period. â€œIt is a treasure that we have to both appreciate and nurture for the years aheadâ€?, he added.

Our Deli is open from 8am Monday to Saturday & from 10am on Sundays. Weâ€™ve lots of hot & cold sandwiches & specials to choose from. You can make up your own sandwich or choose something from our menu. We stock a large range of Irish Cheese, charcuterie & Smoked fish, all perfect pairings for a bottle of wine from our off licence.

Our boutique Off licence carries a huge range of Irish whiskeys, gins and speciality Irish liqueurs. Many of our whiskeys are available from our tasting table to try before you buy! We also stock many Irish Craft Beers, fine wines from around the world and International spirits. Call in to us and our knowledgeable staff will guide you through our selection.

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NEW ROUTE SET TO BENEFIT TOWNS AND VILLAGES ON SHORES OF SHANNON LAKE he area all around Portumna is reaping the benefits of a new marketing campaign to highlight the amenities along the recently opened Lough Derg Blueway. That campaign began with a series of free events across the entire route last year, coordinated by the Lough Derg Marketing Group in conjunction with members of the tourism trade around the Blueway. These included free bike tours of Portumna Forest Park and karting in Portumna, as well as kayaking in Terryglass; a ceramics workshop in Dromineer and chocolate workshops in Tuamgraney to name a few. Áine Mc Carthy, a member of the Lough Derg Marketing Group, encouraged locals to get out and explore the Lough Derg Blueway for themselves. “There is a chance to experience the essence of what a Blueway is. You can get on the water in a kayak, try sailing or SUP, or you can go for a hike or guided walk. “There are bike tours, art exhibitions, choco-

late making workshops and the offering is just a sample of what can be enjoyed around Lough Derg,” she added. The Blueway is described as a multi-activity recreational trail on and alongside Lough Derg, with easy access to canoe and bike hire, maps and trail information. The trails are family and group friendly whether it’s for a weekend away or a daily walk. Packages and activities can be found on www.BluewaysIreland.org. The Lough Derg Blueway builds on the untapped potential of the existing waterway infrastructure in the region and is enhanced by attractive rural towns and villages of Portumna, Dromineer, Killaloe/Ballina, Scarriff and Mountshannon. With 21 individual paddling trails, Lough Derg offers its own unique Blueway experience. There are walking and cycling trails including heritage trails with over 90 heritage sites and access to the long distance routes of the East Clare Way and Lough Derg Way.

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GATEWAY TO THE CLIFFS OF MOHER & BURREN GEOPARK DISCOVER THE LANDSCAPE, THE FOOD, THE PEOPLE...THE WILD OUTDOORS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

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The Falls...

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THE CLARE BURREN CHALLENGE THE PERFECT EVENT FOR ALL-COMERS n Saturday 25 May, approximately 1,500 people will gather in the gorgeous seaside town of Ballyvaughan, to take part in the popular Clare Burren Marathon Challenge. To be precise, three events will be taking place that day – a full marathon (26.2 miles), a half marathon (13.1 miles) and a mini-marathon (6 miles). With a mass start from the pier in Ballyvaughan, this town will be completely abuzz as participants head off on their chosen route. What each route does have in common though is that each runs through the stunning Burren National Park. May is the perfect time to visit the incredible lunar-landscape-like Burren because it’s when the place is carpeted with orchids, gentians and other wild flowers. If you’re keen to sign up, you’ll find out everything you need to know below!

At the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

Ennistymon, Co Clare +353 (0)65 707 1004 reservations@fallshotel.ie www.fallshotel.ie

IS THIS EVENT AIMED AT RUNNERS, WALKERS OR BOTH? This event is perfect for all levels – from elite athletes to walkers, wheelchair users and even buggy pushers. As mentioned above there is a full marathon (26.2 miles), a half marathon (13.1 miles) and a mini-marathon (6 miles) on offer. Under 16s are welcome to take part in the mini marathon event only.

WHAT’S THE TERRAIN LIKE? The terrain is one of the reasons that the Clare Burren Marathon Challenge is so unique and why participants are so diverse. The marathon and mini-marathon take place on a combination of road, green road (you know those lovely traffic-free ones with grass growing up the middle and lined with stone walls!), and off-road trail. This varied terrain really adds to the events as with the constant changing surface, you will never be bored. The mini marathon takes place on surfaced roads, so it is suitable for wheelchair users or those pushing buggies, which means this really is an inclusive event where families, clubs and groups of friends can take part and find a distance to suit them. We’ve been told

that over the years, hen and stag parties have even taken part! Do you need to be able to navigate? No! The route for all events is fully marked and marshalled.

IS THE EVENT TIMED? Yes. The event is fully chip timed. But it’s entirely up to you if you want to be competitive or not. There’ll be plenty of people in both camps. So if you’re up for a challenge, you’ll find one here. And if finishing a nice sociable event is your goal, you’ll also be rewarded with a finisher’s T-Shirt and medal. There is an 8-hour cut-off time for all events.

more than make up for the hardship. The full marathon brings participants over the Caher Valley and Black Head with its magnificent views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. The half marathon takes you over Gleninagh with glorious views of Connemara. Finally, the minimarathon includes Cappananwalla and views of Aillwee and Ballyvaughan.

IS THERE AN AFTER PARTY? On Saturday night, there will be a music and ceili session in the famous Monks pub. With 1,500 participants expected to take part in the event, we imagine that will be one great party atmosphere!

ARE THERE AID STATIONS?

WHAT’S BALLYVAUGHAN LIKE?

Yes! There are aid stations with water approximately every four miles. And there are toilets along the route. There are also stations where you’ll get fruit and chocolate and goodies to keep you well-fuelled and moving. And if you really do hit the wall, rescue pick-up is available. You can also expect massages to be available for your weary muscles back at the finish and you’ll get soup and rolls in Monks pub too.

Gorgeous! Located in the heart of the

Burren, it’s right on the water and has a great collection of cute cottages, cosy pubs, great food and a charming pier. It’s a great spot to spend a weekend. So you’ll have no trouble persuading your friends or family to join you for the event.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ENTER? Full marathon: €45 Half marathon: €35 Mini marathon: €20 / €10 if you’re under 16.

WHERE CAN I SIGN UP? Check out the Clare Burren website for more info and to sign up for this awesome race.

ARE THE ROUTES RELATIVELY TOUGH OR EASY? The mini marathon route is flat and because it’s on well-surfaced roads, it’s relatively easy. The marathon and half marathon routes, on the other hand, offer plenty of challenges. The terrain will be really varied for a start. Secondly, you can expect a hilly course. The marathon’s toughest climb comes at mile 11 and the total height you’ll ascend and descend is 2,700 feet approximately. The most challenging climb on the half marathon comes at mile 8 and your total height ascended and descended is 1,650 feet approximately.

WHAT’S THE SCENERY LIKE? Whatever hardships the race throws at you, the stunning scenery should make up for it. Wild Atlantic Way scenery will

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DISCOVER NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND SKILLS WITH AN EDUCATIONAL TOUR ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY f you’re seeking a holiday experience with hands-on activities, opportunities to learn new skills and chances to truly discover new cultures, an educational tour is for you. With an education holiday you can take a few hours, a day or even a week and immerse yourself in an experience that’s much more doing than seeing. Maybe you’d just like to take the time to enjoy a hobby that you never have time for. Push yourself beyond your self-imposed limitations, try something you’ve always been just a little bit scared of. It is never too late to learn something new.

ALCOCK AND BROWN TOUR GUIDE Alcock and Brown Tour Guide give walking tours and talks about the history of Alcock and Brown flight and The

Marconi Station c.1907 to 1922. Alcock and Brown guide is conveniently located 3km just outside Clifden, the Capital of Connemara on the R341 road in Derrigimbla. Free car parking facilities are provided on site for coaches and cars. Alcock and Brown guide walking tours takes approximately one and a half hours duration in length (5km) visiting and discussing all of the structures relating to Alcock and Brown and the operations of the Marconi Station and railway during the early 20th century. www.alcockandbrownguide.com Phone: +353 87 9714873

CONNEMARA SMOKEHOUSE TOUR Connemara Smokehouse invite you to visit the Connemara Smokehouse if you are ever in their part of the world, drop in and say hi.

They operate Smokehouse Tours seasonally during the summer months of June, July and August on Wednesdays at 3pm (one day a week only!) Booking is advisable. They also welcome Group Tours & School Groups all year round by appointment. In their Smokehouse Tour you will watch Graham or Nicolas hand fillet and traditionally prepare the salmon, explain the salting and smoking techniques, then show the hand slicing and packing of the finished product. You will enjoy a tasting of our fantastic smoked salmon. They are sure you will then want to buy some to take home, or to eat while you are there on holiday or to send to friends and family as a gift. It is fun, educational, and delicious. Bunnowen Pier, Ballyconneely, Co. Galway Website: www.smokehouse.ie Phone: +353 95 23739

ISLANDS WEST DIVING CENTRE

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the doors of an artisan chocolate makers? Call in to our real working chocolate factory on the shores of mystical Lough Derg and see us making some of our 80 different chocolate goodies. We are just 30 mins drive from either Limerick or Ennis and not much further off the Wild Atlantic Way and so why not call in for a taste and see what’s being made, you can be our taste testers while you are here. Admission is free to our open plan factory so maybe it’s time to let loose your “Wilde” side! OUTLET LOCATIONS: Doolin Chocolate Shop Doolin. Co. Clare (Open daily) Dingle Chocolate Shop Main Street , Dingle Co. Kerry. (Open daily) Limerick Chocolate Shop Limerick Milk Market, Open 8.00 – 3.00 Saturdays 11.00 to 3.00 Fridays & Sundays

Unit 6, Enterprise Centre, Tuamgraney, Co. Clare T.: 00353-61-922080 E: wicdirect@gmail.com www.wildeirishchocolates.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/WildeIrishChocolate Twitter: https://twitter.com/wildeirishchocs Instagram: wildeirishchocolates

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Islands West Diving Centres are located on the Islands of Inishbofin, Co Galway, and Clare Island, Co Mayo. They run courses on discover scuba diving, open water diving, advanced open water diving, medic first aid, rescue diving, speciality courses, V/W naturalist boating diving, multilevel diving, dry suit diving, navigation diving, night diving, search and recovery diving, and deep river. They cater for sea angling, Island hopping trips and general boat charter. They also run trips to Inishturk Island, located right in the middle of Clare Island and Inishbofin. Inishturk is ideal for walking, diving and fishing. Islands West, Inishbofin. Co. Galway Website: www.islandswest.ie Phone: +353 87 2227098

SCUBADIVE WEST The mild Gulf Stream that bathes the Connemara coast brings an abundance of colourful marine life. Seeing the dramatic seascapes of coves and islands from below the surface is an experience you’ll never forget.

Scubadive West, on Killary Harbour, provides sheltered shore diving, access to offshore dive sites, dive safaris, supervised dives, and a range of PADI courses for beginners and the more experienced. The centre is open year round. They have scheduled boat dives departing to world class dive sites and shore diving onsite in our private sheltered cove. Their purpose built dive centre has hot showers, male and female changing rooms, coffee dock and viewing area with free Wi-Fi, Air and Nitrox to 300 bar. Their extensive rental room includes top of the range neoprene drysuits and thermals, semi-drys, weight integrated BCD’s and regulators fitted with dive computers. They are agents for Scubapro, SUUNTO, O’Three, Fourth Element, Analox, Oceanic and many more. We are also an IDEST approved testing house. Glassillaun, Lettergesh, Renvyle, Co. Galway Website: www.scubadivewest.com Phone: +353 95 43922

THE ECOLOGY CENTRE The Ecology Centre, in Letterfrack, is an exciting educational centre, that engages individuals, families, and students in fun, hands-on activities that teach appreciation of the landscape and cultivates respect and wonder for nature in Connemara. Their mission statement is “To offer world-class training for professionals in ecology and to educate the wider public fostering respect and wonder for the natural environment”. They support several conservation projects in various capacities. They aim to run more conservation projects in partnership with businesses under the Biodiversity Action Investment arm of the business. Tuesday and Wednesday bogs and beaches walks all summer with The Ecology Centre. See website for more information. Website: www.theecologycentre.ie Phone: +353 95 43090

THE CLIFFS OF MOHER Ireland’s top visitor attraction T he extraordinary Cliffs of Moher, undoubtedly Ireland’s top visitor attraction, tower high over West Clare’s wild Atlantic coastline. Standing 214 metres above the raging ocean at their highest point, the cliffs stretch for 8 jagged kilometres along the Clare coastline. And from them, you can see astonishing vistas. To the north and west are the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the Twelve Bens Mountains, and the Maam Turk Mountain Range. And to the south there is beautiful impressive Loop Head with the Kerry coast lurking in the mist beyond it. And atop the iconic Cliffs of Moher sits O’Brien’s Tower, yet another of Ireland’s most photographed land-

marks, and it holds steadfast against the winds and the relentless Atlantic onslaught to guard the coast from Spanish galleons and warring tribes. But even more mesmerizing than the panoramic views from the Cliffs of Moher, are the views down onto the raging Atlantic Ocean so far below. Massive waves hurl themselves against the Cliffs over and over again, tearing at the rock, sending out a distinctive booming sound wave, and throwing salt spray high into the air. And the next day the sea is flat calm and blue, and the only ripples on the water are those caused by tourist boats sidling close into the cliff face. The Cliffs of Moher are truly extraordinary, a feast of vistas,

sounds, and wildlife, all thown wonderfully together to produce one of the great natural wonders of the world. A remarkable sight which will be remembered forever!

HOW TO GET TO THE CLIFFS OF MOHER By bus, or car. Bus Eireann Route 423 provides a service from Galway to The Cliffs of Moher, and Route 337 provides a service from Limerick and Ennis to the Cliffs of Moher. Alternatively follow the N6 from Galway to Kilcolgan, and then the N67 and R478 to The Cliffs of Moher.

One Destination

A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE

Save up to 50%

by booking online

www.cliffsofmoher.ie Open 8am – 9pm in May, June, July & August

Visit in the mornings or evenings for the best rates and the best experience

United Nations Educational, Scientiﬁc and Cultural Organization

Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark

Co. Clare, Ireland. T: +353 65 7086141 E: info@cliffsofmoher.ie www.cliffsofmoher.ie

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EXPERIENCE THE FREEDOM OF CAMP SITES IN CONNEMARA C

amping is one of the great pleasures of exploring Connemara. There’s few more enjoyable ways to spend an evening than sitting and watching the sun set over the mountains and shore. Bring your tent, touring caravan or motor home and experience the freedom of a caravan and camping holiday in Connemara’s many camp sites. Some sites are small and family run, some are large and offer a host of amenities, most in a tranquil setting. Many sites have activities and leisure facilities on-site or nearby so there is always plenty to do.

CLIFDEN CAMPING AND CARAVAN PARK Clifden Camping and Caravan Park, Clifden, Connemara, pride themselves on their traditional family style approach in welcoming visitors old and new to the park.

At Clifden Camping and Caravan Site they cater for tents, caravans and motor homes where their emphasis is on keeping camping traditional with modern comforts such as genuinely hot showers included in the price and covered dining area. Clifden Campsite and Caravan ParkWestport Road, Clifden, Co. Galway Website: www.clifdencamping.com Phone: +353 95 22150

CLIFDEN ECO BEACH CAMPING & CARAVANNING PARK Clifden ecoCampsite is located on the shores of the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way. Less than ten minutes from Clifden town and two minutes from the small scenic village of Claddaghduff on a safe, white, sandy, private beach in walking distance to the stunning tidal island of Omey. The park has been co-existing alongside a traditional farm since the 1960s. Sustainability plays an important role in

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the day to day operations of both the park and farm. Leagaun, Claddaghduff Road, Clifden, Co. Galway Website: www.actonsbeachsidecamping.com Phone: +353 95 44036

CONNEMARA CARAVAN AND CAMPING PARK On the edge of Europe and beside the Atlantic Ocean, Connemara Caravan and Camping Park offers a wide range of facilities and local attractions guaranteed to make your holiday one to remember. The Park is registered and approved by the Irish Tourist board and has direct access to the famed Lettergesh beach, with a mile of golden sands, and is surrounded by a wonderland of unspoiled natural beauty. Lettergesh, Renvyle, Co. Galway Website: www.connemaracamping.com Phone: +353 95 43406

RENVYLE BEACH CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK

This family owned caravan and camping park was established in 1967 by the current owners’ father. The park covering an area of 4.5 acres consists of 36 pitches catering for tents and caravans/motorhomes. The business opens annually from Easter until October. The park lies on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean with views of Clare Island, Inishturk, Achill, Mweelrea and Croagh Patrick. It has direct access to its own sandy beach, one of the most beautiful beaches to be found in the heart of Connemara. Dolphins can often be seen from the shore. Shops, pubs and restaurants are a short walk from the park. Tullybeg, Renvyle, Co. Galway Website: www.renvylebeachcaravanpark.com Phone: +353 95 43462

CLIFDEN CELEBRATES CENTENARY OF ALCOCK & BROWN’S HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENT century on from their historic flight, Alcock and Brown’s first non-stop transatlantic crossing will be commemorated on a whole host of fronts in and around Clifden next month. The Alcock & Brown 100 Festival will mark the remarkable achievements of aviation heroes Sir John Alcock and Sir Arthur Whitten-Brown – exactly 100 years after Royal Navy pilots flew from Newfoundland, Canada and crash landing at Derrigimlagh Bog, Connemara. Taking place from June 11 to 16, the summer festival will relive one of the most significant moments in history – with a live re-enactment of the 1919 landing in Derrigimlagh. Visitors will also have a front seat at the premiere of the Alcock and Brown full length documentary screening featuring the nearest surviving relative to Captain Alcock, Tony Alcock MBE, and more. An Post will launch a commemorative postage stamp during the festival – and the Central Bank of Ireland will produce a European mint silver proof coin to

commemorate one of aviation’s most significant feats. The Alcock & Brown Artefacts Exhibition, taking place throughout the festival, will offer visitors the fantastic opportunity to see pieces of the plane still in existence. Remembering Marconi will celebrate Clifden’s con-

nection to the site of the first commercial transatlantic wireless transmission, with live broadcasts taking place throughout the festival from the site of Guglielmo Marconi’s Wireless Station. A series of seminars will run throughout the festival – and the Alcock and Brown National Schools Science Fair will capture the imagination of budding, young scientists. Visual spectacles such as the Traditional Boats Regatta, the Tour De Bens Cycle and the Golf Classic promises unmissable entertainment for all ages. The street parade through Clifden promises to both captivate and entertain – as will the carnival into the town. Visitors can look forward to rousing traditional music from Trad in the West, who will be joined by Yvonne Tiernan & The Grey Willows Band and many more. For more information about Alcock & Brown 100 Festival, see the official website https://alcockandbrown100.com/.

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS Gateway to the Burren and Mid-point along the Wild Atlantic Way  Food served all day, including daily specials  Local Seafood a speciality  Traditional Irish Music Sessions on a Thursday  Live Music Every Weekend  Our own ‘Turlough Whiskey”  Complimentary bicycle use for residents  Secure bike storage and drying room  3 electric car charging ports  Coach buses welcome  Irelandhs largest thatch roof

The perfect base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way with our award winning food, our newly commissioned drying room for cyclists and motor cyclists, new bespoke whiskey bar and our beautiful Quilty room is ideal for weddings, parties and all celebrations.

Carvery lunch served every Sunday from 12.30pm – 4pm

Merriman Hotel BOOK YOUR BREAK AT:

091 638222

KINVARA, GALWAY

info@merrimanhotel.com

www.merrimanhotel.com

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Explore stunning Cliffs of Moher with Bus Ă‰ireannâ€™s Route 350

CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

TWELVE REASONS TO BRING YOUR DOG TO CONNEMARA tâ€™s not every hotel that welcomes fourlegged guests but if youâ€™re looking for a home from home with your canine companion, youâ€™d travel a long way to better The Twelve, in Barna village, just outside Galway city. Situated as it is right at the fringe of Connemara, itâ€™s the perfect base to tour this amazing landscape while still being within striking distance of the buzz of the city itself. Thereâ€™s a welcome from the moment you enter with a special pet lobby containing supplies of dog treats, towels, water bowls and even leads you can borrow. Everything you could possible need to keep your pet happy. Thereâ€™s even a welcoming doggie bag which includes a toy, dog treat and clean-up bags. Daisy had everything she needed already packed in her own bag but itâ€™s good to know that emergency supplies are always on hand.

Just across the road is the Silver Strand and on a fine day itâ€™s the perfect place to walk your dog on the beautiful golden sand. If youâ€™re feeling more energetic, a walk towards Spiddal, as far as youâ€™re able, would be the perfect way to tire out your pooch so they can be left to quietly sleep in your pet-friendly suite as you enjoy the delights of the fabulous on-site West Restaurant, serving locally-produced food to the highest standards. If more casual dining is your thing, the bar serves equally delicious food with the added attraction of their own authentic Italian Pizzeria, Pizza Dozzina. You really have to try the Guard. If thereâ€™s a bit of a chef in you, you can try your hand at making Pizzas yourself, which is always great craic. The bar also prides itself on a fantastic selection of craft beers and cocktails, so thereâ€™s plenty to praise everyone although

Journey to the Great Stalactite

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way with Bus Ă‰ireannâ€™s Route 350

ď Ź Combined Bus and Doolin Ferry boat ticket to the iconic Cliffs of Moher and Aran Island of Inis Oirr ď Ź Customers on-board our Route 350 can now avail of half price cruise fares to get a closer view of the Cliffs & Inis Oirr ď Ź See Irelandâ€™s most visited visitor attraction ď Ź The cliffs of Moher are the second most popular attraction in Ireland

Daisy enjoys the dog lobby at The Twelve Hotel.

dogs wonâ€™t be served any alcohol. One of the great pleasures of holidaying with your dog is going off on drives and exploring the countryside. In Connemara, youâ€™re spoiled for choice, with a huge range of options and routes to take. A drive out to Clifden on the windy N59 takes in Oughterard, Maam Cross and the village of Recess, all worth a stop. When you get to Clifden, donâ€™t neglect to drive the Sky Road, one of the most picture-perfect drives youâ€™re ever likely to take. Back in the town itself, drop into Lowryâ€™s Bar for a snack or drink. If youâ€™re not driving, theyâ€™re renowned for their collection of whiskies. It was cold and wet when we stopped in, but there was a welcome for Daisy and hot coffees for us. Itâ€™s a

lovely, traditional bar and on a warm day the cool flagstone floor would be very soothing for overheated dogs. Back into the car, you could take a trip through the Connemara National Park itself and visit the stunning Kylemore Abbey with its impressive house and gardens. Plan to stay a while here â€“ thereâ€™s lots to see. Dogs on a lead are welcome here too and there are plenty of beautiful walks to take. Time to head back to The Twelve now and maybe take the coast road for the return journey to appreciate some more of the magnificent landscape, perhaps taking a little detour to explore Rossaveel and Carraroe. But donâ€™t take too long â€“ that pizza wonâ€™t eat itself you know.

FANCY exploring the Wild Atlantic Way in the west of Ireland by public transport? You can now combine your bus ticket with a boat trip with Bill O Brien's Doolin Ferry Company along the Cliffs of Moher or to the Aran Island of Inis Oirr. Why not travel on Bus Ă‰ireannâ€™s Route 350, which is a scenic service from Galway via Doolin and onwards to the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre and then on to Ennis. It enables visitors to take public transport through the striking Burren landscape coastal route, and through local towns and villages of Lahinch, Doolin, Ballyvaughan, Kinvara enroute to Ennis from Galway City. Customers can avail of two combined ticket options bus and boat tours: ď Ź 1 Hour Cliffs of Moher cruise @ â‚Ź35.50 ď Ź Aran Island of Inis Oirr @ â‚Ź38.50 The Route 350/Boat Tour or Island Trip combination ticket is a great value day trip option to visit Irelandâ€™s most popular tours destinations along the very popular Wild Atlantic Way. Tickets can be purchased on-board the Route 350 service or from the Travel Centre in Eyre Square, Galway. For customers travelling in groups, please be advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. To view the full Route

See the Route 350

Cliffs fff off M Moher

350 timetable visit www.buseireann.ie and customers should be advised that they can get up to 30% saving on cash fares by using their Leap Card. The Route 350 also provides a vital public transport connection service for our customers. This includes high frequency services with early departures from Galway, connections available at both Galway and Ennis to the wider public transport network, including routes to Shannon Airport. The service level includes: ď Ź 4 Daily services from Galway and Ennis via Doolin in each direction ď Ź 5 daily services from both Doolin and Galway ď Ź 5 daily services from Doolin and Ennis via the Cliffs of Moher Brian Connolly, Bus Ă‰ireann, Regional Operations Manager, West said: â€œExplore the Wild Atlantic Way on this magnificent and scenic bus route. Whether youâ€™re surfing in Lahinch, walking in the Burren or camping in Doolin, the Route 350 caters for all your leisure needs. The bus route incorporates the Cliffs of Moher, which is a natural masterpiece must see and also travels along the â€œClare Coastâ€?, which stretches from buzzing Galway along the coast to the lovely towns of Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, Doolin Lahinch, and Ennisâ€?.

by B Bu us & Boat B Tour Duration of the Cliffs of Moher boat cruise is an hourr.. Departs at 12 noon 13:00 14: 00 15:00 16:00 and 17:15 daily lyy..

CRUISE F FA ARES FOR O ALL BUS EIREANN

ROUTE 350 PA P ASSENGERS

(Bus and Boat To Tour FFa are in nclusive) FARES FOR CLIFFS OF MOHER : M

(Bus and Boat To Tour Fa Fare inclusive) FA F ARES FO OR INIS OIRR:

GROUPS WELCOME WHEN BOOKE ED IN ADV VA ANCE

GROUPS WELCOME WHEN W BOOKED IN ADV VA ANCE

Single

Day Return

Monthly Return

Adult

â‚Ź28.00

â‚Ź35.50

â‚Ź43.00

Student

â‚Ź24.50

â‚Ź35.50

â‚Ź36.00

Child

â‚Ź21.00

â‚Ź27.50

â‚Ź30.00

Single

Day Return

Monthly Return

Adult

â‚Ź31.00

â‚Ź38.50

â‚Ź46.00

Student

â‚Ź25.50

Child

â‚Ź20.00

â‚Ź37.00 â‚Ź26.50

â‚Ź29.00

Collect your boarding pa ass from: Bill Oâ€™Brienâ€™s â€“ The Original Doolin n Ferry Co. Tourist

Doolin Pierr,, turn right overr the bridge after the bus stop at Doolin Hos stel. Having received your pass, proceed on down to Doolin Pier and board the boat indic cated on the pass.

A full timetable is available on www.b buseireann.ie or from the Travel Centre, Bus Ă‰ireann, Ă‰ Eyre Square, Galway. Telephone e: or Telephone: +353 091-5620 000

DOOLIN CAVE & VISITOR CENTER Going underground in the Burren..... Visit Doolin Cave Irelandâ€™s deepest showcave. Enjoy a 1km farmland nature trail and CafĂŠ at our visitor Centre EcoTourism Ireland

The award-winning Doolin Cave and visitor centre is home to the Great Stalactite. At 7.3 metres (23feet) it is the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe. The Great Stalactite, suspended from the ceiling like a chandelier, is truly astounding. Visitors can hardly believe that it was formed from a single drop of water over thousands of years.

NATURE TRAIL

G o l d

email tours@doolincave.ie or call +353 65 707 5761 www.doolincave.ie

D O O L I N C AV E | D O O L I N | C O . C L A R E | I R E L A N D

Extend the adventure from underground to overground following a

charming Farmland Nature Trail that takes a looped walk around the cave setting. The nature trail is home to indigenous species of flora along with rare and miniature breeds of animals.

GIFT SHOP & CAFĂ‰ Visitors can enjoy delicious homecooked foods and home-baked cakes in the comfortable surroundings of Doolin Cave Cafe. Doolin Cave pottery, handmade using glacial clay found deep within the Cave, is available in the gift shop.

Doolin Ferry director and master sea captain Liam O' Brien with Vivian Langan Bus Eireann driver, Bridgette Brew, Sales Manager, Doolin Ferry Co., Marie King McGovern Marketing and Sales Bus Eireann West, Brian Connolly Regional Manager Bus Eireann West and Doolin Ferry Co. CEO Bill O'Brien at Doolin Harbour

Doolin Ferry Co. director and master sea captain Liam O' Brien with Bridgette Brew, Sales Manager, Doolin Ferry Co., and CEO Bill O'Brien at Doolin Harbour.

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Where

CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

LIVING IN THE MOMENT ON INISHBOFIN here are better ways to approach the Downward Dog pose in yoga than with a walloping hangover. From an ideological perspective it’s frowned upon and from a purely practical level, it’s hell. In fairness, ending up hungover while attempting the Downward Dog had never been the plan. We’d travelled to Inishbofin Island for a Solstice Yoga Weekend full of good intentions. But on the Friday night after dinner in the Doonmore Hotel, we’d been so busy living in the moment that we totally forgot ourselves and had too much wine. Not a great start to the day-long retreat. However, under the guidance of our yoga teacher Christine Stewart (who didn’t know at that stage about our spontaneity the previous night), all came good. Within a couple of hours, balance and serenity had been restored. Christine has been giving yoga retreats in the cosy function room of the family-run Doonmore Hotel on the stunning Inishbofin Island for the past four years. Normally based in Boyle, Co Roscommon, where she runs The Yoga Shack with reflexologist and homeopath Mags McLoughlin, Christine was first introduced to the North Connemara island nearly 30 years ago by her then boyfriend, Neil, who became her husband shortly after. She’s been a regular since. Neil first went to Bofin on holidays with a schoolfriend who had family connections there. When he and Christine started dating, it became a favourite place and they have continued to go there annually with their family. Her love of the place is palpable as she describes its magic. “It just seems right to teach yoga on

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

by judy murphy Bofin. It’s such a beautiful place, and there’s something about the energy.” Energy is a word that resonates with Christine who took up yoga 26 years ago while pregnant with her second child, Rebecca. She immediately realised “the huge amount of potential it offers for selfcare” and it became fundamental to her life. After practising it for years, she began teaching it five years ago. “I took it up as a job to justify the amount of yoga I was doing,” she says with a laugh, adding that she’s done “a crazy amount of training”. Christine teaches Anusara, a version of the traditional Hatha yoga-form that works with the breath to strengthen and relax the spirit, mind and body, allowing the person to align with the universe. She also teaches Vinyasa, a more flowing practice. Her many classes in Boyle include sessions for teenagers and pregnant women, and she also travels to Sligo and Leitrim, giving classes to people with special needs, which she loves. Christine is also interested in other com-

Christine Stewart

plementary practices, believing that “we need to be more inclusive and take a more holistic approach to self-care”. She’s a walking advertisement for that philosophy. Graceful, grounded and fun, she radiates calm. And she’s one seriously good, encouraging instructor. Christine returns to Inishbofin this year for a series of workshops and weekends kicking off in May. These include a ‘Nourish, Restore, Thrive’ retreat that will run from Tuesday, May 14, to Friday, May 17, and will incorporate the slow and deep Yin Yoga; Gentle Yoga; and Yoga Nidra, which creates a state of physical relaxation and inner awareness. There will also be a reflexology workshop from her Yoga Shack partner, Mags McLoughlin, and a Somatics workshop (brilliant for pain relief) with Jane Schleyer, who also teaches in the Yoga Shack. Mags’ session will teach people how to combine reflexology with yoga to relieve minor ailments and help well-being – she and Christine have previously offered this in the Yoga Shack with great success. “I teach pregnancy yoga and a couple of years ago, I invited Mags to take a class and give the ladies an overview of reflexology. They found it really beneficial,” says Christine. Somatic Movement can also help with pain relief and Jane Schleyer’s Somatic workshop will be restorative and nurturing, according to Christine – who speaks from experience, having attended trainings in this kind of bodywork too. “It’s a very gentle, repetitive movement that’s about releasing muscle tension and connective-tissue tension,” she explains. Working on the fascia or connective tissue

“which holds everything together”, its aim is to re-educate muscle memory. This gentle practice is open to “everyone who can get onto the floor and it’s good for people who suffer from pain”, she says. “But lots of people benefit from it, because it’s good for the head as well. You zone out when you’re doing it and start to slow down and come into your body,” she observes. And that’s something many of us aren’t used to. “We’re so busy running around and we’re so in our heads, it can be confusing when you hear a direction to ‘lift your left arm and right leg’,” says Christine with a laugh. “The mind is always trying to jump in and tell its own story – and our world is very geared towards the mind.” For the ‘Nourish, Restore, Thrive’ retreat, Christine will be teaching Yoga Nidra, where you focus on the breath and the body. When it works, you enter a blissful state of relaxation. “It has its own power and is very healing and relaxing,” she says. Christine will also give a Gentle Yoga workshop with Meditation and Relaxation. And there’s a Gentle Restorative and Yin Yoga Workshop which is specially designed to prepare people for Spring-Summer. Christine’s aim with the ‘Nourish, Restore, Thrive’ retreat is that “everyone would leave feeling invigorated, refreshed and calm”. The ideal number of participants for the Doonmore function room is “15 or 20 because we really need lots of space so people can fill every inch of their mat and beyond”. That mid-week event will be directly preceded by a weekend retreat which is already totally subscribed.

However, for those who want a further yoga experience Bofin, Christine will be hosting a five-day event from June 25-30, with deep yoga, yogic breathing, music, food and rambles. Again, the yoga classes will take place at the Doonmore, but people will have to find accommodation elsewhere – the hotel is hosting divers that weekend, explains Christine.

Liscannor, Co. Clare. T: (065) 7081 930

POE ON

EK IENE L W N OA YPS A O D 7SH

Instructors for that occasion will include American, Jaye Martin, a ballet dancer turned yoga teacher, who has been one of Christine’s teachers and was the person who first encouraged her to hold more retreats on Inishbofin. That was after he took part in one she’d organised there a few years ago and fell in love with the island. Jack Harrison and Benita Wolfe from the Celtic School of Yoga in Kinvara, who have also regulars, will be returning for June’s gathering. Jack and Jaye are accomplished musicians – guitar and clarinet respectively – and music will be central to that event. There will be Kirtan (chanting) at the Stewarts’ house on the gorgeous East End, and there will also be music for Savasana (relaxation) courtesy of Jack and Jaye. Later in the year, from Friday to Sunday, September 20-22 – to coincide with the Autumn Equinox – Christine will host a gentle Yoga weekend, based in the Doonmore Hotel. And from September 23-27, there will be an Advanced Yoga Teaching

FOSSILS

GEMS

J E W E L L E RY

MINERALS

course with teachers from the Celtic School of Yoga. One reason Christine loves giving retreats on Bofin is because of the island’s extra-curricular activities. These include massage, horse-riding and boat-trips, not to mention walking and cycling. “And I’ve had nothing but support from everybody on the island since I started,” she says. The practice itself was one reason why Christine loved yoga from the get-go, 26 years ago. There was another reason too, and it’s why Inishbofin is ideal for retreats. “I loved the social aspect,” she says. “I think that’s really important with yoga.” Sociability is built into the Inishbofin mid-week and weekend retreats at the Doonmore Hotel, with dinner in the evening included in the package as well as optional daytime walks. For the June weekend, the group meets for dinner in other venues on the island. “It’s that sense of community; part of the holistic benefits of yoga,” she says. Her aim that people go away relaxed and reinvigorated certainly applied after our

weekend last September, despite the opening-night slip-up. We were in bed by 10pm on the second night, just after our relaxing Yoga Nidra – and I left Inishbofin feeling like I was walking on air. Despite a difficult few subsequent months, an energy and calmness stayed with me throughout the Winter. We paid €255 for the weekend, which was better than a fortnight in the sun – as someone who loves the sun, there is no higher compliment. Classes for the ‘Nourish, Restore, Thrive’ retreat in mid-May are suitable for Beginner and Intermediate yogis who can get down and up from the floor. It costs €395, including three nights B&B pps, two dinners and six yoga classes, with free optional meditations and walks. For yoga only, its €180 and for the hotel only it’s €165. For more information on all Inishbofin yoga events, email christinestewartyoga@gmail.com. More information on Inishbofin and getting there at Inishbofin.com.

IRELAND’S O U T S TA N D I N G TREASURE HOUSE

Browse and buy from our shelves packed full of the earth’s natural treasures and other unforgettable gift items. Visit our presentation room with a FREE audio visual outlining the history of quarrying the famous Liscannor flagstones from the nearby Cliffs of Moher.

Enjoy a welcome break at our relaxing Tea Room, now OPEN ALL YEAR round.

www.therockshop.ie

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Where

CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

AILLWEE CAVE AND BIRDS OF PREY CENTRE Welcoming visitors to Aillwee and The Burren for over 40 years. FROM a ‘hole in the ground’ to ‘soaring with eagles’, time spent at Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre is exceedingly enjoyed by all. For three generations, Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre has welcomed visitors to The Burren in County Clare. Our family gives your family a chance to explore its weirdly-shaped underworld, enjoy unexpected freedom with majestic Birds of Prey and indulge in the tasty rewards of smoky cheese or sweet fudge. Hear and feel the beat of a falcon’s wing as it swoops. Smell the earthy dampness of a long dried-up river bed decorated with twinkling crystalline formations. The attraction was named Best Entertaining Team 2019 at the Irish Hospitality Awards, was highly commended in the Family Venue of the Year 2019 category at the Irish Hospitality Awards, was a finalist of the Best Large Tourism Experience on The Wild Atlantic Way 2019 at the Irish Tourism Industry Awards and has been voted one of the Top Ten Visitor Attractions in Ireland. Open daily from 10am, more details are available on www.aillweecave.ie.

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

BREWING UP A STORM AT LISDOONVARNA

MATCHMAKING FESTIVAL isdoonvarna will be ‘brewing up a storm’ this year with local band ‘The Stunning’ set to headline the first big music weekend of the annual Matchmaking festival. The band will play the marquee on Saturday 31st August - the band’s only Clare gig this year. Formed by brothers Joe and Steve Wall from Ennistymon over 30 years ago the band became legendary for their energetic live performances and eclectic song catalogue. This included the iconic anthem ‘Brewing Up a Storm’. In 1990, their debut album Paradise In The Picturehouse’ spent five weeks at number one and became one of the most loved Irish albums of all time. Joining them on the bill at the ‘Rock/Folk’ weekend on the 30th/31st August will be Limerick natives Hermitage Green, Dublin’s Riptide Movement and All Folk’d Up. Country music stars won’t be disappointed either as the second weekend of the festival sees country music stars Derek Ryan, Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan and Barry Kirwan return to take the stage on 6th and 7th September at the Marquee. Marcus White, Managing Director of the White Hotel Group said: “The country music weekends have been a huge success for Lisdoonvarna over the past few years. This year we are trying something new with the first ever ‘Rock/Folk weekend’ - there hasn’t been anything like this in the village since the ‘Lisdoonvarna folk festival’ took place over 30 years ago.” “There has been a huge demand for tickets this year and we are advising people not to leave it to the last minute as they will be gone. Tickets are available locally at the Hydro hotel, the Spar Shop or at www.ticketmaster.ie” he added. The Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival continues for the whole month of September, jam packed with music and dancing in all venues every day from 11am in the morning to late. The traditional dance weekends are on the 13th -15th September, 20th-22nd September and 27th-29th September featuring some of Ireland’s leading show bands who will play at the Hydro and Imperial Hotels. These include Teddy and Cathal Barry, Outa Diesel, Blue Ridge Country, the Moynihan Brothers, Michael Sexton, Pat Dowling and the Lisdoonvarna Showband. The popular tea dances at the historic Spa Wells are back again this year between 12-2pm with Larry McEvoy and his band. Now over 160 years old, the Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival is one of Ireland’s oldest festivals and takes place over a five week period. It attracts over 80,000 people from all over the world who come for the music, the dancing and to meet third generation matchmaker Willie Daly.

“It’s a unique festival not only in Ireland but internationally, as people are still intrigued by the ancient tradition of matchmaking, in a world where online dating has become so popular.” Mr White added. The Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival kicks off on

the 30th August and runs for five weeks until the 29th September. For more information on the festival go to www.matchmakerireland.com and to buy tickets go to www.ticketmaster.ie

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

KILBAHA Kilbaha, the very last village on the Loop Head peninsula, is tucked into a small, sheltered bay at the western edge of the Shannon Estuary. Looking south across the river, the village enjoys arresting views of Kerry Head and the Brandon Mountains. Kilbaha’s small, picturesque pier was built in the early 19th century to cater for the large numbers of people making their living from fishing, seaweed gathering and piloting the large ships going up the Shannon

to Limerick docks. It was also used by cargo vessels bringing supplies to Loop Head lighthouse, four miles west of the village. Around the headland from the pier, and visible as you approach the village from the east, is a castellated turret, built by the Keane family for the Victorian ladies to enjoy the view. The ruins of the Keane home stand nearby on the top of the hill. Kilbaha is the home of the Little Ark, which you can visit at the Star of the Sea Church in the village.

will feature Mike Denver with his full band as well as special guests such as Brendan Shine, Sabrina Fallon on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Hotel’s Into the West Country Music Weekend takes place on 20th & 21st March, 2020 and will feature Declan Nerney, Mike Denver, TR Dallas and Michael English. Reservations can be made direct with hotel reservations from only €209pps. Treacys West County offers entertainment for all the family during school holidays or for summer breaks and includes live music nightly. Located convenient to the M18 in the heart of County Clare ensures it is an ideal base to explore the broad range of activities to suit all the family from stunning coastal, river and forest walks, experience the Wild Atlantic Way or discover the charm of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. For best online offers check out treacyswestcounty.com

reacys West County Hotel has, for more than 50 years, forged a reputation for family friendly hospitality. The Ennis venue is one of the most renowned country music venues and over a long history has played host to music legends such as Big Tom, Daniel O’Donnell, Philomena Begley and now to a new generation of stars such as Nathan Carter, Mike Denver, Cliona O’Hagan and many more. This May and June will provide a jam packed line up featuring Jimmy Buckley (May 5th), John Glen & Mainliners (May 19th), Mike Denver (May 26th), Michael English (June 2nd) and Declan Nerney (June 16th). Country Club runs on selected Sundays from 9.30pm with acts onstage at 10.30pm. If one night with the country stars is not enough for your dancing feet, why not make a weekend of it with one of our upcoming weekends? Mike Denver will host his annual dancing weekend on Oct 18-20th 2019 and

A MUST VISIT FOR THE TIRED TRAVELLER Kilkee, Loop Head’s main town, is built around a horseshoe bay with a kilometre of golden, blue-flag beach. Because of the Duggerna Reef (locally known as the Pollock Holes) stretching across its mouth, the bay is naturally sheltered from the Atlantic, and Kilkee beach is the safest in Co. Clare. Kilkee has been a famous resort for almost 200 years. When a passenger steamer service began plying the river between Limerick and Kilrush in 1816, visitors started arriving in droves to take the waters in Kilkee. Soon it became a favourite bathing place of the Victorian aristocracy, and its popularity was enhanced by the opening of the West Clare Railway in the late 1800s. Charlotte Brontë, Alfred Tennyson and William Makepeace Thackeray were among the most illustrious visitors to Kilkee, while entertainers such as Percy French regularly packed its concert halls. In more recent times, visitors have included Ché Guevara, Richard Harris and Russell Crowe. Kilkee retains much of its Victorian character, and the 19th century part of the town has been designated an Architectural Conservation Area.

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FAMILY FRIENDLY HOSPITALITY AT TREACYS WEST COUNTY HOTEL

lOOP hEAD PENINSULA KILKEE

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CONNACHT TRIBUNE | CLARE CHAMPION | SUMMER 2019

tional on a commercial basis. The pier serves local fishing boats, delivering their catch to the local processing company, sea angling tours, and award-winning dolphin watching tours at the Mouth of the Shannon, home of the largest group of resident Bottlenose Dolphins in Europe. The village has an attractive centre, with distinctive streetscapes and quaint local character, and several pubs and restaurants. The harbour, the church (built 1882-1883) and, most important, the ruins of Carrigaholt Castle are the most distinctive local landmarks. Carrigaholt also boasts a safe, sandy beach for swimming and water sports.

MAY 5th MAY 26th

RIVERSIDE

CARRIGAHOLT Carrigaholt, (translation: ‘Rock of the Fleet’) is a picturesque fishing village on the southern side of Loop Head, about 10 kilometres southwest of Kilkee. Set within an important ecological environment, the village lies at the mouth of the Moyarta river, which flows into the Mouth of the Shannon about 15 kilometres from the westernmost extremity of the peninsula. Carrigaholt is centred between two harbours, and although both are used, only the one to the south of the village (known as the ‘new’ pier) is fully opera-

Moyasta and Querrin are two small, upriver communities nestled close to the wildlife haven that is Poulnasherry (Poll na nOisrí – Pool of the Oysters) Bay. Moyasta village, gateway to the Loop Head peninsula, is the home of the West Clare Railway and of the celebrated Nell Galvin Traditional Music Weekend. It is also a draw for bird-watchers because of the many significant species – including Greenland White-Fronted Geese, Whooper Swans and Brent Geese – that overwinter there. Querrin, on the southern coast of the peninsula about six kilometres from Kilkee, is the home port of the Sally O’Keeffe. Querrin has a pier and a creek which fills at high tide, protected by what is known locally as the Island. Querrin Creek is a well-known bird-watching spot and is listed as a Special Protected Area (SPA). There is good fishing from Querrin pier, and it’s perfect for swimming. The handball alley in the village is a centre of activity in the summer months.

MAY 19th

JUNE 2nd

JUNE 16th

treacyswestcounty.com

065 686 9600

Treacys West County Hotel, Limerick Road, Ennis, Co. Clare

sales@treacyswestcounty.com

OCTOBER 1st

WHAT’S ON guide MAY2019 GALWAY Lunchtime recital @ St. Nicholas' Church First Tuesday May 2019 Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.10pm in St. Nicholas' Church, the Lunchtime recital at St. Nicholas' Church is a popular and long-standing event which caters for all tastes and interest levels in classical music from the novice to the professional. Each month will feature The Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet string quartets from their repertoire. All performances are preceded with a brief introduction of the music. www.thegalwaymusicresidency.ie Bealtaine Festival 2019 01st - 31st May 2019 The Bealtaine Festival 2019 will see hundreds of events for, by and featuring older people all across Ireland, offering theatre, visual arts, music and more. This year’s theme is ‘And catch the heart off guard’ from Seamus Heaney’s poem ‘Postscript’. The Bealtaine Festival is Ireland’s unique nationwide celebration of creativity as we age and is an initiative of Age & Opportunity. www.bealtaine.com Inishbofin Arts Festival 03rd - 05th May 2019 The Inishbofin Community Arts Festival takes place on the May Bank Holiday 2019. Situated on the stunningly scenic and historic island of Inishbofin, this Arts Festival is a colourful and eclectic mix of music, dance, visual arts, crafts, heritage, poetry, creative workshops and fun family activities. www.inishbofin.com/arts_festival.html Galway Theatre Festival 03rd - 11th May 2019 The Galway Theatre Festival, now in it's 11th year, will take place throughout the city with the inclusion of more venues than before including An Taibhdhearc, Druid Lane Theatre, the Town Hall Theatre, and of course, the Nuns Island Theatre. Galway theatre companies feature heavily in the programme with Blue Teapot, Mephisto, Fregoli, Moonfish, and Vagabond all involved. www.galwaytheatrefestival.com Connemara Mussel Festival 03rd - 06th May 2019 A celebration of Killary Mussels takes place on the glorious Renvyle Peninsula in North Connemara. This is the 11th year of the festival and promises that more mussels will be eaten here this weekend than in any other part of the country. Last year, over a ton of mussels were eaten and organisers are set to harvest three tonnes of Killary Mussels for this year's celebrations, which include music, fun, mussel cooking competitions, children's treasure hunts and set dancing, to name a few. www.connemaramusselfestival.com Fleadh na gCuach Festival 03rd - 06th May 2019 Fleadh na gCuach (The Cuckoo Festival) takes place each year in the scenic fishing village of Kinvara, Co. Galway on the May Bank Holiday Weekend. It is a very popular Traditional Irish Music festival with over 50 music sessions in the villages' pubs over the weekend. In addition to the music, one can also find Art & Crafts, Poetry, Drama during the festival. www.kinvara.com Leenane Mountain Walking Festival 03rd - 06th May 2019 The Leenane Mountain Walking Festival includes a choice of high-level mountain walks or a low-level option, and enjoy a unique combination of mountain and sea along the way. There will be transport to and from the mountains, including a speedboat across Killary Harbour to Mweelrea Mountain. www.leenanevillage.com Gaelforce Connemara Adventure Challenge 04th May 2019 The race has three disciplines: Trail / Mountain Running, Kayaking and Cycling. The course will be exceptional, the scenery spectacular, so now all that's needed is good weather. The Connemara Adventure Challenge is 31km in total and it is open to racers of all levels. www.gaelforceevents.com/connemara Féile na mBád (Clifden, Co. Galway) 11th - 12th May 2019 (tbc) Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie International Mayfly Festival 08th - 12th May 2019 (tbc) The International Mayfly Festival in the village of Oughterard is an event for the all the family which is held over four days in May. Along with the main fishing events, the festival also includes art exhibitions, traditional Irish concerts, golf open days, Connemara walks, food foraging; fish tasting, cocktail nights, kids' activities including pitch and putt, limbo, face painting, a fun cycle and lots more! www.oughterardanglers.com Inishbofin Half-Marathon & 10k 11th May 2019 (tbc) The Inishbofin Half Marathon and 10K takes place on the beautiful island of Inishbofin, on Connemara's stunning Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you’re a serious runner looking for a new challenge, or a rookie looking to run, jog or walk on quiet roads, the route offers a mix of flat and inclined terrain, meandering through fine scenery, with spectacular views of the beautiful Connemara mountains. Walk, jog or run past pristine beaches, bogs and mountains, while raising vital funds for Down Syndrome Galway's speech and language therapy project. www.facebook.com/inishbofinhalfmarathon

WHAT’S ON guide Banff Mountain Film Festival May 2019 The Banff Mountain Film Festival promises an evening of extraordinary short films at Galway's Town Hall Theatre, from the world's most prestigious touring adventure film festival. See some of the best mountain films of the year, featuring the people who live, play and enjoy those area through high adventure, humor and a love for the great outdoors. www.tht.ie Gospel Rising Music Festival 17th - 19th May 2019 (tbc) Gospel Rising Music Festival is a fun, energetic and inclusive event taking place in Galway City's West End area, and at the Black Box Theatre in mid-May 2019. Organisers are calling on all gospel music enthusiasts to join us in Galway City, to celebrate and experience the continued rising of gospel music in Ireland. Whether you enjoy playing or singing gospel music in a choir or just in the shower, this is your chance to experience it for yourself through workshops and gigs over a jam packed weekend festival. We are inviting anyone who has ever sung or wanted to sing in this really fun style. Maybe you are in a choir, or you once were, and now is the time to come and try it again. www.gospelrising.com Galway County Fleadh 17th - 19th May 2019 The Galway County Fleadh feature a wide variety of events including competitions, traditional Irish music sessions and dancing. The town selected to host the event yet to be confirmed. www.comhaltas.ie Night Rider Sportif 18th May 2019 The Night Rider sportif takes place at night along the quiet roads of Connemara where no light-pollution from street lights exists. Starting just before sunset you will cycle into the darkness. Choose from 100km and 68km distances along this beautiful and rugged part of the Wild Atlantic Way. More info: http://gaelforceevents.com/en/night-rider Connacht Sheep Shearing Festival 19th May 2019 (tbc) The Connacht Shearing Festival in Corofin, Co. Galway hosts a competition attracting competitors from all over Ireland and some travelling from UK shearing over 1,000 sheep on the day, so come and see the speed and skills of some of the top shearers in the country. The event also includes the Connacht Dog Show, massive Tractor Run, Trade Stands, Brown Bread Baking Competition, Bonny Baby Show, Amusements much more. www.connachtsheepshearingfestival2019.com Galway Burlesque Festival 17th - 19th May 2019 (tbc) The International Galway Burlesque Festival is a celebration of the diverse, creative, seductive world of cabaret and burlesque, featuring top performers from across the globe, converging on the Creative Heart of Ireland in a flurry of feathers, fans and fabulousness! More info: http://www.galwayburlesquefestival.com Biodiversity Week Merlin Woods 19th - 26th May 2019 (tbc) Friends of Merlin Woods will run a week of free events celebrating the Biodiversity of Merlin Park Woods Galway. Over the last couple of years they have photographed and supplied data of the different species which inhabit the city's woodland from the red squirrel, 17 species of Irish butterflies, over 40 species of birds and much more to the National Biodiversity Data Centre in Ireland. Guided walks will be given explaining the different aspects of Merlin Woods interesting habitat and how wonderful it is to have this urban woodland on the doorsteps of the City of the Tribes. www.facebook.com/groups/FriendsofMerlinWoods/ Clarinbridge Banjo Gathering May 2019 The 5th Clarinbridge Banjo Gathering is a weekend of traditional Irish and Bluegrass Music, banjo exhibitions and workshops. All events are free (except workshops) and all instruments are welcome at music sessions. Galway Early Music Festival 24th - 26th May 2019 (tbc) The Galway Early Music Festival celebrates its 23rd birthday in 2019 with old world music and arts and features concerts, workshops, street performances of music, dance and historical re-enactment. www.galwayearlymusic.com Galway Traditional Boat Festival 25th - 26th May 2019 (tbc) Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Tour de Conamara 25th May 2019 Tour de Conamara is the Irish leg of a new international cycling sportive held in Clifden Connemara, with the option of 140km and 80km routes. A 14km Family cycle with free cycling tuition for kids will be hosted during the weekend making it a cycling weekend with something for everyone. www.tourdeconamara.com Athenry Agricultural Show 26th May 2019 (tbc) Celebrating its 129th year the Athenry Agricultural Show is one of Ireland’s longest running agricultural community events. With many exhibitor classes to choose from and a great showjumping and equestrian program of events, there will be something for everyone on the day. www.athenryagrishow.com

Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon Festival 25th - 26th May 2019 (tbc) The Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon takes place amidst the stunning surroundings of one of Ireland's hidden castle treasures overlooking Europe's largest privately-owned lake, just outside Gort, Co Galway. The race has a distance for all levels, whether first timers or elites. www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk

Broadway Dance School presents Shoot For The Stars. May 16 glor.ie

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Tulla Traditional Music Festival. May 17-19 Traditional Irish music and dance in East Clare with concerts, CD launches, recitals and workshops. cnocnagaoithe.com

Haughey | Gregory presented by Fishamble. May 1 glor.ie Ennistymon Choral Society presents ‘Sister Act’ May 1-5 Living Portraits: St.Joseph’s Hospital 2018 Portraiture Project by Rachel Macmanus. May 1-Jun 1 glor.ie Burren Law School Ballyvaughan. May 3-5 Learn the traditions of Brehon Law over an entertaining and thought provoking weekend. burrenlawschool.org. Father Ted Festival. May 3-5 The festival events take place at many of the actual locations around Lisdoonvarna. tedtours.com/festival Carrigaholt Oyster and Trad Music Festival May 3-5 loophead.ie Women and Girls Yoga Weekend. May 3-6 Yoga, music, poetry, conversation and play. loopheadyoga.com Corofin Festival of Finn. May 3-6 Varied programme of events offering fun for all the family. festivaloffinn.com Bodyke Festival May 3-6 A weekend of traditional music, set dancing, singing, golf, charity run/walk and a family fun day. Tea and Scones at Fr Ted’s. May 5 Enjoy afternoon tea at Fr Ted’s house near Kilnaboy. In aid of the RNLI. Country music with Jimmy Buckley at Treacy’s West County Hotel. May 5 Burrenbeo Heritage Walk. May 5 Learn about the Burren’s natural and cultural heritage. Guided walks at various locations around the Burren. burrenbeo.com Eclipse Stage School Spring Show. May 6 glor.ie Pumpgirl presented by Decadent Theatre Company. May 9 glor.ie Luka Bloom and The Fiddle Case. May 10 glor.ie Burren Slow Food Festival May 10-12 Celebrating Irish food and showcasing Burren producers. Food stalls, demos and talks, foraging walks and delicious food. slowfoodclare.com/festival Darkness into Light. May 11 Various locations around Clare. A symbolic run or walk starting in darkness and ending at daybreak, symbolising hope. pieta.ie Introduction to Silkscreen Print on Fabric. May 11-12 A weekend course on silk-screen printing in Tuamgraney. nicolahenley.com Ennis Academy for the Performing Arts presents Working with Grease. May 12 glor.ie Anne Korff Exhibition. May 13-17 An exhibition of work in Ballyvaughan by Clare artist, Anne Korff. burrencollege.ie/exhibitions. Colourful Luminaries. May 14 Learn to make beautiful light shades with heat guns in Kilbaha. kimthittichai.com Summer Art Workshops May 14-18 Five day painting and drawing workshops in Ballyvaughan. burrencollege.ie. Smallone presented by Bottom Dog Theatre Company. May 15 glor.ie

Dirtbirds: Self-Help Tour. Comedy with Sinead Culbert and Sue Collins, (The Nualas). May 17 glor.ie

Fleadh Nua. May 19-27 This eight day Irish music festival brings more than 120 events to Ennis, including concerts, céilis and free sessions. fleadhnua.com Afternoon Tea Dance: Bealtaine Festival. May 21 glor.ie Dinan School of Ballet presents The Emperor And The Nightingale. May 22 glor.ie Aos Óg – A Retrospective. May 24 glor.ie Clare Burren Marathon May 25 With a mini, half and full marathon this event with a starting point in Ballyvaughan, it is a great option for walkers, runners and have a go heroes! www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com Planting Demonstration. May 25 Ballyvaughan garden expert, Maureen Roche will demonstrate gardening techniques and answer all your gardening questions. Ballyvaughan Farmers' Market. Socks In The Frying Pan. Award winning traditional music group back in their home town. May 25 glor.ie Look, Draw, Print, Stitch Weekend. May 25-26 Be inspired by the views around Kilbaha to take photos, draw or create crafts. kimthittichai.com Country Dancing with Gerry Guthrie at Treacy's West County Hotel. May 26 Friends of Note. May 26 glor.ie Mountshannon Arts Festival. May 30-June 3 Events include puppet shows, live music, watersports, dog show, art exhibitions, drama and film. mountshannonarts.net Killaloe Chamber Music Festival. May 31-June 2 Three days of chamber music from St Flannan's Cathedral. killaloemusicfestival.com Doonbeg International Jazz Festival. May 31-June 3 The famous West Clare festival celebrates 20 years. doonbegjazz.com

JUNE2019 GALWAY Lunchtime recital @ St. Nicholas' Church First Tuesday June 2019 Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.10pm in St. Nicholas' Church, the Lunchtime recital @ St. Nicholas' Church is a popular and long-standing event which caters for all tastes and interest levels in classical music from the novice to the professional. Each month will feature The Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet string quartets from their repertoire. All performances are preceded with a brief introduction of the music. www.thegalwaymusicresidency.ie Conamara Bog Week 28th May - 03rd June 2019 The annual Conamara Bog Week 2019 festival takes place in the Quaker village of Letterfrack. This is the 35th year of the festival and the organisers Conamara Environmental Education and Cultural Centre are promising an exciting line up as usual. www.ceecc.org Westend Summer Festival 30th May - 03rd June 2019 Galway’s westend will host their neighbourhood summer festival over the May Bank Holiday weekend including a Street Feast which brings together the much loved and award-winning businesses in the area as part of the westend summer celebrations. https://www.facebook.com/westendgalway/ Eyre Square Brass Band concerts Each Saturday Afternoon June 2019 St. Patrick’s Brass Band from Galway will perform open air concerts along with guest bands in Eyre Square on Saturday afternoon each Saturday during June and July 2019. www.facebook.com/StPatricksBrassBandGalway/

The CAFE Arts Festival 30th May - 03rd June 2019 Galway’s newest arts festival, the CAFE (Carrabane Arts for Everyone) Festival will take place on the June Bank Holiday weekend in the village of Carrabane, five minutes from Loughrea. The festival will centre on three locations – Carrabane’s newly opened Village Theatre, a forest walk which will be transformed by local children into The Enchanted Forest, and Carrabane Hall. www.thecafefestival.ie Fives For Lives Soccer Tournament 01st - 02nd June 2019 Fives For Lives is an annual charity tournament in aid of mental health services. This highly anticipated date in Galway’s soccer calendar and sees a great mix of Galway natives, visitors and friends gather to enjoy this great footballing festival for a great cause. www.fivesforlives.com Féile na mBád (An Spidéal/Spiddal, Co. Galway) June 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Cong Food Village Festival June 2019 Cong Food Village Festival showcases the wonderful produce of the West in a fun and educational way. Cong is passionate about food and are delighted to be able to share this passion with you. The program is packed with great events across the three days which will include an official opening in Ryan’s Hotel with a pig on a spit, the festival marquee, storytelling, while there will also be talks on nutrition, foraging, food awareness and healthy eating advice, alongside beer tasting, street food and cooking demos. www.congfoodvillage.com Inis Mór Wildlife festival and BioBLITZ June 2019 With a programme of events for everyone to join in, learn more about wildlife and the cultural heritage of the island as well as experience the special charm and qualities of our offshore islands. This is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to experience the unique natural heritage of the island and help in recording the great range of species present. www.bioblitz.ie/island-wildlife-festival/ Galway Bike Week 08th - 16th June 2019 (tbc) Galway Bike Week 2019 takes place in June with cycling events all over Galway county, organised the local authority, community groups, charities and cycling groups. www.galwaycycling.org Galway African Film Festival 08th - 09th June 2019 (tbc) The rich diversity of African films, animations, shorts, and documentaries, offering both entertainment and a fresh perspective on life in the continent, will be on show in Galway. The 11th Galway African Film Festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday in NUI Galway’s Huston School of Film & Digital Media, Earl’s Island (across from the Cathedral). The films concentrate ways of finding and creating identity in familial, social, and political situations. Some focus on individual adventures, others on social struggles. www.galwayafricanfilmfestival.org Portumna Forest Marathon 08th June 2019 (tbc) Forest Marathon is a running festival in the beautiful Coillte forest of Portumna in Co. Galway. The event includes a 10k, a full marathon, a half marathon and two ultra-running events - a 50k and 100k run. www.forestmarathon.com Croí Lough Corrib Cycle 09th June 2019 (tbc) This fun cycling sportive in support of Croí. Cyclists will have a choice of a 27.5 mile or a 75 mile route through the picturesque setting of Connemara. We will provide roadside assistance, support vehicles and plenty of refreshment stops along the way! croi.ie/tc-events/tour-de-lough-corrib/ Great Galway Bike Ride 09th June 2019 (tbc) The Great Galway Bike Ride is set to transform Galway on the final Sunday of Galway Bike Week. Organisers expect that 1,500 cyclists from all over the country will pedal their way through the city and outlying areas. The cycle routes include the 30k Bearna Loop, the 60k Spiddal Block , the 100k Shan route and the more challenging 125k Gran Shan which will take cyclists through the spectacular Connemara landscape. www.greatgalwaybikeride.ie Clifden Lifeboat 10K Challenge 09th June 2019 (tbc) The Clifden Lifeboat Sky Road 10K race starts and finishes in Clifden, Co Galway and will bring you up the Sky Road which is one of the most scenic areas in Connemara. The course is officially measured and as in previous years AAI approval will be applied for. Individuals and teams of runners, walkers, joggers and stragglers of all abilities are welcome, with prize categories to suit everyone. All funds raised go to the Clifden RNLI. www.clifden.ie Claregalway Agricultural Show 09th June 2019 (tbc) The Claregalway Agricultural Show features classes for horses/ponies, cattle, sheep and dogs in the outdoor arena. There are indoor arts, crafts, home baking, horticulture, photography and flower arranging classes too. There will be live music and novelty events such as the donkey derby, best dressed lady, glamorous granny competitions. Horses and Ponies are pre-entry only with entries taken on the day for all other classes. www.claregalwayagriculturalshow.ie

Alcock and Brown 100 Festival 12th - 16th June 2019 The Alcock and Brown 100 Festival commemorates the centenary of one of the greatest feats of early aviation — the first non-stop transatlantic flight in history, completed by John Alcock and Arthur Whitten-Brown in 1919. The celebrations will take place in Clifden in from 12th to 16th June 2019 and will include a range of events, with the highlight being a full re-enactment of the 1919 landing and welcome of Alcock and Brown to Clifden. www.alcockandbrown100.com The Galway Sessions 12th - 16th June 2019 (tbc) The Galway Sessions Festival returns celebrating Irish folk and traditional music and the music Irish emigrants brought with them across the world. As in previous years, the festival’s Scottish connection will be retained with an array of performers travelling from Galway’s cultural partner Stirling to take part. Events take place in the Town Hall Theatre and in pubs throughout the city with sessions planned in predominantly in The Crane Bar but also in The King's Head, Tigh Choili’s, Taaffe’s Bar ,The Quays, Tigh Neachtains, and Monroe’s Tavern. www.galwaysessions.com Bia Lover - Festival of Food Athenry 14th - 16th June 2019 (tbc) Bia Lover is a food festival will provide an exhibition in Athenry for quality food and drink suppliers based primarily in the west of Ireland. Parallel events include cookery demonstrations, food talks, a producers market on Saturday & Sunday in the park and partnership food and drink trails with local pubs, restaurants and farms from Friday. www.bialover.ie Galway County Show 14th - 16th June 2019 (tbc) The Galway County Show is expected to be held at Galway Racecourse in Ballybrit in mid-June. Saturday is Showjumping only. Sunday 18th June is a super family day with showjumping, showing section for Connemara ponies, young horses, ridden hunter section, IPS, side saddle, cattle, sheep classes, sheep shearing, dig section, tractor run, stands, children's section. www.galwaycountyshow.com Oughterard Trails Festival 14th - 16th June 2019 (tbc) The Oughterard Trails Festival aims to highlight the wonderful walks on our doorstep and to encourage visitors and locals alike to get outdoors and explore! The festival takes place over the last weekend in June and aims to attract tourists and day-trippers to enjoy the village of Oughterard. www.discoveroughterard.com Galway Rowing Regatta 16th June 2019 (tbc) This year’s Galway Regatta will take place at the NUIG grounds at Dangan. Galway’s oldest rowing regatta, this year it celebrates its 135th anniversary, and once again entries from all four provinces with many of the top rowing clubs in Ireland are expected to compete. www.iaru.ie Gaelforce West 22nd June 2019 Gaelforce West is the largest one day adventure race of its kind in the world. It is a multi-sport adventure race involving cycling, running, hiking and kayaking. The course of approximately 67km stretches from the stunning Glassilaun beach to Westport. En route there are some significant obstacles to cross, including Killary Harbour and the famous holy mountain of Croagh Patrick. The event is designed for solo competitors, but you can run it with a buddy or training partner. www.gaelforceevents.com SeaFest - National Maritime Festival 28th - 30th June 2019 SeaFest is Ireland’s national maritime festival and takes place in Galway Harbour from 29th June to 1st July. Discover all about our oceans – from how we explore our seas, creatures of the deep, the ships that transport us and the fascinating tales from the deep. Take part in interactive activities, watch demonstrations and tour ships and vessels. SeaFest covers all things marine – from seafood cookery to science, cultural history to deep sea exploration and much more! SeaFest is a fun, free summer festival for all ages, and it has quickly become one of the most popular summer festivals in Ireland. The festival raises awareness of the value and opportunities provided by the sea and also celebrates our proud maritime heritage. www.seafest.ie Féile an Dóilín Regatta (Carraroe, Co. Galway) June 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. More info: www.huiceiri.ie

CLARE Sparks School of Hip Hop Summer show. June 1 glor.ie Burrenbeo Heritage Walk June 2 Learn about the Burren’s natural and cultural heritage. Guided walks at various locations around the Burren burrenbeo.com Country Dancing with Michael English at Treacy's West County Hotel June 2 Colourful Luminaries June 5 Learn to make beautiful light shades with heat guns in Kilbaha kimthittichai.com

Kilrush Traditional Horse Fair June 6 Horse and pony trading around Market Square Burren Food Trail Long Table June 7 Come to Ennistymon for a celebration of local, wild and seasonal produce burren.ie/food Estuary Challenge June 8 50, 100 and 130km cycle routes around the scenic Shannon Estuary. Shannon Gaels GAA Club. Lara Sparks Embroidery Workshop June 8 Embroidery workshop to create lampshades, wall hangings or cushions. enniscreativeartscentre.com Burren in Bloom June 7-9 Walks, talks, demos and garden events around the Burren burreninbloom.com Blackie O'Connell and Wild Atlantic Music Tours. June 9-15 Experience a tour like no other with acclaimed uileann piper Blackie O'Connell. wildatlanticmusictours.com Caomhan's Pattern Day June 14 Meet in Doolin and cross to Inisheer for a walk to celebrate Caomhan's Pattern Day walkwithpius.com Doolin Folk Festival June 14-16 Enjoy powerful music in an intimate setting doolinfestivals.ie Fleadh Cheoil an Chláir June 14-23 Two weekends of music, song and dance around Ennis. Cruinniú na Nóg June 15 Celebrate and encourage young people to participate in cultural and creative events around Clare. cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie Open Studio June 15-16 Look around a working artist's studio in Kilbaha and learn how the local area informs Kim Thittichai's work kimthittichai.com Country Dancing with Declan Nerney at Treacy's West County Hotel June 16 Herb Walk in The Burren June 16 Walk in Carron with an experienced herbalist who will introduce the world of plant medicine. irishherbalroots.ie/workshops Simple Prints June 19 Play with mono printing and printing blocks to create unique fabrics kimthittichai.com Burren Annual Exhibition June 20-July 19 Featuring the work of Dario Dolman and Saeri Kiritani burrencollege.ie Burren Moon Walk June 21 Night walk in The Burren in aid of the RNLI. Meet at Flaggy Shore at 10.00pm National Bike Week June 22-30 Organised cycles, foraging trips, food safaris at locations around Clare. bikeweek.ie Tour de Burren June 22 Cycling sportive around Ballyvaughan with routes of 14km, 60km, 85km, 135km and the famous Night into Day cycle. tourdeburren.com Midsummer's Eve Bonfire Festival. June 22 Bonfires, food, wine, art, music and dancing to celebrate the Summer Solstice in the Burren. burrencollege.ie Brown Bread Competition June 22 Annual competition open to all. Ballyvaughan Farmers' Market Relay for Life June 22 24 hour team relay to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. Fun events and live music for all the family around Ennis Spancilhill Fair Festival June 23 Free fun and entertainment on the eve of the fair. Donkey derby, food stalls, fun and games. spancilhillfair.com Spancilhill Fair June 24 Witness the traditional way of buying and selling horses at the famous fair spancilhillfair.com

Make a Hen June 27 Make a handbag hen from papier-maché kimthittichai.com Cross Traditional Music Weekend June 28-30 Traditional music and dance in the West Clare village loophead.ie Hell of the West Triathlon June 29 Olympic distance triathlon around Kilkee Burren Smokehouse Cooking with Fire Festival June 29 Smoking demonstrations, cooking with fire, food demos and music in Lisdoonvarna. burrensmokehouse.ie Féile Latino June 29 North Clare meets South America in Ennistymon. lospaddys.com Ankara Festival/Nigerian Culture Day June 29 Celebrate Nigerian culture and heritage in Ennis. ancc.ie Look, Draw, Print, Stitch Weekend June 29-30 Create drawings which will be made into printing blocks to print onto paper or fabric. kimthittichai.com

JULY2019 GALWAY Lunchtime recital ay St. Nicholas' Church First Tuesday July 2019 Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.10pm in St. Nicholas' Church, the Lunchtime recital at St. Nicholas' Church is a popular and long-standing event which caters for all tastes and interest levels in classical music from the novice to the professional. Each month will feature The Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet string quartets from their repertoire. All performances are preceded with a brief introduction of the music. www.thegalwaymusicresidency.ie Féile na mBád (Kilkieran, Co. Galway) July 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Eyre Square Brass Band concerts Each Saturday Afternoon July 2019 St. Patrick’s Brass Band from Galway will perform open air concerts along with guest bands in Eyre Square on Saturday afternoon each Saturday during June and July 2019. www.facebook.com/StPatricksBrassBandGalway/ Traidphicnic 05th - 07th July 2019 (tbc) Traidphicnic is a weekend event with concerts by traditional music artists along with art and cultural workshops with the backdrop of the beautiful Connemara landscape. Indulge in delicious local cuisine or just sit back and soak up the wonderful music. Traidphicnic has something for everyone and is very much a family event. Based near to Ceardlann, Spiddal Craft and Design Studios, you can explore the shops, sneek a peek at the crafters at work, and nip to the beach or into the seaside village of An Spidéál and make your own discoveries. www.traidphicnic.com Galway Garden Festival 06th - 07th July 2019 (tbc) Galway Garden Festival is held in the beautifully restored Claregalway Castle in early July. Nursery suppliers from across Ireland will share a wealth of planting experience with all who browse the plant stalls’ extensive range of plants, trees, seeds, and shrubs. Garden equipment, from hoes to glasshouses to woven willow baskets. Celebrated gardeners will provide advice and the work of organisations such as Bóthar, The Beekeepers Federation, and The Organic Centre, Co Leitrim, can be appreciated at the stands in the castle grounds. www.galwaygardenfestival.com Roundstone Connemara Pony, Dog & Sheep Show 07th July 2019 (tbc) The 12th Annual Roundstone Connemara Pony, Dog & Sheep Show takes place in mid-July, 2019, at the Showground. The main event, the Connemara Pony Show, consists of 20 in-hand classes showcasing all ages and varieties of Connemara Pony. A Dog Show and Sheep Show are also included in the day’s events. A great day out is assured for competitors and spectators alike. The deadline for entry is late June. www.roundstoneevents.com Galway Film Fleadh 09th - 14th July 2019 (tbc) Film festival for feature films and shorts. 2019 marks the 30th Galway Film Fleadh, and the central goal of the festival remains unchanged: to bring together audiences and filmmakers within an intimate environment and share a common experience. www.galwayfilmfleadh.com

WHAT’S ON guide Westside Community Arts Festival 09th - 13th July 2019 (tbc) Westside Arts Festival is an annual celebration of creativity in the community. It is held every July and brings together artistic talents from all over the world. Come along and take part in the events and workshops. www.facebook.com/westsideartsfestival Féile Mhic Dara Regatta (Carna, Co. Galway) July 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Galway Fringe Festival 15th - 28th July 2019 (tbc) Running in parallel with the Galway International Arts Festival, the Galway Fringe Festival aims to provide a platform for local artists, writers, playwrights, poets, actors and musicians to perform and showcase new work. www.galwayfringe.ie Galway International Arts Festival 15th - 28th July 2019 (tbc) One of Europe's most inventive, vibrant & colorful events. A truly international celebration of the performing and visual arts which takes place in and around Galway City each July. From awe-inspiring visual arts to tantalising theatre, giant puppets snaking through the medieval streets to late-night musical parties in the Big Top, this Galway festival is fabulous from start to finish. www.giaf.ie Joyce Country Challenge Walks 20th July 2019 (tbc) The Joyce Country Challenge Walks provides you with a chance to experience Connemara by walking a circuit of Lough Nafooey, an area of exceptional natural beauty. On the walks you will take in the plateau of Maumtrasna and the Devils Mother and see outstanding views of the Maam Turks, Mweelrea, Killary harbour, the Sheefrys and the Western Lakes. There are 4 separate routes planned for the day, each with varying degrees of difficulty. www.lakedistricthwc.com/joycedetails.aspx Féile Cloch na Rón Regatta (Roundstone, Co. Galway) July 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Connemara Oyster Festival 19th - 21st July 2019 (tbc) Connemara Oyster Festival is a new festival celebrating the best things about Connemara’s local seafood. The festival will include cooking demonstrations, seaweed talks and an oyster shucking competition, fun activities for kids and live bands. www.facebook.com/Connemara-Oyster-Festival188319808611603/ Omey Races 28th July 2019 (tbc) The Omey Races take place annually on the strand at Omey Strand, Claddaghduff in Connemara. The annual summer races have been steadily attracting greater numbers every year for a wonderful day of sand, sea, possibly sun and of course, horse racing. With up to nine races on the card, there's opportunities for young, upcoming jockeys to hone their skills, while providing a great day out for spectators. The first race will be off at 1pm sharp. https://goo.gl/UBJwuF Féile Chuigéal (Lettermullen, Co. Galway) July 2019 Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Galway Races - Summer Festival Meeting 29th July - 04th August 2019 (tbc) Galway Race course, Ballybrit, Galway. Ireland's premier horse racing festival. Adrenalin-pumping action, heartstopping finishes and breath-taking fashion, you are at the Galway Races. Situated on the outskirts of Galway city, in the West of Ireland, the Galway Race Festivals are world renowned. www.galwayraces.com

Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy July 6-14 Summer school with tuition on traditional Irish music, song and dance. Recitals, concerts and music sessions also feature scoilsamhraidhwillieclancy.com Country Dancing with Ciaran Rosney July 7 At Treacy's West County Hotel Burrenbeo Heritage Walk July 7 Learn about the Burren’s natural and cultural heritage. Guided walks at various locations around the Burren burrenbeo.com Making Silk Paper Bowls July 8-11 Kilbaha. Make beautiful bowls from silk kimthittichai.com Junior Tour of Ireland July 9-14 Six day internation stage race for juniors between 16 and 18 years juniortourofireland.com Bee Demonstration July 13 See bees in action with local bee expert and a safely enclosed hive. Sample local honey. Ballyvaughan Farmers' Market. Open Studio July 13-14 Look around a working artist's studio in Kilbaha and learn how the local area informs Kim Thittichai's work kimthittichai.com Folk and Bluegrass Weekend, Carrigaholt. July 13-14 loophead.ie Herb Walk in The Burren July 14 Walk in Carron with an experienced herbalist who will introduce the world of plant medicine. irishherbalroots.ie/workshops Co Clare Agricultural Show July 14 Lots of fun family activities and stalls in Ennis clareshowsociety.com Céilí at the Crossroads Festival, Clarecastle July 14-21 Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan Inis 2019 July 14-22 Munster Fleadh comes to Ennis for a second year with concerts, sessions, workshops, street performance, céilís and Fleadh TV munsterfleadh.ie Constructing Form July 15-18 four day course learning to construct bird/animal shapes using card, paper and wire. kimthittichai.com Clare Youth Trad Orchestra: Munster Fleadh July 18 glor.ie Concert Cruise with Seán Keane July 19 Cruise the Atlantic to the sounds of traditional musician Seán Keane in aid of the RNLI. Meet at Doolin pier. Shaskeen Céilí Band: Munster Fleadh July 19 glor.ie Martin Hayes & The Tulla Céilí Band: Munster Fleadh July 20 glor.ie Introduction to Silkscreen Print on Fabric July 20-21 Weekend course with textile artist Nicola Henley nicolahenley.com The Kilfenora Céilí Band: Munster Fleadh July 21 glor.ie

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Rag Rugs. Learn the art of rug hooking in Kilbaha July 22-23 kimthittichai.com

Fabulous Book Covers. July 2 Make lovely book covers from fabrics kimthittichai.com

Woodland Summer Camps July 22-26 Den building, nature, games and art in woods around Ennis

4th of July American Celebration July 3-4 Bunratty is the place to be for 4th of July celebrations

Burren College of Art 25th Anniversary Exhibition. July 25-Sept 6 Featuring exhibitions by visiting faculty from as far away as the US. burrencollege.ie

Irish Open 2019 July 3-7 Lahinch Golf Club brings the famous Golf competiton to Clare for the first time. lahinchgolf.com, europeantour.com Féile Brian Ború July 3-7 Annual festival held on Lough Derg at Killaloe and Ballina to commemorate Ireland's greaters High King feilebrianboru.com Armada Festival of Music and Dancing July 6-14 Spanish Point hosts music and dancing sessions to coincide with Willie Clancy week in nearby Miltown Malbay armadahotel.com

Spraoi by the Sea July 26-28 Family festival celebrating the sea and shore around Doonbeg. Live music and seafood specials. Home Grown Potatoes Competition July 27 Judgning of cooked potatoes. Ballyvaughan Farmers' Market. Skoda Ring of Clare Cycle July 27 Cycling sportive forming part of the Celtic Cycling series ringofclare.ie

Look, Draw, Print, Stitch Weekend July 27-28 Be inspired by the views around Kilbaha to take photos, draw or create crafts kimthittichai.com Country Dancing with Gerry Guthrie. At Treacy's West County Hotel July 28 Forms with Insertions July 30-31 Combine colour, textures and shapes to create layered paper forms. kimthittichai.com Kilrush Traditional Music and Set Dancing Festival July 31-Aug 5 Open air Céilís, Set and Sean Nós Dancing workshops, Gala Concert and international dance displays.

AUGUST2019 Galway Races - Summer Festival Meeting 29th July - 04th August 2019 Galway Race course, Ballybrit, Galway. Ireland's premier horse racing festival. Adrenalin-pumping action, heartstopping finishes and breath-taking fashion, you are at the Galway Races. Situated on the outskirts of Galway city, in the West of Ireland, the Galway Race Festivals are world renowned. www.galwayraces.com Lunchtime recital at St. Nicholas' Church First Tuesday August 2019 Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.10pm in St. Nicholas' Church, the Lunchtime recital at St. Nicholas' Church is a popular and long-standing event which caters for all tastes and interest levels in classical music from the novice to the professional. Each month will feature The Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet string quartets from their repertoire. All performances are preceded with a brief introduction of the music. www.thegalwaymusicresidency.ie Rásaí Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal, Co. Galway) August 2019 (tbc) Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Loughrea Triathlon Festival 04th August 2019 (tbc) The Loughrea Triathlon Festival is hosted by the Predator Triathlon Club and attracts a wide range of competitors from Junior to elite levels. There are 3 race events on the day, the Youth Triathlon (Barilla Youth Triathlon National Championship with four age categories U9/U11/U13/U15), Tri a Tri (400m swim/10km bike/3km run) and the Sprint Triathlon (part of BMW Triathlon Race Series). www.loughreatriathlon.ie Inishbofin Maritime Festival 09th - 11th August 2019 (tbc) The Inishbofin Maritime Festival will expand on the successes of the recently rejuvenated Inishbofin Currach Regatta, extending the programme to include yachts, púcáns, sailing dinghies and much more! www.inishbofin.com Streets of Galway 8k Road Race 10th August 2019 (tbc) Galway’s most popular athletic event, the Streets of Galway 8k Road Race event will take place in mid-August 2019 at 7pm and include more than 3000 entrants. It starts on Fr Griffin Road, winds its way through the city's streets, follows a course out around Salthill, before taking in the delights of the prom on the way to the finish in The Claddagh at South Park. www.galwaycityharriers.com Omey Dash 10th August 2019 (tbc) The Omey Dash is probably the most scenic triathalon / duathlon in the West. The race starts with a 0.75km swim on Omey Strand. Then there is a 24km cycle which takes in the beautiful scenic areas of Omey, Claddaghduff, Leegaun, Streamstown, Cleggan Village, Aughrismore and ends back at Omey Strand where the participants start the 5km run across the beautiful Omey Strand and onto Omey Island. The race finishes back on the strand again. Registration is only available through the Triathlon Ireland website: www.triathlonireland.com and a One Day Licence is needed in advance of the day of the race. Come along and join in the fun. Presentation of prizes, food, music, craic and more at Sweeney’s Strand Bar in Claddaghduff after the race. www.facebook.com/OmeyDash

ety of people that make Galway such a vibrant and exciting place to live and visit. Events throughout the week will include evenings of information and awareness, arts and performance, music nights and the colourful parade on Saturday 20th August. The Galway Pride Festival committee would welcome expressions of interest from people wishing to take part in the festival, from street entertainers to volunteers. www.galwaypridefestival.com Galway Bay Weekend Cruise 14th - 17th August 2019 (tbc) Boats of all sorts from all around Galway Bay head out from their numerous home ports to assemble at Kilronan in the Aran Islands. This unique annual event will in turn usher in the WIORA (West of Ireland Offshore Racing Association) Annual Racing Festival, which will takes place under the Galway Bay Sailing Club burgee. www.gbsc.ie Connemara Pony Festival 14th - 16th August 2019 (tbc) Premier show for Connemara Ponies in Ireland for breeders and owners from home and overseas. The annual Connemara Pony Festival & Show in Clifden, Co Galway attracts visitors from all over the world. The highlight of the festival is on Thursday and Friday, when the biggest showcase of Connemara Ponies in the world takes place. Ponies compete in in-hand classes, ridden classes, working hunter classes, and a puissance (or high jump) competition. For non-pony enthusiasts, there is a dog show, a domestic arts show and Irish Dancing. www.cpbs.ie Great Spin Out West August 2019 (tbc) The Great Spin Out West (GSOW) is the fastest growing cycling sportive in Ireland. Now in its 7th year, it takes place every August in Connemara, Co. Galway. In just a few years over 500 people of all ages and ability have cycled the GSOW with all proceeds going toward Cancer Care West, a west of Ireland focused charity. Starting and finishing in Oughterard in August 2019, the 125 km route takes in some of Galway’s most scenic views. www.greatspinoutwest.com Féile na mBád (Inishmaan, Co. Galway) August 2019 (tbc) Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie Wild Air Run 17th August 2019 (tbc) The Super Milk Wild Air Run at Galway Racecourse is a sporting experience not to be missed. The run involves climbing up, sliding down, bouncing and jumping your way along a 5km inflatable obstacle course which includes a 60 Metre Long Inflatable Water Slide!! New features such a water guns have been added to the course this year. People from 7 years to 70+ and of all fitness levels can enjoy Ireland’s biggest inflatable obstacle course. www.wildairrun.com Etape Connemara August 2019 (tbc) The Étape Connemara is a 150km cycling sportive which will take place in August 2019. This is a chip-timed event on open roads in Connemara. The event is organised by Croí, the heart & stroke charity, with all proceeds going back to the charity. http://www.croi.ie/event/etape-connemara Galway Summer Rally 18th August 2019 (tbc) Galway Summer Rally takes on some classic Galway International Rally stages and provides a good challenge for all the crews involved, covering 120km of stages and 170km of road mileage. www.facebook.com/GalwayMC/

31st Galway Film Fleadh | 9th – 14th July 2019 he Film Fleadh is Ireland’s launching pad for new Irish films and screen talent, as well as a festival of the best new films from around the world. The kick-off to the summer’s festival season in Galway, the Film Fleadh’s various accolades includes being named one of “The World’s 25 Coolest Film Festivals” (Moviemaker Magazine 2014), “Cannes-on-the-Corrib” (The Irish Times) and one of the World’s top “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee!” (Moviemaker Magazine, 2019).

Since its first edition in 1989 the festival has grown to become Ireland’s leading film event, attracting film fans, international film festivals, industry leaders, and European and Hollywood luminaries of the cinema world. After a 30th anniversary edition last year, which included Oscar® winner Marisa

Tomei, screenwriter Ed Solomon (Men In Black, Bill & Ted, Charlie’s Angels) director Jim Sheridan and many more, Ireland’s leading film festival will have its 31st edition this July. The Film Fleadh also runs Ireland’s only Film Marketplace, the Galway Film Fair, where Irish filmmakers can do business with their international peers while they’re in town. The Galway Film Fair attracts producers, distributors and financiers from around the world, but unlike the larger marketplaces like the Cannes and Berlin festivals, the Fleadh and the Fair retain a distinctly intimate, relaxed and friendly ambiance, reflective of the city of Galway. Film fans will find something for everyone at the Fleadh. Family film programmes, documentary programmes, live concert films, never-before-seen dramas from around Europe and the U.S., world

premieres of new Irish films, animation showcases, short films and additional programmed events to go alongside the film screenings. The Fleadh Forum for example, is an annual conference taking place at the Film Fleadh that invites keynote speakers to address the latest trends in the film and television industry. The Film Fleadh offers audiences the opportunity to engage directly with the directors and actors presenting their work. And the filmmakers are always hungry to get feedback from Galway audiences who, after 30 years of the Film Fleadh, have developed an international reputation as being an influential audience on the film festival calendar. Previous luminaries of the silver screen to have attended the Film Fleadh include John C. Reilly, Isabelle Huppert, Martin Sheen, Saoirse Ronan, Gabriel Byrne, Jessica Lange, Brendan Gleeson,

Zachary Quinto, Kathy Bates, Michael Fassbender, Anjelica Huston and Woody Harrelson to name but a few. The 2019 Film Fleadh will take place across Galway city, with movie premieres happening in Galway’s new award-winning arthouse cinema, Palás Galway and at the historic Town Hall Theatre. As ever, there will be more guest directors, actors, writers and cinematographers. More Q&A’s and panel discussions. More diverse stories from around the world. And more craic. There are many film festivals in the world but there is only one Film Fleadh! Keep an eye on www.galwayfilmfleadh.com for upcoming announcements for the 31st edition. Or follow the Galway Film Fleadh’s social channels: @GalwayFilm.

31st GALWAY FILM FLEADH 9-14 JULY 2019 WWW.GALWAYFILMFLEADH.COM

Galway Heritage Week 17th - 25th August 2019 (tbc) Galway’s rich heritage is set to be celebrated in a range of events across the city and county as part of National Heritage Week. Over 100 different events are planned from Ballinasloe to Inishbofin and will take in everything from genealogy workshops to talks on the history of the Connemara pony. www.heritageweek.ie Loughrea Medieval Festival 23rd - 25th August 2019 Loughrea Medieval Festival is a 3 day festival which takes place every August. The theme for this years festival is the ‘Gathering of the Clans’ is being held during National Heritage Week and comprises of scenes of everyday life in Medieval Loughrea, as well as being jam-packed with fun events and performances. www.loughreamedievalfestival.com

The Connemara 100 10th - 11th August 2019 (tbc) The Connemara is a 100 mile endurance run with 30 hour limit taking place every August. The course is simply fabulous, taking participants from Clifden through Letterfrack, Leitirgeish, the Inagh alley, Maam Cross, Leenane, Inagh Valley again, then on to Roundstone, Ballyconeely and back to Clfden to complete 100 miles. www.connemara100.com

Féile an tSrutháin (Carraroe, Co. Galway) August 2019 (tbc) Regatta displaying unique Irish boats, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway Bay, along the coast of Connemara and North Clare. www.huiceiri.ie

Cruinniu na mBad Festival 10th - 11th August 2019 (tbc) Up to 100 unique Irish boats, the Galway Hookers, once the workhorses of the coast of Connemara and North Clare, will gather for a weekend of racing and celebration at Cruinniú na mBád (Gathering of the Boats) festival in Kinvara, Co. Galway, in August. www.kinvara.com/cruinniu/index.html

Corribdale Pony Show & Country Fair 25th August 2019 (tbc) The Corribdale Pony Show & Country Fair is a great family day out with activities such as in-hand ponies, riding classes, a dog show, vintage show, sheep racing, BBQ, craft stands, childrens inflatables, zorb balls and more. All proceeds going to Cancer Care West & Galway Hospice. www.corribdaleponyshowandcountryfair.com

Galway Pride Festival 2019 12th - 18th August 2019 (tbc) The annual Galway Pride Festival takes place every August throughout Galway City. This new event will encompass everything that makes our city the cultural magnet that it is. The aim is to encourage involvement from the wider community, and to highlight the great vari-

Oughterard Agricultural & Horticultural Show 25th August 2019 (tbc) The Oughterard Show is one of the leading agricultural and horticultural shows in the West of Ireland. www.oughterardshow.com

Galway Film Fair 11th–14th July 2019

Galway Film Fleadh 9th-14th July 2019

Galway Film Podcast

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