West Coast of Ireland

Thursday 19 October | Check-in at the airport at 15.00 (3pm) for the Ryanair flight to Shannon departing at 16.55.  On arrival, meet up with our representative at Shannon airport and transfer to Westport B&B.

Friday 20 October | After breakfast, start the day with a visit to the Doolough Valley Famine Memorial. This stone memorial, in the form of a simple stone cross was erected in memory of the victims of the famine in this area. Next stop is at the stunning Aasleagh Falls, a picturesque waterfall located on the River Erriff near Killary Harbour. Killary Fjord dramatically surrounded by mountains that rise steeply from the water’s edge stretches 16 kilometres inland to the picturesque village of Leenane.  Here we shall visit the Sheep & Wool Centre. 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. We proceed to Kylemore Abbey. Originally built as a castle in 1867, Kylemore Abbey and the surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history. Next stop will be the Connemara National Park which features over 2000 hectares of mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and forests.  Optional trek to truly appreciate its beauty.

Saturday 21 October | After breakfast we shall begin the day with a visit to the pretty village of Cong, where the 1952 Oscar-winning movie, The Quiet Man, was filmed. Proceed to Knock Marian Shrine, one of the few Marian sites recognized by the Vatican. We shall then visit the charming Ballintubber Abbey, founded in 1216 by King Cathal Crovderg O’Connor. This is the oldest Cathedral in Ireland and is also the place where actor Pierce Brosnan got married. Proceed to visit the National Museum of Country Life in Castlebar. This award-winning Museum is all about discovering the story of Irish country life between 1850 and 1950.

Sunday 22 October | After breakfast and room checkout we offer an interesting excursion as we visit Galway City. Besides being a popular seaside destination Galway is also a thriving and cosmopolitan city centre.  It is always a joy to explore with its wonderful, cobbled streets, colourful shop facades and offbeat café/bar culture. Enjoy some last minute shopping before we transfer to Shannon Airport for our flight departing at 1600.  Arrival in Malta should be at 2040 (8.40pm)