Itinerary
September 17 U.S.
Our journey to Ireland begins with an overnight flight from the U.S.
September 18 Shannon – Hillcrest House, Westport
We will be met at Ireland’s Shannon International Airport and driven north to Westport, on the shores of Clew Bay. The first afternoon we can relax; perhaps enjoy conversation in the library. If we are feeling a bit energetic, we can capture the sunset by exploring the nearby countryside . (D)
September 19-25 County Mayo
Each day we will visit some of these typical areas from our home base at Hillcrest House. It is not possible to see everything during each tour, as we also like to take time for unscheduled stops. Our guides will plan each day considering the interests of the group, and special events taking place during your time in Ireland.
Hillcrest House lies half way between the City of Westport and the Village of Newport. Both capture the flavor of true Irish towns with their tree-lined canals and colorful shops. After a stop in Westport we drive along the shores of Clew Bay, stopping at Murrisk Abbey, and the Famine Memorial standing at the foot of Croagh Patrick.
Driving north today, our first stop will be along the ocean on the Atlantic drive in Mulranny. After lunch on Achill Island we will continue photographing along the ocean and given time, wind up at the deserted famine village at Keel. Achill Island is the largest island off the Irish coast. To get there, we will drive over the bridge at Achill Sound. Wrought by wind and water, the island is an arrangement of rock, cloud, and cliffs falling off to the sea.
We travel to the shores of Doo Lough and the Connemara Mountains, where we will see some of the most stunning landscapes in all of Ireland. This morning we photograph in Sheeffrey Woods, a place where we must be careful not to disturb the leprechauns who inhabit the forest. Afterwards we visit the town of Leenane, where we will have lunch with the residents, and have time for photographing in the small pub, known as Gaynor’s (film location of The Field).
Just outside Newport is Burrishoole Abbey, a great place to start one of our days. Nearby is Carrigahowley Castle, one of the many strongholds of Grace O’Malley, the adventurous sixteenth century Pirate Queen. Later in the afternoon we visit Letterkeen Forest.
We can spend an entire day in Westport, photographing the winding streets, stone bridges over the river, or those that would like to do a bit of shopping or perhaps even take time to enjoy a spa treatment.
You will find many handcrafted items such as traditional Irish sweaters, prints, and pottery, or shops filled with books or Irish music. Be sure to take at least one piece of Ireland home with you. (B, D)
September 26 Westport – Ennis
We will leave Hillcrest House early this morning, driving south to County Clare, where we will spend the evening in Ennis. Ennis is a charming riverside town with colorful storefronts and narrow cobblestone streets. Tonight we will stay at the Temple Gate Hotel (or similar) in Ennis and enjoy dinner on our own. The hotel rests on the site of a nineteenth century convent. (B)
September 27 Ennis – Shannon – U.S.
After breakfast this morning, we will say good bye to our new friends in hopes of seeing them again some day, perhaps even at Hillcrest House. We board our afternoon flights for home. (B)
We hope you can join Strabo Tours for this very special experience.