Over the last few years, if we get the chance to take a break for a couple of days, we have been making our way to the west of Ireland. Our vague aim has been to complete ‘The Wild Atlantic Way‘, a route that takes in over 2,500 km of Irish coastline, in no particular order.
Last week we were lucky enough to head to Clifden, a small town on the coast of County Galway, often called the capital of Connemara. As with all the other areas on this route we have visited, we were not disappointed.
The journey to Clifden on the N59 is beautiful, especially as the Twelve Ben mountains come into view.
Pine Island in Lough Derryclare is a place I really wanted to get to, having seen so many beautiful images of it over the years. I had imagined it would be quite a trek to visit and was very surprised to see it was so close to the road. The downside of this of course was that other people wanted a photograph too, and I had to wait quite a while to get an unobstructed view.
As in most places in Ireland the locals are friendly, some appreciating a nose scratch. Connemara is very well known for its beautiful, good natured ponies.
Clifden itself is small but perfectly formed offering a host of bars and restaurants, many with traditional live music. Our favourite find was the local ‘chipper’ in the old converted post office which served delicious lobster and crab salad.
Even when it rained, there was plenty of colour to be found around town with beautiful galleries and stores.
One of my aims on a trip away from home is to start the day with a breakfast that’s slow and relaxed enough that I can paint it.
It’s a perfect way to set you up for a day exploring beaches whose sand is made of tiny bits of coral which tinkle as the waves go in and out, or empty harbours where you can fill your lungs with salty air.
It’s all such a sweet treat I can’t wait to get a chance to head west again.