Page 30 - The Driver's Guide to the Wild Atlantic

The Driver's Guide
and its turbulent history continued until the final surrender to Cromwell’s forces in 1652, who took down the fortifications. A conflagration in 1690 sealed the castle’s fate.
KILMACDUAGH MONASTERY AND TOWER
A spot full of history and beauty, Kilmacduagh Monastery and Round Tower is a lovely place to spend an hour or two. With the ruins of an 800 year old monastery and 10th century round tower and surrounded by beautiful yet haunting tombstones, there is plenty to look at here.
The tower, which is the tallest round tower in Ireland at 34.5 meters high, is in excellent condition despite its slight lean. The only access to the tower is by rope ladder but it, and the surrounding land full of farm animals and ruins, is incredibly photogenic.
CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK
For some truly remarkable views, Connemara National Park in County
Galway has to be on your list. The park faces the Atlantic Ocean and is filled with mountains, lakes, bogs, and even wild ponies. There are plenty of hikes to explore the vibrant nature that surrounds you; it is the best place to spend a day or even a weekend. With fishing, a lovely abbey, and castles in the area there is something for everyone. You will definitely leave this park with a camera full of stunning photos.
CHARLIE BYRNE’S BOOKSTORE
A book lovers dream, Charlie Byrne’s Bookstore, is filled to the brim with over 100,000 new, used, and bargain titles. Located in Galway City, this store offers books from every possible genre, ranging from Irish myths to archeology. The store, owned by Charlie Byrne’s, had humble beginnings before it became one of the iconic sites of Galway City.
Charlie began selling his books at a market 30 years ago and has since expanded his business into multiple locations. The store also hosts many events such as book launches and
author signings. This is a great place to get lost in the stacks for a few hours.
KYLEMORE ABBEY
N59 BETWEEN CLIFDEN AND WESTPORT
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 of tragedy, romance, education, innovation, and spirituality. Explore the 6 acre Victorian Walled Garden with its delightfully restored garden buildings.
Discover woodland and lakeshore walks that will take you on a beautiful journey through our 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. With great options for dining and shopping, we have all you need for the perfect Connemara day out.
Connemara National Park LETTERFRACK, COUNTY GALWAY
NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
• Exhibition on the Connemara Landscape (multi-lingual)
• New Audio Visual Film (multi-lingual)
• Information Desk
• Connemara Ponies
• Picnic Areas (indoor and outdoor)
• Tea Room
• Nature Trails
• Postcards, Maps, Booklets
• Children’s playground
• Diamond Hill Walks (Open all year)
FROM MARCH TO NOVEMBER
30 WILD ATLANTIC
Home baking with Teas, Specialty
Soups. Groups catered for.
(Open full season & winter weekends)
Park centre: +353 (0) 95 41054 O ce: +353 (0) 76 100 2528 Email: cnp@chg.gov.ie www.connemaranationalpark.ie