Reasons to visit the West Coast of Ireland
'The brilliant and beautiful heart of the Wild Atlantic Way'
Apart from the oportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking, beautiful scenery that Ireland has to offer, it is enriched with history going back centuries. Surrounded by sacred mountains, magnificent costal walks with views of the Atlantic Ocean and numerous islands to explore! Some of the most mentionable locations to visit include: the city of Westport, Village of Cong, Galway and the islands (Clare Island, Innishbofin, Achill Island...).
Travel Destinations
The best sights to see, verified by me
Quiet Man statue and cottage
Situated on the border of Galway close to Connemara. Cong is a small village most notoriously known for being the filming destination for the film, The Quiet Man, featuring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.
Address:
Circular Rd, Cong North, Cong, Co. Mayo, Ireland
What I like about it:
Cong is such a small and quaint little village, although it attracts a lot of visitors during peak periods it is usually quite peaceful and they have beautiful nature walks to explore. As a history lover I also enjoyed walking through the ruins of Cong Abbey and observing what remains of such amazing architecture.
Clare Island
Clare Island is located 3.5 miles off the west coast of County Mayo, Ireland. The ferry crossing from Roonagh Pier takes approximately 25 minutes. Clare is known as the largest island in Clew Bay and is home to the famous pirate Queen, Grace O'Malley. The island's population consists of approximately 160 people.
Address:
Clare Island Clew Bay, Co. Mayo, Ireland
What I like about it:
I originally visited Clare Island with my family to learn more about our ancestory, the people were so friendly and helpful. There was a lot to learn about the history of the island and they even have a small musuem which offers further guidance and information. The food was spectacular, so fresh and yummy! It is also a great chnace to get your camera out and capture some of the awe-inspiring views the island has to offer.
National Museum of Ireland-Country Life
The National Museum of Ireland-Country Life was the first branch to be established outside of Dublin in 2001. It has since hosted up to 1.1 million people from all around the world.It features two very different buildings, the first is a High Victorian Gothic style built in 1865 and the other is a modern stone-clad block building designed by the Office of Official Works. The museum explores the lives of rural people between 1850 - 1950.
Address:
Turlough Park House, Gortnafolla, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 HY31, Ireland
What I like about it:
I have always loved visiting museums wherever I go. This one was particularly interesting as it gave me insight into my family's past. The contrast between the old and the new architecture was interesting and the gardens/galss greenhouse were very eye-catching.