Pictures of the majority of the people on this amazing trip in Ireland, from landing in Dublin to bus ride to Galway then bike riding to Cong, Leenaun, Cliffden, Rossaveal,
Aran Islands, Dooley, Ballyvaughan, and Kinvara and then returning to Galway, Dublin and flight home. I hope to find a picture with the missing few. We all got along and we all
enjoyed each other's company. What an amazing and wonderful experience made full because of the people we all were. Love you guys.
Bicycle trip in Ireland is a hop into a bit of paradise...
September 14th departure and a look at San Francisco from the air.
I have been riding an e-bike since retirement June 2021, compliments of my husband, as a retirement gift. Riding with Foy's Riders in Woodland, Ca has opened doors to a different
part of life, as compared to our summer boating.
It was very interesting how the stewardess was politely, and firmly, suggesting that I pull down the window cover, shortly after finding my seat. Hadn't taken off yet; and I was thinking to myself, " Hm,
it is dark outside and no issue right now." Anyway, did cover up the window; however, as we were taking off I wanted to see what it looked like and was able to capture a cool illusion as seen above.
Flight left San Francisco more than an hour late; but on board and all is well. Met up with my future roommate for the duration of the trip, Gretchen. We are both in Foy's Riders group,
and know each other a bit. On the flight over, we were not seated near each other because we booked at different times. Flight was smooth and dozed, slept, more like dozed, or maybe I slept, through
the night, landing in Dublin 8 hours ahead of California time.
September 15th arrival in Dublin, Ireland via plane
Left San Francisco with plane pulling away from the gate at 8:36 pm. Landed in Dublin 5:54 AM California time (just over a 9 hour flight);
however, it is 1:54 PM Dublin time.
Not sure if I am waking up or going to sleep. Stood in line for Customs in the airport and still more or less asleep, found out I was in wrong line and had to join a
different line that was longer. Oh well, through customs and off to find the bus with Gretchen. Was scheduled to catch the CityLink Bus to Galway at 1:00 PM, but flight was late and
Gretchen and I
both caught a later one with no issues. All's well. CityLink will take us whenever we arrive, as long as the bus isn't full.
September 15th arrival in Galway, Ireland via bus
Bus ride was an eye opener in so many different ways. First, the roads and traveling on the other side of the road. Roads are narrow and traffic moves right along, but to this tired
brain, it is all reversed. Second is the green. Gosh it is beautiful. Third is the fields. Lots of fields. Lots of stone fences. Riding along in another country is the feeling. Well,
that makes sense. Definitely in another country! Fourth are the people. People are polite, friendly, and helpful and their accent makes a unique and special sound. Beautiful to
listen to, bit challenging for understanding. Oh, wait, I am on a treasure hunt for castles and spotted my first one just before we entered the outskirts of Galway.
Shortly after, we arrived in Galway and I was ready for the adventure of getting around in a new country. We gathered our bags and then went outside the building to catch a taxi.
That was one excellent bus driver, manuevering the mammoth bus through the tiny, narrow, small streets (did I mention just how narrow the roads are?) and pulling inside a building
and into a very narrow stall. Whew! He was good. Anyway, a taxi took us to our first stop, the Consilio B&B, located on Lower Salthill. You have to know your map (or use your map
on your phone) because the streets are not well marked with street signs like we are used to with signposts. You have to hunt to find the posted street names, just to confirm where
you are.
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Arrived at B&B around 6:00 pm and met up with 6 other future travelers in our bike group. Off on first walkabout in Ireland and immediately spotted a really nice e-bike. In the picture
below you can see it is for deliveries. When the guy got on it and took off, it
really moved! Walked to dinner with everyone to a pub named, 'John Keogh's The Bookkeeper' and looking
around inside, there were old books all over the walls and on shelves in the ceiling. It was fun meeting up with Sam & Ann, David & Linda, and Cynde & Stan along with Gretchen and I. Had my
first 'fish & chips' and was surprised with a whole half of a fish (haddock) and delicious! Afterwards, one tab was given to our table and we each called out what we had and then gave
Sam cash to cover what each of our part of the meal was. Sam added it all up and assured us that we had paid the tab plus an extra good tip. Great waitress and service.
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That night we both crawled into bed, ready to sleep and immediately dropped off. I woke up around 12:30 or 1:00 and boom, wide awake. C'mon! Really need that sleep. Oh well, got my cell
phone and texted John and then laid there reading online news. After about 30 minutes I received a text message. Oh, from Gretchen. We are sharing a room for the trip. Message was
priceless: "Can you turn your phone on silent. It keeps making a noise when you get a text. Thanks."
Oh My Goodness; needless to say I was really apologetic. Immediately went
through all of my notifications and made sure everything was on vibrate. Those who know me know that without my ears in, I am deaf. Thus, I didn't even think about all of the little
sounds that a hearing person would be hearing. Oops! Apologized the next morning and Gretchen turned out to be having the same traveling challenge as me; WIDE awake due to an 8 hour
time difference between home and Ireland. We both eventually drifted off to sleep and figured our bodies would work it our, especially with all of the upcoming activities planned (i.e.
walking around Galway the next day and then biking starting the day after) and unplanned (the unexpected side trips and/or extra stops to see something special). My focus was... I just
need to be able to ride the full distance every day. That was what was on the back of my mind. I wanted to see as much as possible and was excited for every upcoming moment. Never having
done anything like this before, there was so
much to see and
not miss!
September 16th getting bikes and running around in Galway
Breakfast in the morning was a delightful B&B experience. Gretchen and I sat in a nice little alcove and had the chance to chat some more with our new traveling biking buddies that were
lodging in the same B&B. Last night, we needed to put in our request to our hosts for what we wanted for breakfast, and options ranged from a simple porridege to a full Irish breakfast
that could include black pudding, mushrooms, tomatoes and toast along with sausage, eggs and bacon (salmon is an option as well) and even baked beans. I picked the 'basic' full Irish, as
shown in the picture below. Loved the bread, plus fruit on the side was very fresh, and refreshing.
After breakfast, Rich met us outside to walk us to West Ireland Cycling, in order for all of us to get rigged up and ready to ride with our new bikes for the trip. On the way, this was a typical look for houses set back; a
passage through some form of green to reach the house. Amazing look!
I opted for an electric bike but knew little to nothing about what kind of e-bike it was going to be, how it was going to ride and what it would take in skills to move along safely.
It was definitely not an e-bike with a throttle, like mine at home. It was a Trek propulsion bike. What that means is, that if you don't pedal than there is no assist. You have to work
consistently in order to make your e-bike 'go'! (More on my bike, later)
Four levels of assist:
#1 is Economical (which gives you the most battery power and thus a longer ride before battery goes dead);
#2 is Tour (uses a little more of the battery);
#3 is Sport (for going faster and more support thus uses up battery quicker); and
#4 is Turbo (greatest assist, meaning you can go a lot faster as well; however, it uses up the battery much quicker).
We all got to ride our bikes to make sure our saddles were set at the correct height and angle for comfort and then they were stored away for the next morning.
Let's see, Gretchen and I were invited to walk around Galway with the group, that we had dinner with last night. I tagged along and there was so much to see and spin my head around
taking in that I was happy to not be making decisions on where to go. Some in the group had been here before but not sure which ones they were. We were on our feet for the rest
of the day, exploring Galway. Wandering around Galway we started sharing who we were and which group we would be in (i.e. biking or companion car); and everyone was excited and ready to go.
Back to walking around Galway. Everything was so different and condensed and small roadways with cars going the opposite directions and so when crossing a road you had to look
both ways several times to make sure you didn't see any moving vehicles. The colors were multiple and varied and interesting and loaded with personality bites. First thing we crossed
was a canal with a boat tied up out in the middle. Interesting!
Next we walked throught The Latin Quarter which was visually challenging because there was so much to see.
Galway Cathedral was our next destination as a group. Lot of crossing roads and heads on a pivot looking for cars. Great drivers, on wrong side of the road, moving very fast in
narrow lanes. Head spinner for a newby (otherwise known as a tourist!) LOL Anyway, the full name for Galway Cathedral is 'Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas. Below shows
a view of both outside and inside. What an amazing example of craftsmanship and artists.
We left there and after group discussion, we headed off for the Galway Museum, passing under the Spanish Arch, and then afterwards sat down outside at Nimmos. But first, we went
back through more Latin Quarter and hence...
...the
‘Galway Girl’. (History notes that that the Galway Girl bears many of the features of an ‘aisling’, an old Irish form of poem or
song in which a man encounters a beautiful woman, often with otherworldly characteristics. She enchants him with her charms and haunts him for the rest of his days as he wanders in
an unending pursuit of feminine perfection inspired by his encounter.) Walking by the statue, and it was a perfect time to catch a living, and non-living, "Galway Girl" in pose!
Linda is in our group and I loved the moment.
Heading down towards the waterfront again, we walked under the
Spanish Arch, which was built to protect the inner harbor and quays where trading ships tied up. In 1755 a
tsunami destroyed part of it. History says it was named the Spanish Arch due to the high volume of trading with Spain. After checking out the Spanish Arch we entered the Galway City
Museum. As I wandered around, I noticed someone who
really looked like someone I knew from home. In my mind, I thought, "No way". Here I am halfway around the world and seeing
someone I worked with at WHS. Not possible. I wandered over into the direction the person appeared to be heading and then just hung around. When she turned towards me, she said,
"Rebecca!" Well, she obviously knew me! Of course, I then exclaimed, "Marcia!" We had worked together late 1990's when she was my Program Specialist while I was teaching at WHS.
I did not really look over all of the 26 names that were joining up on this adventure together and thus it was an unexpected joy to have one other person I knew, who would be on this
trip in Ireland. We were both very excited to share this adventure, unexpectedly, together.
SIDE note: There are 26 members on this trip - 19 bike riders (11 on e-bikes much to Rich's surprise) and 7 riding in companion car/s to share the trip with their spouse. This
was the first time this was being offered for bike riders to bring non-riding spouse/significant other along on the trip. At this point, I was not sure what "they" would be doing, all
I really knew was that I would be riding with 18 other bike riders.
Below is a picture of the Spanish Arch along with a plaque of information.
The
Galway Museum has quite a bit of history and was a lot to take in, within a short period of time. It was full of
artefacts dating back to prehistoric time. Displays included pottery, a currach, Galway hooker (type of ship) and exhibits are changed with inclusion of materials from other museums.
It covers the history of the region (including the islands), Irish independence and there is also an exposition on the sea. The building has great views of the Claddagh, the Spanish Arch, the River Corrib and Galway Bay from the upper windows. No, I didn't take any photos due to being so busy looking at
everything inside of the building! Maybe next time. Did take a picture of the exterior window of the museum and a large wall map of Aran Islands, because we were going there later
in our trip, taking a ferry from Rossaveal, staying the night, and then ferry to Doolin the next day.
Ard Bia at Nimmos (Ard Bia is Gaelic for “high food”) was a popular place and hence as a group we waited around for a bit before the outside table became open and available.
The menu was an eye opener and a little harder to figure out what to order, unlike the pub last night. (Fish & chips, please! LOL) I opted for the beetroot soup (how could that go
wrong) and turned out it was delicious and perfect for eating on a nippy day, outside.
Leaving, we departed along the waterfront after stoppping at
Katie's Cottage which was right in the middle of houses, before heading past Mutton Light Memorial and back to
B&Bs to rest for maybe an hour. Anyway, Katie's Cottage was viewable on the outside but could not see interior. Lot of history here.
Galway has a nice transportation trolley with streamers spread out gaily as it passed on by. We continued walking!
Mutton Light , the Lighthouse which shone the last light to thousands who fled the Great Famine from Galway Port between 1847 & 1850. We walked back to our respective B&Bs to get
off our feet and to get ready for the "Welcoming Dinner" that is the start of the 'real' trip!
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Wait, not done walking yet. Need to get out Google map to find our way back across town to the Park House Hotel for the welcoming dinner. That was a 20 minute walk, one way. Well,
26 people plus John Kennedy (owner of West Ireland Cycling) were situated in a nice banquet room. Gretchen and I walked double quick time because we hadn't realized just how far we
would be hoofing it, in order to arrive on time. The rest of the 6 in our B&B had already departed. We sat down to dinner at a table with Marcia and Ken and Toni. Ken shared that he is
riding and that Marcia would be one of seven in the companion cars. They weren't sure who was going to be the lucky one for experiences, starting tomorrow. And Toni shared that she
works with West Ireland Cycling and would be leader of different bike groups, during our trip. Had a discussion about the routes that had been shared with us containing the links to
'Ride with GPS' for daily rides. Some came through and others did not. She said that would be worked on during the trip.
Rich and Rita have coordinated this whole trip with John Kennedy, and they have all put in a lot of time and elbow grease pulling it together. The highlights described were
Connemara, the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren from
9-17-2022 through 9-24-2022 when we would all be picked up in Kinvarra (after a ride from Ballyvaughan) and transported
back to Galway. The majority of the people in this group live in the Sacramento area. A few outliers were related and/or close friends, and thus joined. So most everyone, knew everyone;
except for Gretchen and myself. We ride with a bike group located in Woodland, called Foy's. Great group. Actually, both are great groups.
September 17th - to Cong - - - Day 1 = approximately 88.5 km ... 55 miles
Use the
"Ride with GPS" app to click on this link-->
Oughterard to Cong
There were three options to ride, to get to Cong. #1) leave from Oughterard (80 km) #2) leave from Costelloe (52 km) #3) leave from Maum Cross (30 km).
Gretchen on a regular bike, and myself on an e-bike, opted for Oughterard trip along with Jay, Scott and group leader Rich (I believe I am the only one on an e-bike with this group). Trust me,
we
did hills today! We left Oughterard, all excited, hyped and ready to go. Got several kilometers out of town and Rich pulls over saying, "this doesn't look familiar to me", I think
we are on the wrong road. Back we went to Oughterard and instead of turning right to go out from where the bikes were dropped off, we should have turned left and proceeded the opposite
direction. Trust me, at this point it was looking all the same to me. Besides, I was busy dealing with learning my bike which was feeling a lot harder than I expected. So, off we go
for Cong, again. LOL First thing was a nice hill. Well, it was a bit steep and everyone had passed me at this point. I am plugging along and it is getting harder and harder. Not
knowing this bike, I had followed instructions given me yesterday, but LED was not lighting up. Finally had to get off the bike and walk it up the hill. My heart was pounding really hard.
Ugh. Had a few questions about whether I was cut out to do this. Not a good feeling. Got to the top and climbed back onto my bike to continue on my way. Up ahead I saw Rich coming
back for me. Embarrassing to say the least. I never like to be the one the group has to stop for. This was a first for me. (Except when I stop to take a picture, but that is different.)
Still, was glad to see a friendly face. I pulled up and showed Rich that my LED was not working. He checked things over and did a doublecheck on battery, giving it a quick hard nudge and
you heard this little 'click'. Dang, it wasn't seated all the way in but you couldn't see that, just looking at it. Anyway, turned on, put it in Economical, and off we went. What a view,
what an exciting hunt for spotting castles, old ruins and just any unique buildings, landscapes, etc.
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Made it up the first really long hill and after a short breather at the top, proceeded to go downhill, very fast; didn't know bikes could go this fast!
Another hill. At one point we stopped and the water looked very inviting for a foot soak. Another time we stopped and nearing the end of a long day, you
just have to have ice cream. Scott treated us and it definitely hit the spot. Thank you Scott.
Traveling through country you have never seen, and viewing history, one absolutely has to stop and take pictures. Rich was very patient with the number of
times one of us would call out, "Got to take a picture". I might have been the one who hollered it more frequently. All's well, I am keeping up with the group
and quite frankly, who doesn't need a short break from 'the saddle'?!!! Hm? LOL . Besides, these buildings are amaziing.
This was the view after going up the steepest hill of the trip, about 7 km outside of Cong. Gorgeous. One of the things I must have, when on my bike, is a map
showing me where I am and where I am going. We lost Rich at the bottom of the last steep hill. His chain jumped, whammed itself down inbetween and there was
no way he could get it free. He called for the van to come pick him up and Gretchen joined us at the top to let us know he was no longer able to travel with us.
No one else had been here before so I plugged the name of the hotel into my phone and we followed it the rest of the way into Cong. Rich has been here before,
but this was all new to the other four of us. We made it. No problem, and many little turns and twists making it in just before dark. We were late for dinner,
but only by about 30 minutes. This was the longest ride for the entire trip.
What I did not know, is that
"The Quiet Man" was filmed in Cong. There were quite a few different displays, showing this part of history for the town.
The following pictures were taken in
Cong. After arriving, we were shown where to park our bikes in a back area that was very secure, locking our
bikes up and making sure we carried our bike pack into the room and I also needed to remove my battery to make sure I charged it overnight.
Cong is a small hamlet and there were some ancient churches right in the middle of everything.
September 18th - walk out to Ashford Castle
This next group of pictures are of the
Ashford Castle. We heard about it over dinner and the next morning Cynde was excited to take us on a quick walking tour
to be able to see it before we all left for Leenaun. Another time where we did a lot of fast walking to get out there and back, in less than an hour. Trust me,
Gretchen and I got our legs warmed up before we even got on our bikes today! We both loved the walk Cynde. First picture shows big picture of where we stayed in
a hotel and where we had to walk out to Ashford Castle and back and back. Cynde and Gretchen are standing in the gateway for the bridge that we had to cross over.
The river contained a structure known as the "Monk's Fishing House" where there was a hole in the floor in which they dropped down caught fish and kept them fresh for when they
needed to supply the castle. Was able to ask the guard of the gateway to Ashford Castle if he would pose for a picture.
The lawn was immense laying out from Ashford Castle.
September 18th - to Leenaun (Leeane) - - Day 2 = approximately 75 km ... 46.6 miles
Ride with GPS link--> Cong to Leenaun and then Doolough Valley Potatoe Famine Memorial
Leaving Cong, we rode through "the woods" looking for fairies and aeries or hidden little bearded men, otherwise known as Leprechaun-like creatures and/or “good people,” or “gentry”,
these fairy folk are supernatural entities named after the grassy mounds that dot the Irish landscape. They are believed to live underground beneath these mounds, or in a parallel
invisible world. John Kennedy was leading the whole group today. Keeping a sharp eye out for “little people" plus sharp turns, and stuff on the road, we all pedaled away on our 2nd
day of adventure. This is the 2nd day of riding and starting to more in our group since we are all starting from the same point. Relaxing a little and enjoying the scenery.
If the sheep were not gathered at the gate, expecting the morning meal then they appeared to be lined up heading up the road. Well trained, they are traveling correctly on the other
side of the road. There was no shepherds anywhere around. Nor dogs.
Heading up a very long hill and the view is breathtaking, looking back while catching our breath at the top. Gretchen on her way up the hill and going nonstop on a regular bike.
Once on top, the valleys were ongoing and plains seemed endless. Then, it was downhill to Leenaun. Definitely excited and loved the ride, coasting as we continued to be amazed at
the changes in Ireland. It is great riding a bike, one sees so much more, than riding in a car.
Everyone stopped and had a bite to eat in Leenaun, before joining back up to ride around the head of the only fjord in Ireland, Killary Fjord before heading out to Doolough Potato
Famine Memorial. It had been more hills than yesterday, plus, I think I was still tired from the long ride as well; so, was down to 3 bars when we arrived in Leenaun. It was another
15 km out to the memorial, plus 15 km back; and so I pulled the charger our of my pack on the bike, unhitched my battery and wandered down the street looking for a plugin. There was a
shop that had all kinds of wool clothing (a little mom & pop kind of store) and I walked in to see if I could plug in my battery. I explained who I was, the group I was with and what
I needed for charging up my battery. The lady was very accommodating and pushed aside a huge pile of clothing to locate a plug. She was very sweet. I told her I needed to go get a
bite to eat (it was now after 2:30 pm) not having had anything since 8:00 this morning, and would be back in a bit to pick it up. She said no worries. Picked up some kind of pastry,
which was really good and then after an hour went back to pick up my battery. It was up to 5 bars again!
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As you can see in the pictures below, the fjord is breathtaking in its own way.
September 18th side trip out to Doolough Valley Potato Famine Memorial
(
Note about family history: My husband shared with me that in his family history, his great grandfather's father, put his great grandfather on a ship from Cork to New York as a cabin boy due to the potato famine
during this time of 1845 to 1849.) The ride out to the memorial went around the head of the only fjord of Ireland and then headed east alongside of it for quite a distance. The last bit
was a steep uphill haul and the gals in the companion cars were being a cheerleading group of encouragement. It was a delight to meet up with them unexpectedly. Marcia took a great
picture of me as I reached the memorial site.
Read the information about the memorial, stood around chatting and then we all started getting back on our bikes (or in cars) and heading back for Leenaun, and dinner.
I hung around after most everyone had left, to try and get a picture of the
memorial without everyone around it. Was last one down the hill and caught up with Jay and rode with him to Aeshleagh Falls. Took some pictures and Jay seemed to be studying the
plaque and so I went across the road to get a picture of the actual falls. Waited around for Jay for awhile and when he didn't come by, I rode back up to the plaque. He wasn't there!
Huh! Guess he didn't see me taking pictures of the falls and thought I had left him behind. Oh well. Off I went and pretty soon, here comes Rita looking for me. When I mentioned I
was waiting for Jay, she said she passed him some time ago and he is heading for Leenaun. Well, to keep up with Rita I put the bike in turbo. Boy she was moving along quickly. The
fun part was she stopped at the Leeane Cemetery looking for a marker of a relative. (Rita, if I am in error please let me know.) Anyway, walked up and down looking for a particular
name but could not find it. (This won't be the last time I stop and help someone find a name of someone in a cemetery on this trip.) Finally, Rita suggested we get back for dinner.
Works for me.
There were a couple more memorials that I stopped and took a picture of on my way back along the fjord. Lot of history and information about the Potato Famine tragedy. More than 600 men
women and children died after walking a great distance seeking help. None was found.
Back at the hotel we were shown where to stash our bikes inside the hotel and again, removing battery and bike pack, and locking it up for the night. After freshening up, went downstairs
for dinner with everyone. I ordered mussels and it turned out that, that was ALL that I got. What a rich plate to try and eat. Whew. Mussels were really good, but won't order that again.
Fortunately there was brown bread on the table and it helped balance the rich dish. Stan ordered the same dish and he ate all of them! Several days later, I happened to see him have
the same order, again. Man loves his mussels! Dinner was fun and it was good to sit down with everyone and share our tips, trips and tickles of the day (photo taken by Ethan). Our
room in the hotel was unique, old worldish, and beautiful. Neverless, tired, tummies full after a big meal, we opted to crawl into bed and quickly dropped off to sleep.
September 19th - to Cliffden - - - Day 3 = approximately 54.5 km ... 33.8 miles
Ride with GPS link--> Leenaun to Kylemore Abbey and then Clifden
Leaving Leenaun, it was another haul up a long steep hill and at the top, Rich parked to make sure all of us made the right hand turn, off of the Wild Atlantic Way. Rita was sweep
person today, making sure all 19 of us were merrily on our way. 3rd day riding and starting to get a feel for the bigger picture. The coordination between Rich and Rita to make sure
we are all doing well and not getting lost. Weather appeared to be overcast and possible rain, definitely colder. Last pictures of the fjord and what appears to be some fish farms.
Gretchen and I joined a group of four or five others and headed for Tully Cross. Views continued to be amazing and breathtaking at times.
First view of Atlantic Ocean is in a little hamlet, Lettergesh. Stopped and took a couple of pictures.
The green amazes me and the buildings reflect time, as it passes.
Traveling with the group, it is always nice to find out where the nearest loo is available and then message is passed along as others arrive. In Tully Cross, there was a pub that
allowed use of their facilities. Gretchen and I are standing in the "city center" of Tully Cross, which is a Y intersection. Was a bit of a steep hill coming up and when we left again,
we veered left. A bit windy and a chill factor causing us to stay in raingear plus warmer clothes, including gloves. Teresa noted I was gloveless and urged me to put on a spare pair
she had. Thank you Teresa, definitely my hands were much warmer and comfortable. After first two days of sunny weather with blue skies, it appears a change is going to bring in some
rain. Not today maybe, but soon.
September 19th - Kylemore Abbey
Leaving Tully Cross, some in the group were going to Letterfrack and turning right to head for Clifden; others, like Gretchen and myself, planned to turn left and headed for Kylemore
Abbey.
At this point there were about 6 or 7 of us traveling together. The road was narrow, windy and uphill a good portion of the time and it makes one feel like they are in an 'alternate'
world. Just looking, looking, and looking as the landscape goes by. Always on the lookout for an ancient building or a castle. Reaching Kylemore Abbey we broke into two groups and Dave,
Gretchen and myself headed for the castle (Abbey). By the time we had walked to the castle, the church and then back the other way to the Gardens, arriving back at our bikes we found
everyone was gone. No bikes anywhere. The three of us headed off for Letterfrack and Clifden, using Ride with GPS and Google maps to make sure we get to the correct place.
September 19th - Kylemore Abbey Gardens
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September 19th - countryside, ruins and then arrival in Clifden!
Gretchen, Dave and I were very happy to arrive in Clifden. Rich, along with others in our group were standing in the 'city center'. We went over to find
out where we were staying. It was in the hotel right behind us. There was a rear location to lock our bikes up in.
Definitely some mullarkey going on around here, but great visuals. Wish I could have been able to take a picture without the cars there. (Note - Mullarkey Family History:
Recorded in many spellings including O'Mullarkey, Mullarkey, Malarkey, Mollarkey, Earc, and even Herrick, this is a famous Irish surname. It is perhaps surprisingly,
a surname of religious origins, the first nameholder being a follower or devotee as they were often called, of St Earc, a 7th century saint. Almost all Irish surnames
have a 'nickname' origin, and this is a good example. The original spelling was as O' Maoilearca, and it is said that the clan migrated from Tirconnell to Connacht in
the 17th century, and are now to be found almost exclusively in the western counties of Sligo, Mayo, and Galway. https://www.ireland101.com/tribe/mullarkey
September 20th - 2nd day in Clifden and Sky Road - - - -
Day 4 = approximately 47 km ... 30 miles
Ride with GPS link--> Around Sky Road...twice
- But first there is a view of an Anglican church, front and back; and the 3rd and 4th pictures are the outside and inside of a Catholic church. Plus, beauty of a flower nearby.
Was able to see an opportunity to get a picture of Clifden, nestled in the hills at the head of the inlet.
And then of course, the harbor and all of its history. Have no idea what that thing is, out in the water in the first and second . Unique shape to say the least and definitely manmade. In the houses
in the far right picture, note the old building of stone, in between the more present day buildings.
Ah, see, fairie land for sure! And of course, the resident guardian keeping watch.
Heather, and views, there is so much looking to do it is hard to stay on the winding road. It was nice how few cars were out here. Could not get enough of the view of the
Atlantic Ocean as well. Walked over to get a close picture of the heather and stepping down into it, did not realize the ground would drop out from under my feet. I yelped
loudly after sitting down due to the pincushion I was now resting my derriere upon. Heather hurried over and helped me clamber back up to the roadside, but I did take two
quick pictures while in the 'sitting' position. Needless say my saddle ride was a bit more uncomfortable until I just told myself, 'ignore it and it will go away'. Worked.
I am finding on this ride how much more I can ask of my body to do and aside from minor complaints from a few whiny sections, overall my body rose to the occasion. Yes!
Oh gosh, castles, castles, what an exciting treasure trove. Lost count of how many different castles we saw.
A rock fence, in the middle of the field starting and ending nowhere. I am sure there is a story behind this one. And the road is going somewhere and looking magical
as we ride along, plus, it is not very wide (common for a lot of roads we rode on). And then happened to see a little grotto, stopping to pay respect with a prayer.
The white fellow out there had its head bent low as well.
What a prime location! These guys definitely have their priorities straight with an excellent view, and are dressed warmly for the weather.
Boats anchored out and what appears to be another fish farm. The third picture, in the row below, shows the strategic location of the castle overlooking the inlet that goes
into Clifden. And, of course, one more fantastic view of the water.
The remains of another old building with walls still standing against time. The orange boat is a lifeboat (like our Coast Guard) and appears tied up to a mooring buoy, ready
to go when called.
Larry, Scott, David, Rita and Linda appeared to be putting their feet up inside the Foyles Hotel, relaxing for a bit, while planning out their evening activities.
September 21st - to Rossaveel, catch ferry to Inis Mór (Aran Islands)...
ride to Dún Aonghasa Fort - - - -
Day 5 = approximately 72.5 km ... 45 miles
Ride with GPS link--> RAINY ride to Rossaveel to catch ferry
Other than the very first picture of Gretchen and myself, (taken halfway through the trip by my phone which I then immediately put away) all of the other pictures in this section
from Clifden to Rossaveel, were taken by Ethan Zeek.
It was too wet to have my phone out and like most everyone else, I was trying to ride safely and stay with the group in order to catch a ferry. No, not the fairy in the
picture below! That one stayed safely behind in Clifden! She did wave goodbye.
Rain came down, rain blew sideways, rain crept inside of edges and soaked us (or some of us) completely! What a wonderful day. Really! We all loved it and the challenge. No
grumblers in this group and stayed pretty close together, following John Kennedy (West Ireland Cycling owner). We departed Clifden following him, to ride through the bog countryside.
The day started of with lots of clouds but no rain for a bit. Then, it started coming down. Rain probably thought it wasn't getting our attention and so it rained more. We continued
riding and so the rain brought in it's friend, 'the wind'. Well, between the two everyone was very busy riding, trying to stay warm and getting to Rossaveel on time to catch a ferry.
In Clifden, getting ready to ride (left to right) first picture is Stan, Sam and Scott. 2nd picture is Natalie, Jay, Ken and Ethan and in the background is Kevin taking a picture of
his mom and dad (Rich and Terri). And underway, heading for the bogs is Scott and Stan and John Kennedy leading the group.
Did I mention it was wet? John would pause every 7 to 10 km to make sure he had the whole group. I think Rita and Rich were bring up the rear to make sure all arrived in Rossaveel.
The first picture is a "we scot", oh I mean, a wet Scott! Next is Natalie, Gretchen (her back is turned) Ethan, and the wet scot. 3rd picture has Dave, Teresa right behind him,
Gretchen in the burgundy, Rich and Terri, and Gail. And fourth picture continuing from left to right is Gail, Rita (in shorts! Really?!!!) and Rebecca (yes, my pants are soaking wet).
John is pausing again to encourage us 'wet rats' to keep going. Almost there. We passed water that reflected the weather's mood for the day.
September 21st - on the vessel: Ceol Na Farraige - to Inis Mór (Inishmore) Island
Below is the ferry we rode on. It was interesting how they got the lines on the dock; from the ferry. 20+ foot long pole with a nice hook on the end along with able-bodied seamen
working together. Captain waited for forward spring line and bow lines to be tied off before than pivoting on a fulcrum, in reverse, to bring the stern to the dock. Nice job. John
and Rich are in the picture and are giving the group a chat up for what's next. Or something like that!. There were other people getting on the same ferry as the 27 of us, and we
took up a lot of seats; as did our luggage!
As the ferry pulled out, being the boat lover that I am, I hopped up to go up top and take a look at the harbor and maybe get some pictures. As the ferry left the harbor I moved
forward to where the pilothouse was located. Standing behind it helped get me out of the wind that was picking up. A gentleman came out of the pilothouse and asked me if I was ok.
After some chat I started asking him questions about the boat. He started giving me details on what type of motors etc., and I asked him if he minded typing it in my text message to
my husband. The gentleman said, where's your husband and I will just tell him. I said, he's in California. The gentleman laughed and said, "wait a sec while I go get my glasses". He
went into the pilothouse and then came back and typed in the information on my phone. After he finished I said it would be really special to take a picture of the bridge. He said,
for me to go back downstairs and go forward on the port side and he would meet me there. Off I went and he was standing at the door to the bridge. Turns out he is the captain of the
boat. Took a picture of the helm, view from the bridge forward, and myself sitting in the first mate's seat along with the captain. The 4th picture on the right is the dock where we
were going to disembark. Loved the ride in the bridge. The ferry travels at 22 knots, has twin caterpillar 2412s with 2500 total horsepower. It is 32 meters in length. It was built
by WaveMaker Austr in 2001. This ferry has been running between mainland and Aran Islands since it was built and today's ride was 45 minutes long from dock to dock. Did get a bit
bouncy once in open water.
September 21st - Inis Mór (Inishmore) Island and Dún Aonghasa Fort
The first two pictures I found on Internet and when you click on either picture, it will take you to the website. The picture on the right is a map of the ride from B&B to Dun Aonghasa
Fort and back again. The hardy few who were still soaking wet, like me, choose to ride out to the fort; the rest made use of a warm van (that could carry up to 20 people) to rest from the
morning labors of wind and rain. There are 26 in our group. 20 rode in the van.
Inis Mór Island website
Ride with GPS link--> ride to Dún Aonghasa Fort on Inis Mór Island
Pier House
After arriving at the dock everyone walked with their bags and crossed the road to check in at the Pier House Guesthouse, Inis Mór, Aran Islands.
There were many different horse and carts, traveling by as we wandered around.
At the desk of Pier House, the gentleman said, "pick a key and that is your room". Gretchen picked up a key and it was for Room #1... oh, five more feet and on ground floor with a
really nice room, plus a kitchen and dining area with a windowed glass patio door with a great view. WOW! Gretchen picked the lucky key.
Dun Aonghasa Fort has a plaque of information, pictures below show the long climb to the fort! Plaque is at the entrance and there is a doorway view of another portion of the fort,
plus the view looking back towards town and another view out a window, seaward.
View looking out to the Atlantic Ocean to the left and then the next set is view to the right.
View looking straight down, to the water.
On the walk back to the bikes, bunker was barely visible through the greenery. A nearby building was getting a new hairdo!
Walking around town showed numerous old buildings (ruins) that are timeless.
Buildings make use of materials available and stand the weathering of time. We all gathered at Tí Joe Watty’s for dinner that evening. My fish and chips plate (Scott was able to
eat the other half of my fish, I could not eat both halves)! Stan the 'Mussel Man (yes, he is eating another platter of mussels)! Company was wonderful with Brenda, Scott , Stan ,
Cynde, Gretchen, Teresa, and Natalie.
Walked by the remains of an old church. Attendants were very calm. In town was a unique stand showing distances to towns. On the waterfront, found another heron to get a picture of,
and appears to have a black cape on it's shoulders. And our view of the harbor from Pier House was beautiful
September 22nd - to Doolin on ferry - - - - Day 6 = approximately 22.6 km ... 14 miles 😕
Ride with GPS link--> ride to Cliffs of Moher
This is where we had the opportunity to get a picture of the whole group; well almost everyone: missing Judy, Natalie and Ethan.
Beautiful day on the water and one stop before arriving in Doolin.
There were four ferries, moving around: one was tied to the dock, one was backing out with a third one coming in from the left, plus our ferry pulling in. No one touched anyone's
sides as they entered and left. Great captains.
Old forts are on all three of Aran Islands. We passed the middle island and stopped at the third one. Quick docking and embarking and shoving off by everyone. There
also appeared to be a large ship, on shore, that has sat there for a long time.
Entrance to Doolin appeared challenging, going in channels between rocks.
Cliffs of Moher and Hag's Head
John guided us to our various B&B's and set a meeting time and location to head off for the Cliffs of Moher and Hag's Head. It turned out to be a very long uphill ride to the top
of the cliffs.
Spectacular views and first 3 are the Cliffs of Moher and the last one was a distant view of Hag's Head.
Ride with GPS link--> I rode around in Doolin, visited locals
September 23rd - to Ballyvaughan - - - - Day 7 = approximately 39.6 km ... 24.6 miles
Ride with GPS link--> Doolin to Ballyvaughan
Doolin Cave
We walked a lot of steps, going down into Doolin Cave and through tunnels where you had to watch your head (hard helmets required) to see an amazing stalagmite. Once we arrived at the
end and viewed the stalagmite, back through the tunnels we went and back up the stairs again. Very interesting sidetrek in history.
The Burren
The word “Burren” comes from an Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place.
John O'Donohue
Remember the search in Leenaun by Rita, looking for a gravestone? Well, I said it would not be the last time I would help someone to look for a gravestone. When my group arrived in
the little hamlet,Fanore for a quick break, I saw the old Craggagh Cemetary and so I circled back to get some pictures. Scott came up and said he has a good friend back home that
wanted him to take a picture of the gravestone of poet by the name of John O'Donohue. Turns out he was born and raised here, before going on to do great things. We started looking
at the front (i.e the side next to the road), walking all the way to the back and began running out of time. Scott said he wished he had a picture of the gravestone so he would know
what it looked like. I thought, Aha, I can do that and so googled "John O'Donohue grave marker picture" and doggone if one didn't pop up. We both looked at the picture and as you can
see from the tombstone Scott is standing next to (it is on his left) it was pretty distinctive and much easier to find, once we know what to look for. Here is a quote by the poet:
“To be holy is to be home, to be able to rest in the house of belonging that we call the soul.” John O’Donohue
Next stop was at Fanore beach and nearby was a school with a nice wall mosaic. Then stairs up inside of a castle to get the view from the top. More exercise.
Aillwee and Burren experience
Stayed at the B&B Ballyvaughan Lodge. The loo was definitely set up to accommodate. And the beds definitely fill up the room. This was common whereever we stayed
and definitely comfortable and clean accommodations.
September 24th - to Kinvarra - - - - Day 8 = approximately 40.2 km ... 24.9 miles
Ride with GPS link--> Ballyvaughan to Kinvara
Poll na Brón (Poulnabrone) Dolmen
Situated on the high Burren limestone plateau, Poll na Brón (Poulnabrone) Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most iconic archaeological monuments and is the second-most visited
location in the Burren, after the Cliffs of Moher. It is the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland.
Caherconnell Fort
The Burren Perfumery
September 24th back to Galway
Arrived in Kinvara to be picked up by West Ireland Cycling vans and/or taxis to ride back to Galway.
Was fascinated by the long narrow ship with unique tools in the cockpit. Have no idea what this ship does that tied up to a mooring buoy in the harbor.
September 25th - in Dublin
Gretchen and I departed on the CityLink bus for Dublin, to explore. First pictures are the surreal feeling of leaving, captured in the photos. And arrival in Dublin's
narrow roadways.
Walking around Dublin, there was so much to see, and just a short day to complete all wishes and views. After much discussion we visited several churches, castles, parks and
numerous other sites; but we did not catch it all!
Below is poetry spectacular by Judy Thretheway. The pictures are of Aeshleagh Falls that we passed by on our way out to the Doolough Valley Pototo Famine Memorial
located outside of Leenaun (Leeane), Ireland.
Catching a Whiff of a Place
by Judy Tretheway
Following gravities call
the water
falls
cascading
over the rocks
Beckoning us in for a visit.
While mates keep Flowing along
entangled in friendly conversations,
The quiet
still
waters
of the eddy gather me in.
The salmón ascend
Following the call of their dna.
While I drift into the descent
Of luminescence Becoming reflection
Drawn down
beneath the surface
Eavesdropping
on the conversation
between clouds above and below
Ignored by
The lichen crusted Rocks
holding space for the centuries passing by
And the other two legged moving around me.
Here at the juncture of the roadway and the river Erriff,
Slipping Inside the crests and valleys of the river’s
ripples and reflections
I catch a whiff of this place
as the rain begins.
The fragile surrendering into the larger conversation of place
Shatters as my attention
scatters
In the scurry back to the car
Brushing aside
The gray green gorse as it
Thrusts out it name introducing itself
With pricks to my thighs.
Traveling on
We come to the intersection
Of road and ocean
Flowing with the tide’s pull,
Drawn by the moon
Onto the beach.
The rain holds its breath
My feet feel last night’s conversation
Of ocean, moon, beach, and sand
Tossing and turning my steps,
Claiming a sharp quality to my attention.
Undulations of sand
Reflecting patterns of
Tide and time
Calling forward into this moment
bits and bobs
intersecting journeys —
The moon’s and mine,
Ripples and pools,
Time and stillness —
I catch a glimmer,
a whiff
Of this place
And rest
with the Isolated gulps of sea water
Before being swallowed
once more by the sea.
Soon enough
the tide of the traveler turns, and I’m
washed up off the beach
and on to the road again.
Judy Tretheway
Connemara, Ireland
September 2022
38' 1988 Bayliner Motoryacht
32' 1988 Bayliner Motoryacht
2556 1988 Bayliner Ciera
24' 1972 Bayliner Saratoga
© 2006 John Pratt ©
