Uncork the Color

Sky Road, Kylemore Abbey, & Galway Bay

Day 6:

We said goodbye to Allan, Kathleen, and Mallmore Country House and traveled to the opposite side of Clifden Bay where we drove the Sky Road Drive to a lookout point over Clifden Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.  The road was a bit narrow with steep edges, but the amazing view at the top was certainly worth it!!  On the way back down, we were treated to a great view of Clifden Castle (now in ruins) and a beautiful look at the town of Clifden with the Twelve Bens mountain range in the distance.

Next we made our way to Kylemore Abbey.  This former family home, now Benedictine Abbey is nestled between the mountains and lakes of Connemara in a truly unbelievable and peaceful setting!!  We did not have enough time to explore all that Kylemore had to offer, but what we did see was simply breathtaking!!

Sadly, our departure time arrived.  So, we hopped in the car and began our journey back south to Co. Clare.  We traveled through the scenic Inagh Valley back to Galway and on to Ballyvaughan on the shores of Galway bay at the edge of the Burren.  Driving was quite a challenge as most of the roads were much narrower than I’m used to with no shoulder, edged by stone walls on both sides which were often covered in vegetation that would tap the passenger window and side mirror.  To keep things interesting, we had to keep an eye out for rogue sheep who decided to take a nap on the edge of the road and dodge the many bicyclists who were out for a ride.  A bit hair-raising at times, but we made it!!

We had a wonderful dinner of garlic crab claws at Monks on the pier in Ballyvaughan overlooking Galway Bay and had a great chat with an Irish couple at the next table.

Hazelwood Lodge gave us a great night’s rest with a lovely breakfast the next morning.  Breakfast started with a yogurt and fresh fruit plate which included our first taste of Passion Fruit.  Next came a Belgian waffle with fresh strawberries and cream, banana walnut bread, orange carrot bread, and a buffet of cheeses and smoked meats, etc.  One thing is for sure – the hospitality of the Irish truly lives up to its reputation.  We were so well-fed and well-cared for our entire trip!!

Check back for Day 7 where we visit the Burren, the famed Cliffs of Moher, and on to the Dingle Peninsula!

God’s Blessings & Joy Be To You,
Gena

PS – Please feel free to leave your comments or questions below.  I’d love to hear your thoughts and answer any questions you might have about our trip!