Atlantic View Cottages

Day 2

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Quiet Man Bridge, County Galway

On The Map: The Quiet Man Bridge is located five miles from the village of Oughterard, in County Galway in the west of Ireland.

The Quiet Man Bridge is internationally famous as a location for the 1951 movie, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The film is regarded as one of the top 100 ever made, and tourists by the busload stop to photograph it. Leam Bridge, as it is known locally, is in a condition almost identical to 1951. This is the bridge where Wayne's character, Sean Thornton dreams of his youth in the opening scenes of the movie and hears his dead mother's voice describing White O'Morn cottage. More than 50 years have passed since Irish-American director John Ford shot his classic movie, but interest in the film has never been stronger. Shot on location in the west of Ireland John Ford’s beloved romantic comedy The Quiet Man has been celebrated for its larger-than-life portrayal of the Emerald Isle. Most of the Quiet Man outdoor scenes were shot in various locations in counties Galway and Mayo - mainly around the scenic Maam Valley on the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle and the nearby village of Cong.

Cong, County Mayo

On the Map: Cong is located in County Mayo in the midwest of Ireland. The village is 45 minutes/ 43km north of Galway City, and is most easily accessed via the R334/R346 road that intersects with the main N84 road connecting Galway & Castlebar cities.

Cong is without doubt most famous for being the location of John Ford's 1951 classic, "The Quiet Man", starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The Quiet Man Cottage Museum allows visitors to relive the movie as if actually on-set.  Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artifacts, costumes - etc. are authentic reproductions. The majestic remains of Cong Abbey are the relics of an Augustinian abbey founded in the 12th century by Turlough O'Connor, King of Connaught and High King of Ireland.  The Cross of Cong, an ornate processional cross intended for the abbey, is now in Dublin's National Museum. Ashford Castle, perhaps Ireland's most exquisite castle hotel is located just outside the village.

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre, County Clare

On the Map: Aillwee Cave is located in the north of County Clare in the west of Ireland. The Caves are off the R479 road, just west of the village of Ballyvaughan. Although one of the oldest in Ireland, Aillwee Cave is still a fairly recent discovery. It is one of the few caves which has all the features of Clare underground - great caverns, bridged chasms, stalactites, subterranean rivers - and which is easily accessible to the general public. Before Aillwee Cave was opened to the public in 1976 its entrance was only a chink in a cliff face. The man who discovered the cave was Jacko McGann, a herdsmen on Aillwee Hill for many years. Mr. McGann explored much of the cave by candlelight. In 1973, cavers continued to explore as far as a massive fall of boulders that sealed the passage. The cavers mapped the cave passages, a total of 210m. In 2008, The Birds of Prey Centre opened at Aillwee Cave. The centre allows visitors a rare glimpse at these magnificent animals, some of which are endangered. Hawks, falcons, vultures, owls and eagles all feature in this most wonderful of settings.

The Burren, County Clare

On the Map: The Burren is located in the north of County Clare in Ireland's west. The closest town is Ballyvaughan to the north, but the Burren is also easily accessible from Doolin, Lisdoonvarna (to the west) and Ennis (to the south).

The Burren, or Boireann, meaning Great Rock, is in County Clare. It is, without dispute, one of the most unique - and strangest - landscapes in Europe. The Burren occupies approximately 250 square kilometers. Bounded by the Atlantic on the west and rocked by Galway Bay to the north, it is a multi-layered landscape where rare and delicate plants have adapted in order to thrive and flourish between harsh crevices. Stroll the meadows, be astonished by the boulders, and read the trail marks and footprints that the ice age and volcanoes left behind. The Burren is littered with ancient and megalithic sites. The most dramatic of these is the Poulnabrone Dolmen, an impressive 5,000 year old portal tomb. Poulnabrone is one of the most famous megalithic monuments in Ireland. Just how the people of the time managed to get the truly massive capstone in place, is a mystery which continues to baffle archaeologists.

Day 3

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Spanish Point, County Clare

On The Map: Spanish Point is located in County Clare on the west coast of Ireland. The seaside village is accessed via the R478 road, which loops from the N67 connecting Lahinch to the northeast, and Kilkee to the southwest. Spanish Point takes it’s name from the unfortunate Spanish who died here in 1588, when many ships of the Spanish Armada were wrecked during stormy weather. Those who survived the wrecking and sinking of their ships and made it to land were executed by Sir Turlough O'Brien of Liscannor and Boethius Clancy, High Sheriff of County Clare at the time. Nowadays Spanish Point is a lot more welcoming to visitors! Holiday-makers enjoy the beach and seaside activities that are available here during the summer, swelling the local population each year. Spanish Point is one of County Clare's lesser known beaches, making it an attractive spot to visit all year round - especially for those seeking scenic beauty, peace and tranquillity.

Loop Head, County Clare

On The Map: The Loop Head peninsula is situated in the southwest corner of County Clare on Ireland's western Atlantic coast. In 2010, the Loop Head Peninsula was acclaimed as a European Destination of Excellence (one of only 22 chosen throughout Europe). The Peninsula offers some of the most beautiful scenic views, walks, untouched traditional Irish landscapes and the cleanest air that you are likely to experience anywhere in Europe. The scenic Loop Head drive, which starts in Kilkee town, heads along the spectacular, rugged coastline to Loop Head Lighthouse. As well as breathtaking cliff walks with wild scenic views, ruined promontory forts and early oratories, there are many more sites not to miss. To mention a few - the natural bridge (Bridges of Ross - pictured), the Moneen Church with its 'Little Ark' - a wooden mobile hut, which once served as a church in earlier times, as well as a number of rare birds, whales, dolphins and seals. On a fine day you can see the hills of Connemara to the north and the mountains of Kerry to the south.

Lahinch, County Clare

On the Map: Lahinch is a seaside town in County Clare, on Ireland's rugged western coast. The town is accessed via the N85 road from Ennis (to the southeast), or the more coastal N67 road from Lisdoonvarna (to the north) and Miltown Malbay (to the south).

The village of Lahinch is world renowned for two things: golf and surf. Lahinch Golf Club was founded in 1893 and has been confounding golfers from all over the world ever since. Matched only by Ballybunion in the famous links stakes, Lahinch is a must for anyone who loves the game of golf. The long sandy beach at Lahinch has long been a centre for surfing in the west of Ireland, but the recent discovery of a giant wave in the shadow of the Cliffs of Moher a few miles up the coast has brought dare-devil surfers flocking to Lahinch from as far away as South Africa and Hawaii. The result is that the village’s population of 800 swells to ten times that number each summer. The mix of golfers, surfers and bemused locals makes Lahinch a very unique place indeed.

Day 4

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Sky Road, Clifden, County Galway

On The Map: The Sky Road drive begins in Clifden Town. Clifden is located on Ireland's west coast in the Connemara Region of County Galway. Clifden is reached via the N59 road from Galway to the southeast, and Westport to the northeast.

The Sky Road is an exhilarating 11km/7ml circular drive west of Clifden Town. The Sky Road is well signposted from Clifden. You will first pass Abbeyglen Castle Hotel (on your left), and after approx 400 metres beyond the hotel, take a look back towards Clifden. The 12 Bens mountains provide a wonderful backdrop to the town, and its two church spires, complete Clifden's distinctive skyline. The scenery along the Sky Road is quite simply, stunning. As you travel, the Sky Road separates into the lower and upper roads. The lower road takes you along the shoreline, and although pleasant, the upper road is more popular, owing to the commanding views it offers over the entire area. As the upper road rises, you are treated to breathtaking island & coastline views. There is a good-sized car park at the highest point of the upper road for wonderful photo opportunities. If you continue along the Sky Road thereafter, you will eventually join the main N59 Road, a few kilometres north of Clifden.

Connemara, County Galway

On the Map: Connemara encompasses a large area northwest of Galway City in the west of Ireland. It is most easily accessed via the N59 road that loops around the region and connects the cities of Galway (to the southeast) & Westport (to the northeast).

This striking region is one of the few places left in the country where the native language, Gaeilge, is still spoken as a first language. Stopping in the fishing village of Roundstone, you’ll spot currachs, old-style featherweight row boats, still being used daily. The village has an impressive crafts complex, selling everything from teapots and hand-knit sweaters to traditional Irish musical instruments.

In Connemara you will be constantly enchanted by the ever-changing scenery of mountains and valleys, lakes, bays, and beaches. This is Ireland's big sky country.

Galway, County Galway

On the Map: Galway is a coastal city, located in County Galway in the west of Ireland. Galway is well-served by a good network of roads - the M6/N6 from Dublin (to the east) and M18/N18 from Limerick & Cork (to the south).

In a recent nationwide survey the people of Galway were found to be Ireland's happiest! And visiting Galway City, the capital of their county it is not hard to see why. It is a lively university city of narrow streets, quaint shopfronts, bustling pubs and stunning surrounding scenery. It has always attracted a bohemian mix of musicians, artists and intellectuals and that attitude is palpable as you walk the streets. Galway has been commercially important since the 11th century when it was a centre for trade with Spain and Portugal. In 1477 Christopher Columbus paid a visit. Galway earned the title “City of the Tribes” around that time, when it was ruled by 14 wealthy merchant families. Today it is lively, with loads of things to do, and is so popular that it can get very crowded in summer, especially during the annual Galway Races. The annual Arts Festival also attracts thousands, especially for its street parade, organized by the multi-award winning production company, Macnas. Its famous Druid Theatre produces and stages plays and has toured internationally, winning awards, including Tonys on Broadway.

Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

On the Map: Kylemore Abbey is located in County Galway, in the midwest of Ireland. The Abbey is accessed via the N59 road that connects the towns of Clifden (to the southwest) and Westport (to the northeast). 

Set in the Connemara mountains is Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful neo-Gothic Castle. Given it's picture-perfect location, Kylemore is often touted as Ireland's most romantic castle. Built by the English industrialist Mitchell Henry in 1868, visitors to the three reception rooms in the Abbey are touched by its history steeped in romance and tragedy. Kylemore Castle was sold to Benedictine nuns fleeing war-torn Belgium in 1920 and the Castle became an Abbey. The Community of Nuns re-opened their International Boarding School here and also established a day school for local girls. Mitchell Henry built the recently re-opened Neo-Gothic Church (under restoration) between 1877 and 1881 as a memorial to his wife following her untimely death. The Church, a ‘cathedral in miniature’, is a centre of reflection and prayer for many visitors. Visitors can also see the Mausoleum where the original owners are buried.

Day 5

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Quin Village, County Clare

On The Map: Quin Village is located just 10km east of Ennis town. From Ennis, on the R469 road. The R469 is accessible from Ennis via either Station Road (past Ennis Cathedral) or the long and straight Clonroad. Ennis Bus & Train Station is located on right as soon as you turn onto the R469.

Quin is a quaint, unspoiled village in southeast County Clare. The village's main attraction, Quin Abbey (pictured), founded in 1433, is open to the public, and although mostly ruined, much of the structure remains. The abbey was built on the foundations of an earlier Norman castle, and evidence of its corner towers can still be seen. Father Hogan, the last Franciscan occupant of the abbey died in 1820 - his burial site can be visited on the grounds. Quin Abbey, though impressive, will likely not be the most well-preserved medieval structure you visit in Ireland. It's not very well known though, and you may well find yourself alone on the site, which we find very alluring! The village itself is a charming, peaceful spot, with a few very nice places to stop for lunch or dinner - we can highly recommend either the Abbey Tavern or Quincy's.

Knappogue Castle and Walled Garden, County Clare

On The Map: Knappogue Castle is located just 3.5 kilometres southeast of Quin Village in southern County Clare. Follow signs along the R469 road.

Knappogue Castle was built in 1467 by Sean MacNamara, son of Sioda (who built Bunratty Castle), and is a magnificent example of a medieval tower house. A wonderful feature of the castle and its grounds, is the beautiful walled garden (pictured). Dating from 1817, the garden is now restored to its former splendour. The tall and imposing walls of the walled garden are resplendent with climbing roses, grapevines and many clematis varieties. In the magical setting of Knappogue Castle, this is a romantic oasis to sit and picnic, or just escape the 'madding crowd'. In the 1920s, a cow belonging to a local farmer wandered into the ruinous castle, stepped onto a crumbling wood floor, and fell to its death. As compensation for the lost cow, ownership of the castle and its surrounding lands were granted to the farmer! The castle and lands continued to be used for grazing until 1966 when Mark Edwin Andrews of Houston, TX purchased the Estate. He and his wife (a prominent American architect), in collaboration with Shannon Development, carried out an extensive and sensitive restoration, returning the Castle to its former 15th Century glory. **Please note that Knappogue is only open from May to August each year.**

Bunratty, County Clare

On the Map: Bunratty is located in the west of Ireland in County Clare. The main N18/M18 road connecting the cities of Limerick (to the south) & Ennis (to the north) passes right by the village. Shannon Airport is only 15 minutes to the west, also accessed via the N18/M18.

In Bunratty Village, one can enjoy the medieval grandeur that awaits in Bunratty Castle and its lively Folk Park. The castle, overlooking the River Shannon, is in excellent condition and well worth a visit. It is one of the finest surviving examples of an Irish tower house, and it's current peaceful and picturesque state belies its bloody and violent history. The strategic location of the castle on the river Shannon ensured it was the focal point of many battles, and it has it has been destroyed and re-built on at least eight occasions. The Folk Park adjoins the castle and vividly portrays what everyday life was like in rural Ireland about 100 years ago. It contains reconstructed farmhouses, cottages and shops, replete with authentic furnishings. The Park is a living museum: animals are tended, bread is baked, milk is churned, walls are whitewashed and roofs are thatched. You may visit an Irish farmhouse, watch the blacksmith fit a horseshoe, or attend a weaving demonstration. The village also reflects the fundamental changes that led to increased mobility in Irish society. Once you've explored the Castle & Folk Park, be sure to sample a relaxing cup of tea and freshly baked scones in one of the quaint thatched cottage cafes. The famous Durty Nelly's pub is in the heart of town, adjacent to the castle.

Craggaunowen, County Clare

On The Map: Craggaunowen is located in County Clare, in the west of Ireland. From Ennis Town, take the R469, heading east towards the village of Quin. Drive through Quin, and approx. 6 kilometres thereafter, take a signposted left turn off the R469, to travel the last few kilometres to Craggaunowen. Craggaunowen – the Living Past Experience is Ireland’s original award winning Pre-historic Park. Situated on 50 acres of wooded grounds, the Park interprets Ireland’s pre-historic and early Christian eras. Visitors can view replicas of a Crannóg, Ring Fort, Iron Age Roadway, and an outdoor cooking site. Crannogs are lake or lakeside settlements which were inhabited from the Mesolithic to the Early Medieval period. The name is derived from the Irish word 'crann', meaning tree. Crannogs may have developed from a habit of living on small natural islands, either as a means of exploiting the fish and wild fowl, or for providing security in times of danger. Craggaunowen Castle, built in 1550, stands defiantly on a crag overlooking the lake. Another important attraction at Craggaunowen is the 'Brendan Boat' - the leather-hulled vessel in which Tim Severin sailed from Ireland to the United States in 1976, re-enacting the voyage of St. Brendan the Navigator, reputed to have discovered America in the 6th century. Be sure to savour some wonderful homemade fare in the charming farmhouse tea-room! **Please note that Craggaunowen is only open from mid-April to September each year.**

Day 6

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary

On the Map: Cashel is located in County Tipperary in the southern midlands of Ireland. The main M8 motorway connecting the major cities of Dublin (to the northeast) and Cork (to the southwest) passes right by the town.

The Rock of Cashel (Carraig Phádraig), more formally St. Patrick's Rock, is also known as Cashel of the Kings. One of the most visited sites in Ireland, The Rock is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of limestone, looming above the town of Cashel, County Tipperary. There is a 12th Century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century castle and the Hall of the Vicars. Long before the Norman invasion The Rock of Cashel was the seat of the High Kings of Munster, although there is little structural evidence of their time here. Most of the buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries when the rock was gifted to the Church. The buildings represent both Hiberno-Romanesque and Germanic influences in their architecture. The complex has a character of its own, unique and native, and is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe.

Open Hours:

Mid March. – Mid Oct.  Daily  9am – 5:30pm  Last admission at 4:45pm Mid Oct. – Mid March  Daily  9am – 4:30pm  Last admission at 3:45pm

Glen of Aherlow, County Tipperary

On the Map: The Glen of Aherlow is located in County Tipperary in the southern midlands of Ireland. It stretches from the N24 road, just south of the heritage town of Tipperary, through sixteen miles of unspoilt countryside.

The Glen of Aherlow is a quiet country valley, secluded but not isolated, and affords some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. The Glen sits between the Galtee mountains on the south and the Slievenamuck Ridge on the North. The Galtees, Ireland's highest inland mountain range, boast five spectacular corrie lakes, dominated by a variety of magnificent peaks including Galteemore at 3,018 ft. This expansive vista is further enhanced by the many streams cascading down the face of the mountain. The foothills are forested, as is the 12 miles of the Slievenamuck ridge, providing the walker with a variety of delightful woodland trails.

Lough Gur, County Limerick

On the Map: Lough Gur is located in the southwestern midlands of Ireland in County Limerick - 21km southeast of Limerick City. To reach Lough Gur from Adare, head north on the N21 until it intersects with the N20. Follow the N20 south (signposted Cork) before exiting at the R516 road (signposted Croom). Follow the R516 east, until turning north onto the R512 in Bruff Village. Lough Gur is signposted thereafter.

Lough Gur is one of Ireland’s archaeological and historical hidden gems. From the level surrounding countryside, the beautiful and enchanted lake unfolds the beauty of its placid waters and rugged hills – a fairyland of stone circles, ancient habitation sites, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles. Lough Gur tells the story of the pre-Celtic settlers who first came to the area over 5,500 years and continues to the present day in the people who still dwell and farm in the locality. It is an archaeological site of outstanding significance. A visitor centre was built in 1980 and uses the design of two of the excavated stone age houses as its plan. The Centre houses a number of displays covering stone age and bronze age implements, pottery and weaving.  A slide show offers a very good overview of the area's history.

Ennis, County Clare

On the Map: Ennis is located in County Clare in the west of Ireland, only 20 minutes from Shannon Airport. Ennis lies just off the major N18/M18 motorway that connects the cities of Limerick (to the south) & Galway (to the north).

Ennis is the county town of Clare and is always pleasantly busy. It takes its name from the Irish word “inis” (island) as it is virtually surrounded by the River Fergus on which it sits. Its streets are narrow and attractive, many of them pedestrianized. The Friary at the bottom of Abbey Street, was founded by the O’Briens in the 13th century. Many of its original features survive and it’s well worth visiting. But the main attraction in Ennis is the locals' obvious love of traditional music. Every May the town hosts Fleadh Nua, an international celebration of Irish culture, while in November, the Ennis Trad Festival is held. But traditional Irish music of the very highest quality is on display in the pubs of Ennis throughout the year. It often seems that those in the town that can't sing or play an instrument are very much in the minority! The person who recently labeled Ennis the Nashville of traditional Irish music wasn't far wrong!

Day 7

Accommodation

Wild Ocean Views B & B - Doolin, County Clare

Check in policies:

Check-in time is usually between 3.00 & 5.00pm on your arrival day.
Please contact the proprietor TJ Kerins, the day before arrival to discuss your arrival time and pick up of keys.

From an international phone call: +353 65 682 8282

From an Irish phone please call: 65 682 8282

Suggested Sightseeing

Aran Islands, County Galway

On the Map: The Aran Islands are located off counties Clare & Galway on Ireland's rugged western coast. There are three islands - Inishmore (largest), Inishmaan & Inisheer (smallest). The islands are most easily accessible by ferry from the port of Rossaveal, County Galway - 45 minutes/ 36km west of Galway City. Thay are also accessible by ferry from Doolin pier - a very good option if day-tripping to Inisheer.

On the islands, you can immerse yourself in the rich Celtic culture among people who speak Gaelic as their first language, and experience a whole different way of life. Here you will find that the 1,500 people that inhabit these islands are quite removed from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. One of the most famous attractions on the island of Inishmore is the ancient stone fort of Dun Aengus. This fort dates back to the Celtic Iron Age around the first century AD and is perched atop spectacular 300 foot cliffs that drop straight down to the Atlantic. Please note that the cost of the ferry to the Aran Islands is not included in the land price above. It must be purchased independently while in Ireland. We recommend booking a day or two in advance. Further information and ferry schedules may be found on the following website: http://www.aranislandferries.com. Depending on your itinerary, it may work better to take a ferry from Doolin Pier in County Clare. Info and schedules are available here: http://www.doolinferries.com/

Day 8

Depart From

Depart from Shannon Airport, County Clare

Return to Shannon Airport three hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. Shannon is a small, convenient airport, so this will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.

After check-in and passenger security, browse the array of shops on offer at 'The Loop' in Shannon Airport. Shannon is proud of its 'Duty Free' shops, and it should be: The concept of Duty-Free shopping was invented at Shannon in 1947!