Mayo Ireland

Day 72/Ireland 6

Travelled:193km through Sligo into Mayo County along the Wild Atlantic Way

Visited: Glencar Falls, Aughris Head, Easky Pier, Killala, Kilcummin Harbour, Lackan Strand, Downpatrick Head, Benwee Head

Stay: Kilgalligan Co.Mayo- beach parking N54.3018 W9.8420

It was another day of surprises in Ireland. We began with a lovely short walk to Glencar Waterfall which served as inspiration to Yeats in the poem ‘The Stolen Child’. 

We then drove through Sligo stopping briefly to view the ruins of the Abbey. 

Too early for a a Guinness 

We then had breakfast at Aughris Head. 

At Easky Pier we managed a quick walk to the Roslee Castle Ruins before the rain. 

This area is well known to experienced surfers but no waves today. 

It was pelting down as we drove through Enniscrone which has a long sandy beach that obviously attracts lots of holiday makers. By the time we reached Ballina Quay the rain had eased and it was time for lunch which we ate whilst the small boats bobbed in the water around the huge wreck of an old ship. 

Our next stop was Killala where we learnt that it had played an important role during the rebellions of 1798. 

We went for a walk around town.

Corner pub.

We also went to have a look where the French landed to help with this battle in Kilcummin. 

The French are still welcome here...





Couldn’t get over the colour of the moss on these rocks.

At the popular sandy beach situated in Lackan Bay horses would race. 

The highlight of the day was visiting Downpatrick Head. 

That’s Bluey..

Named after St.Patrick who founded a church here and is still a pilgrim site. 

But it is the rocky cliffs that are truely amazing with their layers and numerous caves and blowholes. 

The sea stack called Broken Fort also offers great photo opportunities as well as the lumpy grass.

 There was a sad history here of the rebellion in 1798 where people died. 

We then drove through bog land where peat harvesting was in full force.

 We managed to dodge the sheep and eventually arrived at Benwee Head.

 We enjoyed the views of the lovely cliffs and then went to spend the night at the nearby beach.