Killary Fjord and the Doo Lough Valley
On our way to Westport we passed through the Killary Fjord and the Doo Lough Valley. As beautiful as the valley is, it has a sad history - during the Famine hundreds of starving people walked through here hoping their landlord would provide food for his starving tenants. They were turned away and many of them died on the walk back. The Famine Cross commemorates that tragedy in this very haunting area. Further up the road is the sacred mountain Croagh Patrick, where St. Patrick is believed to have spent a Lenten fast. In the shadow of Croagh Patrick is the Coffin Ship, a memorial to the Famine. If you look closely you will see that the sails are actually skeletons, representing the many emigrants who died as a result of overcrowded ships and rancid food.
And then there's the bog bounce!
The Doo Lough Valley is also home to a bog. Jumping on the bog reminded us of being kids jumping on the bed.
Westport
We overnighted in the quaint town of Westport, halfway between Galway and Portrush. It features Matt Molloy's Pub, famous for owner Matt Molloy of The Chieftains, whose albums are part of our music collection at home. Greg and Marianne joined us there for supper, then we walked back to the hotel to enjoy the button art on display in the lobby.
Food, Glorious Food
Kaleidoscope: Westport |
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Cover photo: Ashford Castle
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