Guide to Western
Ireland - Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, Westport, Knock
Connemara is one of the distinct regions of Ireland.
With its rugged scenery, craggy mountain peaks, and isolated lakes, it is a
stark contrast to the rolling green fields found in many of the other
regions of Ireland.
If you are traveling anywhere in Commemara, be sure to
stop at Kylemore Abbey. This is the monastic home of the Benedictine
Order of Nuns in Ireland, and it is a photographic treat (see our photos on
the accompanying page). This is one of the most impressive sights we
experienced during our visit to Ireland. The nuns operate a day school
for girls, and nearly all of the interior of the abbey is off limits to the
public, but the exterior is well worth the visit. The school is
nearing the end of its operation, and is due to be closed in 2010. The
long-term prospects for the abbey are unknown.
In the same general area as Kylemore Abbey, the town
of Westport is in County Mayo. Westport was one of a number of very
quaint, attractive, small (just over 5,000 residents) Irish towns.
It's a good stopping place to have lunch and do some shopping.
Also in County Mayo is the Knock Shrine. In 1879,
Our Lady, St. Joseph, and St. John appeared at the south gable of the Church
at Knock. The apparition was witnessed by fifteen people, and the
Knock Shrine was officially recognized by the Catholic church when Pope John
Paul II visited the shrine in 1979.
Travel tips for Connemara
-
The Kylemore Abbey has a large parking lot, a
cafeteria, and clean restroom facilities. The abbey also has an
extensive gift shop, with a variety of Irish souvenirs.
-
Plan on stopping when you can on the roads in
Connemara. There will be numerous photo opportunities.
-
There is ample parking in the public lot behind the main street in
Westport, where you will also find a free-standing pay toilet (see
photo).
| |
Ireland
Travel Guides & Travel Tips |
|
 |
Irish Restaurants |
|
|
|
Ireland Hotels |
|
|
|
Shannon, Limerick
& Bunratty |
|
|
|
Western Ireland
- Galway, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, Westport, Knock |
|
|
|
Northwestern
Ireland
- Bundoran & Donegal |
|
|
|
Northern Ireland
- Belfast, Derry, Giant's Causeway |
|
|
|
Eastern Ireland
- Dublin, Knowth, Ballyknocken House |
|
|
|
Southeasten
Ireland
- Kilkenny, Waterford |
|
|
|
Southern Ireland
- Kerry & Cork Counties |
|
