Today our group drove through the Connemara area, beginning at Galway. We first stopped at Cong, the town/abbey close to Ashford Castle. This castle has been renovated by the Guiness family, and now operates as a posh hotel. In the Cong area we visited the monk's fishing hut, a stone hut built over the river, and walked through the ruined abbey. At St. Mary's church next door, we saw more of Harry Clark's outstanding stained glass windows.
Traveling on, we saw Croagh (Mount) Patrick where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days during Lent, and afterward drove the snakes from Ireland. Since there were never any snakes in Ireland, the snake is seen as representative of the devil.
Our group stopped at Aasleagh Falls to check on the salmon run (none yet). We traveled on to view the memorial for people who died during the Potato Famine. We also saw the Coffin Ship sculpture commemorating the thousands who left Ireland during the famine to find food and work in the New World.
Bud and I had lots of time to explore the town of Westport, and to have some seafood chowder at one of the local pubs. We have a long ride on the bus tomorrow, so need to sign off.
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