Ireland's West Coast Walking Vacation
The west of Ireland is considered by many to be the most Irish part of Ireland. It certainly possesses some of the most spectacular scenery and beautiful villages and towns. One of those special towns is Westport. Westport is the very essence of Ireland's magical west. Nestling under the shadow of Croagh Patrick, overlooking Clew bay and its enchanting islands, the town weaves a spell around its visitors. This is sacred ground. Croagh Patrick is where St. Patrick spent forty days and nights in fasting and prayer. For his dedication, God is said to have vowed that the Irish would never lose their faith.
The islands off the coast are also legendary. This is where the famous pirate woman, Grace O'Malley sailed and raided. But Grace was also a patriot and fought the Tudors. She was the mainstay of the rebellion in the West. When Grace gave birth to her first child aboard ship, her ship was attacked by a Turkish vessel. The battle seemed about lost until Grace appeared wrapped in a blanket and shot the Turkish captain. Her men rallied and won the day. Although she died in 1603, many people of the area still talk of her almost as if she were still alive.
But this walk is not all legends and battles, Westport is one of the few planned towns in Ireland and its design and layout are credited to James Wyatt (1746-1813) an English architect most famous for his Neoclassical design for the London Pantheon. It is a beautiful place which few visitors wish to leave.
You will have an opportunity to explore the area in detail including nearby Connemara. As most lovers of Ireland know, Connemara is one of the most beautiful places on earth with its green hills, sheep pastures and the omnipresent sea.
Your accommodations are in downtown Westport at a lovely local hotel. You are conveniently located to some wonderful shopping! Plus, there are a number of pubs situated nearby where you can delight in some traditional Irish music. Each room is equipped with private facilities.
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Ireland's West Coast Walk
2008 Dates & Prices:
May 10-17, May 24-31, June 14-21, June 21-28, July 12-19, July 19-26, Aug. 9-16, Aug. 23-30, Sept. 6-13, Sept. 13-20.
$2,280 per person, shared
$355 single supplement
Includes:
7 nights hotel accommodation, 5 days guided walking, guide, all breakfasts, 6 dinners, 5 days packed lunches, transfers to/from Shannon Airport at pre-set time and tax.
Meeting Point:
Shannon Airport or Westport Train Station. Transfers are included at pre-set time.
Difficulty of Walk:
Walking over fields, dirt paths, and gradual ascents.
Click Here For Full Itinerary
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ORDER A 2008 CATALOGUE
