What a day. Again. We awoke to sunshine (always a good thing) and met up for breakfast at 8:30 am. There was an array of choices from European style continental to a full Irish breakfast. The staff are so pleasant and accommodating. We dined and then head for the vehicle. We are navigating the Connemara loop.

Our friend took the wheel first. Leaving our hotel (the castle) on a narrow winding road we made our way to the Connemara National Forest.

The narrow roadways are a feast for the eyes. On the left is the Atlantic Ocean and on the right are the Bens Mountains.

The national park has several hiking trails, adiscovery center, a horse pavilion and a children’s playground. We checked out the visitors centre and collected maps and info while perusing the interactive displays showing flora and fauna of the park. We are in the bogs.

We choose the yellow trail. The shortest of hike options and set out on the climb.

Our next stop is the famous Kylemore Abbey which was once an orphanage and a castle. It looms out of the mountains next to a pristine lake. Open to visitors it has a church, gift shop, walled garden and a walking trails. To this day it is occupied by nuns. High in the mountain above, on an inaccessible path, is the crucifix watching over the property.

Our next stop was the Kllarey Fjord. The only glacial fjord in Ireland stretching 16 kms inland. The views are jaw dropping and can’t be captured in photos.

Right next to the fjord is the wool centre. A place to discover wool and other artisans of the region. It’s the perfect place for a coffee break.

We wind our way back to the castle hotel in time for our massages. The roads are wild. Narrow and curvy.

And lots of furry friends.

And very winding

What goes best either a massage?

Nestled behind the castle is a cottage which houses the spa. Indulge in a variety of treatments such as facials, manicures or massages if you have time.

Cheers to my dad who was able to FaceTime again tonight! ♥️

Off to dinner. But not before our host shows us a major upgrade to his exterior:

Tonight’s feature is oysters. We drove by several “farms” and seafood here is plentiful and fresh. Not to mention delicious!

Our host is an entertainer. His antics are, bar none, the best!

After dinner it’s only fitting that one can relax while blogging.