Connemara & Westport

Consider spending a day exploring the wild western Irish fringe known as Connemara. Hike the peak of Croagh Patrick, the mountain from which St. Patrick supposedly banished the snakes from Ireland. Pass through the desolate Doo Lough Valley on a road stained with tragic famine history. Bounce on a springy peat bog. This beautiful area claims a couple of villages — Cong and Leenane — where classic Irish movies were filmed; an unforgettable falconry experience on the grounds of a castle; the photogenic Kylemore Abbey; and the prim, neatly planned town of Westport.