Saturday, December 14, 2024

Off To Ireland: Part 10!

Aran Isles!  I was SO EXCITED to finally visit these famous islands!  It has been a dream of mine for years!

Our ferry took us to Inis Mor, the largest of the three Aran Islands.  We departed our beautiful Dromoland Hotel in Shannon, left our tour bus at the ferry terminal at Rossaveel, the main port for ferry transport in Galway Bay, and crossed the sea to dock on the island.



In the bay and on the sea.
(Pictures that are more sepia toned were taken from inside the ferry.  The 'normal' ones I took out on the deck.)









Aran Islands!
Innis Mor!





We walked along the bay and boarded our small tour bus which drove us to a tiny village where we could hike up to Dun Aengus, an important archaeological site. It was a prehistoric hill fort situated on the edge of a 300 feet high cliff.  Of course, we had to hike up to the top.






Yes, people really do get that close to the edge of the cliff.  In fact, I saw a guy lying on the edge leaning over to take photos down to the surf below.




We couldn't stay too long and wander around the fort because we had to be back at the bus in time to not be left.
Eleanor was tired after that long hike up and down and needed a short rest.


Coffee and a scone helped restore her energy.


But the absolute best part of our visit to Innis Mor was this:  I didn't plan to buy an Aran sweater there.  My intent was to purchase some wool and knit my own sweater.  But then I found this sweater.  I couldn't resist.



After driving by along the coastal roads and returning to the village at the bay, we had a few minutes to wander around.  I loved the amazing views and village buildings.











I wish I could have stayed for a week on Innis Mor!  Do you see why this was my favorite place to visit?

4 comments:

Faith said...

oh I so much enjoyed this visit to Ireland. Now, I just need to get there for REAL!! LOVE that sweater by the way.

nikkipolani said...

The island feels very remote and those stone steps look very hard on feet -- no wonder Eleanor was tired ;-) You picked a beautiful sweater in a color perfect for you.

Anonymous said...

Wild and wonderful. Surely you also bought some wool!

Wendy said...

Wonderful views and great photos. That sweater is lovely.