KYLEMORE ABBEY

Just beyond the town of Letterfrack is the historic Kylemore Abbey. The Abbey, which has a boarding school, small chapel, and lovely gardens, is one of Connemara's most visited spots. For those wishing to enjoy the outdoors, there is a path to the statue of Christ, located about half way up the mountain. (By the way, the mountain behind the Abbey is the same mountain behind Carnmore!

LEENANE CULTURAL CENTER

Leenane, an interesting little town, is located at the head of The Killary. It was made famous as the setting for the play and movie, The Field. A quick tour of the Leenane Culural Center offers insights as to how local families scratched out a living raising sheep.

CONNEMARA PONY SHOW

In August of each year, Clifden hosts the colorful Connemara Pony Show. The Connemara Pony is a unique animal initially peculiar to the West of Ireland but now as carefully bred throghout the world as any race horse. The show brings visitors from other parts of Europe and the Americas who parade their horses in a rustic, old-style show. The traditional horse trading is also a fun sport to watch -- as buyer and seller haggle over the fair price of a tiny pony. If you fancy a ride yourself, try Errislannan Manor, outside of Clifden (Tel: 095 21134)

INISHBOFFIN

As you sit by the fire in Carnmore you overlook the islands where solitary farmers once carved out an existence. Inishboffin is such a place. The island, while still inhabited by a few people, allows a view to what life once was like in this rugged part of the world. A ferry leaves from Cleggan several times a day.

CROAGH PATRICK

On your day trip to Westport consider making a pilgramage to the top of Croagh Patrick, just a few miles from the town. The mountain is considered one of the holy sites in Ireland. Be prepared for about a two hour hike to the chapel at the summit.

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