After another “light Irish breakfast” at Westport Coast hotel, we made south for Galway. The drive was good, as I was feeling even more confident driving here. Our first destination of the day was Kylemore Abbey. The first sight of it actually caused Cindy to gasp, as it caught us unawares on the approach.
The castle was a feast for the eyes up close, and we toured a few rooms inside before catching a bus to the extensive gardens a mile away. Much of these are being restored, and the acres of glass enclosures are supposed to be rebuilt someday.
Kylemore has quite a history, but is now occupied by nuns, who make various things, including chocolates and other crafted goods. After leaving Kylemore, it was an easy drive to Kinvarra. Entering this seaside town, we passed by another castle, Dunguaire. I’m still getting used to the fact that this countryside is littered with structures built before America was even a thought.
Wending our way through Kinvarra, we arrived at Breacon Cottage in relatively short order. Our hosts, Geraldine and Noel, are inviting and kind older couple, and their B&B is set is set right on the end of a spit of land, affording us a grand view.
We wanted seafood for dinner, so Noel suggested heading west to a place in the neighboring village. The restaurant there, sadly, was open only on weekends, so we had to head back to Kinvarra. But this place was set right out on the water, and provided us with an amusing sign in the lot.
Back in Kinvarra, we enjoyed a delicious seafood platter and some Smithwicks, while watching a fisherman come into Kinvarra bay. Afterwards, it was back to Breacon, for an early evening in, and a great deal of reading.
Way to go, Noel.