코나흐트 최고의 MTB 라이딩 경로

마을 동쪽 가장자리에 있는 이 높은 지점에서 클레우 만(Clew Bay)의 365개 섬과 물 건너편 성스러운 산 크로아 패트릭(Croagh Patrick, 764m)의 인상적인 원뿔 모양을 180도로 조망할 수 있습니다. 이곳에서는 멀러니 염습지(Mulranny Saltmarsh)와 트라워터 해변(Trawoughter Strand)의 황금빛 모래 해변을 바로 내려다볼 수 있습니다. 이 지점은 네핀 베그 산맥(Nephin Beg Range)이 해안 평야로 갑자기 전환되는 지점을 표시하며, 거친 황무지 풍경에서 광활한 대서양으로 이어지는 독특한 관점을 제공합니다.

뉴포트와 멀라니 사이에서 그린웨이는 갈대밭, 조수 간만의 차가 있는 물, 습지, 낮은 산등성이의 다양한 풍경을 가로지르는 오래된 철도 노선을 따라갑니다. 이 길은 넓고 조용하며 완만하게 경사져 있으며, 클루 만과 섬들의 아름다운 전망을 정기적으로 볼 수 있습니다. 오래된 다리, 돌담, 조용한 강 팔은 이 구간에 뚜렷한 시골의 거의 시대를 초월한 분위기를 선사합니다.

Galway와 Mayo의 경계에 있는 절대 놓쳐서는 안 될 명소입니다. 이곳에서는 Erriff 강이 넓은 암반 고원을 가로질러 피오르로 떨어집니다. 영화 'The Field'의 역사, 뛰어오르는 연어를 보러 오든, 단순히 Connemara 산맥의 극적인 풍경을 보러 오든, 이곳은 결코 실망시키지 않습니다. 특히 거센 아일랜드 소나기 후에는 더욱 인상적입니다!

A lovely and striking stone bridge on a beautiful river. You will see a sign on the road here pointing you to Blanemore Forest Walk, which you should do; a potentially a fascinating place from an archeological perspective.

Aasleagh Falls is a pretty waterfall not far from Leenaun. It's set in a typically beautiful and mountainous Connemara landscape, where the Erriff River empties into the Killary Fjord. The intriguingly named Devilsmother rises to the east, while Ben Gorm rises to the west. This part of the Western Way can be prone to flooding. If the trail is impassable, the N59 can be used instead.

Ashford Castle, a stunning medieval castle on the shores of Lough Corrib near the town of Cong in County Mayo, is one of Ireland's most magnificent and historic buildings. Originally built in the 13th century by a noble Anglo-Norman family, the castle has a long and fascinating history spanning several centuries. In the 19th century, Ashford Castle was purchased and both restored and expanded by Benjamin Guinness, a member of the famous brewing family. His son, Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, was responsible for creating the extensive gardens and forests, which are now decorated with exotic plants from all over the world. Since 1939, the castle has served as one of Ireland's most exclusive 5-star hotels, attracting guests from all over the world, including numerous celebrities and royalty. Visiting Ashford Castle is not only a trip back in time, but also an opportunity to experience the luxurious amenities and exceptional service of one of the world's leading hotels. The magnificent gardens and picturesque lake provide ample opportunities for walking and exploring in some of Ireland's most beautiful scenery. Access to the grounds of Ashford Castle is normally reserved for hotel guests, but there are routes to allow viewing, such as the footbridge at Monk's Fishing House behind the abbey, which offers free entry. However, visitors should inform themselves in advance about the current access conditions and possible restrictions.

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.

Wikipedia (Cong Abbey, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cong_Abbey “… The grounds of the abbey also contain a monks' fishing house, probably built in the 15th or 16th century, on an island in the River Cong leading towards nearby Lough Corrib. …”