Mayo on the west coast and Louth on the east, boast some of the most historic sites in Ireland, and now locals living in the area of the Cooley Peninsula and Ballina can expect many the curious traveler on the trail of President Joe Biden’s Irish ancestors. (All images: Tourism Ireland).Wee Louth and Mighty Mayo – what do they have in common? Well, certainly not their … [Read more...] about Biden Country
Croagh Patrick
The Pain and the Pleasure
Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July, when pilgrims climb Ireland's holiest mountain, Croagh Patrick went ahead with far few climbers this year. Fr. Charlie McDonnell, parish priest of Westport, speaking to Patsy McGarry for the Irish Times, explained that the numbers at the mountain were "the smallest attendance of any Sunday this year, estimating that “between 400 to 500 … [Read more...] about The Pain and the Pleasure
A Climb to Give Thanks
New York City native Patrick Connolly celebrated his 90th birthday by making a pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. Most people, upon reaching their 90th birthday, celebrate the milestone in some way that is significant to themselves and to their loved ones. Most people, upon reaching their 90th birthday, however, do not climb mountains – significant or not. But most people are not … [Read more...] about A Climb to Give Thanks
The Jewel of the West
A visit to Westport encompasses many aspects of the unique history of the West of Ireland. ℘℘℘ On a clear day the panoramic vista from Sheeaune Hill on the Castlebar Road approach to Westport, Co. Mayo, is breathtaking. The town snuggles in a cosy hollow that is dominated by the pyramidal peak of Ireland's holy mountain, Croagh Patrick. Clare Island -- the reputed burial place … [Read more...] about The Jewel of the West