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This tour will bring you through a variety of landscapes, including mountains, lakes and sea-shore.
Take the N5 to Westport, one of only two planned towns in Ireland. Follow the Coast Road seeing the
many islands of Clew Bay to the left and Croagh Patrick to the right.
 At the foot of Croagh Patrick, (Irelands Holy mountain) you will find the National Famine Monument
commemorating all those who died during the Great Famine 1845 - 1847. Beside this you will also find the ruins
of a 15th century friary.
As you carry onward along the route you will pass many fine blue flag beaches.
In the picturesque village of Louisburgh it is well worth calling on the
Granuaile Visitor Centre, and learning all about Grace O'Malley the Irish Sea Pirate.
 There are some fine eating houses here, worth checking out.
Just outside Louisburgh turn left towards Leenane, the scenery is stunning as you pass through the
Sheffery mountain range shooting steeply skywards all around you. There are some beautiful lakes in between
the valleys, one such being Doo lake.
Just before you approach Leenane, you will pass by Ashleigh Falls. In the
latter part of the summer you can observe Salmon jumping up these falls, a spectacular sight
for those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time.
Next stop is Leenane, just inside Co. Galway. This lovely village is on the shores of Killary
Harbour, one of the deepest fjords in Europe. The film "The Field" with Richard Harris and John Hurt
was filmed here. Again there are some fine eating houses here. Worth visiting here also is the cultural centre.
The road back to Westport follows the meandering River Erriff, again with some breath taking scenery.
Alternative Route to Clare Island
 About a mile outside Louisburgh turn right for Roonagh Quay. Two ferries operate from here
to Clare Island, (crossing time is 20 minutes)
Clare Island's terrain is ideal for all types of walkers. Within walking distance
of the harbour one will find the 13th century Abbey with its rara medieval wall and
ceiling paintings.
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