Galway, Ireland

"Drawn as if by a magnet, visitors come again and again, captivated by

this most special of Irish counties." 

                                                                                          Galway.net

Galway Ireland has proven to be a most pleasant surprise. This little city (70,000) has a wonderful, colourful and lively downtown full of interesting shops, restaurants and live entertainment - we clearly made the correct choice when choosing to come here.  Not that Belfast wouldn't have been great as well- but that will have to keep for our next trip.   During our stay in this area, in addition to exploring the city itself we also took some time out to visit the Cliffs of Moher and two interesting castles.

Downtown Galway - a music festival is on so there are people
playing music on every street!

Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle was built in 1520 by the O'Hynes clan
on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay.

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle lies in the middle of Bunratty Village. 
It was built in 1425.   Below are just a few of the many buildings
 and animals found here (see below) 

My very first view of a thatched roof!

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher  are located in County Claire Ireland. 
They rise 120 metres' above the Atlantic Ocean at Hag's Head and reach
 their maximum height of 214 metres just north of O'Brien's Tower.
Awesome view - if get a chance to visit, take it.

 

O'Brian's Tower at Cliffs of Moher