Saturday 9th September 2017

The weather looked promising so best get out there and make the most of it! We had remembered reading about Omey Island, which was not very far from our campsite. The reason it had stuck in our minds, was that twice a day around low tide, it was possibly to walk across to the island or even drive across the sand! The last time either of us had had the opportunity to walk from the mainland to any island, was in our childhood. It was possible to walk to St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall. So bring it on! We parked up in a small car park, at Omey Strand,  and thought we would make the visit to the island on foot, as lately, we have not been able to do so much walking, owing to the inclement weather conditions.

Omey Island Information Point

It was still rather soft and wet underfoot,  as we made our way across the sand, but what was much more noticeable, was the wind! We had to laugh at a few brave cyclists, who were trying desperately to stay upright on their bikes, as they rode across the sand, back to the mainland at snail’s pace! On the other hand, the horses and their riders, were enjoying their freedom, galloping off at great speed.

Having made it to the island we headed clockwise along the narrow road, until it came to an end. There were a small number of other visitors but we more or less had the island to ourselves. Having reached the north west side of the island, we crossed a small beach and headed inland passing the remains of a medieval church.

Derelict Church

The ground was very undulating and we had to avoid many rabbit holes, but finally we reached the north east side of Omey and we made our way back along the rocky, sandy shore, finally past the graveyard and back across the swathe of sand to the car. We enjoyed our picnic lunch in the car on the beach.

Omey Island beach

Saturday 9th September

Having enjoyed our lunch on the beach, we headed off to Connemara National Park. We continued our mission to drive as much of the Wild Atlantic Way by taking the coast road (Cleggan Loop) around the remainder of the Aughrus Peninsula before joining N59. The quiet winding road, allowed us views of the Atlantic and there was a plethora of signs highlighting the many sandy beaches along the route. We also passed through Cleggan, where it is possible to catch a ferry to the island, Inishbofin.

Connemara National  Park is located just south of Letterfrack village and has no admission charge.  Once parked we made our way down to the visitor centre, which is worth a visit and the staff were very knowledgeable and helpful too.

Visitor Centre Water Feature

There are four signposted trails to explore, all of which have their merit.

Trails Map

We chose the Lower Diamond Hill Walk, approximately 3 kms. We headed off uphill following a very well maintained pathway. As we got higher the views were fantastic. There were several stone steps to navigate both on the upward and downward journey but not too excessive. (Although they will certainly get your heart rate up).

Nicely constructed trails

Having reached the top of our trail, we paused to take in the views. Yet again, they were spectacular. It was possible to see for miles, despite the poor weather conditions.

View Over The Park

Back down at the visitor centre, we rewarded ourselves with a coffee in the pleasant cafe. Time to head home and prepare the caravan for the storm that was about to arrive later that evening.