Connemara-Sky road
 

Just wondering how wide/narrow the sky road outside of clifden is...do many busses go on this scenic loop?

What are your not to be missed sights in Connemara...especially around Westport?

Has anyone experienced the famine trail or been to Ballintober Abbey?

thanks for the info!

We happened upon Ballintubber during our 2003 trip. We did not know of it at all and just followed signs hoping it would be one of those great "let's see what this is" experiences. We weren't disappointed. We were there in early May and had the place to ourselves. There were no organized tours so we just wandered around inside and out. The grounds around the church are beautiful with beautiful flowers and wonderful stone sculptures on the stations of the cross. Inside the church to one side there's a really pretty little room. (I'm not familiar enough with Catholic churches to know what that sort of small chapel type room is called.) We were enthralled with the whole experience. I think it's definitely worth a visit.
Martha

I have never seen a bus on Sky Drive and have done it many times. It is a narrow road, the same as other roads in the Irish countryside. If another car is on the road you will have to squeeze over by the hedgerow to pass each other. That means it is slow going but scenic. You have the option of taking the upper road or the lower road. I suggest the upper road for good views.

My favorite drive from Westport would be out to Achill Island to do Atlantic Drive, Minaun Mountain, the deserted village and Keem Bay & Strand. This is really off the beaten path. Only suggested in good weather.

We had no troubles with the Sky Road, you will be fine as long as it's not your first 5 minutes behind the wheel. Try to make time for the Delphi Valley - one of our favorite drives...

chip,

Ballintober Abbey has some history on its side. Located close to Castlebar, it has been around for some 800 years, and there's a 20-odd mile pilgrims' route from the abbey that leads to Croagh Patrick.

Speaking of Ireland's most famous mountain, Croagh Patrick makes for a fine hike, and it's located close to the fine town of Westport.

While in Westport, you'll have access to some fine eateries, shopping, and, perhaps best of all, some simply enjoyable strolling. In addition, you'll want to check out the stately 18th century Westport House. Touring the house's interior makes for an informative and highly civilized outing, unlike the crass commercialism of the place's exterior which features a curious array of rides, slides, and attractions for the kiddies.

Finally, should you have the benefit of fair skies, by all means make a point of heading up to Achill Island. The scenery is just wonderful, and at Keel there's a lovely, unspoiled beach. With tough weather, however, Achill can be a drag, given the island's very limited amenities.

Best of luck.

I did the drive from Leenane to Louisburgh, via the "scenic route," which I believe is what you may be referring to as the famine trail. Along Doo Lough lake, where many lost their lives walking from Louisburgh to the Delphi Lodge to ask for food. If this is what you are referring to, it was one of the most memorable parts of my last trip--I found it very moving and worthwhile.