Holiday haunts on the west coast of Clare, Ireland

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Battle at Moy Gressin and execution of King Brian at Bunratty Castle

   near Bunratty · parish · Clare · 1276

   After forming alliances, Torlough marched against King Brian and defeated him at Moy Gressin in Upper Bunratty. Brian fled to Bunratty Castle, where De Clare's wife denounced him for her brother's death and had him seized at dinner, dragged to death between horses, and his body suspended from a gallows.

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   pears from the interesting paper in the Antiquarian Journal, by T. Johnson Westropp, M.A., “having won over and formed an alliance with the sons of O’Brien, of Tromora, the De Burglioes, the O’Madigan’s, the O’Kelly’s, of Hy- Many, and others marched with his force to attack King Brian, and his allied army, and having met in battle array, at Moy Gressin in Upper Bunratty, Brian was defeated : numbers fell on both sides : among them was De Clare’s brother-in-law, Patrick PitzMaurice. Bunratty Castle was filled with lamentations, and each felt his loss as if he had been their relative. King Brian also had fled thither, and was at dinner with De Clare in Bunratty Castle, when the latter’s wife denounced the unfortunate King as the sole cause of her brother’s death, and got leave to hang the King, who was seized at table, brought out of the Castle, and dragged to death between horses ; his head was cut off, and the mangled body suspended by its feet

   SPANISH POINT. 41

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2. Cairn na Connachta near Kilshanny

   Kilshanny · parish · Clare

   Near Kilshanny, a cairn known as 'cairn-na-connachta' stands alone with no nearby ruins or rocks. Tradition links it to a battle or event in which an important Connaught personage was slain, with passers-by adding stones over time as was the custom at murder sites in Ireland.

   Read the passage

   going a short distance beyond the bridge, drive along a valley which is not altogether uninteresting, and on approaching Kilslianny we observe, a short distance from the road, a cairn, or heap of stones, commonly known as “ cairn-na-connachta” — or the “cairn of the Connaughtman” — with no ancient building, ruin, or structure of any kind near it, except the ordinary farm-house, not even rocks or other stones in the immediate neighbourhood. This collection is a strange sight, with such surroundings; it appears that tradition assigns to it some history, or story of a battle, or other event, in which an important Connaught personage was slain, over whose grave these stones were piled, having been placed there, from time to time, by passers-by throwing a stone on the spot, which is a custom that used to be practised in Ireland within our own recollection wherever a murder was com. mitted, on, or near the roadside, and probably the custom is observed in other

   LISDOONVAUNA.

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3. Corcomroe Abbey foundation and royal burial

   near Corcomroe Abbey · monument · Clare · 1191–1200

   Corcomroe Abbey was founded in 1191 by Donald, King of Limerick (or in 1200 by his son Donagh Carbrae). King Conor O'Brien, slain in battle nearby, was interred in the abbey with an effigy carved in black marble showing his flowing hair, tunic, pointed shoes, reliquary, sceptre and crown adorned with fleur-de-lis. The effigy remained well preserved after six centuries, and the abbey is now preserved as a national monument.

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   one may differ with the religion or the politics of the great house of the O’Brien’s, one must take a pride in them on account of the distinguished part they played in the history of Ireland for centuries, although not always admiring the means employed and the plans adopted to conquer their foes or curb the rebellion of tlieir allies and clansmen, as well as their own kinsmen. In this Abbey of Corcomroe, King Conor O’Brien was interred, being slain in a battle not far from its site ; again quoting from Mr. Westropp’s paper — “ and the monks of the abbey buried the King on the north side of the chancel, and put over him his effigy carved in black marble, with his flowing hair and tunic, pointed shoes and a reliquary round his neck, his sceptre and crown adorned with fleur-de-lis.” And we who have visited this abbey saw the effigy just as it is described, and in a good state of preservation after a lapse of six centuries, although no effort was ever made to protect it from the ravages of

   NEW QUAY.

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Corcomroe Abbey, near here, stands a foundation of the O'Brien kings. The abbey was founded in 1191 by Donald, King of Limerick, or in 1200 by his son Donagh Carbrae. The O'Briens played a distinguished part in the history of Ireland for centuries, though one might not always admire the means they employed to conquer their foes or curb the rebellion of their own kinsmen and clansmen. In this abbey, King Conor O'Brien was interred after being slain in a battle not far from its site. The monks buried the King on the north side of the chancel, and put over him his effigy carved in black marble, with his flowing hair and tunic, pointed shoes and a reliquary round his neck, his sceptre and crown adorned with fleur-de-lis. Visitors saw the effigy just as described, in a good state of preservation after a lapse of six centuries, although no effort was ever made to protect it from ravages. The abbey is now preserved as a national monument.

4. Grave of Ellen Hanley ('Eily O'Connor') at Knock

   Knock · townland · Clare

   Near the hamlet of Knock on the Clare side of the Shannon, a few miles east of Kilrush, the remains of Ellen Hanley—the real 'Eily O'Connor' of Gerald Griffin's 'Collegians'—rest in a graveyard. Her body was washed ashore nearby, and a local gentleman erected a headstone which relic-hunters subsequently disfigured.

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   and creatine such characters as “ Hardress Cregan ” and “ Danny Man.” In the Clare side of the river, a few miles east of Kilrusli, is Knock, at both sides of which are the seats of a number of the county families, whose demesnes are planted, almost to the water’s edge, making the landscape look beautiful as seen from the river when passing in boat or steamer. And in a graveyard near this interesting hamlet rest the remains of Ellen Hanley, the “ Eily O’Connor ” of Gerald Griffin’s “ Collegians,” already referred to, whose body was washed ashore in the neighbourhood, and over whose remains a local gentleman had a headstone erected some years ago, which has been disfigured by relichunters taking away portions of it. We should like to see another effort made to erect a more substantial monument over the “ Eily O’Connor ” whom our distinguished countryman has immortalised and was himself horn not many miles distant from the scene of the tragedy ; we think

   GLIN.

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5. Vandeleur evictions and Land League agitation at Kilrush

   Kilrush · town · Clare

   The Vandeleur estate in Kilrush was the scene of major Land League conflict, with the government supporting the landlord's rights through tenant evictions and demolitions of homesteads. Arbitration was eventually proposed by influential men unconnected to the Land League and accepted by the landlord, restoring peace to the area.

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   League operations have to be recorded in history, it being the scene of one of the greatest efforts made by the government with a view to sustain the rights of the owner of the soil. However, after evicting a certain number of tenants, and demolishing their homesteads, arbitration was proposed by men of influence unconnected, we believe, with the Land League, and was accepted by the landlord, and now peace reigns where the most intense excitement and agitation at one time prevailed. The mansion and demesne of the Vandeleurs are adjoining the town of Kilrush, and Avere always occupied by former owners ’til the present member of the family succeeded his father, and now the house is not inhabited by him, or any member of the family. The town of Kilrush is not so prosperous as it should be judging from its position in occupying the best site in the river Shannon for commercial purposes. At Cappa is a substantial pier where steamers trading Avith Limerick

   GLXN.

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   As the companion tells it

   Coming up on Kilrush in Clare. This town was the scene of one of the greatest efforts made by the government to sustain the rights of the owner of the soil during Land League agitation. Tenants were evicted on the Vandeleur property and their homesteads demolished. Men of influence, believed to be unconnected with the Land League, proposed arbitration. The landlord accepted it, and peace now reigns where intense excitement and agitation once prevailed. The mansion and demesne of the Vandeleurs adjoin the town. Former owners always occupied the house until the present member of the family succeeded his father. Now the house is not inhabited by him or any member of the family. Kilrush is not so prosperous as it should be, judging from its position occupying the best site in the river Shannon for commercial purposes. At Cappa is a substantial pier where steamers trading with Limerick

6. O'Brien's Tower on the Cliffs of Moher

   near Cliffs of Moher · cliff or cliffs · Clare

   Cornelius O'Brien erected a tower on the summit of the cliffs bearing his name, funded reclamation of surrounding land, and built stables and coach-houses for public accommodation. A limestone column erected by public subscription stands across the road from the well in his memory.

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   Retracing our steps we are again traversing the road over which we travelled till we arrive at the turn of the road, and proceeding in a southerly direction, soon reach St. Bridget’s Well. From the highway here a really fine view is obtained of Lahincli, Ennistymon, Liscannor, and the opposite shore of the bay. About midway to Liscannor, in the midst of a grove of trees, is the fine old mansion known as Birchfield, the seat of the late Cornelius O’Brien, for many years Member of Parliament for the County of Clare, and to whom the public are indebted for the tower on the summit of the cliffs, which bears his name. It was his money and enterprise which reclaimed the land surrounding the cliffs, and for a long distance inland. To his name, and to those who superintended the works for him, is due

   60 sT. Bridget’s well.

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Cliffs of Moher stands a tower on the summit, bearing the name of Cornelius O'Brien. He was Member of Parliament for County Clare for many years, and his seat was Birchfield, a fine old mansion set in a grove of trees about midway to Liscannor. It was his money and enterprise that put up the tower. He also reclaimed the land surrounding the cliffs, and for a long distance inland. He funded stables and coach-houses for public accommodation. Across the road from St. Bridget's Well, a limestone column stands in his memory, erected by public subscription.

7. Unfinished bridge to island off Kilkee

   Kilkee · town · Clare

   A local gentleman attempted to build a bridge from the mainland to a small island opposite Kilkee but was forced to abandon the project halfway across due to the impossibility of landing on the island side. The incomplete bridge juts out into mid-air, crumbling to decay, and the island remains inaccessible.

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   who touched the shores of the new : and more inland still, the “ Reeks,” rising from near Killarney, lift their heads above the neighbouring hills — each and all a picture to admire, and a prospect to enjoy, to which “ distance lends enchantment to the view.” At one^Teet are rugged rocks, and deep indentions of coast, with the sea seething beneath, through a chasm which separates the mainland from a small island opposite, which either the action of the mighty Atlantic wave, or some upheaval of nature, cast adrift in ages past. This wide gulf, a local gentleman attempted to span with a bridge, in order to obtain access to the island, hut owing to the impracticability of obtaining a landing on the opposite shore of the island in order to work from both sides, he was obliged to conduct his operations from the mainland only, which increased his difficulties to such an extent that the work was abandoned when the bridge had been built about half way across and there it is,

   KILKEE.

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Loop Head there's a stretch of coast where the sea has cut a deep chasm between the mainland and a small island lying just off the shore. The rocks are rugged and the water seethes beneath, and the island itself was either torn adrift by the Atlantic in ages past or cast off by some upheaval of nature. A local gentleman set out to span that gulf with a bridge, meaning to reach the island. But he could not get a landing on the far side, so he had no way of working from the island and building back toward the mainland. He had to run the whole job from the mainland alone, and that made the difficulty so great he gave it up. The bridge was about halfway across when the work stopped. There it is, crumbling in mid-air, going nowhere.

8. Cliff-side garden near Kilkee

   Kilkee · town · Clare

   The same ingenious gentleman who attempted the bridge also created a miniature pleasure ground on a shelving rock beneath an overhanging cliff near Kilkee, accessed by a step-ladder down a steep cavity. By the time of writing, the hand of time had left little trace of the garden, and its creator was no longer alive.

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   jutting out, as it were, in micl air, crumbling fast to decav, and the little island remains, as we believe as it always was, inaccessible to man or beast. Standing beside this fragment of man’s ingenuity, and looking across at the almost perpendicular sides of this derelict island rock opposite, and bending oyer to catch a view of the rushing waters down deep below, as it beats against the cliff, and taking in at a glance the great height of those cliffs at both sides, and the loneliness of the situation, one shudders at the sight. The same ingenious gentleman utilised a natiwal gallery, under an overhanging cliff to obtain access to a shelving rock to which he had earth conveyed, and converted this dreary spot into a miniature pleasure ground, for his amusement, descent to which he contrived by placing a step-ladder down a steep cavity in the earth, from which this natural gallery branches off towards the shelving rock ; hut like everything else that man contrives

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Loop Head, a local gentleman built a miniature garden on a shelving rock under an overhanging cliff. He used a natural gallery beneath the cliff to reach the rock, and had earth conveyed there to turn the dreary spot into a pleasure ground for his own amusement. To get down to it, he placed a step-ladder through a steep cavity in the earth, from which the natural gallery branches off toward the shelving rock. He has died, and the garden is crumbling fast to decay. The little island of rock opposite remains inaccessible to man or beast, as it always was. Standing beside what remains of this fragment of man's ingenuity, looking across at the almost perpendicular sides of that derelict island rock, bending over to see the rushing waters far below beating against the cliff, taking in the great height of the cliffs on both sides and the loneliness of the place, one shudders at the sight.

9. Legend of Loop Head's name origin

   Loop Head · promontory · Clare

   A local legend tells of a man pursued by a female persecutor who leapt across a chasm at Loop Head to escape. The woman followed but fell into the sea, and from this incident the place name 'Loop' (corrupted from 'Leap') Head is said to derive.

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   him, and before him a high rock, which was separated from the mainland by a wide chasm, jumped across and safely landed ; but his persecutor Avas not to he outdone, so she, landing at his side almost at the same moment, stimulated him to retrace his steps, in order to baffle her, and with one great leap, he got back again to the mainland, but the woman, following his example was precipitated into the sea beneath, and thus escaped this great man from the clutches of his tormentor ! From this incident it is said Loop (corrupted from Leap) Head derived its name, and probably like all other legends, there is a mixture of fact and fiction. It is not at all improbable that in those days of “wild revenge” some one had been driven to such an extremity by his foe, that lie had had no alternative but either to choose between the sword, or taking his chance of life by jumping across this chasm, which separates the island from the mainland, and adopted the latter alternative.

   L00PHEA1). 27

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   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Loop Head there is a high rock separated from the mainland by a wide chasm, and the story goes that a man fleeing his tormentor leapt across it and landed safe. The woman who pursued him was not to be outdone. She landed at his side almost at the same moment, which spurred him to retrace his steps to baffle her. With one great leap he got back to the mainland again. The woman followed his example, but she was precipitated into the sea beneath, and so the man escaped her clutches. From this incident, it is said, the name Loop Head came, Loop being corrupted from Leap. The writer allows that like all legends there is a mixture of fact and fiction in it. He thinks it not improbable that in those days of "wild revenge" someone had been driven to such an extremity by his foe that he had no alternative but to choose between the sword or taking his chance of life by jumping across this chasm, and adopted the latter.

10. Charles Lever's years at Kilrush

    Kilrush · town · Clare

    The novelist Charles Lever spent some years of his life in Kilrush, enjoying the friendship of a County Clare gentleman and a Catholic clergyman. It is said that humorous scenes in Lever's works were inspired by these acquaintances, but Lever has no public monument in Ireland.

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    withstanding that his name will live in “ song and story ” the public should mark their appreciation of his genius by erecting something in public on which to engrave his name, as a further means of keeping “his memory green ” in the hearts of the people. Charles Lever, one of our great novel-writers, spent some years of his life in Kilrush, and enjoyed among others the friendship of a well-known County Clare gentleman, who was himself an inimitable story-teller, and it is said many of the humourous scenes in Lever’s works were inspired by that gentleman, as well as by a Catholic clergyman who lived in the neighbourhood, and now both lay and cleric, including the distinguished author himself, have “ gone hence to be no more seen, for ever.” It is not pleasant to have to record the fact that, like Gerald Griffin, Lever has no public monument in his

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    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kilrush, a town where the novelist Charles Lever spent some years of his life. He counted among his friends a well-known County Clare gentleman who was himself an inimitable storyteller, and it is said that many of the humorous scenes in Lever's works were inspired by that gentleman, as well as by a Catholic clergyman who lived in the neighbourhood. All three are gone now. The writer whose name, it was said, would live in song and story has no public monument here. The people of his time felt the public should mark their appreciation of his genius by erecting something on which to engrave his name, to keep his memory green in the hearts of the people. Like Gerald Griffin, Lever has no public monument in his name.

11. Legend of persecuted Northern King at Loop Head

    Loop Head · promontory · Clare

    A legend associated with Loop Head tells of a great Northern King or Prince persecuted by a swift and stout-hearted woman, who fled southward to remote County Clare seeking safety. Finding himself trapped at the extreme point of the Loop Head promontory with the sea hemming him in on both sides, he saw his pursuer close behind.

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    much indebted, is full of incidents, and contains the history of heroes and heroines whom we term “ mythical,” but which are not less extraordinary than those legends with which Loophead and nearly every part of Ireland are identified. Now with respect to Loopliead and its legends, it is related that in years gone by, so remote that the “oldest inhabitant” knows nothing of the time or the date, some great Northern King or Prince, who was persecuted by a woman, swift of limb and stout of heart, sought flight from her southward, and he thought in coming to the Countv Clare, a place so remote in those days, he would be safe from his peisecutor; but not so, she found him out, and in desperation this King or Prince, hearing of her close proximity, fled towards the Promontory, now known as Loophead, never thinking that the sea hemmed him in at both sides so closely as it did; and coming to the extreme point of the mainland he saw this dreadful woman close behind

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    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Loop Head there's an old legend the books have kept. It tells of a great Northern King or Prince, persecuted by a woman who was swift of limb and stout of heart. He fled southward, seeking safety in County Clare, a place so remote in those days that he thought he would be safe from his pursuer. But she found him out. Hearing of her close proximity, he fled in desperation towards the promontory now known as Loophead, never thinking the sea hemmed him in at both sides so closely as it did. Coming to the extreme point of the mainland, he saw this dreadful woman close behind. The tale is so remote in time that the oldest inhabitant knows nothing of the date. It is one of those legends with which Loophead and nearly every part of Ireland are identified, full of incidents, containing the history of heroes and heroines whom we term mythical, but which are not less extraordinary than any others passed down.

12. Nobleman's water supply scheme ending summer water-famine

    Ballyvaghan · town · Clare

    A deceased nobleman erected at his sole expense a water supply system for the valley of north Clare, commemorated by an imposing fountain in Ballyvaughan. It was believed to be the first work of such magnitude for rural supply in Ireland, benefiting a wide district subject to water-famine every summer or in dry seasons.

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    It is due to the memory of a nobleman some years deceased to say that he erected, at his sole expense, a system of wrater supply in this valley of north Clare, wThich redounds to his memory as a public benefactor, and which event is recorded on an imposing-looking fountain in Ballyvaughan. It being the first vTork, avc

    84 “ CORKCREW” HILL.

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    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ballyvaughan, there is a fountain here that records a public benefactor. A nobleman, now some years deceased, erected at his sole expense a water supply system for this valley of north Clare. It was believed to be the first work of such magnitude for rural supply in Ireland, benefiting a wide district that suffered water-famine every summer or in dry seasons.

13. Loophead Lighthouse and keepers' isolation

    Loop Head · promontory · Clare

    The lighthouse at Loophead stands high amid solitude, a picture of neatness and good order. The author appeals for books and literature to be provided for the keeper and assistants to relieve the dreary hours of winter and early spring.

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    and constructs, time obliterates it sooner or later, if allowed to remain uncared for, and so it is in this particular place the hand of time has left little or no trace of the garden, and alas ! lie who planted and tended it is not now alive to restore it to the state it was formerly in. However, a descent into the cavity, and a visit to this unique attempt at gardening “ under difficulties,” will amply repay one for the trouble and time expended. The lighthouse at Loopliead is a remarkable object, standing high amid such solitude; owing to the courtesy of the keeper we were permitted to view the interior w hich afforded us much pleasure. Anyone who visits Loophead should inspect the mechanism which flashes the light across the w aters, from the lantern above, proving a useful guide to those mariners wdio frequent this exposed coast. Loophead light-house is a picture of neatness and good order, hut the isolated position of those who tend and care it, and the dull monotonous lives they

    L00PHEA1).

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    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Loop Head, a lighthouse stands high amid solitude. The author of this passage visited it and was shown the interior by the keeper, by courtesy. They saw the mechanism that flashes the light across the waters from the lantern above, a guide to the mariners who frequent this exposed coast. The lighthouse itself is described as a picture of neatness and good order. But what stays with the author is the isolated position of those who tend and care for it, and the dull monotonous lives they lead. The material speaks of dreary hours in winter and early spring, and the author makes an appeal for books and literature to be provided for the keeper and his assistants. The idea is simple enough. Books would relieve the long emptiness of those seasons on this exposed promontory, where the keepers live with the light and the sea and not much else.

14. Corkscrew Hill zigzag road and panoramic summit view

    near Corkscrew Hill · hill or hills · Clare

    Corkscrew Hill near Gregan's Castle features a remarkable zigzag road scaling a steep height, gaining only a few yards at each turn. From the summit there is a glorious view of sea, land, wood, and rock in the valley below and far away into County Galway.

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    liim to proceed, and at last, obeying orders, he was surprised to see the road opening up before him as he progressed, and then on we went, winding our way upwards, from left to right, and right to left, in zigzag fashion, scaling a height which, looked at from below, one would imagine that a pedestrian, much less a horse and vehicle, could possibly ascend so steep an incline. And proceeding in this way, at walking pace, for a considerable distance, up this height, gaining, on the principle of the screw-action, a few yards only, at each turn, till at length we arrive at the summit of this formidable obstacle, and then standing to rest, and contemplate, look backward at the glorious view of sea, land, wood, and rock, down in the valley below, and far away in the County Galway. Here we close, because the remainder of our journey back to Lisdoonvarna, has to a great extent, been described already, when writing of Kilfenora ; indeed we have exceeded the limit prescribed when

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15. Saint's well near Carrigaholt and fishermen's devotion

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare

    A Patron's or Saint's well is located on the shore near Carrigaholt Castle. Fishermen passing in their canoes with nets were observed removing their hats with reverence as they rowed past, apparently seeking protection from the waves and success in fishing.

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    Carrigaholt Castle is a much longer distance away, and would be too long a walk for anyone except an athlete. Carrigaholt, or Carrigaholty, means the “ Town of the rock of the fleet,” and its origin is traceable to the anchorage for vessels, under a rock, on the shore. This old Castle is another of those structures which are so numerous in the County Clare, and which, like all other ancient buildings of the same type and character, has a history which would fill a bulky volume to narrate. A mansion, quite close to it, is inhabited by one of the local gentry, and a dismantled battery not far away. A “ Patron’s ” or Saint’s well is also near on the shore, and as the fishermen passed in their canoes with nets piled up, rowing

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16. Tarbert with lighthouse on the Shannon

    Tarbert · town · Kerry

    Tarbert, on the shore in County Kerry nearly opposite Kilrush, is noted for its lighthouse. It sits on the Shannon river and is mentioned as a landmark for those travelling the waterway.

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    load and discharge, and at present is the principal place for visitors to Kilkee to land and embark. A steamer plys between Limerick and Kilrnsh all the year round, taking goods and passengers, and in the summer season a passenger boat runs in connection with the railway to and from Foynes harbour, and the West Clare Railway extension is opening up the coast line from Miltown Malbay to Kilkee and Kilrusli. On the shore, nearly opposite Kilrush, in County Kerry, is Tarbert, with lighthouse, and a few miles higher up the river, on the same side, but in County Limerick, Gil in Castle, the residence of the Knight of Glin, a descendant of the Geraldines of old, are picturesque places and worth visiting, particularly as one is brought into a region which fiction and fact have made interesting all the world over, owing to its being the scene of that tragedy which gave Gerald Griffin such an incentive to employ his great genius in deliniating a heroine like “ Eily O’Connor,”

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17. Kilkee as a seaside resort in a horseshoe bay

    Kilkee · town · Clare

    Kilkee is described as a delightful watering place nestled in a horse-shoe shaped bay on the Atlantic coast of Clare, a maritime town without shipping or manufacturing. Natural curiosities include the Puffing Hole, the Amphitheatre rock formation, extensive caves under the cliffs, the Arch Cliff, George's Head, and Look-out Hill, all accessible to visitors.

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    shores where one is not usually trammelled by those rigid rules of etiquette which influence our movements so much at home. Unfortunately, however, the conventionalities of home life are too often carried with us, to our temporary residence by the sea, which often is the cause of much discomfort, and detracts from one’s enjoyments considerably. So, dear reader, just imagine by the action of some kind fairy, that we are entering Kilkee, in the County Clare; what a surprise when this natural picture is presented before us ! Here, sheltered in a hay, of horse-shoe shape, on the shores of the Atlantic, a sort of recess in the coast, is nestled this delightful watering place, a maritime Town without the shipping, or the manufacturing enterprises, which are such objectionable features in places where one wishes to he free from worry, excitement, and hustle. Kilkee has its fashionable quarter like other places — its “ Esplanade,” and “West End ; ” and for those who like natural

    KILKEE.

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    As the companion tells it

    As you come into Kilkee in Clare, you find a watering place sheltered in a horse-shoe bay on the Atlantic shore, a recess in the coast. The shores here are meant to be free of the rigid etiquette that governs life at home, though too often people carry those conventions with them to the sea, which only detracts from their enjoyment. Kilkee itself is a maritime town without shipping or manufacturing, free of the bustle that follows industry. It has its fashionable quarter, an Esplanade and a West End, like any other resort. For those drawn to natural curiosities, there is the Puffing Hole, the Amphitheatre rock formation, and extensive caves under the cliffs. The Arch Cliff, George's Head, and Look-out Hill are all accessible to visitors who want to walk and see them.

18. Lisdoonvarna Twin Wells: sulphur and iron springs

    Lisdoonvarna · townland · Clare

    Near the Episcopal Church at Lisdoonvarna, sulphur and iron mineral springs issue from a rock side by side as the 'Twin Wells.' Additional iron, magnesia, and great sulphur wells with baths are distributed through the spa town, which features large hotels and stocked shops.

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    which is rather a novel feature in bridgemaking. After passing over this “ spectacle” bridge we turn to the right, and are then brought in line with the ravine which we are after crossing ; and near the Episcopal Church, half way down a steep incline, we come to the first of the spas, which are known as the “Twin Wells,” namely, sulphur and iron, issuing from the side of a rock, almost side by side, and which both in taste and smell are as distinct as if miles asunder. As we approach the centre of this health-resort, we are impressed with the appearance of large and imposing hotels, and other fine houses, built for the accommodation of those coming to drink its mineral waters ; there are large and well-stocked shops on all sides, which are not the least of the many indications of the enterprise of those who built and stocked them ; everywhere there are evidences of prosperity, and of the large amount of capital invested, and manifest appearances everywhere of a

    LISDOOKVARKA.' — From a Photo by W. Lawrence.

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19. Scattery Island round tower and St. Sennan ruins

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare

    Scattery Island in the Shannon opposite Kilrush contains a round tower of disputed Christian or Pagan origin and extensive ecclesiastical ruins where St. Sennan officiated in remote ages. His memory is still honoured locally, with many people bearing the Christian name 'Sinon' in the neighbourhood.

    Read the passage

    Having devoted as much time and space as suited our purpose in exploring the coast, we now seek for more variety inland, and owing to its picturesqueness select the neighbourhood of Kilrusli. The run by road or rail presents nothing unusual till approaching the town. Scattery Island is observed about midway in the Shannon, opposite Kilrusli, in which island are objects of great historical, as well as local interest, such as one of the round towers that have puzzled the wise in such matters for ages, and still the question is not yet solved, namely, whether of Christian or Pagan origin. There are also on the island extensive and interesting ecclesiastical ruins, in which, in remote ages St. Sennan officiated, and whose memory is still revered in having so many of the people bearing the Christian name of “ Sinon,” living in the neighbourhood. In Kilrusli, and for miles inland, is the Vandeleur property, which, no doubt, will occupy a foremost place when the Land

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20. Spanish Armada graves at Spanish Point

    near Spanish Point · promontory · Clare · 1588

    On the shore at Spanish Point, in a green field, are a cluster of grass-covered mounds which tradition identifies as the graves of soldiers and sailors cast ashore when vessels of the Spanish Armada were wrecked in the neighbourhood. The place derives its name from this event.

    Read the passage

    beating on the shore is felt to he fiercer, and the waves higher, because, probably, being seen to greater advantage. Sitting on a high elevation, and only able to observe the action of the waves down far below, one is obliged to give greater scope to the imagination, in measuring their size, and estimating their force, but here at Spanish Point, one standing on a lower elevation, is able to observe the waves striking on the rocks, and mounting upwards, in some instances high above the position one occupies. It was to us a most enjoyable occupation, when reclining on the green turf on shore, in the company of those near and dear to us, to watch the sea tossing and foaming on the rocks extending a long distance seaward — just as if in anger, at not being permitted to reach, and submerge us in its vastness. Here, on the shore, in a green field, are a number of grass-covered mounds in a cluster, which tradition assigns to be the graves of the soldiers and sailors who were east

    SPANISH POINT.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Spanish Point, the shore holds a green field where a cluster of grass-covered mounds stands. Tradition says these are the graves of soldiers and sailors cast ashore when vessels of the Spanish Armada were wrecked in this neighbourhood in 1588. The place takes its name from that event. The writer describes the sea here with particular force. One stands low enough to watch the waves striking the rocks and mounting upward, sometimes higher than where one stands. He found it a most enjoyable thing, reclining on the green turf on shore, to watch the sea tossing and foaming on the rocks extending a long distance seaward, as if in anger at not being permitted to reach and submerge those watching in its vastness. It was an occupation he shared in the company of those near and dear to him.

21. "Kyber Pass" limestone cutting on road to Carran

    near Carran · population centre · Clare

    The road to Carran passes through a deep cutting excavated from solid limestone rock, with perpendicular rock walls several feet high serving as the only fences. Beyond Carran the country becomes desert-like and dreary, with a valley bounded by a high limestone peak called the "Eagle's Nest."

    Read the passage

    taking a southerly direction in order to see the deep cutting called by some the “ Kyber Pass,” through which the road leading to Carran was excavated out of the solid lime-stone rock, and for a considerable distance these rocks, which are almost perpendicular, and several feet high, are the only fences to the roadway at both sides. After passing Carran, and as one ascends the higher elevation, the country looks like a desert, no fences to the road, and altogether a dreary-looking spot. On one side is a valley hounded by a high lime-stone peak called the “ Eagle’s Nest,” and on the other side a wide extent of country, rocks being the most prominent feature in the landscape. Proceeding onward we reach the southern brow of this hill, which we entered upon from the northern side, and now we have southward and westward a splendid view of hill, lake, wood, valley, and plain for miles, the view extending beyond Ennis, which is seen in the distance. Prom here it is a rapid

    LEMINEAGH CASl'LE.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

22. Proposed breakwater at Crab Island for fishermen shelter

    near Crab Island · townland · Clare

    A breakwater connecting the mainland with Crab Island, opposite Ballaghaline shore, is proposed to provide harbour accommodation for mainland and Aran fishermen who currently have no shelter from storms and must land on the beach.

    Read the passage

    place for visitors staying at Lisdoonvarna, it is customary to hire a canoe for an excursion to the nearest of the Islands of Arran, which is about an hour’s rowing from the mainland, with favourable wind. The Arran people come here with fish to sell, and also to buy goods on the mainland. They bring cattle to neighbouring fairs and markets, and make purchases also, which they take hack with them. Horses, cattle, and animals of every description are transported to and from the Island in open boats, and a cruel practice it is, owing to having no place hut the beach to land and embark ; the want of a harbour or quay of some sort is experienced by the fishermen themselves, who have no place to turn to for shelter when overtaken in a storm, while out at sea fishing. A breakwater connecting the mainland with Crab Island, a few hundred yards opposite the shore, would accomplish all that is necessary, and would be a great boon conferred on the poor men who have nothing to

    • MOUNT ELYA.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, off the shore, lies Crab Island, and there is a plan to build a breakwater connecting it to the mainland. The Aran fishermen come across to this coast to sell fish and to buy goods. They bring cattle to fairs and markets here, and carry their purchases back to the islands. Horses, cattle, and animals of every kind are transported to and from Aran in open boats, and a cruel practice it is, because they have no place but the beach to land and embark. The fishermen themselves feel the want of a harbour or quay of some sort. They have no place to turn to for shelter when overtaken in a storm while out at sea fishing. A breakwater connecting the mainland with Crab Island, opposite the shore, would accomplish all that is necessary, and would be a great boon conferred on the poor men who have nothing to help them.

23. St. Brendan and the Brandon Mountains tradition

    Brandon Mountain · mountain or mountain range · Kerry

    The Brandon Mountains in Kerry are named after a saint who lived near them, and to whom tradition assigns the honour of being the first navigator from the old world to touch the shores of the new. The mountains are visible from the Clare coast across the mouth of the Shannon.

    Read the passage

    And across the mouth of the Shannon the coast of the kingdom of Kerry is visible, with its headlands, capes, and bays, and standing above all, on the coast line, are the Brandon Mountains, near which lived the saint who gave them his name, and to whom tradition assigns the honour of being the first navigator, from the old world,

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24. Birchfield, seat of Cornelius O'Brien

    near Birchfield · street · Kerry

    Birchfield, a mansion set in a grove of trees midway to Liscannor, was the seat of the late Cornelius O'Brien, MP for County Clare. By the time of writing, the mansion was fast going to decay with no surviving family members to inherit the improved property.

    Read the passage

    Retracing our steps we are again traversing the road over which we travelled till we arrive at the turn of the road, and proceeding in a southerly direction, soon reach St. Bridget’s Well. From the highway here a really fine view is obtained of Lahincli, Ennistymon, Liscannor, and the opposite shore of the bay. About midway to Liscannor, in the midst of a grove of trees, is the fine old mansion known as Birchfield, the seat of the late Cornelius O’Brien, for many years Member of Parliament for the County of Clare, and to whom the public are indebted for the tower on the summit of the cliffs, which bears his name. It was his money and enterprise which reclaimed the land surrounding the cliffs, and for a long distance inland. To his name, and to those who superintended the works for him, is due

    60 sT. Bridget’s well.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Birchfield stood a fine old mansion, set in a grove of trees, midway to Liscannor. It was the seat of the late Cornelius O'Brien, for many years Member of Parliament for County Clare. The public are indebted to him for the tower on the summit of the cliffs, which bears his name. It was his money and enterprise which reclaimed the land surrounding the cliffs, and for a long distance inland. By the time of writing, the mansion was fast going to decay, with no surviving family members to inherit the improved property.

25. O'Brien lords of Thomond and Inchiquin

    Dromoland · townland · Clare

    The Princes of Thomond and Lords of Inchiquin, the O'Brien family, played a distinguished part in Irish history for centuries, building castles, churches and abbeys in Clare, Tipperary and Limerick. Their history involved battles between O'Briens and O'Loughlins on the plains and hills around Corcomroe. The present representative retains Dromoland as his home with a vast property in his native county.

    Read the passage

    blood of the O’Briens and O’Loughlins, and other clansmen of the period. The career of the Princes of Thomond and Lords of Incliiquin are the most remarkable of all the other great Irish families which influenced the destinies of Ireland for a considerable period. Their history might be said to be the History of Ireland at one time. The castles, churches and abbeys, which they built and endowed in Clare, Tipperary and Limerick are evidence of their great wealth, and of the extensive and extended powers which they exercised in former davs ; and notwithstanding all the turmoil, dissenlions, strife and confiscations which history records of the Clan O’Brien, the Marquis of Thomond retained immense possessions till his decease not very many years since, and even the present representative of the family has in Dromoland a home worthy of his high lineage, and enjoys the revenue of a property of vast extent in his native county, and no matter how

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26. Spectacle bridge at Lisdoonvarna

    Lisdoonvarna · townland · Clare

    A unusual 'spectacle' bridge spans a deep glen on a river course to the sea near Lisdoonvarna. Its architect contrived a circular opening above the water aperture to make the high structure appear light and graceful, creating a novel feature in bridge design.

    Read the passage

    we have a view of the sea again, with more of moorland in the landscape, and soon after are passing over the “spectacle” bridge which crosses a river running through a deep glen on its course to the sea a few miles westward. The peculiarity of this bridge is probably due to the fact that owing to the great depth of the chasm that had to be spanned, the bridge should be built unusually high, in order to bring it on a level with the banks on either side, so as to form a level roadway above; and the architect, perhaps, with a view to make the structure as light and graceful-looking as possible, contrived a circular opening where the dead work should be, and now there are two apertures — one below through which the water flows, and the circular one above,,

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27. Liscannor castle, harbour and flag quarry industry

    Liscannor · town · Clare

    Liscannor is a fishing station on the bay with an ancient castle and a coast-guard station on a prominent cliff. Its harbour supports a large flag-quarrying industry shipping stone to Ireland and England, kelp exports, and coal imports. Fishermen use frail canoes and their earnings are precarious.

    Read the passage

    a fishing station on the hay. Here are an ancient castle, and a Coast-guard Station, of modern build, perched near each other, on a prominent cliff, which can be seen for miles around. Liseannor has its little Harbour, where vessels load and discharge their cargoes ; there are extensive flag quarries in the neighbourhood, and the flags are shipped to other parts of Ireland, as well as to England, — which traffic has grown into a large industry of late years ; coal is also imported here, and the seaweed, after being burned and converted into “kelp,” in large quantities, is also shipped from Liseannor. A number of men are employed in deep water fishing, but have only those frail canoes to face the dangers of the sea, to follow their perilous occupation, the result being that their earnings are precarious. A local gentleman has been endeavouring to improve their position, but, so far, has not been very successful in his efforts to ameliorate their condition, or to provide larger

    LlSCANlNFOit.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Liscannor, a fishing station on the bay. An ancient castle and a coast-guard station of modern build stand near each other on a prominent cliff, visible for miles around. Liscannor has its little harbour, where vessels load and discharge their cargoes. Extensive flag quarries in the neighbourhood ship stone to other parts of Ireland and to England, a traffic that has grown into a large industry of late years. Coal is imported here, and seaweed is burned and converted into kelp, then shipped from Liscannor in large quantities. A number of men work in deep water fishing, but they have only frail canoes to face the dangers of the sea and follow their perilous occupation. The result is that their earnings are precarious. A local gentleman has been endeavouring to improve their position, but so far has not been very successful in his efforts to ameliorate their condition or to provide larger boats.

28. O'Brien clan residence at Tromra, 1276, and Torlough's flight

    Trimragh · townland · Donegal · 1276

    A branch of the great Clan O'Brien once resided at Tromra, opposite Mutton Island. In 1276, Donald, son of Teige-a-luinn O'Brien, lived there when Torlough fled to him from his uncle King Brian and his allies, who had attacked Torlough's palace at Clonroad near Ennis.

    Read the passage

    Spanish Point, in Summer or Winter, is certainly a charming place to reside in, and having seen it under both aspects we speak from experience : Mutton Island, near the shore, adds to the interest of its position; to it pic-nic parties often resort in canoes or other suitable boats supplied by the Handheld fishermen. In Tromora, opposite Mutton Island, once resided a branch of the great Clan O’Brien. Here, in 1276, Donald, the son of Teige-a-luinn O’Brien, lived, when Torlough fled to him, from his uncle, King Brian and his allies, who attacked the Palace of Torlough, at Clonroad, near Ennis. Torlough, it ap-

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    As the companion tells it

    Close to Trimragh, a branch of the great Clan O'Brien once resided at a place called Tromora, opposite Mutton Island. In 1276, Donald, the son of Teige-a-luinn O'Brien, was living here when Torlough fled to him. Torlough was running from his uncle, King Brian, and Brian's allies, who had attacked Torlough's palace at Clonroad, near Ennis. So Donald's home became Torlough's refuge in that year.

29. O'Brien's Tower at the Cliffs of Moher

    near Cliffs of Moher · cliff or cliffs · Clare

    O'Brien's Tower was built to accommodate visitors who came prepared to dine on the spot, with a kitchen for cooking and a spacious room overhead accessed by steps. From the roof, one can obtain a view extending to counties Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, and Cork.

    Read the passage

    almost overhang. It is so perpendicular that to look over it would make many a one dizzy. After resting the while, an ascent is made for “ O’Brien’s Tower.” Stone flags are placed on end all along the face of the cliff, as a protection, and at certain “ view points,” there are “ set-offs,” so constructed that one can look down below, over the cliffs, without incurring any risk of falling over, and at abrupt points, nice flagged steps are fixed to make the ascent and descent easier ; about half way up to “ O’Brien’s Tower ” a pinnacled rock j uts out into the sea from the base of the cliff, which is a remarkable object down below, partly covered with very scant verdure, and accessible only to some daring spirit, who would scale the cliff or let himself down by the aid of a rope fixed to the cliff above. On reaching “ O’Brien’s Tower ” we find it was built for accommodating those who came prepared to dine on the spot ; there is a kitchen for cooking purposes, and a spacious room overhead to

    o’brien’s tower. 57

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about the Cliffs of Moher stands O'Brien's Tower. The cliff here is so perpendicular that looking over the edge would make many a one dizzy. Stone flags are placed on end all along the face of the cliff as a protection, and at certain view points there are set-offs, so constructed that one can look down below over the cliffs without risking falling over. At abrupt points, flagged steps are fixed to make the ascent and descent easier. About halfway up to the tower, a pinnacled rock juts out into the sea from the base of the cliff, a remarkable object partly covered with scant verdure, accessible only to some daring spirit who would scale the cliff or let himself down by a rope fixed to the cliff above. The tower itself was built for accommodating those who came prepared to dine on the spot. There is a kitchen for cooking, and a spacious room overhead accessed by steps. From the roof, one can obtain a view extending to the counties of Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, and Cork.

30. Liscannor fishermen's precarious conditions

    Liscannor · town · Clare

    Men employed in deep-water fishing at Liscannor use only frail canoes, making their earnings precarious. A local gentleman has tried to improve their position by providing larger boats for deeper waters, but without success so far.

    Read the passage

    a fishing station on the hay. Here are an ancient castle, and a Coast-guard Station, of modern build, perched near each other, on a prominent cliff, which can be seen for miles around. Liseannor has its little Harbour, where vessels load and discharge their cargoes ; there are extensive flag quarries in the neighbourhood, and the flags are shipped to other parts of Ireland, as well as to England, — which traffic has grown into a large industry of late years ; coal is also imported here, and the seaweed, after being burned and converted into “kelp,” in large quantities, is also shipped from Liseannor. A number of men are employed in deep water fishing, but have only those frail canoes to face the dangers of the sea, to follow their perilous occupation, the result being that their earnings are precarious. A local gentleman has been endeavouring to improve their position, but, so far, has not been very successful in his efforts to ameliorate their condition, or to provide larger

    LlSCANlNFOit.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Liscannor, a town on the Clare coast the road passes through. It has a little harbour where vessels load and discharge their cargoes, and there are extensive flag quarries in the neighbourhood. The flags are shipped to other parts of Ireland and to England, a traffic that has grown into a large industry in recent years. Coal is imported here, and seaweed is burned and converted into kelp in large quantities and shipped out as well. An ancient castle and a modern coast-guard station stand near each other on a prominent cliff, visible for miles around. A number of men here are employed in deep-water fishing, but they have only frail canoes to face the dangers of the sea. The result is that their earnings are precarious. A local gentleman has been endeavouring to improve their position, to provide larger boats for deeper waters, but so far he has not been very successful in his efforts to ameliorate their condition.

31. Lisdoonvarna Spa town layout and sulphur baths

    Lisdoonvarna · townland · Clare

    Lisdoonvarna is described as a spa town in two divisions separated by a deep ravine, with a sulphur well and baths owned by a medical doctor. The town's hotels and lodges are scattered across a wide district, and thousands of invalids reportedly found cures there.

    Read the passage

    On a slight eminence, over the sulphur spa, is the handsomely designed residence of a medical doctor, who evidently enjoys the confidence of the people, judging from the numbers seeking his consulting room. He is owner of the sulphur baths also, and the public have great reason to thank him for this valuable addition to the other health restoring agencies. Farther up the incline is another series of hotels and lodges for visitors. Lisdoonvarna appears to be in two divisions, separated by a deep ravine, with a bridge crossing it near the sulphur well, besides the “ spectacle ” bridge, lowerdown the stream. Both sides of. the valley are partly built upon, but the business portion is evidently confined to the northern end. As a rule the houses and hotels are detached buildings scattered

    LISDOONVARNA.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

32. 'Terry O'Driscoll' (Mr. Jackson) of Kilrush

    Kilrush · town · Clare

    A Mr. Jackson, known by his pen name 'Terry O'Driscoll,' lived at Kilrush and wrote humorous sketches published weekly in Dublin newspapers. He delighted the public of a past generation.

    Read the passage

    There also lived at Kilrush, a Mr. Jackson, who as “Terry O’Driscoll,” in his humorous sketches from week to week, in some of the Dublin newspapers, delighted the public of the past generation, and, no doubt many, like ourselves, remember them also.

    Limerick, which is 60 miles from Loophead, is a port of some importance, where the water rises at spring tides 23 feet, is a fine old historical city, and having hurst the bonds in which the old fortified walls held it for centuries, its enterprising citizens carved out a new city, and now the modern portion is far more extensive than the old, and excels it in beauty ; it is well built, and contains warehouses not surpassed by any other town of its population in the kingdom, and its fine range of streets excite admiration. A visit to Lime-

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Kilrush now. A man named Jackson lived here once, and under the name Terry O'Driscoll he wrote humorous sketches, week after week, in some of the Dublin newspapers. The public of a past generation delighted in them, and the writer of the book says that many, like himself, remember them also.

33. Ennistymon cascades and Banim association

    near Ennistimon · town · Clare

    Ennistymon, rendered famous by Banim in his book 'The town of the cascades,' features a river plunging over rocks beneath the bridge, producing a thrilling effect after rain. The grounds of the local landlord contain a romantic glen.

    Read the passage

    Ennistymon, in the neighbourhood, which has been rendered famous by Banim, in his book, “ The town of the cascades,” should he visited, if for no other purpose hut to enjoy the prospect from the bridge westward, and then glancing over the parapet, at the river plunging down the rocks beneath ; or to take a point of observation lower down the stream, and looking towards the bridge after a fall of rain, or when the water in the river is deep, and rushing in full volume over the ledge of rocks the effect is really thrilling. From the windows of the southern front of the principal hotel a fine view is obtained of river and cascade. In the grounds of the “ lord of the soil ” is a romantic glen, well worth rambling through. The walks, lawns and gardens are well kept, and the

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34. Ballyvaughan village, hotel and steamer service

    Ballyvaghan · town · Clare

    Ballyvaughan is described as a most interesting place and a nice retreat to spend a holiday in, with its principal hotel on the shore. A steamer plies between Galway and Ballyvaughan, taking passengers to and from Lisdoonvarna, and excursions are also made to the Arran Islands.

    Read the passage

    luncheon, soon have the desire gratified. And now, glancing at the scenery of this valley, with Ballyvaughan in the foreground, without doubt it is a most interesting place, and a nice retreat to spend a holiday in. The principal hotel is on the shore, and in our experience it is well conducted, and one can be made comfortable in it, as we ourselves experienced when staying under its roof. A steamer plys between Galway and Ballyvaughan, taking passengers to and from Lisdoonvarna, and excursions are made also to the Arran Islands from it and from Galway. Corcomroe Abbey, founded, it is said by Donald, King of Limerick, in 1191, others say in the year 1200 by his son, Donagh Carbrae, is in the neighbourhood, and here the antiquarian has a rich treat in the study of its sculpture and architecture, and of the events which have given it a foremost place in the Annals of Ireland. In many a hard fought battle in ancient days these plains and hills were reddened with the

    CORCOMROE ABBEY.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

35. Loop Head: panoramic view of Shannon estuary and Atlantic

    Loop Head · promontory · Clare

    At Loop Head the visitor encounters a wide expanse of sea and vast coastline. The Shannon estuary is visible for miles inland, and the author argues its great depth and extent toward Foynes Island make it more like an arm of the sea than a river.

    Read the passage

    vast extent of coast line, that our feelings are excited to the highest pitch of admiration; on the one hand the estuary of the Shannon is in view for miles inland — a river, no douht, it is called, hut in our opinion, owing to its great depth, and its vastness in every way to Foynes Island, it would he more fitly described by calling it an arm of the sea — and stretching far away is the “ broad Atlantic ” —

    “ Thou huge heaving sea,

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Loop Head, the coastline opens wide and the feeling hits hard. On one hand, the estuary of the Shannon is in view for miles inland. It is called a river, but the author holds that owing to its great depth and its vastness in every way to Foynes Island, it would be more fitly described as an arm of the sea. And stretching far away is the broad Atlantic. As the book calls it, the huge heaving sea.

36. Blackhead promontory and panoramic sea views

    near Black Head · promontory · Clare

    Blackhead rises to 647 feet above the roadway on the coast of North Clare, with a steep cliff and dwarf stone wall. From its summit one can see the Arran Islands, the Galway coast, Salthill, and the town of Galway across the bay, as well as mountain ranges and the broad Atlantic.

    Read the passage

    Behind us is Blackhead, rising hundreds of feet above the roadway where we stand, acting as a fence on one side and for a protection at the other hand, only a dwarf stone wall, and down below the sea dashing in all its fury. An ascent to the summit of Blackhead, which attains an altitude of 647 feet, reveals greater wonder still, the panorama being more extensive on all sides, and to one that loves the sea and its surroundings it is enchanting with

    “ Echoes and waterfalls and pointed crags “ That into music touch the passing breeze.”

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Black Head, the cliff rises hundreds of feet above the roadway. It acts as a fence on one side, and on the other there is only a dwarf stone wall, with the sea down below dashing in all its fury. The summit reaches 647 feet, and from there the panorama opens out on all sides. The Arran Islands, the Galway coast, Salthill, the town of Galway across the bay, mountain ranges, and the broad Atlantic all come into view. The book calls it enchanting, with, as it puts it, "echoes and waterfalls and pointed crags that into music touch the passing breeze."

37. Doolin grazing land and telegraph tower ruins

    Doolin · townland · Clare

    At Doolin on the extreme west coast, some of the best grazing land in the county is found, with a tradition that an acre fattens a bullock. The ruins of an old telegraph tower are visible on the coast over Doolin.

    Read the passage

    their homes in the enjoyment of robust health; such evidence is better than all that the faculty could say in recommendation of its springs, and its salubrious air, for the cure of the “ills which flesh is heir to.” Prom Lisdoonvarna excursions are made to the Cliffs of Molier, Lahincli, Spanish Point, and even to Kilkee, already described. The drive from Lisdoonvarna to the Cliffs is a most enjoyable one, along the coast, with the Islands of Arran in view, and the ruins of another old telegraph tower on the landscape, on the coast over Doolin; and here at this extreme west coast, down at the shore at Doolin is some of the best grazing land in the county, which is proverbial for its fattening quality. There is a tradition that an acre of this land fattens a bullock, and if its verdant appearance at all seasons of the year, is any guarantee of richness, the land certainly must be prime. Ballaghaline is a fishing station, near Doolin, and being the nearest and most convenient

    fclSbOOttVAHNA.

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, close to Doolin on the extreme west coast, the ruins of an old telegraph tower stand on the coast over Doolin. From Lisdoonvarna, excursions are made to the Cliffs of Molier, Lahincli, Spanish Point, and even to Kilkee. The drive from Lisdoonvarna to the Cliffs is a most enjoyable one, along the coast, with the Islands of Arran in view, and this tower ruin on the landscape. Down at the shore at Doolin is some of the best grazing land in the county, proverbial for its fattening quality. There is a tradition that an acre of this land fattens a bullock. If its verdant appearance at all seasons of the year is any guarantee of richness, the land certainly must be prime. Ballaghaline is a fishing station near Doolin, being the nearest and most convenient.

38. Vandeleur mansion demesne

    Kilrush · town · Clare

    The Vandeleur family mansion and demesne adjoin Kilrush but are no longer inhabited by the family after the present member succeeded his father.

    Read the passage

    League operations have to be recorded in history, it being the scene of one of the greatest efforts made by the government with a view to sustain the rights of the owner of the soil. However, after evicting a certain number of tenants, and demolishing their homesteads, arbitration was proposed by men of influence unconnected, we believe, with the Land League, and was accepted by the landlord, and now peace reigns where the most intense excitement and agitation at one time prevailed. The mansion and demesne of the Vandeleurs are adjoining the town of Kilrush, and Avere always occupied by former owners ’til the present member of the family succeeded his father, and now the house is not inhabited by him, or any member of the family. The town of Kilrush is not so prosperous as it should be judging from its position in occupying the best site in the river Shannon for commercial purposes. At Cappa is a substantial pier where steamers trading Avith Limerick

    GLXN.

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    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Kilrush, the Vandeleur mansion and demesne adjoin the town. This was the scene of one of the greatest efforts made by the government to sustain the rights of the owner of the soil. After evicting a certain number of tenants and demolishing their homesteads, arbitration was proposed by men of influence unconnected with the Land League, and was accepted by the landlord. Now peace reigns where the most intense excitement and agitation at one time prevailed. The mansion was always occupied by former owners until the present member of the family succeeded his father. Now the house is not inhabited by him or any member of the family. Kilrush is not so prosperous as it should be, judging from its position on the best site in the river Shannon for commercial purposes. At Cappa is a substantial pier where steamers trade with Limerick.

39. Carrigaholt Castle: name origin and description

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare

    Carrigaholt Castle's name means 'Town of the rock of the fleet,' derived from the anchorage for vessels under a rock on the shore. A mansion inhabited by local gentry stands close by, and a dismantled battery is nearby. The author laments that such ruins are not preserved as national monuments.

    Read the passage

    Carrigaholt Castle is a much longer distance away, and would be too long a walk for anyone except an athlete. Carrigaholt, or Carrigaholty, means the “ Town of the rock of the fleet,” and its origin is traceable to the anchorage for vessels, under a rock, on the shore. This old Castle is another of those structures which are so numerous in the County Clare, and which, like all other ancient buildings of the same type and character, has a history which would fill a bulky volume to narrate. A mansion, quite close to it, is inhabited by one of the local gentry, and a dismantled battery not far away. A “ Patron’s ” or Saint’s well is also near on the shore, and as the fishermen passed in their canoes with nets piled up, rowing

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40. Kelp industry shipped from Sandfield

    Sandfield · street · Carlow

    Along the coast near Spanish Point, seaweed is collected and burned into kelp, which is shipped from Sandfield to England as a profitable local industry.

    Read the passage

    burning of sea-weed along the coast, and converting it into kelp, which is shipped from Sandfield to England, appears to be a general practice and a profitable industry. Spanish Point is in no sense a Town like Kilkee. Miltown, a mile or so inland, is the town proper, which is of considerable size and importance, with its system of water supply for domestic purposes, and from which town all the supplies come from baker, butcher, grocer, and other warehouses, which contribute to the feeding and clothing of the multitude, and from which the people of Spanish Point obtain their supplies. In Miltown there are two hotels, affording comfortable accommodation, and quite convenient enough to the coast for tourists and others, it has its Bank also for the transaction of monetary affairs. Earther inland Mount Callau soars aloft, and from its summit a wide extent of sea and land may be seen. At Mount Callan are glens and ravines well worth exploring, and in one of which is the residence of a

    SPANISH POINT.

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41. Limestone valley near Ballyvaughan compared to Arabia Petra

    Ballyvaghan · town · Clare

    The bold mountain range above Ballyvaughan shows peculiar marks on the face of the rock suggesting the sea once reached its limit there, before receding or an upheaval left valley and mountain high and dry. The author compares the wealth of limestone rock in this valley to Arabia Petra.

    Read the passage

    We hear and read of “ Arabia Petra,” and tourists and explorers have written about it, but nowhere, we think, is there such a wealth of rock as in this valley of limestone in the neighbourhood of Ballyvaughan.

    The bold mountain range above the town, appears from its formation and the peculiar marks on the face of the rock to be at one time the limit of the sea, which probably having receded, or an upheaval of the coast, left valley and mountain high and dry as they are. Prom Corcomroe Abbey the route may be diversified by

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyvaghan now. The author of one old holiday guide thought nowhere had such a wealth of rock as this valley of limestone around the town, not even Arabia Petra. The bold mountain range above the place still shows peculiar marks on the face of the rock. He took them as signs that the sea once reached its limit there. The sea may have receded, or an upheaval of the coast left valley and mountain high and dry.

42. Doonbeg Castle and Strand, old ruin on the Clare coast

    Doonbeg · townland · Clare

    Doonbeg Castle and its strand are described as interesting old ruins on the Clare coast, part of a walking excursion from Kilkee. The castle is noted as having its own distinct history and traditions.

    Read the passage

    An excursion on foot may he made to Dunlicky Castle, on the coast, near Kilkee, and northward to Baltard Castle, and Doonbeg Strand and Castle — all interesting old ruins, each of course with a history and traditions of its own.

    Carrigaholt Castle is a much longer distance away, and would be too long a walk for anyone except an athlete. Carrigaholt, or Carrigaholty, means the “ Town of the rock of the fleet,” and its origin is traceable to the anchorage for vessels, under a rock, on the shore. This old Castle is another of those structures which are so numerous in the County Clare, and which, like all other ancient buildings of the same type and character, has a history which would fill a bulky volume to narrate. A mansion, quite close to it, is inhabited by one of the local gentry, and a dismantled battery not far away. A “ Patron’s ” or Saint’s well is also near on the shore, and as the fishermen passed in their canoes with nets piled up, rowing

    Internet Archive holidayhauntsonw00harr, Chapter 1

43. Inchiquin Lough with islands and shore ruins

    near Inchiquin Lough · lake or lakes · Clare

    The beautiful lake of Inchiquin is dotted with little islands and has old ruins on its shore. The road around the lake ascends the mountain side through dense forest amid ferns and tiny waterfalls, with vistas of the lake below.

    Read the passage

    descent for a mile or so, and on reaching the level road we have a choice of either returning direct by Lemineagh Castle or driving round the beautiful lake of Incliiquin. Taking the latter route we turn to the left, and on arriving near Corofin, wheel to the right, and soon after ascend the mountain side, then through a dense forest, amid a profusion of ferns, with tiny waterfalls trickling down the mountain, and vistas of the lake below, dotted with little islands, and on its shore old ruins, Corofin, with a church which “ tops the neighbouring hill,” a few miles beyond, and then hack to Lisdoonvarna or Ballyvaughan.

    It is due to the memory of a nobleman some years deceased to say that he erected, at his sole expense, a system of wrater supply in this valley of north Clare, wThich redounds to his memory as a public benefactor, and which event is recorded on an imposing-looking fountain in Ballyvaughan. It being the first vTork, avc

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44. Lahinch as established bathing place

    Lehinch · town · Clare

    Lahinch is one of the oldest established bathing places on the Clare coast, with a strand noted for length, width, and evenness. It has hotels and lodges graduated in price for all classes, and the West Clare Railway station is within minutes of the shore.

    Read the passage

    which is one of the oldest established bathing places on the coast. Its strand, for length, width, and evenness of surface, is not to be excelled in Ireland. The accommodation is excellent, and not only are the lodges in town, hut those on the cliffs, and everywhere around, are neat and respectable, and so graduated in size and arrangement, as to admit of being let at prices to suit the position and circumstances of all classes. There are hotels in Lahinch also, all of which are in good, central positions, affording every comfort to those who patronize them. As a centre from which excursions may be made, to objects and places of interest in the locality, there is no other part of the coast that excels it. The West Clare Railway Company have a station within a few minutes walk of the shore, and its opening has been the means of familiarising the public with the W est Coast to an extent that it was not possible

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45. Limerick city: historic port and modern expansion

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Limerick, situated 60 miles from Loop Head, is described as a fine old historical city and port of importance where spring tides rise 23 feet. Its enterprising citizens had expanded beyond the old fortified walls, creating a modern city that exceeds the old portion in extent and beauty.

    Read the passage

    Limerick, which is 60 miles from Loophead, is a port of some importance, where the water rises at spring tides 23 feet, is a fine old historical city, and having hurst the bonds in which the old fortified walls held it for centuries, its enterprising citizens carved out a new city, and now the modern portion is far more extensive than the old, and excels it in beauty ; it is well built, and contains warehouses not surpassed by any other town of its population in the kingdom, and its fine range of streets excite admiration. A visit to Lime-

    LIMERICK.

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46. Mutton Island picnics

    Mutton Island · townland · Clare

    Mutton Island, located near the shore of Spanish Point, is a popular destination for pic-nic parties who reach it in canoes or boats supplied by the local fishermen.

    Read the passage

    Spanish Point, in Summer or Winter, is certainly a charming place to reside in, and having seen it under both aspects we speak from experience : Mutton Island, near the shore, adds to the interest of its position; to it pic-nic parties often resort in canoes or other suitable boats supplied by the Handheld fishermen. In Tromora, opposite Mutton Island, once resided a branch of the great Clan O’Brien. Here, in 1276, Donald, the son of Teige-a-luinn O’Brien, lived, when Torlough fled to him, from his uncle, King Brian and his allies, who attacked the Palace of Torlough, at Clonroad, near Ennis. Torlough, it ap-

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47. Subterranean passages between Lisdoonvarna and Doolin

    Doolin · townland · Clare

    Between Lisdoonvarna and Doolin, streams flow into subterranean passages and are carried underground to the sea. Openings near the coast indicate where these underground chambers exist.

    Read the passage

    Driving from Lisdoonvarna to Doolin, subterranean passages may be observed, into which the streams flow, and are carried underground to the sea beyond, and near the coast are openings which indicate where these subterranean chambers exist.

    An excursion to Mount Elva, and that long range of hills round about it, from whose summit magnificent views are obtained of sea and landscape, is most enjoyable.

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48. Hag's Head telegraph tower and Moher fort site

    near Hag's Head · promontory · Clare

    On Hag's Head stands one of the old telegraph towers, built on or near the site of 'Moher fort,' at an elevation of 407 feet. From this point, views extend over Stookeen cliff (580 ft), Aillenasharragh (632 ft), and Knockardakin (668 ft), the highest of the range.

    Read the passage

    After passing Liscannor we turn to the left, a little beyond Seamount, and keeping alongside the sea, at Clohanes, for a short distance, mount the ascent to Hag’s Head, on which stands one of the old telegraph towers, built on, or near, the site of “ Moher fort,” and from this elevation of 407 feet we have a view of Stookeen cliff, 580 feet, Aillenasharragh, 632 feet, and Knockardakin, 668 feet, above sea level, which is the highest of all that range. Here are miles of cliff in this extent of

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49. Puffing hole at Freagh

    near Freagh and Vicarsacre · townland · Cork

    At Freagh, a short distance north of Spanish Point, a large puffing hole in the cliff produces rainbow tints and a noise like distant cannonade when waves force air from a cavern beneath. The effect is best at half-tide with strong seas.

    Read the passage

    At Freagh, a short distance from Spanish Point, northwards, is another “ puffing hole” of large extent, which, if in operation when the sun is shining, produces beautiful rainbow" tints, and at each “ puff” making a noise resembling that of a distant cannonade. This “ puffing” comes from a cavern under the cliff, and is caused, no doubt, by the pressure of the infiowdng wave on the air w'ithin wdiich rushing out to escape produces the effect described, at the same time carrying a quantity of water in its progress, which, being converted into spray dashes all round, as w’ell as high up in the air, producing the same effect that rain does, so that a near approach will often cause inconvenience. At about half-tide, and when the weaves are strong, this “ puffing” is at its best. The collecting and

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50. Cappa pier trade

    Cappa · townland · Kerry

    Cappa has a substantial pier where steamers trading with Limerick load and discharge, serving as the principal landing place for visitors to Kilkee.

    Read the passage

    League operations have to be recorded in history, it being the scene of one of the greatest efforts made by the government with a view to sustain the rights of the owner of the soil. However, after evicting a certain number of tenants, and demolishing their homesteads, arbitration was proposed by men of influence unconnected, we believe, with the Land League, and was accepted by the landlord, and now peace reigns where the most intense excitement and agitation at one time prevailed. The mansion and demesne of the Vandeleurs are adjoining the town of Kilrush, and Avere always occupied by former owners ’til the present member of the family succeeded his father, and now the house is not inhabited by him, or any member of the family. The town of Kilrush is not so prosperous as it should be judging from its position in occupying the best site in the river Shannon for commercial purposes. At Cappa is a substantial pier where steamers trading Avith Limerick

    GLXN.

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51. Kilfenora ancient churches and high crosses

    Kilfenora · town · Clare

    Kilfenora contains ancient churches, part of which is still used for Divine Service, and one of several ancient crosses formerly fixed around the village is still visible. An old castle and the Deanery stand nearby in the valley.

    Read the passage

    In Kilfenora, a few miles eastward, are ancient churches, a portion of which at present is used for Divine Service, and one of a number of ancient crosses, which

    KILPENORA. *?1

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52. Lahinch panorama and old castle

    Lehinch · town · Clare

    From the cliffs at Lahinch, a panoramic view takes in Hag's Head, the Cliffs of Moher, and the surrounding countryside dotted with white cottages and gentry residences. An old castle stands on a lonely spot on a sandy beach near the route westward.

    Read the passage

    In the distant coast line, the towers on Hag’s-head, and the Cliffs of Moher, are visible. Standing on the cliffs at Lahinch, the Panorama, taking it from Hag’s-head, and including a long range westward, and northward, with the neat, white cottages of the farmers, aud the handsome residences of the gentry, dotting the landscape here and there, is as nice a picture as any one could desire to see. Starting from Lahinch, with a view to making a closer acquaintance with the country westwards, we pass at the north side of the Sandhills, which are of large extent and elevation, and keeping an old Castle on a lonely spot, on a sandy beach, to the right, and crossing over a bridge of no mean proportions, just near it, we soon after arrive in Liscannor,

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53. Moy ravine trout stream near Lahinch

    Moy · townland · Clare

    At Moy, close to Lahinch, a well-wooded ravine protected by cliffs from the sea breeze contains a stream flowing into the sea. Trout abound in the stream, offering a day's fishing.

    Read the passage

    to accomplish before the line was constructed. It is a most interesting sight to watch the tiny engine, and those fancy carriages attached to it, trailing along, like a serpent, on the railway track, which is cut out at the base of a range of hills, running parallel with the sea, for miles, between Laliinch and Miltown ; and those who travel by it enjoy a view of sea and coast-line, which, if it were seen on the Continent, would excite the tourist’s admiration, and crowds would flock to enjoy the spectacle. Laliinch is well sheltered ; at the same time it is an open situation, as one feels when the summer sun shines down upon it, and the health-giving breeze from the sea blows on it ; hills rise landward, and southerly is the open sea; on the west, a hold promontory affords shelter from the prevailing wind more or less. At Moy is a well-wooded ravine, just close to Lahinch, protected by the cliffs, from the sea breeze, through which a stream flows and discharges into the sea. Trout

    ENNISTYMON.

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54. Corofin church and ruins from the lakeshore

    Corrofin · town · Clare

    Corofin features a church that tops the neighbouring hill and old ruins near the shore of Inchiquin Lough. The town is visible a few miles beyond the lake when approaching from the mountain road.

    Read the passage

    descent for a mile or so, and on reaching the level road we have a choice of either returning direct by Lemineagh Castle or driving round the beautiful lake of Incliiquin. Taking the latter route we turn to the left, and on arriving near Corofin, wheel to the right, and soon after ascend the mountain side, then through a dense forest, amid a profusion of ferns, with tiny waterfalls trickling down the mountain, and vistas of the lake below, dotted with little islands, and on its shore old ruins, Corofin, with a church which “ tops the neighbouring hill,” a few miles beyond, and then hack to Lisdoonvarna or Ballyvaughan.

    It is due to the memory of a nobleman some years deceased to say that he erected, at his sole expense, a system of wrater supply in this valley of north Clare, wThich redounds to his memory as a public benefactor, and which event is recorded on an imposing-looking fountain in Ballyvaughan. It being the first vTork, avc

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55. Ennistymon town and its institutions

    near Ennistimon · town · Clare

    Ennistymon is described as a prosperous town with fine shops, a large hotel, broad streets, a bank, a convent, and a school under the Christian Brothers. It has a West Clare Railway station and good water supply and drainage, making it healthy and commercially promising.

    Read the passage

    surrounding scenery with the mansion standing on the summit of a declivity, and cascade and river giving animation to the scene, makes the prospect really picturesque. The town of Ennistymon, with its fine range of shops, large hotel and good broad streets, is evidently inhabited by men of taste, energy and enterprise. A Bank, which indicates prosperity is in the town, and a convent situated on a slope of a hill, is a pleasing object in the landscape. On the opposite side of the town stands a large school, under the management of the Christian Brothers, a community which has taken under its charge the education of the boys, while the Nuns attend to the training of the girls. At Ennistymon also is a station of the West Clare Railway, which at present is the nearest to Lisdoon varna Spas, about six miles distant. The scenery all round Ennistymon is interesting, being only half an hour’s walk from the sea, and with a plentiful supply of good water distributed

    CLIFFS OF MOHER.

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56. Miltown as supply town for Spanish Point

    Milltown Malbay · town · Clare

    Miltown, about a mile inland from Spanish Point, is the town proper of considerable size, with water supply, two hotels, a bank, and all the shops supplying food and clothing to visitors and residents of the coast.

    Read the passage

    burning of sea-weed along the coast, and converting it into kelp, which is shipped from Sandfield to England, appears to be a general practice and a profitable industry. Spanish Point is in no sense a Town like Kilkee. Miltown, a mile or so inland, is the town proper, which is of considerable size and importance, with its system of water supply for domestic purposes, and from which town all the supplies come from baker, butcher, grocer, and other warehouses, which contribute to the feeding and clothing of the multitude, and from which the people of Spanish Point obtain their supplies. In Miltown there are two hotels, affording comfortable accommodation, and quite convenient enough to the coast for tourists and others, it has its Bank also for the transaction of monetary affairs. Earther inland Mount Callau soars aloft, and from its summit a wide extent of sea and land may be seen. At Mount Callan are glens and ravines well worth exploring, and in one of which is the residence of a

    SPANISH POINT.

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57. Tarbert lighthouse and pier

    Tarbert · town · Kerry

    Tarbert, on the Kerry shore opposite Kilrush, has a lighthouse and is mentioned as a potential stop on a proposed Shannon steamer excursion route.

    Read the passage

    load and discharge, and at present is the principal place for visitors to Kilkee to land and embark. A steamer plys between Limerick and Kilrnsh all the year round, taking goods and passengers, and in the summer season a passenger boat runs in connection with the railway to and from Foynes harbour, and the West Clare Railway extension is opening up the coast line from Miltown Malbay to Kilkee and Kilrusli. On the shore, nearly opposite Kilrush, in County Kerry, is Tarbert, with lighthouse, and a few miles higher up the river, on the same side, but in County Limerick, Gil in Castle, the residence of the Knight of Glin, a descendant of the Geraldines of old, are picturesque places and worth visiting, particularly as one is brought into a region which fiction and fact have made interesting all the world over, owing to its being the scene of that tragedy which gave Gerald Griffin such an incentive to employ his great genius in deliniating a heroine like “ Eily O’Connor,”

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58. O'Brien residence at Tromora

    Trimragh · townland · Donegal · 1276

    Tromora, opposite Mutton Island, was historically the residence of a branch of the Clan O'Brien. In 1276, Donald, the son of Teige-a-luinn O'Brien, lived there.

    Read the passage

    Spanish Point, in Summer or Winter, is certainly a charming place to reside in, and having seen it under both aspects we speak from experience : Mutton Island, near the shore, adds to the interest of its position; to it pic-nic parties often resort in canoes or other suitable boats supplied by the Handheld fishermen. In Tromora, opposite Mutton Island, once resided a branch of the great Clan O’Brien. Here, in 1276, Donald, the son of Teige-a-luinn O’Brien, lived, when Torlough fled to him, from his uncle, King Brian and his allies, who attacked the Palace of Torlough, at Clonroad, near Ennis. Torlough, it ap-

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59. Doulough and Coor lakes fishing

    Doolough · townland · Clare

    Not far from the coast are Doulough and Coor lakes, along with several rivers, all well stocked with fish and attracting those who enjoy fishing as a pastime.

    Read the passage

    of the world, with this difference, of course, that within a few hours drive of Mount Callan, association with civilized life, is possible, and other advantages may he enjoyed, not to be met witli in less favoured situations. An ascent to the top of Mount Callan reveals an ancient monument, whose history is lost in obscurity, or like almost all other ancient monuments is mixed up with fact and fable. Not far from the coast are Doulough and Coor lakes, and several rivers also, which, like the lakes, are well stocked with fish, to which many who delight in fishing as a pastime are attracted. The drives, both south and east, through mountain, valley, and plain, are most interesting, so that he who cannot enjoy a month or two at Spanish Point must be hard to please indeed.

    Proceeding still northward, by road or rail, the sea is never lost sight of, and we soon reach

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60. Drive to New Quay from Ballyvaughan

    New Quay · street · Tipperary

    A drive to New Quay is described as enjoyable, with many objects and places of interest to be seen along the route from Corcomroe Abbey, which can be diversified through the limestone valley.

    Read the passage

    A drive to New Quay is also an enjoyable one, and in going and returning there are many objects and places of interest to be seen.

    We hear and read of “ Arabia Petra,” and tourists and explorers have written about it, but nowhere, we think, is there such a wealth of rock as in this valley of limestone in the neighbourhood of Ballyvaughan.

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