Sometimes the impromptu trips are the best. I had a free day so I headed off to Connemara. My grandparents were born there and I’ve lots of memories of going on holiday and being amazed at how rural it was (compared to where we lived in the UK at the time).
I left home without breakfast so I stopped in Castlebar and went into Rua Cafe and Delicatessen. It’s a fabulous spot, fast and friendly service and great food.
I had French Toast which I find can be a bit hit and miss sometimes but this was perfect. As I wandered down to the deli there were cakes screaming at me so it would have been rude not to bring one home.
After a little stroll around Castlebar – great town by the way, I headed on to Connemara. As I was driving by Killary I saw a boat trip of the Fjord was about to leave so I hopped on for the craic.
I really loved this trip, the commentary was great, informative without going on for too long. Killary is Ireland’s only fjord and the 90 minute trip was a great way to see the beautiful landscape.
It’s cheaper if you book online and kids under 10 go free. I also noticed quite an extensive menu and it didn’t seem too badly priced. Sometimes dolphins can be seen but there was no luck with them when I was on the boat.
After the boat trip I went to GMIT Letterfrack to see the “cruthú – furniture created in Connemara” this is a free exhibition of uniquely designed and crafted furniture pieces by degree students in GMIT Letterfrack, the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology. It’s a beautiful exhibition with some stunning pieces which the students should be very proud of.
I took a walk around the grounds and found the Letterfrack Industrial School graveyard. I’ve written a separate post about this, which you can read here.
On my way home I stopped at the Misunderstood Heron, this is a food truck overlooking Killary. I can’t think of a better view to have over lunch. It was also lovely to to spend some time relaxing. The staff were friendly and the food and coffee was great. I loved that they operate a no waste ethos too. If you go try the brownie with warm salted caramel sauce – it’s something else.
So that was my day trip, I love taking off and exploring this beautiful country.
Magnumlady Blog 
Val,
I’ll be back in Sligo in September and just added a trip to Castlebar for breakfast at Rua Cafe and Delicatessen to my itinerary. What a great find.
Cheers,
Dale Dermott
Great. Let me know what you think of it. I’d say get there early enough because I think it would get very busy.
Nice post. I love that side of the country too. Often there on workshops but I must go back for ‘myself’ soon. Should have phoned ahead – i’d have met you in Rua for coffee.
Thanks John, if I’m back that way again I’ll give you a shout 🙂
Lovely. Post. Really gives the taste. Of the place. Your. Right about. French toast Can be eggy or soggy. But the browney. With. Salted caramel. Just. Scrumptious. Thanks again.
Thanks Elfie