Irish Frontier Ramble

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 Sat, Jun 15 112 km · 2h 10min
1

The starting point of your Irish frontier adventure, a charming market town on the River Boyle.

2

Explore the majestic forest park with its tree canopy walk, historic ruins, and beautiful lake views. A great spot for a scenic break.

3

Immerse yourself in Ireland's horse culture. A well-regarded equestrian center offering various activities from lessons to trail rides (check availability).

4

A picturesque and vibrant town in County Mayo, known for its Georgian architecture and proximity to Clew Bay.

Day 2 Sun, Jun 16 85 km · 1h 45min
1

Departing from Westport, ready for the wild landscapes of Connemara.

2

Nestled at the head of Killary Fjord, Ireland's only fjord. Stunning scenery and a great photo opportunity.

3

A stunning Benedictine monastery set against a backdrop of mountains and a lake. Explore the abbey, gothic church, and beautiful Victorian walled garden.

4

Hike the Diamond Hill trail for incredible panoramic views of the Connemara landscape, including bogs, mountains, and the coastline. A true wild frontier experience.

5

The 'Capital of Connemara,' a charming town with colorful shops and pubs, offering a lively evening atmosphere.

Day 3 Mon, Jun 17 141 km · 2h 50min
1

Setting off from Clifden, heading south through the Wild Atlantic Way.

2

A picturesque fishing village with colorful houses, a working harbour, and traditional craft shops. Grab a coffee and enjoy the view.

3

Drive past active horse farms and open pastures in the heart of rural Clare, a glimpse into local equestrian life and a real 'frontier' feel.

4

Explore the unique glaciated karstic landscape of The Burren. It's an otherworldly wild landscape that feels truly untamed.

5

A bustling market town, the capital of County Clare, known for its narrow streets and traditional music scene.

Day 4 Tue, Jun 18 125 km · 2h 25min
1

Departing Ennis, heading east towards the heart of Ireland.

2

A stunning and well-preserved Franciscan abbey ruin from the 15th century, built within the walls of an earlier Norman castle. A peaceful and atmospheric site.

3

An ancient monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century, situated on the River Shannon. Explore the ruins, round towers, and carved crosses. A significant site in Irish history.

4

A bustling town straddling the River Shannon, home to Athlone Castle and numerous cultural attractions.

Day 5 Wed, Jun 19 145 km · 2h 45min
1

Departing Athlone, heading northwest back towards County Roscommon and Mayo.

2

Explore the impressive ruins of this 13th-century Norman castle. A stark reminder of Ireland's medieval past and frontier conflicts.

3

Discover a beautifully preserved Georgian Palladian mansion, its extensive walled gardens, and the poignant Irish National Famine Museum, offering deep insight into rural Irish life and history.

4

The county town of Mayo, offering a good range of amenities and a base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Day 6 Thu, Jun 20 125 km · 2h 25min
1

Departing Castlebar for a scenic ride north towards Sligo.

2

A beautiful scenic stop overlooking Lough Conn, offering expansive views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Feel the vastness of the Irish wild.

3

Visit one of Ireland's oldest working mills, established in 1892. See traditional weaving, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps pick up a quality woollen souvenir.

4

Ride the stunning coastal loop around Aughris Head. This wild, rugged coastline offers dramatic cliffs, expansive ocean views, and a real sense of frontier isolation.

5

Pass by or stop briefly at a local horse farm, offering a connection to the equestrian aspect of the 'cowboy life' theme, with horses grazing in open fields by the sea.

6

The vibrant capital of County Sligo, known for its literary connections to W.B. Yeats and its stunning natural surroundings.

Day 7 Fri, Jun 21 60 km · 1h 10min
1

Starting the final leg of the journey, heading back to Boyle.

2

A truly atmospheric and ancient site of passage tombs dating back 5,000 years. Perched on a hilltop with incredible panoramic views over Lough Arrow and the surrounding countryside, a powerful connection to the ancient inhabitants of this frontier land.

3

Returning to the starting point, completing the 'Irish Frontier Ramble' adventure.