A glorious morning to set off on today’s adventure – to see the Westport quay area; drive ‘the Gleniff Horseshoe’ and behold the Glencar waterfall. Drove along very pleasant back roads surveying the undulating countryside, occasionally being held up by tractors going between fields and cyclists…the latter are very game given the narrowness of the roads.

The Westport Quay is a historic and picturesque waterfront on Clew Bay. Once a bustling 18thC port, its now a popular spot for tourists featuring scenic views of Croagh Patrick, lively pubs and specialty shops. The Westport House is adjacent to the Quay and offers tours and gardens and connects to the area via a scenic walk. ‘Greenway’ is a magnificent 2.5km parkland with walking and cycling trails that link the town centre to the Quay area. And it’s a hub for sailing, boating and fishing.

What a character to come across on my exit from town…a bronze Paddington Bear with (no doubt jam) sandwich overlooking the Carrowbeg River, installed in 2024 as part of the ‘Padddington Visits’ trail.

Just out of Sligo, is the Gleniff Horseshoe – a breathtaking 10km scenic driving loop and walk near Ballintrillick featuring steep glacial cliffs and a secluded valley, surrounded by the dramatic Dartry Mountains. I was surprised how quiet the area was, almost had it to myself. Not complaining! Here are some examples of the views…

And just a few kilometres away from the loop, the lovely 15m Glencar Falls. Its inspired a wealth of artists, songwriters and poets, the most famous of which is William Butler Yeats. His poem ‘Stolen Child’ was inspired by the tumbling waters and beautifully describes the waterfall and waters that flow here. Here’s an excerpt:

“Where the wandering water gushes
From the hills above Glen-Car,
In pools among the rushes
That scarce could bathe a star,
We seek for slumbering trout
And whispering in their ears
Give them unquiet dreams;
Leaning softly out
From ferns that drop their tears
Over the young streams”.