Overview

Cycling the Emerald Coast of legendary Connemara...stunning cliffs, thatched cottages and mystical Celtic ruins. Connemara with enchant you with its winding country lanes, stone cottages, fields of peat and wildflowers and the twinkling eyes and lilting accents of the locals.

Around every bend, a spectacular landscape unfolds of emerald mountains, misty lakes and deep blue sea. From the ancient abbey in Cong to the sweeping vistas of Sky Road and the rugged beauty of Inishmore. Cycling along the backroads you will come upon timeless Gaelic villages, stop by the colorful pubs and take in the gentle pleasures of the Irish way of life.

Typical Day Itinerary

Morning

• Breakfast at Rosleague Manor
  We begin our day with a cycle ride towards the enchanting village of Cong.
  

  Cong - in Irish, Cunga, "narrows" so called as it is a narrow island that divides Loch Mask from Loch Corrib. The village, which is approachable by four bridges, and occupies a small hill, is T-shaped, and was formerly a great milling depot; to which latter circumstance, and the patronage of the adjoining extensive ecclesiastical establishment, it no doubt owed its origin.

  At the entrance to the village are the ruins of Cong Abbey (National Monument), an Augustinian house, first built in the 7th c. and rebuilt in 1120 a.d. by the King of Connacht. Only fragments of the church remain, but a finely sculptured doorway and a number of capitals in the cloister are striking examples of Irish Romanesque art.

  The processional Cross of Cong, made for King Turlough O'Conor about 1123, is now in the National Museum in Dublin. In the main street of the village is a 14th C. stone market cross, with inscriptions.

Late Morning

• Continue our journey on toward the village of Leenane
  Continue our journey past a spectacular fjord before heading through the Maam Turk Mountains on toward Lough Nafooey.
  

Lunch

• A picnic amongst some of Irelands most enchanting landscapes
  

Afternoon

• Continue towards the village of Cong.
  Stop off at Cong Abbey where we will have a tour of the ruins before heading toward the village.
  

Evening

• Dinner in the Connaught Room at Ashford Castle
  Creative cooking, inspired use of seasonal ingredients and an innovative menu await us here.

  The chef, Stefan Matz, has received many accolades for his culinary expertise and has developed an impressive choice of four unique dining experiences, each with their own imitable style and ambience. We will be dining in the Connaught Room. the showpiece of Stefan's abilities.
  

Overnight

• Overnight at Ashford Castle
  Relax, unwind and enjoy the splendour of the renowned Ashford Castle. Appreciated by some of the worlds most famous celebrities and host to Presidents and Kings, Ashford Castle is synomonous with graceful luxury.

  From the dramatic approach on the shoreline of Lough Corrib to its excellent grounds, Ashford epitimises gracious living. Time stands still, luxury beckons and a personal service will ensure a reviving stay. Ashford Castle has been around for 700 years and is still appreciated by visitors from all over the world.

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