LOUGH KEY

 LOUGH KEY, FOREST PARK, CO. ROSCOMMON: is pleasantly situated near Boyle with its magnificently wooded shores, intended coastline and many lovely islands rising from the blue waters. On one of the islands are the ruined remains of the Abbey of the Trinity, founded by the White Canons. Here were compiled the Annals of Loch Ce which are now preserved in the Library of Trinity College, Dublin. Lough Key is often called the loveliest lake in Ireland. It is popular with anglers, and offers relaxing cruises. The woods by Lough Key also provide good walking territory.

Lough Key, Forest Park, near Boyle, Roscommon, Ireland

The island-studded lake and surrounding woodland make a glorious setting for the Lough Key Forest Park. The 320-ha park formed part of the Rockingham estate until 1957, when Rockingham House, a John Nash design, burned down. The woods were added by 18th-century landlords. The Lough Key Experience takes visitors on an audio journey through the 19th-century underground tunnels, up to the Moylurg viewing tower and along Ireland’s first Tree Canopy Trail. There are also several ring forts, a river jetty and an adventure playground providing entertainment for children of all ages.

SLIGO

 Sligo, well situated on a wooded plain between Lough Gill and the sea, is north-west Ireland's most important town. The port of Sligo sits at the mouth of the River Garavogue, sandwiched between the Atlantic and Lough Gill. The appearance of Sligo today is mainly the result of growth during the late 18th and 19th centuries. Sligo is perfectly situated for touring the ravishing countryside nearby, and it is also a good centre for traditional music. While at first sight it can seem a bit sombre, the town is thriving as the arts capital of Northwest Ireland.

 

1973

Sligo’s link with the Yeats family is the main source of the town’s appeal. Yeats Memorial Building houses the Yeats Society, who are dedicated to commemorating the life of the poet. The town’s sole surviving medieval building is Sligo Abbey, founded in 1253. A short distance west from the abbey is O’Connell Street, with the town’s main shops and Hargadon’s bar – an old Sligo institution complete with a dark, wooden interior, snugs and a grocery counter.

GALWAY

 City of the Tribes

Galway is noted as the principal city of Connacht. It is situated on the northern shore near the head of famous Galway Bay.  With a character all its own, Galway is a city where modern development blends pleasantly with winding narrow streets that were old centuries ago. The history of this City of the Tribes can be traced back to the 13th century and the Anglo-Normans, and its many ancient buildings bear testimony to the many influences, including Spanish, which marked its life.  The streets and buildings of this ancient town have many interesting features and its position on the fringe of the Western Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area) make it obvious gateway to Connemara, an entrancing countryside where the ancient language and customs of Ireland are preserved. 

[1978]

Galway is one of the most exciting of Irish cities, gateway between the Old World and the New. Columbus prayed in St. Nicholas' Church before setting out on his voyage of discovery. The short river Corrib flows through Galway city to enter the Atlantic. Salthill, the seaside suburb, is one of the most fashionable and up-to-date resorts in Ireland. Its fine promenade is equipped with a swimming pool and there is an 18-hole golf course close beside it. Salthill has the best of both worlds. It adjoins an ancient and historic city, fascinating to explore.

Galway Tourism