We had a very successful outing to Donegal/Derry from 18 – 22nd October. IMG_0367In  total 23 members travelled with us on Marathon Coaches. Our first photo stop was at the grave of W.B. Yeats in Drumcliffe. Here’s Donie and Mary reciting some of his poetry.

Our destination was the Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny and our bus driver was John from Glasheen Coaches, Holycross. Next morning we set out for Derry where we walked the walls ,crossed the Peace Bridge, visited the GIMG_0356uildhall and had a little time for the shops. On our way back to the hotel we took a detour to see the Grianán Ailigh in Burt-a ringfort on top of an 800ft.hill.Grianan

 

 

 

 

On Tuesday morning we headed for Malin Head-a long journey but so worthwhile as the scenery was breathtaking and we were all delighted to beIMG_0382 standing on Ireland’s most northerly point. It was lunch time then and we were delighted to be served with tea and brown bread in the old fashioned kitchen in the Doagh Famine village. It brought back lots of memories for us all.  We had a great  guide who brought us through Ireland’s history through the centuries right up to the present day. On our journey back we just had to stop at Ballyliffen Golf course –it was a must see for a certain golfer and hot port lovers!!

Wednesday was to be an easy relaxed day but we couldn’t be so near Glenveagh National Park and not visit. This was a treatIMG_0332 despite the misty rain that descended. On our way we stopped at Sion Mills.

Our journey home on Thursday brought us to see the newly rebuilt St.Mel’s Cathedral in Longford. Having seen it on the television it was lovely to visit it aIMG_0330nd see the workmanship first hand.

We arrived home to the Newpark Hotel around 8.00 p.m.and all agreed that it was a super trip. Great credit goes to our driver John who was so pleasant at all times and was willing to drive us up hill and down dale and always with a smile.

Next year we plan to visit Mizen Head probably the third week of October so put it in your diary if you’d like to come along. See all the photos from the trip in the Photo Gallery at the top of the HOME PAGE.