The Wild Atlantic Way, stretching from County Donegal to County Cork, is a treasure chest of picturesque towns and village s along Ireland's western coast. It's a major tourist attraction, with visitors flocking to experience the stunning landscapes and authentic Irish charm.
Take Ballyconneely in Connemara, Co Galway , for instance. This scenic spot, home to fewer than 1,000 residents, sees its population surge during the summer months as tourists are drawn to its beautiful beaches and intriguing local history.
Ballyconneely, nestled on the Atlantic Ocean, boasts an array of stunning beaches. The idyllic Coral Strand, less than a mile from the village center, could easily be mistaken for a Caribbean paradise with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
The local waterways cater to both fishing enthusiasts and surfers alike, with Dunlaughin Beach being particularly popular among the Irish surfing community. The sea not only contributes to Ballyconneely's current economy and tourism industry but has also played a significant role in its past and the history of the wider Connemara region.
The Connemara Pony, acclaimed worldwide for its serene disposition and robustness, is synonymous with the region. There's a legend that this unique lineage originated from Andalusian horses from the Spanish Armada mingling with local ponies after several Armada ships foundered on the west coast of Ireland in 1588.
The celebrated Connemara Pony Show, which recently observed its 100th anniversary, takes place every August in Clifden nearby. It draws participants globally to exhibit their Connemaras, trade, or just join in the celebrations.
The Connemara Pony Breeders Society, boasting an American branch reflecting the breed's worldwide popularity and appeal, aims at "preservation and improvement of the Connemara Pony."
Set against an awe-inspiring backdrop, the Connemara Championship Golf Links is reputed as one of the most picturesque golf courses in Ireland. Players can expect a demanding round amidst the wild, rocky terrain while being treated to stunning vistas at all 27 holes.
It's not uncommon for golfers to spot a hare in the rough or swans in the course lakes, thanks to its setting surrounded by nature.
En route to the golf course, you'll pass by the magnificent Bunowen Castle, now privately owned. The castle was erected in either the 12th or 13th century by the influential O'Flaherty clan. At one point, Donal an Chogaidh O'Flaherty and his wife Grace O'Malley, also known as Granuaile, called it home.
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O'Malley, dubbed the Pirate Queen, was a defiant, formidable leader, trader, and sailor whose life has inspired plays, books, and songs from notable figures such as James Joyce and Patrick Pearse. She personally appealed to Queen Elizabeth I of England for the release of her sons and half-brother who were captured in 1593.
The first ever non-stop transatlantic flight in the world, piloted by Brits John Alcock and Arthur Brown, crash-landed near Ballyconneely on 15 June 1919. Both men escaped unscathed and completed their intended journey to London the following day after initially departing from Newfoundland in Canada.
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