Our last full day in Ireland was spent in lovely County Donegal. Plus the weather was spectacular with calm winds and almost completely clear blue skies. Of course the famous multi-shades of green of the landscape were splendid having had lots of moisture from the spring rains on previous days.
During breakfast the captain brought the ship alongside in the Port of Killybegs. This is the most important fishing port along the coast of Ireland. Deeper in the harbor a number of colorful large fishing boats were docked waiting for the season to begin. For the morning we had two options. A large group of guests boarded coaches to make the trip along the coast through the picturesque countryside to the small town of Donegal proper. Donegal sits along the River Eske, off of which there is a large estuary and mudflats. In the center of the town there is a small public square with various shops and businesses surrounding the plaza. Nearby is one of the attractions of the town the 15th century Donegal Castle, which we had an opportunity to visit. In addition to the historical attractions, there is a famous shop called McGee’s that offered a variety of woolens and typical Irish products.
Another option for the morning was selected by a small group of guests. Perfect weather allowed this group to go to a coastal mountain ridge called Slieve League. Known because of the vertical sea cliff below the tallest ridge of Slieve League as it is one of the highest near vertical drops in Europe at 598 meters. Walkers had a very pleasant stroll uphill to the edge of the cliff with spectacular views of ocean swells crashing along the water’s edge all along the rugged coast. Returning down to the starting point at Paddy’s Cafe we were treated to a snack of homemade scones and tea.
Everyone was back aboard for lunch and then out for a variety of afternoon activities. Guests selected from three very different options. One group focused on a woolen studio and weaver gallery. One group traveled through the countryside to learn about the archaeological history of the area making a number of stops to learn about and get closer to some of the more significant sites. A third group ventured out to Glencolmcille for a hike in the lovely valley and countryside.
By late afternoon we all returned to Killybegs town to gather in the harbor-side pub of the Bayview Hotel. For decades pubs have been the social center of villages and towns. Often quite busy and noisy with everyone exchanging stories and news, our pub experience was highlighted with the spry sound of lively music from a group called “We Three Banjos.” Irish Coffee and Irish Guinness added to the flavor of the afternoon. After everyone made their way back to the pier and the ship, the bridge pulled away and set a course northward towards Scotland.
