We're running out of time and we're taking advantage of our last week to make sure we visit some of our favorite spots. Plus, as with yesterday, one of the finest days ever. In fact, today was the hottest of the Irish summer so far, with temperatures in the midlands approaching the mid-80s. Much info on the Irish media to put on your sun cream and making sure you hydrate.
Today's ride was one that we haven't done for several years and one we've never done on our own. Padraic took us both times - once just Candee and I, and another with Carol Zedek and her husband along. It takes one from Westport over the mountains to Tourmakeady, the place where Padraic taught and served as principal for many years. Looking backward, you see the backside of Croagh Patrick, with the path on the cone in high relief. The view is across a vast valley with a number of high hills. Once you finally crest Lally's Hill, you have an endless view east, encompassing Lough Mask and eastern Co Mayo. I think you'll agree that the views are terrific.
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| The Reek (Croagh Patrick) from the south |
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| Carol Zedek's Holy Well on Lally's Hill. Don't worry Carol, I won't drag out that old picture showing your interaction with the well ;) |
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| They might not be Achill Island sheep Paul Camber, but I bet that they put a twinkle in your eye :) |
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| Cresting Lally's Hill, heading toward Lough Mask |
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| Long view of the Reek |
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| On the ride |
By the way, our landlords, the very nice Carol and Simon Fabby, completed the Westportif Cycle Race last weekend. 160 km for Carol, 110 for Simon. The 160 is roughly 100 miles. And through some of the most beautiful and most challenging terrain in the west of Ireland. The final climb on Carol's circuit was Lally's Hill. Heck. It was difficult driving a car
DOWN the hill! Check this youtube out - https://www.facebook.com/139279939582578/videos/719657078211525/ and http://www.westportif.ie/westportif-160-km-route/
