Life Is Full of Sweet Spots

“Study the past

if you would define

the future.”

— Confucius

Bog Oak sculpture Cong Bird by Galway artist Ronnie Graham overlooks the Cong River. Bog woods are unique to the peat bogs of Ireland where, over several thousand years, the tannins of the bog waters turned ancient submerged trees into haunting black wood and shapes – the perfect medium for a sculptor’s imagination. (1)

Former home of the Guinness family, the 800-year-old Ashford Castle is situated in a spectacular 350-acre estate in County Mayo. (2)

Overlooking the Cong Canal and the shores of Lough Corrib, it is accessible by means of a massive stone bridge. Over the years, it has hosted countless notables, including the Prince of Wales (who later became King George V) and President Ronald Reagan. (3)

Recognized as one of Europe’s finest hotels, not to mention being one of Ireland’s finest falconry schools, it boasts numerous cultural and sporting activities, including fishing in the Cong River with its runs of salmon, brown trout and pike, among other favorites. (4)

Dunguaire Castle is a 16^th century tower house on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay. With its restored 75-foot tower and defensive wall, it was used in the Guns in the Heather Walt Disney movie. (5)

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Fourth of a continuing series of words and images of Ireland travels.

Photos 1, 3, 5 by Mary O’Connor • Photos 2, 4 by Jan Logozzo

© 2023