Day 6 Thursday

Distance Options Rest day on Aran Islands.

Accommodation : Maaum Cross

You will be taking a break from the bike for today. This is your opportunity to visit the Aran Islands and do some hiking. Alternatively you can spend the day in Galway city if you prefer. We will give you a full briefing on both options so you can make an informed decision.

We will transfer you to the pier in Doolin, where you take the ferry to Inis Mor, the largest of the three Aran Islands. If you have opted for the 5 day tour we will transfer you to Galway city.

Exploring the Islands uncompromising landscape which is home to a resourceful and resilient island population. Lots of little pubs and restaurants on the island as well as the great opportunity to purchase an Aran sweater for which the islands are widely renowned. We strongly recommend a pair of sturdy walking boots for your exploration of the island. The highlight of your visit to Inis Mor will be Dun Aenghus. This prehistoric stone fort was the last stronghold on what was once believed to be the most Westerly point on the map of the World. The island is 8 miles long and 2 miles wide.

Here, on the very edge of Europe, is an Island rich in the language, culture and heritage of Ireland, unique in its geology and archaeology and in its long tradition of gentle hospitality. Here is a place to sense the spirit of Gaelic Ireland, to touch the past, but with all the comforts and facilities of the present. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. This is an island of great peace and tranquility, but it is also an island of great fun and activity.

A timeless land in an endless sea, weathered monuments on awesome cliffs, great labyrinths of limestone, meandering walls, patchwork fields, quiet beaches and a welcoming island people, this is Aran in Galway bay on the west coast of Ireland
You will return to Rossaveal harbor in Galway this evening where we will be waiting with the bus. It's a short transfer to Maaum Cross where you will be staying in Peacocks Hotel . All rooms are en suite wit oh a color TV and direct dial phone line.The hotel offers a snug, lounge bar, dining conservatory and beer garden with spectacular views of the Maaumturk mountains. You can get a better view from the viewing tower attached to the hotel. We will also dine in the hotel tonight.

A traditional fair takes place at Maam Cross in Connemara in the west of County Galway. Like stepping back in time, visitors from all over Ireland travel to the fair to trade goods, barter and catch up with old friends. It is mainly an agricultural market selling cattle, livestock and highly-prized Connemara Ponies but traditional food and clothing stalls add to the melee at what is a dying breed of old-fashioned Irish markets