The highlight of today was a trip to the smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oirr. On the way to Doolin to catch the ferry to Inis Oirr, we took a side trip to Lisdoonvarna. Our band plays a song “Road to Lisdoonvarna.” The village is famous for a matchmaking festival every September. We had a snack at Gus O’Connor’s pub before getting on the ferry.
We were met at the dock by our guide who was a wealth of knowledge about the geology and history of the island. We climbed to a church that was dedicated to St. Kevin, the founder of the monastic order on Inis Oirr. After that, it was a climb to the ruins of a castle. The entire island is covered by small fields that are surrounded by stone walls. We had a late lunch on the island before taking the ferry back to Doolin.
The next high point was a visit to the Doolin Music House. This is the home of Christy Barry. He opens his home to show how traditional music was often played in homes. There was banter and wonderful music, plus wine and cheese.
On returning to Ennis we stopped at Cruise’s Pub, where two of the members of Socks in the Frying Pan were playing a session. We had a great time listening and we are looking forward to seeing them at this year’s Irish Fest. Tomorrow we are off to Galway.