Lough Corrib - Circle

5mi/8km south of Headford a narrow road goes off on the right to Annaghdown, with the ruins of Annaghdown Abbey (National Monument). There are some remains of 12th C. work, but the principal church ("Cathedral") and the conventual buildings are 15th C.

3mi/5km southeast of Oughterard, on a rocky islet, stands Aughnanure Castle (1500; National Monument), a six-story tower house in an inner and an outer ward with round towers. The castle has been restored.

Southwest of Cornamona, occupying almost the whole of a little islet, rise the imposing ruins of Castle Kirke, also known as Hen's Castle (12th C.; National Monument), a large tower enclosed by curtain walls.

From Castle Kirke the road continues for 8mi/8km, skirting the lough for much of the way, to Clonbur, on the isthmus between the Loughs Mask and Corrib, with a fine view of Mount Gable to the west.

From the road intersection at Maam Cross the R336 leads north to Maam Bridge, from which the L101 runs east to Cornamona, a fishing center in a beautiful setting which is also a good base for walks and climbs in the hills to the west. Westward extend the mountains of Connemara, with Joyce's Country, and to the south, on either side of the long Dooras Peninsula, are the waters of Lough Corrib with its countless islands.

The route along the R346 and R334, passes through Cong and in 14mi/23km through the little market town of Headford (take the signed road in the town).

From Oughterard a boat can be taken to the picturesque island of Inchagoill, with the remains of two churches (both National Monuments). The smaller of the two dates from the fifth century, the other (12th C.; restored) is a good example of Irish Romanesque architecture.

The narrow road which runs north along the shore of the lough is a dead end: to drive round the lake it is necessary to continue on the N59.

From Galway the N59 goes northwest to Moycullen (8mi/13km), a good fishing center.

Moycullen is a satellite town of Galway, most residents commute to the city for work or school. The town also has thriving basketball and football clubs.

From Moycullen the road passes Ross Lake (good rough fishing), to Oughterard (nine-hole golf course), the "Gateway to Connemara." This little town, in a beautiful green setting on the River Owenriff, is a well-known fishing center.

The road from Moycullen passes Ross Lake (good rough fishing), to Oughterard.