Studying Abroad and Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Western Ireland 

Setting off at precisely 8 a.m. from Castle Street, tucked up next to Dublin Castle, the bus took the CEA CAPA Dublin Study Abroad Program on an adventure full of wonder and excitement. We head toward the famous Cliffs of Moher, our first destination, as the city's streets are bathed in morning light. When we arrived at noon, the cliffs, guarding against the Atlantic Ocean, astounded us. We lost ourselves in the breathtaking scenery for about 90 minutes, enjoying the stunning views and making lifelong memories. 

With their sheer limestone walls, the Cliffs of Moher stand majestically on Ireland's untamed West Coast. 

We said goodbye to the cliffs at 3 p.m. and headed west, arriving in Galway with plenty of time to discover its lively streets and cultural attractions. But our journey continued around 5:30 p.m., we left Galway and headed north to Rossaveal. After just 45 minutes on the bus, we boarded a ferry to Kilronan, the picturesque center of Inis Mor, the biggest island in the Aran Islands. 

These Kilronan church ruins are a reminder of centuries of history in Inishmore. 

As we sailed across the waters, the promise of adventure was in sight, and a salty breeze in our hair greeted us. We arrived in Kilronan at 6:30 p.m. and met for a delicious group dinner at Joe Watty's Pub, where live music and a friendly atmosphere awaited. This was the ideal way to cap off our day of sightseeing after we checked into our accommodation.  

Kilronan provides a window into the diverse fabric of island life. 

Joe Watty's Pub beckons visitors to the Aran Islands with its cozy ambiance and filling food. We enjoyed the flavors of the coast while enjoying a plate of crispy fish and chips and a steaming bowl of seafood chowder. With the live music filling the warm pub air, we spent the evening having conversations with the friendly locals. Even though the day ended, the memories made among the streets, shores, and cliffs will always be woven into our experiences. 

Inishmore offered breathtaking coastal views, historic ruins, and the allure of traditional Irish life. 

We met at 10:30 a.m. the next day to start our exciting journey. We got on our bicycles in anticipation of exploring the beauty of Inis Mor.  

Dun Aengus provided a fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean as waves crashed against the tall cliff sides. 

We pedaled five miles each way through the island's enchanting landscapes, the wind in our hair and the sun on our backs.  

Photo 5: We ascended to the ancient stone fortress, which offered views of Inishmore for miles. 

We stopped riding at noon to take in the Dun Aengus Fort, whose presence speaks volumes about the island's rich past.  

Dun Aengus Fort was perched atop cliffs that evoke stories of its ancient Celtic heritage. 

Time seemed to stand still as we explored the island at our speed and took in its charm and atmosphere, immersing ourselves in the peace of this isolated paradise.  

Riding a bike through Inishmore led through a quaint town serving Guinness Cake. 

We reluctantly said goodbye to our bicycles at 4:30 p.m. and headed to the pier, where a ferry awaited to take us back to Rossaveal. We boarded a private coach to return to Dublin, reliving the moments spent among the stunning scenery of Inis Mor, our hearts full of memories and our spirits lifted by the day's adventures. 

Lush fields and breezes surrounded Onagh, and people were welcoming and enjoyed sharing about the pleasures of island living.