Having just gotten engaged in the most beautiful, private setting we ever could have imagined, Hadleigh and I are on cloud nine. We relished every minute at this special place before heading off.
Also, after further research, we’ve learned this site is called An Toit Chonáin.
Dated back to circa 6,650 BC (over 8,000 years old) this site is believed to be the oldest monumental site in Connacht.
Millions of periwinkle shells from early settlers make up the eight-foot tall mound. Rising sea levels and coastal storms threaten this site. We will need to return to collect some of the ancient shells.
Thinking of Papa Stu as we have a celebratory sip of Jameson!
Sláinte, everyone!
Reluctantly departing from breathtaking An Toit Chonáin, we pass seemingly endless ancient stone walls and run into some friendly cows grazing on the roadside.
Before making our way north to Hadleigh’s college roommate Keeva’s childhood home, we had to make a stop at Coral Strand Beach— renowned for its plentiful coral bits.
We can hardly believe our eyes when we realize the entire beach is made up of tiny pieces of coral!
A quick hot shower in the van and we’re ready to hit the road!
Hadleigh’s first time driving the van!
Driving north through the mountains towards Claremorris, we were absolutely stunned by the breathtaking views.
Jake’s first time in County Mayo— the Richard family homeland!
Extremely narrow streets but Hadleigh maneuvers through no problem!
Many more cute towns, a quick pit stop for some champagne, and we arrived at Keeva’s!
Keeva and friends (Ava and Eimear) surprised us with a lovely little engagement party in her mother Martha’s greenhouse (here they refer to it as a “poly tunnel”).
A peaceful slumber in the guest room above Martha’s stone-carving studio awaited. Yet another exciting adventure awaits tomorrow. We’ll get “Day 5” put together and posted as soon as we can!
We love you all very much!
Jake & Hadleigh Ireland Travels 
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