Tuesday at the Aran Islands

Again we slept late and had an full Irish breakfast at 9:00. Mind you, this breakfast was included with our private rooms, each with a bath, for 70 euros ($80) per night.

Today's adventure was a boat trip to the Aran Islands, with a cruise below the Cliffs on the return trip. The islands were populated in the 17th century during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland when Catholics had a choice of going "to hell or to Connach." Both Irish and English are spoken by most residents. The land is mostly rock. Folks mixed layers of sand and seaweed to create soil and become self sufficient.

Old fort on the hill above town

Pastures fenced in rocks. Walkways go between so each farmer could reach his land.

Cliffs of Moher from the boat on the return trip

Puffins everywhere

Thank goodness for very calm seas

Walking back to town on the Aran Island along the walkways between the pastures

Plenty of rocks for tall fences

Monument in an Aran Island churchyard

Leaving an intention stone

Islands have beaches, but it was too chilly for swimming, except for some kids we saw

Selfie on the ferry boat ride