As some of you will know one of our favourite family activities is a visit to the beach!

Beltra beach, Westport, Co Mayo
Even at this time of year, a beach walk brings much pleasure. The day was grey and perfectly calm, so the planned kite flying had to be abandoned. Still we enjoyed some beach art, rock jumping, fossil hunting, and I got to play with my camera. We even had a paddle, but it felt VERY cold!
Rock jumping
Beltra beach, beach art
Beltra beach, beach art
Beltra beach, fossil
Beltra beach, Westport, Co Mayo
From the shore of Beltra beach, you get to see Ireland’s pilgrim mountain, Croagh Patrick and looking out into Clew Bay you can see the hump-back shape of Clare Island. On the island is a 16th century Tower House or Castle which was one of the homes of the legendary pirate queen Grace O’Malley (in Irish Grainne ni Mhaille  though she was also known as Granuaile). It is a place that is on our list of “places to visit”.
Clare Island on the horizon on right
Beltra beach, Croagh Parick
Beltra beach, Croagh Patrick
Before heading home we enjoyed our picnic, which included some warming pumpkin soup.

Beltra beach, Westport, Co Mayo