Well after 42 years of visiting Ireland we finally decided to climb the mountain. Cameras on back thinking on the shots of Clew Bay with the sun shining on it….. That changed an hour and a bit into a 2 hour climb. Ended up climbing into the cloud however it was still worth it.
Part 1 of the climb takes you from the car park up this climb which can be seen winding its way up to the middle of the picture. This part is not too bad underfoot. As can be seen below turn around up this part of the climb and the view is like the climb. Breathtaking!! All the islands standing out in Clew Bay and the other hills and bogland along with the Mayo Countryside.
Then as you turn the corner at the top of the path in picture 1 the real climb starts….
It is a worthy day and as can be seen the climb is a bit steep when you get to the top half. I don't know how people manage to climb this with bare feet.
And relax! Top reached, a quick photo or 3 at the sign and the the return journey. A rather slippery walk down the way on those rocks and gravel.
Would I do it again only if it was guaranteed to be clear and sunny at the top as a 360 panorama of the view must be spectacular.
A few facts about the mountain, click on the link.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Croagh_Patrick
