72 Scenery and Antiquities of 



the northern side of the Killary, rising to a height of 2,688 

 feet, can be made from Leenane. If I were asked to describe 

 the scenery of this district around Leenane in as few words as 

 possible, I would reply, huge mountains dotted all round, con- 

 nected by deep, dark valleys, through which lakes wind, and 

 from which rivers flow to other lakes or to the sea. Many of 

 the mountains are bare rock, others clad in heather, and 

 vegetation very sparse. Interesting excursions can be made 

 from Leenane as a centre by car, boat, or small steamer, and 

 the tourist car from Clifden to Westport passes the door. 

 Leaving Leenane by the tourist car for Clifden, we pass by 

 Kylemore and Letterfrack. Kylemore Lake and Castle, the 

 property of Mr. Mitchell Henry, is a charming place, its natural 

 beauties being developed by all that good taste and money 

 could do. Letterfrack is a well-to-do village, founded by a 

 Quaker gentleman, who has done a great deal to found indus- 

 tries and improve the locality. There is a comfortable hotel, 

 owned by Mrs. O'Grady, in the village. Renvyle Hotel is 

 about five miles from here. The house was the family mansion 

 of the Blake family, who some twenty years ago turned it into 

 a hotel to provide accommodation for those coming here for 

 fishing, shooting, and sea bathing. It is exceedingly comfort- 

 able, homely, and well-kept. Renvyle is an extremely good 

 centre from which to explore this district. From Letterfrack 

 to Clifden occupies one hour and a half to drive. It is the 

 capital of Connemara, built on rising ground overlooking a 

 beautiful inlet of the sea called Ardbear Harbour. Clifden is 

 built on the property of the D'Arcy family ; population, about 

 one thousand. From Clifden we may drive to Roundstone, or, 

 if we are interested in angling, can go by rail to Recess. At 

 Recess the Railway Hotel, which is owned by and under the 

 management of the Midland Railway Company, is adjacent to 

 the Recess Station on the Galway and Clifden Hne. The 

 hotel, which is furnished with every modern comfort and 

 convenience, occupies a picturesque situation in the midst 

 of the well-known lake district of Connemara. It is 



