- Long morning ride on N-4 highway to Longsworth, for rest stop, coffee, and to change larger Euro notes to 1-Euro coins.
- On to Strokestown, where we viewed one of the 600 remaining “Great Houses” of 19th century Ireland. The Lord of the manor here had somewhat difficult times with his thousands of tenants. Magnificent living within the manor but squalid conditions for the tenants, brought to a climax 1864-67 during the Potato Famine. The original Lord was shot to death one night. Not exactly Downton Abbey…
- River Shannon and a river cruise while eating sandwiches, chips and enjoying the music two Irish musicians on board. Swans on the river and peaceful countryside views.
- The Shrine of Our Lady of Knock. The Mother of God appeared on the side of the church at Knock, County Mayo, about the time of great civil distress for Ireland. Many persons saw her silent image. Our Lady was accompanied by St. Joseph and the Evangelist St. John. Tens of thousands of people on the grounds. Pope John Paul II visited here.
- Finally to rest at Ballina, at the beautiful “Downhill Hotel” in sylvan retreat area. Fell asleep to the sound outside of a stream that feeds the Moy River. The Moy river is known throughout Ireland for its bountiful fishing.
