SMSI Annual trip 2015

The SMSI Committee organized a 3D/2N trip to Connemera in the west of Ireland that was held from the 2-4 October.

We started the trip off by meeting in Galway where we stayed with our friendly hosts for the night!
After staying the night in Galway, we embarked on a local city tour in Connemara to explore the surrounding region. We had stops at multiple locations, from the Ross Errily Firary Monastery to the Cong Village. Lunch followed soon after, where we stopped beside a scenic lake near Kylemore Abbey. The tour continued through Inagh Valley, Maam Cross and Oughterard, completing the circuit of Lough Corrib. It was truly a magical day out in typical Irish Countryside, spiced with many legends, from killer sheep to lake monsters!  
The tour ended in Letterfrack, a small quiet town at the foot of Diamond Hill, where we all stayed in a hostel. Dinner that night was held at the Bard’s Den, where we had a choice of either Lamb Stew, Smoked Salmon Platter or a Salmon fillet.  And what better way is there to end dinner then to have some night time star gazing? Some of us went out in the middle of night, and given how little light pollution there was out in the wilderness, the sights were amazing.

The next morning was what we all had been waiting for - the hike up Diamond Hill. At 1,460 feet (445m) of climb from sea level, it was a really good challenge from non-mountaineers. As we made our way towards the top, we were greeted with sights of the alpacas. 

Starting the ascent seemed easy at first, but gradually became really tough! We braved the strong winds but otherwise fantastic weather and were rewarded with spectacular views. Once we reached the summit, we were able to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Twelve Bens, Kylemore Lake and Abbey and the Irish Atlantic Coast.

Finally, it was time for the trip to end by heading back to Galway and then back home. It was definitely an exciting trip as we were rewarded with wonderful photos and made many new friends!