The Westquarter loop of Inishbofin

They actually still exist, these places where the clocks not only tick more slowly in the proverbial sense. Where the world is still in order and you are very, very far away from everyday life. Ireland's westernmost island, Inishbofin, is just such a place. This may also have something to do with the fact that the ratio of inhabitants (around 200) to sheep is not quite in balance - luckily for the benefit of the fluffy residents! Now in the preseason it is even a lot quieter - the food trucks for the day tourists are still in hibernation, and the only restaurant currently open, the Doonmore Hotel, is anything but hectic. All signs point to slowing down, and so we start our hike at a leisurely pace on the rocky west side of the island. From our cozy B&B on North Beach we walk past old Irish stone walls and loudly bleating sheep and enjoy the sea view to our right. The path, marked with posts, leads us through a moorland and grassland to the rugged and jagged coast. The further we follow the route along the cliffs, the more impressive the scenery becomes. When we suddenly stand in front of the Doonmore Cliffs, we can hardly believe our eyes. We really hadn't expected such spectacular cliffs in this untouched place. We have the dramatic scenery all to ourselves. Well, apart from a few sheep and several seagulls. We seem to be a little too early for the puffins that also nest here, but it is also a spectacle that leaves us speechless. It doesn't get more Irish than this! We listen for a moment to the loud and recurring sound of the waves and can hardly tear ourselves away from this place cut off from the world. Caution: Don't go too close to the edge, there are no railings to protect you and in some places the erosion is already clearly visible. We continue our tour with no less magnificent views, of course accompanied by balls of wool jumping and frolicking around, who are only too happy to pose for a few photos. As if they wanted to show the whole world what a paradise home they have chosen for themselves. Who could blame them? As if this wasn't enough, a real dream beach appears to our right. Turquoise blue, glittering water, powdery white beach - Ireland is not afraid of comparisons with the Caribbean. But we are slowly getting closer to civilization again, walking past a few whitewashed houses and sleepy hamlets until we can make out the bay of North Beach again from afar. Anyone who loves rough nature, fresh air and solitude will definitely fall in love with Inishbofin just as I did! 💚