On Sunday 19th November, Billy and I took the 20 minutes bus ride from Sligo to Rosses Point and did some of the Wild Atlantic Way. Billy got us off a stop early by mistake, but this had a positive side effect. We came across a boat hulk next to the road at Oyster View on the R291. As I have a series on Graveyards for Hulks out came the camera, even though it was very overcast and drizzly.
Oyster Island Lighthouse. Erected in 1821 the lights were changed from gas-powered to solar in 2003.
Information plaque at the side of the road
We walk up the road and are met at Rosses Point by The Waiting On Shore monument, shown above, a landmark statue that is: "Dedicated to the castaways of the sea, it is a vibrant testimony to the close bond between the Irish and the ocean and its difficulties ... Facing the bay, it takes the form of a woman holding her arms out to the sea in an almost dramatic pose, her hair and clothes blowing in the wind". LINK
Mooring Buoy
Billy was ill before we came away, and I was worried he would not make the trip. When his Sister saw the photo above on Facebook she told him that it made her happy to know he was better.
You can see Black Rock Lighthouse on the horizon. Detached limestone former navigation beacon, built 1819, converted to lighthouse c.1834.
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From an information plaque at the view point
I really like the above photos of Rosses Point kiteboarding and bathers, they are hardier than me! They remind me of Martin Parr's work in that there is colour in the landscape and they document a way of life in public spaces. I agree with Parr when he says: "I have a long-established affection for the beach as a place to photograph; people can really be themselves as they sunbathe, play, swim and relax".
After the walk and Billy's bathing, at around 2pm we were ready for a damn fine lunch at Austies Pub & Kitchen. Tripadvisor points out that "There has been a pub on the site of Austies since the 17th century. It is a seafaring pub with plenty of memorabilia and maritime features". Billy had seafood chowder, which hit the spot. We sat for a while taking in the ace view because we decided to miss the 3.10 pm bus back (they are on the hour)! Yes there was a slight disagreement, the only one on the trip, as we were meant to be eating out getting a 'special deal' in the evening. Eating lunch this late would mean I would not be hungry later. But Billy was overcoming a small hangover from his Saturday night solo adventures, and tends not to eat in the daytime but was now hungry. Ahh well, after my burger I had ice cream and sank into the view from our table over coffee (below see our exact view but on a sunny day, taken from https://www.austies.ie/ gallery). Important moments ...
When we did get back via the 4:10 pm bus to our AirbandB I read and have an early night, all that sea air and atmosphere wiped me out.
F’ing BRRR!
Haha, yep cold 🙂