Katie's Lodge

20/11/2024

Snow caps of Connemara, Nephin and Mullaghmore 🗻☘️

19/11/2024

One of our favorite places to visit - Achill Island ☘️

Exploring the Views on Achill Island, County Mayo

19/11/2024

19/11/2024

The Galway Christmas lights are back 😊

13/11/2024

Uncover the Hidden Gem of Moyne Abbey, County Mayo ⛪️

Discover the enchanting Moyne Abbey, a 15th-century Franciscan friary nestled just outside the picturesque village of Killala, County Mayo and less than 5 minutes from Katie’s Lodge ☘️

Moyne Abbey is a captivating 15th-century Franciscan friary that embodies Ireland's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Founded in 1455, this stunning Gothic-style abbey has endured centuries of turmoil, including Viking raids and Cromwellian destruction, yet remains an awe-inspiring testament to the devotion of Ireland's monastic past.

Amidst its picturesque surroundings, visitors can explore the abbey's beautifully preserved cloisters, towers, and tombs, immersing themselves in an atmosphere of serenity and history. As one of Mayo's most significant historical sites, Moyne Abbey invites travelers to uncover its secrets, bask in its tranquil ambiance, and connect with the region's enduring legacy.

10/11/2024

Discover the Ancient Charm of Ballintubber Abbey, County Mayo (less than an hour from Katie’s Lodge ☘️)!

Step into Ireland's rich history at Ballintubber Abbey, a breathtaking 12th-century Augustinian monastery.

Highlights:

- Stunning medieval architecture
- Beautifully preserved cloisters and gardens
- Historic tombs and artifacts

History:

- Founded in 1216 by Cathal Crovdearg O'Connor
- Survived centuries of turmoil and destruction
- Still hosts daily Mass and special events

10/11/2024

Join Erris at Night on Friday the 15th at 7pm for a very cool FREE event!

The Full Moon walk will take place at Mullaghmore Beach ⭐️🌕

10/11/2024

Nothing better than a FULL IRISH! 🤤

It's Saturday morning.....If you need an excuse😁

10/11/2024

One of the many beautiful beaches in our area 😊

07/11/2024

Take a night time guided tour with really great tours to explore the beauty of the North West of Irelands Irish Sky 🌌

06/11/2024

🙏🏻Discover the Sacred Beauty of Knock Shrine

Located in the heart of County Mayo, Ireland, and just 40 minutes from Katie’s Lodge, Knock Shrine is a revered pilgrimage site and spiritual oasis.

*A Miracle of Faith*

In 1879, the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist appeared to fifteen villagers in Knock, sparking a legacy of devotion and worship.

*Must-See Attractions:*

- The Apparition Chapel: Witness the exact spot of the miraculous apparition
- Knock Basilica: Marvel at stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture
- The Shrine's Gardens: Stroll through peaceful surroundings and reflect

*Plan Your Visit:*

- Open daily from 9am-6pm (April-October) and 9am-4pm (November-March)
- Guided tours available
- Masses and prayer services throughout the day

*Special Events:*

- Daily Processions (June-August)
- National Novena (August)
- Feast of the Assumption (August 15)

*Experience the Spiritual Heart of Ireland*

31/10/2024

On this Hallows Eve, take a look at Leap Castle (if you dare) 😱

*Leap Castle: Ireland's Most Haunted*

Step into the chilling world of Leap Castle, Ireland's most infamous haunted landmark.

Located in County Offaly, Leap Castle has a dark history dating back to the 12th century. This imposing fortress has witnessed:

🩸Bloody battles and sieges
🩸Grisly murders and betrayals
🩸Centuries of tragedy and sorrow

*The Ghosts of Leap Castle:*

👻 The Red Earl, who slaughtered his own brother in the chapel
👻 The eerie spirits of children and servants
👻 The mysterious "It" – a malevolent entity said to roam the halls

*Paranormal Activity:*

💀 Unexplained noises and apparitions
💀 Doors opening and closing on their own
💀 Visitors reporting strange, unsettling feelings

*Leap Castle's Dark History:*

🏰 Learn about the castle's turbulent past
🏰 Explore the bloody history and legends
🏰 Discover why Leap Castle is Ireland's most haunted

Would you brave the horrors within?

I climbed up the narrow spiral staircase behind my group. I was the last one up. As I climbed, I noticed a small wooden door. I grasped the handle and pulled it open. The door led to an empty and d…

31/10/2024

Happy Halloween from Katie's Lodge 🎃

30/10/2024

As we prepare for spooky season, let's delve into the roots of Halloween in Ireland 👻

Halloween, or Oíche Shamhna (pronounced EE-hah HOW-nah), has its origins in ancient Celtic festivals. The Celts celebrated Samhain (SAH-win) on November 1st, marking:

1. End of harvest season
2. Beginning of winter's darkness
3. Believed veil between worlds was thinnest

During Samhain:

- Celts lit bonfires to ward off spirits
- Wore costumes to disguise themselves as spirits
- Left food and drink offerings for ancestors

Christianity influenced the festival, and November 1st became All Saints' Day (Oíche Shamhna). The evening before, October 31st, became All Hallows' Eve, later known as Halloween.

Ireland's traditions remain strong:

- Carving turnips (not pumpkins!) to ward off spirits
- Wearing costumes and masks
- Trick-or-treating, inspired by souling (asking for food for prayers)

Happy Halloween from Katie's Lodge ☘️

30/10/2024

A visit to Mayo must include a visit to Matt Molloy's pub in Westport 🎶🎻🪗🪕🪈

28/10/2024

The Spire of St Muredachs Cathedral in Ballina, Co Mayo!

Thank you at My Irish Drone for this amazing shot 🙏🏻⛪️