(2) Ardmore (Aird Mhór), X191777.
Ardmore is the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland. St Declan lived in the region around 350-450 AD and Christianised the area before the coming of St Patrick. According to legend St Declan’s Stone was carried miraculously on the waves from Wales following Declan’s visit there. The stone sits on the beach. Beneath the two supporting points is left a little hollow, through which devotees would painfully drag themselves in prayer on “Patteren” Day the 24th July, in the belief they would receive health and spiritual benefits. Ardmore with its narrow streets spread over the hillside over-looking Ardmore Bay (Ceann Airde Móire) is a beautiful place. A stroll north takes you along the beach where some years Bee Orchid can be found on the sea bank. Walking up the narrow streets will take you onto Ardmore Head. The hybrid between Japanese and Burnet Rose grows by the ruins of St Declan’s church and well. Three-cornered Garlic is abundant by the path. Cowslips grow in the grass above the path. The cliff path takes you around the headland and back into the town.
