I could use some help on a day trip out of Galway. This is also trying to watch the Ireland vs. Italy rugby match on TV at 1:30pm on Saturday February 4th.
If we got an early start, (in February @ 9am daylight ?) drive to Clifden, then to Kylemore Abbey, where could we stop to watch the rugby match? Saying the match is 2-3 hours long, would we have enough time to drive back to Galway before dark? (5-5:30pm)
If the weather is bad, would a drive up to Westport, skipping Connemara, be the best? How long would that take? I've heard good things about Matt Malloy's pub there.......
I know this is rambling, but any opinions are appreciated!
How long are you staying in Galway? If it is a couple of days maybe you can rearrange your schedule to be in Galway for the game and do Connemara on the other day. If that won't work for you, you can stop at a pub along the way to view the game. Most pubs will have the game on. You could stop for the game in Leenane or Cong or Maam Cross or Oughterard. As you might imagine there are no shortage of pubs in Ireland. Hotels pubs are another option.
As far as getting back to Galway before dark, I suggest you keep an eye on the time and if the game is not over head back anyway. You can always listen to the end on your car radio. Not as thrilling as TV but better than driving in the dark.
Depending on your route going from Galway to Westport will take perhaps 1 1/2 hours. It is a nice town.
You will have to let us know how it goes when you return.