Friday – 7th November
Camera bags were packed, cars were loaded with the usual assortment of boots, wellies and rain gear as 23 of us headed west to the hills of Connemara for this year’s Offshoot Weekend away from 7th-9th November.
The Leenane Hotel, on the shores of Killary Harbour, was our base and proved to be a most welcoming venue, with friendly staff and delicious food. To help members plan their photoshoots, a location guide booklet was prepared.
After check-in, most people went to catch the early sunset before dinner. One group went to Pine Island in Derryclare Lough, where they met a group of photographers from the Blarney photo club.
Luckily, there was plenty of room for everyone and the sun made a brief appearance and allowed us to take some shots.
Dinner that evening in the hotel was delicious, and the conversation and laughter brought the evening to a lovely end, but not before a surprise birthday cake and candle for one of the members to round off the day’s activities.
Saturday – 8th November
Many decided to return to Pine Island early on Saturday morning for sunrise, and we were rewarded by some beautiful sunlight with no wind on the lake. The completely still water enhanced the mirror reflections of the trees and mountains, so everyone was pleased.
By this time we were all hungry, so the hearty breakfast was very welcome and gave us a chance to swap stories and plan the rest of the day.
With a wide variety of locations to choose from, members split into groups to explore the diverse and dramatic scenery of the West of Ireland, including the iconic Fisherman’s Hut, Doo Lough, Anchor Beach, Kylemore Abbey and Killary Fjord. A local sheep mart also proved to be a popular attraction.
One group headed for the fisherman’s hut, which is set beside a small lake with stepping stones providing a leading line.
Unfortunately, due to the previous week’s rain the stones were underwater, and as this particular group arrived, so did the rain. It was driving straight into our faces and it was decided to abandon the plan and head back to the car.
A small group went for chowder and coffee in Cleggan before driving on to Anchor Beach. As the weather took a turn for the worse, they had a very wet shoot, during which Tesco bags and umbrellas were used to protect the cameras. Despite their efforts to embrace the conditions, they were eventually beaten by the weather.
By mid-afternoon, most people had returned to the hotel, where there was a large comfortable lounge area where we could hang out and chat.
Dinner was again very tasty and plentiful.
Sunday – 9th November
Sunday began before dawn, with most members heading to Lough Inagh and a little fishing hut to capture the sunrise. The early light on the water and the surrounding peaks provided a stunning backdrop for landscape photography. Those who were willing to stay a little longer were treated to a beautiful rainbow on the Lough. Then it was back to the hotel for a very welcome and hearty breakfast.
After breakfast, we checked out and decided to head to Sky Road. It had been part of the previous day’s plan, but the rain had made it pointless. There is a viewpoint at the crest of the road that offers a spectacular view of the bay and its various small islands. The sun was glistening on the water and we spent a good hour taking in the view and taking a few shots. Then we were homeward bound.
Some images (click on an image to open in full-screen mode) from the outing can be seen below:
