Kilrush

I spent this weekend in Kilrush, a small town in County Clare. As I've learned in my trip last week, 'Kil' means 'Church', so Cill Rois, the Irish name for Kilrush, means 'Church among the Rushes'. And Kilrush is listed as one of the Heritage Towns of Ireland and is hosting the National Famine Commemoration 2013, so it is definitely a must-see.

I really loved the atmosphere there. It reminded me of the small villages back in Portugal where everyone knows each other and says "Morning!" as they pass on the street. Everyone was very welcoming and warm.

But, as has become an habit lately, my favourite part was the food. It was just sooooo good. You just can tell when something is made with love. There's this pub called Crotty's in the town centre which is incredible. It's a small and cozy space with fireplaces and tons of adorable knick-knacks and memorabilia. The food there warms your heart, it really does. 

Crotty's

And they have 'Death by Chocolate' which is just the best dessert in the world, it has to be! My goodness! The moistest, creamiest Chocolate Fudge Cake ever with Rapsberry Coulis and Vanilla Ice Cream on the side and a delicious crispy Brandy Snap Basket wafer with cream on top. I mean...FOODGASM!! I get way too excited about food, don't I? Oh well...

Death by Chocolate

But food isn't the only great thing about Crotty's. By night the families go home and Crotty's becomes a proper pub with a relaxed atmosphere and great live music. I had pear cider for the first time and loved it!

Another great attraction in Kilrush is the Marina at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary, where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic Ocean, which is used as the starting point for trips to Scattery Island and for dolphin spotting cruises.

Kilrush Marina

Kilrush is definitely a great place to spend a quiet and relaxed weekend and I'll be going back in May or June for some dolphin spotting for sure. Can't wait!