Ennistymon (1891)

Ennistymon, in the neighbourhood, which has been rendered famous by Banim, in his book, "The town of the cascades," should be visited, if for no other purpose but to enjoy the prospect from the bridge westward, and then glancing over the parapet, at the river plunging down the rocks beneath; or to take a point of observation lower down the stream, and looking towards the bridge after a fall of rain, or when the water in the river is deep, and rushing in full volume over the ledge of rocks the effect is really thrilling. From the windows of the southern front of the principal hotel a fine view is obtained of river and cascade. In the grounds of the "lord of the soil" is a romantic glen, well worth rambling through. The walks, lawns and gardens are well kept, and the surrounding scenery with the mansion standing on the summit of a declivity, and cascade and river giving animation to the scene, makes the prospect really picturesque. The town of Ennistymon, with its fine range of shops, large hotel and good broad streets, is evidently inhabited by men of taste, energy and enterprise. A Bank, which indicates prosperity is in the town, and a convent situated on a slope or hill, is a pleasing object in the landscape. On the opposite side of the town stands a large school, under the management of the Christian Brothers, a community which has taken under its charge the education of the boys, while the Nuns attend to the training of the girls. At Ennistymon also is a station of the West Clare Railway, which at present is the nearest to Lisdoonvarna Spas, about six miles distant. The scenery all round Ennistymon is interesting, being only half an hour's walk from the sea, and with a plentiful supply of good water distributed over the town by gravitation, and having good drainage, there is everything to make it a healthy place to live in, just as it is a desirable one to make money in, judging from the appearance of prosperity on all sides.

Holiday Haunts on the West Coast of Clare by H.B.H
Courtesy of Clare Local Studies Project

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