We begin our journey with Cong Abbey, located in the picturesque village of Cong in County Mayo. This place, made famous by the movie 'The Quiet Man' starring John Wayne, impresses not only by its history, but also by its surroundings. Cong Abbey, founded in the 12th century by King Turlough O'Connor of Connacht, is a fine example of medieval Irish architecture. Walking through the ruins, you can admire the intricately carved architectural details that have stood the test of time. Particularly noteworthy are the cloisters and the remains of the fish house, a unique medieval structure where monks raised fish in the stream flowing beneath the building. The surrounding park offers peaceful walking paths amidst lush greenery, ideal for contemplation and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As one visitor noted: 'A wonderfully atmospheric place to stroll and take a break from daily chores.' Cong Abbey received a high rating of 4.6 stars, a testament to its popularity among tourists. The next stop on our tour is Mellifont Abbey, located in Louth County. Founded in 1142, this first Cistercian abbey in Ireland marks a milestone in the history of Irish monasticism. Mellifont introduced the Continental architectural style to Ireland, as can be seen in surviving features such as the octagonal lavabo (washhouse) and the impressive remains of the church's nave. Mellifont Abbey, like Cong, enjoys a high rating of 4.6 stars, with visitors praising it as a great place for family outings and picnics. One visitor noted: 'Mellifont Abbey is worth a visit. I recommend👍'. Both abbeys offer fascinating insights into Ireland's medieval history, but differ in character. While Cong impresses with its romantic surroundings and close contact with nature, Mellifont impresses with its architectural grandeur and historical significance. It is worth noting that both places are easily accessible by car, but Mellifont may be more difficult to reach by public transportation. Both Cong Abbey and Mellifont offer excellent backdrops for photos, which photography enthusiasts will appreciate. Both sites are open to the public most of the year, but it's worth checking opening hours before visiting, especially during the winter season.

The third stop on our trip is Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland's most photogenic sites, located in the heart of the Connemara region in County Galway. Originally built as a private residence in the 19th century and later converted into a Benedictine monastery, this remarkable abbey combines elements of Victorian architecture, tumultuous history and breathtaking scenery. Kylemore Abbey, rated 4.6 stars, offers visitors much more than typical medieval ruins. As one visitor noted: 'A beautiful place, surrounded by an aura of mystery, a shroud of history and spiced with a pinch of tragedy.' The abbey is located on the shores of Lake Pollacappul, surrounded by the majestic mountains of Connemara. This picturesque location makes Kylemore not only a historical attraction, but also a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can explore the abbey's interior, which has been carefully restored and decorated in 19th-century style. Multimedia displays explore the fascinating history of the place, from the tragic love story of the founders to its years as a boarding school. One of Kylemore Abbey's main assets is its gardens. The Victorian walled garden, painstakingly recreated, delights with geometric flower beds, exotic plants and historic greenhouses. As one visitor noted: 'We found the garden to be a mix of flowers magnificently composed in mosaics, but surprised us with a full range of cultivated herbs, vegetables and fruit trees full of first fruits.' Kylemore Abbey also offers an excellent restaurant where one can sample local delicacies, which many visitors consider an added benefit of their visit. Compared to the previously described abbeys, Kylemore stands out for its better state of preservation and richer offerings for visitors. While Cong and Mellifont offer a primarily historical and contemplative experience, Kylemore combines elements of a museum, botanical garden and picturesque landscape. It's a place that can easily take a full day of sightseeing, offering attractions for a variety of ages and interests. It is worth noting that due to its popularity, Kylemore Abbey can be more crowded, especially during the summer season. However, the expansive grounds and well-organized tourist infrastructure mean that even during busier periods you can find quiet corners to contemplate and enjoy the views.

The final stop on our spiritual journey through Ireland is Fore Abbey, located in County Westmeath. This place, although less well-known than the previous ones, offers an extraordinary experience, combining elements of history, legends and natural beauty. Fore Abbey, with an impressive 4.7 star rating, is proof that sometimes less popular places can provide the most authentic and memorable experiences. Fore Abbey, founded in the 7th century by St. Fechin, is one of the oldest monasteries in Ireland. The ruins we can admire today date mainly from the 13th century and later. What sets Fore Abbey apart is not only its long history, but also the legends surrounding it and the so-called 'Seven Wonders of Fore'. Among them are such phenomena as 'the tree that doesn't burn', 'the water that doesn't flow' and 'the mill without a stream'. These legends add a mysterious charm to the place and make visiting a fascinating adventure of discovering local folklore. One visitor remarked: 'Beautiful ruins of an old castle. The river flows seemingly in reverse. You can have a meal. Information points. On the other side also ruins, attractions. This brief observation perfectly captures the variety of experiences Fore Abbey offers. The site is ideal for those who appreciate peace and quiet and the opportunity to explore on their own. Unlike more popular attractions, Fore Abbey often allows for a more intimate and personal experience of history. The area around the abbey is a great place for a picnic, as visitors point out: 'It's a peaceful place perfect for a picnic.' Comparing Fore Abbey with the previously described sites, one can see that it offers the most 'raw' and authentic experience of medieval ruins. While Kylemore Abbey impresses with its state of preservation and rich tourist offerings, and Cong and Mellifont offer more recognizable examples of monastic architecture, Fore impresses with its mystery and proximity to nature. This is a place that may particularly appeal to history and legend lovers looking for less obvious tourist attractions. However, it is worth remembering that due to its less commercial nature, Fore Abbey may have limited tourist infrastructure compared to more popular destinations. Therefore, it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance, taking provisions and water with you. To sum up our journey on the trail of Ireland's medieval abbeys, each of the sites visited offers a unique experience. From the romantic ruins of Cong to the majestic remains of Mellifont, the imposing Kylemore Abbey to the mysterious Fore, each abbey has its own history and atmosphere. This diversity makes a journey along the trail of Irish abbeys a fascinating adventure, combining elements of spirituality, history and natural beauty. Whether you are an avid historian, a seeker of spiritual experiences, or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, this journey is sure to leave you with unforgettable impressions and a deeper understanding of Ireland's rich cultural heritage.