colaiste uisce

In this Gaeltacht area lies the heart of the country's tradition and culture. Erris was the setting for most of Riocaird Bariead's poetry. Riocaird Bairead's birthplace is actually on the grounds of Colaiste U.I.S.C.E.. John Millington Synge's play 'The Playboy of the Western World' is also set in the Erris area. Folklore, legends and pisreogs abound in this historic land. The islands off the coast were the home of the Children of Lir for 300 years before they were converted back into humans by St. Brendan. Stories of the Spanish Armada, Deirbhila's well and Grainne Uaile all await the inquisitive visitor. It has many and varied archeological sites, the piece de resistance undoubtedly being the Ceide Fields on the north coast of Erris. This amazing site dates back before the pyramids and is the most extensive stone age monument in the world. Complementing the Ceide Fields is the existance of a unique 'Sculpture Trail" stretching along the North Coast of Mayo from Ballycastle to Blacksod. Poets, artists, writers and historians all praise this lovely land. Activities abound in Erris! With the richest sea waters in Europe, a new exciting eighteen hole golf course, ideal watersports facilities, an airstrip, rich plant and bird life, renowned salmon and fresh water fishing, one is never short of something to do in this adventurous land. Those who prefer peace and tranquillity would appreciate the abundance of secluded coves, deserted beaches and vast open tracts of bogland as an opportunity to escape from it all. This land of beauty, adventure, variety and tradition is the ideal setting for a unique and exciting way to learn our native tongue. Poets, artists, writers and historians all praise this lovely land. Making Irish Fun: is the motto of the Colaiste whose native speaking and qualified instructors are always there to help students get their tongues around those difficult 'ach' sounding words. The teaching media of sailing, windsurfing, swimming, orienteering, ponytrekking, canoeing and surfing take Irish out of the classroom and give children a new perspective of the language. In this way Irish itself is being developed by being associated with modern, exciting adventure sports."

This area is characterised by its spectacular scenery and unspoiled natural amenities. Golden beaches, mystic islands, vast colourful bogland, open sand dunes and towering cliffs are all part of the Erris experience. This area is part of the Mayo Gaeltacht which makes it a special and distinctive part of Ireland. To Dublin/Westport train is the most convenient method of transport for the majority of students to Colasite U.I.S.C.E. A carriage will therefore be reserved on the 1300 hrs Dublin /Westport train on the start date of each course.