Ireland

En route to Leitrim/Sligo We took the long way for a scenic drive up through the Connemara. All along the way are always sheep. These guys were out of their fence and graving along the roadside. They have the special markings for whoever they belong to. Kylemore Abbey After all we read, this was a bit disappointing. The Abbey/Castle was beautiful but most of it was used by the Benedictine nuns and not open to tourists. There are the walled Victorian Gardens, a neo-gothic style church and also walking trails but we were really tired and opted to skip those things. It was pretty opulent and undergoing some major updates soon. The story of how the nuns came to Kylemore Abbey is interesting and worth a read. It is open for retreats for different groups and they are known for hospitality although the days of throwing open your doors wide to anyone are clearly passed.  Dromohair, Drumkeeran, Co. Leitrim Situated in County Leitrim but adjacent to County Sligo, our next B&B was a fam...

Brigit's Garden  What a lovely find this is! A garden that honors their Celtic heritage and at the same time teaches sustainability, this 11 acre oasis of beauty is a grassroots community activity. My photos don't even begin to do it justice! Check out their website for more information. Underside of a thatched roof Replica ring fort Celtic curves incorporated in the garden bed design Ashford Castle Originally owned by the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is now a 6 star hotel owned by the Red Carnation group. It is quite expensive and intimidating in its formality and opulence. Many dignitaries stay here. They have a number of activities on the property including horse riding, tennis, and boating on the Louch. We had a very posh lunch at the castle before going on our hawk walk School of Falconry Located on the property of Ashford Castle, the school is independently operated. We were a bit surprised by the number of foreigners staffing the school, mostly French people. Apparen...

Burren National Park The Burren is an amazing area of limestone formations making a rugged terrain. The geology of the area is explained in the link above. Not all the Burren is National Park; It is generally describes a large area in NW County Clare. Sheep grazing everywhere there is grass Those stone fences continue to amaze me Limestone deposits There are trails through the Burren for hikers and cyclists The Burren Centre is the official tourist information center for the area. As always we were greeted by a friendly woman who loves her country and proudly talks of the beautiful features of the area. She was full of recommendations for us. Kilfenora Cathedral Adjacent to the Burren Center, these ruins are from 1058 and still occasionally used because of the beautiful acoustics. The cemetery is still in use as well. A roof was erected to protect the beautiful carving Near Doolin, taking a road hardly traveled but beautiful (we were probably not on the route we intended!)  we saw...

  We chose the small towns and the road less traveled! Kinvara was a great pick! Kinvara and Shabby Chic Barn We love the Shabby Chic Barn which is located on the same property as the owner's home. It is an updated two bedroom/one bath cottage which is finished with wood paneling and very trendy decor. It is comfortable and has all the conveniences yet it is on the outskirts of Kinvara, so it feels rural. We were greeted every morning about 5am when the rooster in the yard behind us began his crowing. Not once, twice or even three times but continually for what seemed like hours!  All outlets are switched to save electricity Stone fences all along the property and the road Many homes in this area still have thatched roofs Dunguaire Castle A 16th century defensive castle, t he name derives from the  Dun  of  King Guaire , the legendary king of  Connacht . It is restored and open for touring.  Dunguaire Castle Formidable facade Bay by the castle Banquet ...