Day 4: Blarney Castle & Lakes of Killarney

Today we traveled out into the countryside for a glimpse farm life. We visited a farmhouse for morning tea and freshly baked scones. They were delicious. The old castle has been converted into a B & B. The Castle Country House is owned by the Nugents. When I gave Mrs Nugent my card and told her I had a bed and breakfast she immediately hugged me and insisted I take a tour of their B & B. She was lovely and so was their home. Very hard working folks. Guests visiting there from Texas said their stay was great and that everything was delightful. I would love to go back someday to stay with them in the countryside.

We drove along the south coast through Youghal and Cork to Blarney Castle. Here Al ventured to the top of the tower, but passed on  kissing  the Blarney Stone which is located in the battlements and enjoy a stroll through the grounds. It was a VERY rainy day here. I started up the stairs, but got into a very tight space and felt claustrophobic and decided NOT to go any further. So I waited till he came back. He unfortunately took a wrong turn and went down the exit..so he turned around and climbed up the 150 steps again!! He felt it too.

Of course this is a very touristy area and there are tons of shops here. We spent several hours going through them. Especially the Blarney Woolen Mill. Prices are actually better out in the countryside than they are in Dublin.  You can save at least 10 Euro on most anything you buy here.

We then traveled west through rugged countryside to Killarney, widely celebrated for its setting overlooking lakes and mountains. After checking into our hotel, we walked around this busy little town. Lots of shops and brightly painted buildings. We stayed here for 2 nights and still did not have time to visit them all. unfortunately. From here we traveled the Ring of Kerry. More on that on the next day.

For me I think I liked this area the best, especially to return to hike some of the beautiful trails in the countryside.