Started with a drive up from Killarney and a short stop in Adare.

Then a real suprise at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park – which turned out to be an active Open Air Museum.

Lunch at the pub in the village

Finally a drop into Limerick and a look at the St Johns Castle

and and St Mary Cathedral

and finally, a beer at The Mill, Annacotty

So, to the famous Blarney Castle, much better than expected, unspoiled as a tourist jaunt.

In the grounds were some very odd stones and follys

After Castle Blarney, a beautiful cross country drive through the mountains and Pass of Keighmoneigh through to Bantry.

Lunch at ‘Tractors’ Cafe (no pictures !) before a visit to Bantry House, overlooking Bantry Bay

Then a drive round part of the Ring Of Kerry, most beautiful, with a stop in Kenmare – possibly the most prosperous small town we have visited

In particular we stopped at Kenmare for a walk round and a beer.

To complete a splendid day we had our evening meal at Foleys restaurant. Oysters and Avocado baked with Smoked Salmon and Cheese Sauce

followed by Lobster and Monkfish

then Chocolate Mouse and Cheesecake

A visit to Waterford, and the world famous Crystal Factory

Lunch at a Feehans Pub in Cashel

Then on to the Rock Of Cashel – site of a siege and bloody massacre by Cromwell forces.

As short trip to buy a scarf for a special person 🙂

Finally to Cobh, site of a relatively modern Cathedral and port with links to the White Star Line

Evening meal in Middleton at a very quirky Bistro

So, properly on with the road trip. First stop Powerscourt.

and then on to Kilkenny Castle

and then a walk round Kilkenny Cathedral and the streets

A meal at the recommendation from the DK guide – Rinuccini’s on Castle Street

So, from the hotel at Dun Loaghaire we wisely took the train into Dublin.

Started with an early bird ticket to the Guinness Brewery

with of course a sample in the panoramic bar

Then on to Kilmainham Gaol, only after lunch at The Patriot Inn

and then back to the Jamiesons distillery:

a visit to the decorative arts museum

…yes, you would never guess.. and then a walk round Dublin…for the best Guinnes in Dublin

Evening meal in the Hard Rock Cafe