Glendalough Monastic Site – County Wicklow, Ireland

Glendalough (Gleann Dá Loch, meaning “Valley of two lakes”) is a glacial valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, renowned for an early 6^th century monastic settlement founded by Saint Kevin. The area is absolutely stunning, and the monastic “city” was on our list of places to visit while in Ireland.

The ancient ruins of Glendalough include several churches and an impressive 30-meter-high round tower. The valley stretches for approximately 3km in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Glendalough’s Upper Lake was the original site of the monastic settlement and features Reefert Church, Temple-na-Skellig, Saint Kevin’s Cell, Saint Kevin’s Bed, the Caher, and several high crosses. ~discoverireland.ie

The most impressive building that could be seen for miles was the Round Tower

The most famous of all the landmarks in Glendalough is the Round Tower which stands 33 meters above the ground. It was built almost 1000 years ago by the monks of St. Kevin’s monastery. The conical roof had to be replaced in 1876 when it was struck by lightning. The towers were called “Cloigtheach”, meaning bell tower, suggesting their main use. The towers were sometimes used as a place of refuge for monks when the monastery was under attack. They also served as both as lookout posts and as beacons foe approaching monks and pilgrims. ~ visitwicklow.ie

St. Kevin’s Kitchen (Church)

St. Kevin’s Church better known as St. Kevin’s Kitchen is a nave-and-chancel church of the 12th century. It is called St Kevin’s kitchen because people believed that the bell tower was a chimney to a kitchen but really no food was ever cooked there. This stone-roofed building originally had a nave only, with entrance at the west end and a small round-headed window in the east gable. The belfry with its conical cap and four small windows rises from the west end of the stone roof in the form of a miniature round tower. ~ visitwicklow.ie

I wish we would have been able to stay longer in the area and hike in the glaciated valley… Maybe next time!

To view Dan’s post from this leg of out trip, click HERE

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The Templar’s Church

As we made our way south from Duncannon, we stumbled upon this little gem… Ruins of a Templar’s Church. There are only scant remains of the original Templar Church, but the medieval tower is quite impressive. It stands four stories high and has crenellations on top. The old 19th century church has all of its walls standing but is completely roofless and is joined to the tower by an extension where the entrance door lies.

The Knights Templar first utilized this spot by building a wooden tower here. The current stone tower that can be seen was built after the Templar lands were given to their rivals the Knights Hospitaller. The more modern church building is the old Church of Ireland church that was used up until the newer St Mogues church in Fethard was built.

The Order of the Knights Templar were originally founded in 1119 with the responsibility of protecting pilgrims making the journey to Jerusalem. While the military arm of the order was battling in the Crusades many lands throughout Europe were given to the order to help fund their efforts.

Following the Anglo-Norman Invasion of Ireland King Henry II granted the lands to the south of a line drawn from Duncannon to Baginbun. Following the dissolution of the order on Friday 13th, 1307 the lands were given to their rival order, the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights Hospitalier. Three stone towers still stand from the time of the Hospitaliers, built on the same locations as those used by the Templars. One at Ballyhack, one at Killoggan and this one at Templetown. ~Hookpenisula.com

See you at our next stop; stay safe my friends!

To see Dan’s post from this lucky find, click HERE

Duncannon Fort, County Wexford, Ireland

Once we crossed the River Barrow on the ferry from Passage East, we stopped at Duncannon Beach to stretch our legs and take in the sites. The beach was so peaceful during our visit; however, knowing this site has been utilized by many to protect from invaders since earlier than the 12^th century, I am sure it has seen its share of troubled waters.

A fort was built on this site by Normans in the 12th century, and there may have been an earlier earthen fort built by Gaelic Irish. The present fort was built in 1587–88 by Queen Elizabeth I to defend Waterford from possible invasion from the Spanish Armada.

Duncannon Fort is an impressive presentation of a bastioned fortress perched on the side of the stunning Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, part of Ireland’s Ancient East. This historic structure has gathered countless intriguing and awe-inspiring stories over its 450-year history and holds one of the best vantage points to take in the beautiful Waterford Estuary from.  Further information can be found at www.duncannonfort.ie

To see Dan’s images from this site, click HERE

To End the Day

Our stop in Tramore, Co. Waterford was one of our unscheduled destinations as we really did not know where we would end our day. We called ahead to make reservations at Colneen House Bed & Breakfast which is located in charming town by the sea in southeast Ireland.

We were not aware, but April 24, 2016 was the Republic of Ireland census. The census is a detailed count of every person living in Ireland on that particular date. Census forms are delivered to every household in the state on the night of the census. Any property where someone might be present on that night also received a form which includes hotels, guesthouses, hospitals, and ships.  I am not sure how we were counted in this census but we did fill out a form.

The Bed and Breakfast was adorable and offered a wonderful breakfast; I would highly recommend a stay if in the area. We did not have much time in this town but did talk a walk along The Doneraile Walk. Enjoy some photos taken as we traveled to our destination for the night and ended this very exciting day. I also included some interesting finds in Tramore during our walk that night.  Both Dan and I very much enjoyed the Guinness signage from town to town.

To see Dan’s blog of our adventures in this town, click here.

Killarney National Park, County Kerry – Ireland

We awoke to our tenth day in Ireland and after spending two nights at the Hillcrest Farmhouse, we needed to move on. It was going to be a long day full of adventure, so we started our day with the most delicious Irish Breakfast.  We headed to the sheep pastures that were located within minutes of our B & B which are just inside the boundaries of Killarney National Park. I absolutely adored spending time with the sheep; all of their different personalities just made me smile. Killarney National Park is a truly magical place and is so full of beauty and wonder.

Killarney National Park (Irish: Páirc Náisiúnta Chill Airne), near the town of Killarney, County Kerry, was the first national park in Ireland, created when the Muckross Estate was donated to the Irish Free State in 1932. The park has since been substantially expanded and encompasses over 25,425 acres of diverse ecology, including the Lakes of Killarney, oak and yew woodlands of international importance, and mountain peaks. It has the only red deer herd on mainland Ireland and is the most extensive covering of native forest remaining in Ireland. The park is of high ecological value because of the quality, diversity, and extensiveness of many of its habitats and the wide variety of species that they accommodate, some of which are rare. The park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981. ~ Wikipedia

On our way to Dingle

I know, I know… I promised a post on the Gap of Dunloe. We have not quite made it there yet, but I promise, it will be worth the wait! After we spent the morning driving around the Ring of the Reeks and the Ring of Kerry, we made our way to our goal for the day, the town of Dingle. A stop along the way at Derrynane Beach to stretch our legs was such a treat. The fresh sea breeze, the sand art we encountered signed by mother nature herself, and the calmness of the gentle waves just made the day even more special. Driving the Dingle Peninsula was absolutely stunning (much like the rest of Ireland) 😉

Derrynane Beach

Derrynane Blue Flag Beach is located in a proposed Natural Heritage Area site. It is also part of the Kenmare River SAC and the Iveragh Peninsula SPA. The area is rich in biodiversity and of significant national importance. – https://www.discoverireland.ie/kerry/derrynane-beach

The Town of Dingle

The town of Dingle was extremely colorful and full of cute little shops. A tourist destination for sure; it was even busy in April! We walked around town for the few hours we had left of the day’s drive and just took in the sights of this cheery town.

We made our way back to our B & B for the night, Hillcrest Farmhouse and yes, the Gap of Dunloe.

I hope you enjoyed the trip as much as we did!

The Ring of Kerry and Iveraph Peninsula, Ireland

I’ll start from the beginning and tell you the story of our travels on this day; I do have to apologize, the post I promised on the Gap of Dunloe will have to wait its turn. We started out every morning in Ireland with a traditional Irish breakfast which fueled us for the day ahead. Our goal was to visit the Dingle Peninsula and all areas in between.  Although the beauty of this place shined bright like a diamond, the rings I am about to comment on cannot be worn on your hand 😉

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a 179-km-long circular tourist route in County Kerry, south-western Ireland. Clockwise from Killarney it follows the N71 to Kenmare, then the N70 around the Iveragh Peninsula to Killorglin – passing through Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, and Glenbeigh – before returning to Killarney via the N72. – read more (wikipedia)

Ring of the Reeks

There is another ring inside the Ring of Kerry.  Widely known for cycle tours, the Ring of the Reeks boasts some outstanding beauty.  There are more official maps the outline the cycle route; the map below is Dan’s own account of the path we traveled.

Our first part of the trip included many narrow dirt roads within the Ring of the Reeks. We always had to ask each other, “What is down this road” as we turned down that path. The day started (and ended) perfectly; we felt important as we were led by two sheep along this narrow hilly road. It was almost like they were showing this beautiful area off (I don’t blame them). They eventually moved off the road; we said our goodbye’s and moved on.

The Iveraph Peninsula

The Iveragh Peninsula (Uíbh Ráthach) is the largest peninsula in Co. Kerry situated south of Dingle Peninsula (Corca Dhuibhne) and north of the Beara Peninsula (Béarra). It is flanked by both Dingle Bay (Bá an Daingin)and Kenmare (An Neidín) Bay and faces the Atlantic Ocean. The Macgillycuddy’s Reeks(Na Cruacha Dubha) in the centre of the Iveragh Peninsula include Carrauntoohill(Corrán Tuathail), at 1,038 metres (3,406 ft) the tallest peak in the country. ~ Ask About Ireland

The Iveraph Peninsula is a very popular destination.  The Ring of Kerry is one of the most beloved areas to visit in the Republic of Ireland.  The peninsula is also home to The Kerry Way.  The Kerry Way is a walkers’ version of the Ring of Kerry.  It is a 113-mile-long circular hiking train the begins and ends in Killarney.  It typically takes 9 days to complete.  Can you imagine the memories you would make on this hike? It makes me smile as I imagine myself completing this hike. Our travels on this day was to say the least awe-inspiring; we passed through Irish towns, valleys and hills, and even ran into a farmer tending to his flock of sheep with the help of his trusty four legged friends. It was quite interesting to watch the effort of these dogs and we welcomed this little break from driving. Fox are the main predators of the Sheep in Ireland and dogs/farmers will protect their livestock if needed; especially when there are so many little lambs. We did happen across a not so lucky fox which the farmer dispatched and hung it on the fence alongside this remote dirt road.

All this and we have not made it to Dingle yet? Yes! Ireland is full of beauty that filled our eyes and hearts with wonder. More sites to come as we traveled further onward down the Dingle Peninsula towards the adorable town of Dingle in County Kerry, Ireland.

Counting Sheep

This gallery contains 17 photos.

Our travels for this day included a ferry trip from Killimer to Tarbert, travels off the beaten path and just a few sheep. We made our way to our next Bed & Breakfast, Hillcrest Farmhouse. We stayed at Hillcrest Farmhouse B&B for two nights.  This B&B was a perfect place to spend two days and explore […]

Loop Head Peninsula. County Clare

We awoke to yet another beautiful morning and devoured the Irish breakfast served at Sea Crest Farmhouse. With a happy tummy, we started our day and headed south on N67. As we crossed the stone arched bridge into the village of Doonbeg, we decided to stretch our legs and explore the area. A dog and his master out for a morning stroll, the swans swimming in the river… It was quite tranquil.

Loop Head

Loop Head peninsula has the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Shannon Estuary on the other, with barely a mile of land saving it from island status. In 2013, Loop Head was named the “Best Place to Holiday in Ireland” by The Irish Times – Wikipedia

Traveling the Loop Head peninsula was breathtaking, and we stopped numerous times to take in the scenery and the fresh Irish air. Walking on the grass in this area was like walking on a cloud; another sign that Ireland is a little slice of heaven.

The geology of this area was impressive. Take notice in the images as to how the layers of land appear almost chaotic and slope in at different angles, sometimes jetting towards the sky.

Over a period of 7.5 million years (318.5 – 311 million years ago) a huge river system carried sand and clay out to sea where it was deposited in a succession of vast sheets to form a large submarine fan delta just off the coast of the continent. Due to pressure and heat caused by subsequent layers of sand and mud, the sediments turned into hard rock which was later pushed up above present-day sea level by many movements of the earth’s plates. For most of the following 300 million years, Ireland was above sea level and subjected to weathering which stripped away a lot of its rock mantle, including most of the coal deposits formed in the Carboniferous period. ~www.loophead.ie 

Bishop’s Island

This unique sea stack was separated from the mainland over the last thousand years. What makes this site unique is that there are the remains of a church, a clochaun (beehive hut) and the ruins of 3-4 other buildings on the piece of land. This monastic settlement is possible connected to St. Senan or his followers who founded a prominent monastery at Scattery on the opposite side of Loop Head in the 6th century. ~wildatlanticway.omeka.net

Kilkee Cliff Walk

Kilkee Cliff Walk is a 2.2 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Kilkee, County Clare, Ireland that features beautiful wildflowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips.  ~ www.alltrails.com

Bridges of Ross

The Bridges of Ross were a trio of spectacular natural sea arches – at least until two of them fell into the sea. Today, even though only one ‘bridge’ remains, the name persists in the plural. The Bridge of Ross lies on the western side of the natural harbor that is Ross Bay, looking north to the Atlantic Ocean, near the village of Kilbaha. It can’t be seen from the road, but it’s not difficult to find. Head due west (left) from the Bridges of Ross car park and walk for a few hundred meters along the footpath. (Be careful to keep close to the fence, as there have been recent landfalls over the water.) The area is regarded as one of the best sea-watching sites in Europe. In late summer and autumn, it becomes a birder’s paradise as thousands of rare seabirds pass close to shore on their southbound migration – www.loophead.ie

Thanks for joining Dan and I as we traveled this beautiful area of Ireland! I hope this finds you all well; sending peace and love to everyone.

Click HERE to see Dan’s blog post of this area. See you at our next stop.

 

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

Vaughan’s Anchor Inn

I have to agree with Dan when he said, “The food at Vaughan’s Anchor Inn was divine. Prior to the main course, the chef brought out a sample of his parsnip puree; absolutely scrumptious. Vaughan’s Fish and Chips dinner consisted of Cod in a 9-year-old (starter) batter served with homemade tartar sauce, chips that were steamed, then fried in beef drippings and Pea Puree….Wow! One of the best fish and chips we had experienced on our trip.

After a wonderful meal, we made our way to the Cliffs of Moher. The visitor center closed, and all the tour buses had left for the night so there were not many people around.  We did manage a lengthy hike before the sun set under the horizon; first to O’Brien’s Tower and then back South along Burren Way. The path was easy, and it was shaping up to be a beautiful evening. We made our way south on foot towards a site where we could take in the sunset with O’Brien’s’ Tower in the background.

We were serenaded by the wind as it hit the fence along the path much in a way that a lover would play music in the night under the window of his loved one.

At the end of the 16th to early 19th centuries, young nobles would embark on grand tours of Europe and Irish travel journals around the time of 1780 give many descriptions of the beauty of County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher. Cornelius O’Brien (1782–1857), a descendant of the first High King of Ireland, made many improvements to the area which included the construction of a tower that was erected in 1835 (now referred to as O’Brien’s tower).  He believed that the development of tourism would benefit the local economy and to this day, he was right!

Situated in County Clare along the wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher have majestically faced the Atlantic for over 350 million years and their beauty is incomparable. The cliffs reach 214m (702 feet) in height at their highest point; the sheer scale and their dramatic impact never ceases to amaze and will delight in equal measure. The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited tourist attraction; when you visit, you will understand why. – cliffsofmoher.ie

I would highly recommend a visit to Ireland’s top tourist attraction, the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.

Cliffs of Moher Walk

Click here to see Dan’s images from that area.