Day 4 (September 18) Kilkenny - Cashel-Killarney
A few words about the leaders. Our Tour Director is a delightful woman, named Fiona O'Donovan. I think, from listening to her, she has lived near Dublin for many years. She is full of many stories about Ireland, its history and people, as well as her experiences over the years. The driver is Julian. He is quite quiet but also delightful. He is very attentive and attuned to his clients' needs. We have been very lucky to be blessed with their attention.
Today was an early start - we were out and on the road by 8am. Our first stop was at the Rock of Cashel, about one and a half hours along the road. The Rock of Cashel, known as St. Patrick's rock as it is where St. Patrick converted the Irish. It was originally the home of the King of Muenster around the 6th Century, but was donated to the church in the 1200s. The ruins represent the architecture over the centuries, with buildings from around the 12th - 16th century. We fortunate enough to be able to take a tour of Cormac Church, which is open only for limited tours of limited people because of the risk of deterioration of the ruins. Apparently a person breathes out about 1/2c of water breathing in the 15 minute tour, and too frequent tours will increase the rate of decay of the ruins. The chapel contains evidence of early roman architecture combined with the tradition Irish architecture of the day. One of the interesting features are the head carvings throughout the chapel Another is the remains of the frescos in the ceiling. These were only recently discovered as they had been whitewashed when the British brought over the "Church of England" - soon to be the "Church of Ireland". The cathedral, built about 100 years later, demonstrates the change in architectural style, followed by what is now the museum, which was constructed in the 1600s.
Following our visit to Cashel Rock, we continued on to Killarney, about two hours away. The countryside was predominantly agriculture, mostly animal stock but some farming. Dotted along the way were numerous small villages and a few larger towns. This looked like a more wealthy area with homes that were well maintained.
Once in Killarney, we had an hour free time, so Bob and I found a small bakery for an apple spice muffin and cappuccino. Next up was a horse drawn "Jaunty Ride" through Killarney National Park. It was a beautiful ride through the trees, with a few overlooks of two lakes. The driver showed us some of the special features of the park and introduced us to his mare "Susie".
After the ride, we walked back to our hotel and checked in. We relaxed until we rejoined the group for dinner at the hotel. Great food and great company!
We are now relaxing in our room, looking forward to another day of adventure.
Hotel: Killarney Towers Hotel
Weather: Cloudy and cool in the morning, sunny and warmer in the afternoon 16c
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