The Emerald Isle is a fascinating place and it took a cyber nudge from my new Twitter Tweep Billie at Santa Fe Traveler to remind me (she also blogs at The Santa Fe Traveler). So, I actually decided to make this the first post in a series called “Time Travel” because I dare not tell you how long it’s been since I’ve been a guest at an Irish castle, yet the memory lingers.
Ireland is the perfect weekend getaway from the eastern United States, since the flight is only about 5 hours and places you in a foreign, magical land of leprechauns, shamrocks and yes, castles.
My stay at Dromoland Castle ushered in many firsts for me: first night in a real castle; first taste of Irish hospitality; first daring feat of driving on the left side of the road; and all topped off by a kiss of the Blarney Stone. I drove some 400 miles that weekend, up and down the southwest coast, stopping to view the Cliffs of Moher; dining medieval style at Bunratty Castle and discovering Adare Manor.
Bunratty Castle before the Medieval evening madness
Bunratty Castle was great fun – by day you can tour the medieval tower and village, which is kept alive by inhabited shops with demonstrations. The site also offers great views from the top turret. By night, join in the fun of a medieval banquet where you dine as they did 500 years ago – no utensils and wandering minstrels for entertainment.
Adare Manor was a highlight. It is a romantic manor house set in a quaint village. I was traveling with my dear friend Marlene when we stopped for tea at Adare and I just looked at her and said, “this place is so romantic, what am I doing here with you?” She laughed and promised to find me someone named Brendan before we left but all I got was this picture of a cow we nicknamed Brendan.
Kiss the Blarney Stone and improve your skills of flattery!
TOURIST TIPS: Don’t be put off by driving on the wrong side of the road. Just remember to keep the double line on the right side of the car. And whatever you do, be sure to climb to the top of the Blarney Tower, even if it’s a windy day. You can’t go all the way to Ireland and not kiss the stone for the gift of gab……….and the guide won’t let you fall.
I can’t believe you live in the middle east & could not find courage to kiss the stone! LOL I saw a woman on her way up the tower in heels because she was in her Sunday best. She was terrified, clutching the tower and hugging the wall all the way up. I told her she could not go this far & NOT kiss it and she had to show courage for her young daughter who was sprinting up the steps. Well, my gift of gab worked & she did it, heels, skirt and all!
You are braver than I am! I went to the top of the castle, but as I am scared of heights could not bring myself to kiss it. Mind I talk enough rubbish without it. lol