garyandpearl

We were up early this morning as we had to leave our room by 6 to begin our tour by 6:30. Dave was our driver and  guide today on our 40 passenger bus which was almost full.

After about an hour, we stopped for some breakfast and then headed to Adare, which was voted the tidiest town in Ireland in 2024.

It was a pleasure to walk through, and especially to see thatched roofs on some of the houses.  

The Ring of Kerry is a driving route of 179 km in the County of Kerry, of which we only drove a portion today. Killarney National Park is on this route and is about 25,000 acres in size. We were treated to a Jaunting car ride, which is a horse drawn covered cart that toured us through the park.

Jessie was our faithful horse, and her driver shared many interesting tips along the way. 

Upon his recommendation, we stopped for clam chowder at a little pub in town before we headed to our next stop, which was the Torc Waterfall.

We enjoyed a beautiful hike in this mossey forest, and we were glad for the chance to stretch our legs. 

Our tour continued onward on the Dingle Peninsula, stopping at Inch Beach where I gingerly tested the icy water.

 Our motor coach continued to climb up to a lookout where we could overlook the beautiful lush landscape. 

Along the way we passed many sheep and cows which were grazing in mini pastures which were bordered by hedges,  making them look like a patchwork quilt. 

It did rain on and off today, so we spotted some beautiful rainbows, but no leprechauns or pots of gold.

 We arrived back in Dublin about 9 PM, so it was a long 15 hour day. Our heads were bobbing a few times as we dozed on and off during the trip. The time changes back one hour tonight, so we we will appreciate the extra hour of sleep.