Thursday, August 5, 2010

Day 3 - Crossing the Gap



Today was another fantastic day in Killarney.  After breakfast we headed out to experience one of the highlights of the area, The Gap of Dunloe. Located in Killarney National Park, this tour is a true wilderness experience, featuring mountains and lakes, a boat ride and a 12-mile trek in a traditional jaunting cart.  The scenery is just incredible.






We decided this gnome needed some sunglasses!





This cottage is tucked away in the heart of Killarney National Park.









After our ride in the jaunting cart, we boarded a small boat for our cruise through the lakes.









Our journey ended at historic Ross Castle.  From there we headed to the nearby Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, which hosted the Irish Open just last weekend.  Some of you may have seen the coverage on TV.









As you can see, the views are spectacular from the course.

After a wonderful day exploring the best that Killarney has to offer, we had dinner at the Lord Kenmare restaurant, just down the way from our hotel.  Here's a glimpse of the delicious food we enjoyed.



This was my starter of grilled wild mushrooms topped with smoked Irish cheese.  Irish food has come a long way since I was last here 15 years ago!

Before turning in, I'll leave you with a poem by W.B. Yeats, famous Irish poet.  He wrote this in 1826 while visiting Muckross House, on the edge of Killarney National Park.

A place so lovely that it seems,
Neither from waking life nor dreams.
A mystery from those mysteries,
That startle shut and waking eyes.


Tommorow we board a train for Dublin and the excitement of Ireland's capital city.  Make sure you check back to see how the second half of our trip is going.

10 comments:

  1. Hello Robyn, more great pics from Ireland- the views and vistas are awesome!

    You and Tracy look like you are having a great time. By the way, Pam thinks she knows the little gnome-Recognizes the Maui Jims! Have a great day in Dublin!

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  2. Thank you for starting my morning off with the beautiful views. It has helped me make it through each day just waiting to see what you have for us the next day. Have a great day in Dublin.

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  3. I love that gnome picture. :)

    I really like the picture of what appears to be a thistle in bloom.

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  4. Pretty spectacular pictures Robyn. Remember, my family is originally from Cork...in case you need a last minute replacement.
    Brian

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  5. The thistle reminded me of the scene in the movie "Braveheart". It passed from Wallace and his love as a sign of their deep affection.

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  6. Oscar Wilde said it best "I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied with the best" State Auto trips are the BEST!!! I can't wait for May 2011!!!

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  7. Hi Robyn - trying again. The blog site looks great. Loving pic, they are beautiful. Looking good in the jacket, and I liked the photo of Robyn and Robyn.

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  8. WOW! Beautiful gardens - hope they look this good for the trip. Not much about the distillery - surely Jameson gives out at least wee samples?

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  9. Lovely tour! Beautiful views. Wear layers and bring socks....just in case!

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