Countryside

The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster for several hundred years prior to the Norman invasion. In 1101, the King of Munster, Muirchertach Ua Briain donated his fortress on the Rock to the Church. The picturesque complex has a character of its own and is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe. Few remnants of the early structures survive; the majority of buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries.

The Rock of Cashel was a breathtaking site. Definitely a high point so far!

The tiny town of Cobh on an island just south of Cork was the last place the Titanic stopped before it left for New York. This town clinging to a hill with an amazing Gothic Cathedral on top was steeped in history.

We did an impromptu stop at the little seaside town of Dungarvan. We explored the castle and then the town.

Very off the beaten track. Could not even find it in any of our guide books.

Waterford is a sweet little town. It dates back to the Vikings that built the first town here. Amazing history!

And all the weathervanes are salmon!

We were on a very informative factory tour of Waterford Crystal. Love seeing how they make things!

After dinner in a pub, we walked around for a bit longer and came across another tiny little pub called Preachers. Soon everybody started showing up to watch football and we realized it is time to head back.

We went through a stroll of Cork.

The theme song the whole time was of course Adele’s River Lee.

We checked in at our delightful Bed & Breakfast in Cork. Cyril is a wonderful host and the place is specious and charming.

We went back to the airport and picked up the other three as well as our delivery van. Then we left on our longest planned drive of the trip, Dublin to Cork.