Kilkenny

Our first major destination from Dublin was Kilkenny.

But first we had to stop at Luttrestown Castle. Apparently, our ancestors had some kind of stake in it. Currently, it rents out to well heeled tourists for a couple of thousand a night, so the tenants were reluctant to accept our claims to the property. Anyway, we got some photographic evidence.

We finally arrived at our lodgings, Hotel Kilkenny. It was definitely a cut or two above the average Australian Hotel.

Well, we bellied up for breakfast. It was a treat. We managed to munch our way through Ireland. It was delightful.

Full Irish breakfast.

 

Linda opted for the lighter breakfast.

The breakfast service people were very charmingly Irish with good senses of humor.

We then proceeded to visit the medieval Kilkenny Castle. Barbara, who is not a castle person, enjoyed this one because of the great quantity of art and old furniture inside (which we were not allowed to photograph).

Views of the castle exterior.

We prepare to take photos of the park.

Nice statue.

Passage to the moat. In some circumstances, I think it was used as a sally port.

 Drain.

Linda is scouting around for photo opportunities near the park entrance.

Views both ways down the River Nore.

View of the castle from downtown Kilkenny.

Mastering the parking meter, before we go the 5 star restaurant, Zina.

We decide on Tapas. They weren't particularly Spanish, but they were good.

The desserts were spectacular.

Time to leave.