Ross Castle

Another close attraction to Killarney was Ross Castle. It was only a 30 minute drive from the Torc Waterfall.

There are a number of choices of where to go from the castle's parking lot.

One could go by carriage, but we decided to walk.

We are getting close to Ross Island.

Here are a few views of the castle.

There was also a trail, but we weren't in to long walks.

Here are some views of Ross Bay.

One of Doretha's best pictures.

But everyone was taking pics.

There used to be a copper mine in the vicinity.

Compact snack and souvenir provider.

Blarney Castle

After our fine meal at the Old Thatch Restaurant, we traveled around the north side of Cork to get to Blarney Castle.

Here is the entrance to Blarney Castle and grounds.

We purchase our tickets.

There is quite a bit more on the grounds than the Castle.

But that is the main attraction.

Here we split up. Linda decides to roam the grounds. The rest of us decide to "climb" the castle.

The castle is basically unreconstructed, because it is not safe to do so. But the ruins are interesting enough.

We start the journey.

There is a queue all of the way to the top, so we have plenty of time to rest on the climb.

Here are some vies to the side on our way up the stairs.

The kitchen was on an upper floor so if fire broke out it would not consume the whole castle.

We are about to emerge onto a side parapet.

Views from the parapet.

We didn't have time to visit Blarney House.

We are almost to the top.

We look down on the Banqueting Hall from the Battlements.

Blarney Stone stuff.

Anyway, the moment is at hand. Doretha and I kiss the Blarney Stone.

A T-shirt we should have got.