We had 2 days in Dublin, staying at the Hibernian Club on St Stephen’s Green, meeting up with special Australian friends, Tim and Susy Heap from Sydney, and Tony and Michelle Clarke from Canberra. Readers of my previous meanderings will have met them before. The club had well placed security boxes in the rooms, with the added convenience of being portable.
Some sightseeing, and good food, before heading out for the southwest. Marion and I took a detour to visit a Donkey called Peter that had been sponsored for me by Fiona and Alex, at the Belline Donkey sanctuary. Peter likes carrots and tried to eat my finger.
In Anascaul we visited the South Pole Inn, that was founded by Tom Crean when he returned home from his Antarctic heroics. They are well worth reviewing. https://www.historyireland.com/20th-century-contemporary-history/tom-crean-1877-1938-an-irish-hero/
We toured the lovely Dingle peninsula and the Ring of Kerry that I had walked and hitched around as a Cambridge student. The whole area is lovely and looking more prosperous than 60 years ago.
Marvellous accommodations. Castlewood House in Dingle lived up to its remarkable reputation and awards, not least an extraordinary breakfast, with whisky laced porridge and kippers. Guiness and oysters go well together. A lovely concert with odd instruments in a local church and a performance by the world champion Irish dancer in his home pub!
Next to the tip of Kerry on Valencia island, to stay at lovely old Glanleam House, iconically hosted by Jessica and Eoin, helped by Gemma and Ben. A quintessential memorable Irish experience.
Golfing at Dooks, and more lovely scenery
Then a final drive to Cork, and Blarney castle, for one night (and a lovely premature birthday dinner, thankyou) before leaving for England, leaving our travel friends to continue their exploration of this remarkable country.
