Heading North

 On our way North from Ballymaloe, we decided to stop half way at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.  I know that some guide books will steer you away from here, but a friend told us it was worth a visit, and we are glad that we did.  Set up like Williamsburg, Jamestown or Sturbridge Village (on a much smaller scale) the castle is still intact, and furnished with period pieces.  Surrounding the castle are various homes, that were typical of houses on or near the estate.

A small chapel off the main dining hall

Each house was a bit different, with some just being one room, and others with a second floor bedroom

Dr. C. at the Blacksmith's forge

A typical main street is also set up with shops and a pub

I've been looking for leprechauns this entire trip, and I finally found a fairy village

there is a beautiful walled garden here, too

The chapel is no longer in use

The water mill

 After tea and scones at the tea room, it was on the road again, heading North to Ballynahinch Castle where we will stay for 3 nights so we can catch our breath and enjoy the wild west here in Ireland.  This is where my grandmother's Geary side of the family came from, and my great grandfather was in charge of the fisheries here at Ballynahinch.  It is famed for its fly fishing.  This is the view of the Owenmore River from our room.

Best sign of the day