Happy St Patrick's Day!

Ok, truth be told, I may be a wee bit Irish. Fair skin, freckles and redish hair certainly are Irish traits. Combine my traits with my 65% Irish red headed husband and we got a strawberry blonde son (when he was a baby) and a daughter with stunning red hair....plus 3 out of 4 grandchildren with red hair. We are very lucky indeed!

That being said, St. Patrick's Day is a special holiday for us, a time for celebration and reflection that evokes fond memories of our incredible adventures in the enchanting land of Ireland. This holiday, steeped in rich cultural traditions and vibrant festivities, serves as a reminder of the warmth and hospitality we experienced during our travels. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit Ireland, with its crisp air and stunning foliage painting the landscape in shades of gold and crimson. We chose to embark on our journey in October, a decision that allowed us to relish in the beauty of the season while enjoying the added benefit of fewer crowds. This made our experience all the more intimate and enjoyable, as we wandered through picturesque villages and explored the breathtaking scenery that the country has to offer. The lush, rolling hills and dramatic coastlines gave us a profound understanding of why Ireland is often affectionately referred to as the Emerald Isle. The vibrant green of the countryside is unlike anything we had ever seen before, a vivid reminder of the island's rich agricultural heritage and the care that the locals take in preserving their natural environment. No one goes to Ireland to stay inside because it's simply too beautiful outside; every corner of the country beckons you to step out and explore. One of the highlights of our trip was undoubtedly our visit to the stunning Cliffs of Moher. These majestic cliffs rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, reaching heights of over 700 feet. The sheer scale and beauty of the cliffs are something that cannot be adequately captured in photographs; it is an experience that must be felt in person. As we stood on the edge, the wind whipped around us, carrying the salty sea air and the distant cries of seabirds. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below created a symphony of nature that resonated deep within our souls. The panoramic views stretched for miles, with the rugged coastline meeting the vast expanse of the ocean, and in that moment, we felt a profound connection to the land and its history. Each step along the walking paths offered new vistas and perspectives, revealing hidden coves and the ever-changing colors of the sea. It was a breathtaking reminder of the raw power of nature and the beauty that can be found in the wild, untamed landscapes of Ireland. Our time there was not just a vacation; it was an unforgettable journey that enriched our lives and deepened our appreciation for this extraordinary country. As we celebrate St. Patrick's Day each year, we carry with us the memories of our adventures, the friendships we made, and the stunning beauty of Ireland that forever holds a special place in our hearts.

Cliffs of Moher

We had so much fun exploring the magnificent castles scattered throughout the surrounding areas, each one steeped in history and brimming with fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered. Of course, our adventure would not have been complete without a visit to the iconic Blarney Castle, a stunning structure that has stood the test of time and is renowned for its enchanting beauty. The experience was both thrilling and terrifying for me, as I have a significant fear of heights. Climbing up to the stone involved navigating a narrow, winding staircase that seemed to stretch on forever, and with each step, my heart raced a little faster. When we finally reached the top, the view was absolutely breathtaking, overlooking the lush green gardens and the sprawling landscape that surrounded the castle. However, the moment I leaned back to kiss the stone, I felt a surge of fear wash over me. It was a surreal experience, teetering on the edge while being held by the castle staff and my husband, but I mustered the courage to go through with it, and I’m so glad I did. After this exhilarating moment, we took some time to explore the grounds, which included a delightful stroll through the Poison Garden. This unique garden, filled with a variety of plants known for their toxic properties, was both intriguing and slightly eerie. Each plant had its own story, and we learned about their historical uses, from medicinal applications to their more sinister roles in folklore and legend. The combination of history, beauty, and a touch of danger made our visit to Blarney Castle and the Poison Garden an unforgettable experience. It was a day filled with laughter, a little bit of fear, and a wealth of knowledge, leaving us with memories that we will cherish for years to come.

I did it!

During our journey, we ventured into numerous picturesque villages, each with its own unique charm and character. However, my absolute favorite among them was undoubtedly Adare. This delightful village encapsulated everything I had envisioned Ireland to be, with its enchanting scenery and quaint atmosphere. As we wandered through the narrow streets, we were greeted by the sight of beautifully thatched-roof cottages, their vibrant colors standing out against the lush green landscape that surrounded them. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, adding to the idyllic charm of the village. Adare's rich history was evident in its well-preserved architecture, with ancient stone walls and historical landmarks that told stories of the past. The picturesque scenery, combined with the serene ambiance, made it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation. I found myself captivated by the beauty of the village and the warmth of its people, solidifying Adare as the quintessential representation of Ireland in my mind.

Our visit to Ireland could not be complete without golf, as the country is renowned for its stunning courses that blend breathtaking landscapes with rich historical significance. From the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic to the lush green hills of the countryside, Ireland offers a unique golfing experience that is unlike any other in the world. Each course presents its own challenges, characterized by the natural terrain, unpredictable weather, and the iconic links-style layouts that define many of Ireland's most famous courses.

As we embarked on our golfing journey, we were eager to explore some of the legendary courses that have attracted players from around the globe. My husband and son spent an afternoon gulfing at the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club while I wandered the village of Killarney andenjoyed afternoon tea. It was a perfect day!

Killarney Golf and Fishing Club

Killarney National Park

If you would like to experience your own Irish adventure, please contact me and we can design a magical trip just for you!