When we planned out this series of blog posts a few weeks ago, we chose a “tour of Ireland”, merely keeping in line with a theme of St. Patrick’s Day. We had no idea that travel, or life, as we know it was to come to a complete halt.

It’s taken us a few days to grasp the reality of our current situation, and that our “daily routine” has been severely disrupted. We’re coming to grips with it little by little. Our first hope and prayer are for our family and yours to stay healthy. After that, we are simply trying to keep as much of a routine as possible. Also, it’s helpful to make sure we are staying positive. We hope these images of Ireland bring you happy thoughts and dreams about future times to come. So, let’s forge on with the virtual tour.

County Clare

In the last post, we focused on Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher. After seeing the Cliffs by boat and then spending a night in Doolin, Petunia and Tim were picked up by one of their (highly recommended) drivers, Peter Mooney. Earlier in their trip, Peter toured them around the Connemara Loop. His next assignment was to get them from Doolin to Dingle. He planned the drive so that they could visit some more sights in County Clare.

First, they headed for The Burren. The Burren is a 10 square mile limestone plateau full of prehistoric and early Christian sites. It also has a unique ecosystem. Mediterranean and Arctic wildflowers bloom next to each other. You can read more about this unique area here.

One of the most popular sites on the Burren is is Poulnabrone Dolmen, or the portal tomb.

After leaving the portal tomb, they made some other interesting stops. One such stop was in Lisdoonvarna, at the Lisdoonvarna Spa Wells. Now, this was not on Peter’s list of stops, and you’re not going to find it on a conventional tour of Ireland. But Petunia happens to be obsessed with mineral spring spas and was very curious about this place. Peter lives in Lisdoonvarna, so he was able to set up an impromptu tour with Pat Dowling, chairman of the Lisdoonvarna Historical Society.

Finally, some art!

The tour in Lisdoonvarna was very informative, and special because it was probably the most authentic, least “touristy” attraction visited during their ten days in Ireland.

Next Up….More County Clare.

A Note

Our hearts go out to all of the people that helped to make our various trips to Ireland special. We know that the current situation is making life difficult for people at home and abroad. We are looking forward to the day we can get back to Ireland and other beloved spaces!