Day 11: Killarney, Ireland
Sunday, September 4, 2022

Today was devoted to the natural beauty of the Iveragh Peninsula, known as the Ring of Kerry. On a drive 'round the Ring, we saw scenes of sandy beaches, mountains, lakes and cliffs, old oak forests and bogs. The country's highest peak, Corrán Tuathail, (3,400 feet) reigns over Killarney National Park at the peninsula's heart. Along the way, history there were ruins of ancient monasteries, castles, forts, and small villages like seaside Waterville, where quiet and warmth are a way of life that brings the scenery's dramatic scale down to earth.

As part of Tauck’s tours, they always add special surprises along the way journey. Today we had three special surprises.

  1. We stopped a working sheep farm and received an excellent demonstration of working sheep dogs.  They were spectacular on their response to commands and abilities.  We also received a review of the different types of sheep in Ireland.  The one breed that caught my attention was the “Black Sheep”.  According to the shepherd the Black Sheep is the only indigenous sheep species in Ireland.  It is worthless for its meat and worthless for its wool. 

  2. Our next stop was at vista to get our and stretch our legs.  Then all of a sudden, our bus driver, Gerry, offered us a shot of Kylemore Abbey Country Cream.  A very tasty refreshment!!!

  3. About an hour before we got back to the Aghadoe Heights Hotel, we stopped at a beautiful view of a valley.  Queen Victoria visited here many years ago, hence the name.

Back to the hotel for dinner in their Lake Room Restaurant. The weather outside was very windy and little rainy.  The flags flew straight in the wind.  The hotel has a flag of Ireland, the United States (for the tourist) and the provincial flag.


Ring of Kerry


Limestone Fields


Limestone Fields


Limestone Fields


Weird Limestone Rock Configurations


Queens View


Limestone Fields

Sheep Dogs


Across the street from the Sheep Dog Exhibit


Across the street from the Sheep Dog Exhibit


Sheep Farms


Sheep Farms


Different Sheep Breeds


Different Sheep Breeds


Different Sheep Breeds


Different Sheep Breeds


Sheep Dogs Working


Sheep Dogs Working


Sheep Dogs Working


Sheep Dogs Working


A very attentive Sheep Dog

The Lake Room at the Aghadoe Heights Hotel


Windy Day


Beautiful Skies


Stormy Day


Lobster Bisque


Beef Dinner


Stuffed Chicken Dinner


Spectacular Deserts


Spectacular Deserts

 

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