Co Kerry, Ireland; a leisurely drive.
Once I heard the word “heatwave” describing Ireland’s weekend’s forecast, I knew we had to pack the car and get out and about exploring. We decided to travel south and tour the Ring of Kerry as I really wanted to visit Skellig Michael (where some of current Star Wars movie is filmed) and get some good shots. Unfortunately due to falling rocks and some structural damage, it wasn’t yet open for the season so we could only view it from the shore. We enjoyed the scenic drive around Co Kerry and had some awesome views but it was the drive through the Kerry/Cork mountains that really wowed me.
The Caha Pass covers a 23km route (on the N71) which connects Kenmare Co Kerry to Glengariff Co Cork, a route through the mountains literally. The tunnels were constructed through the mountains in 1842 to allow easier access for travel. The views of the majestic Caha and Shehy mountains are spectacular. There are numerous streams and rivers enriching the valley and there are many hidden treasures like the flora and the fauna. Words do not do justice to the scenic wonders that abound. The mountain road is challenging and there aren’t that many places to park. But when you do find some spots, you will not be disappointed.
There are plenty of things to check out along the route through Co Kerry. Benoit Lorge, the award winning French Chocolatier has his premises in Bonane Village where you can stop and taste his amazing creations. He takes inspiration from the beautiful scenic countryside to create figurines and seasonal specialities as well as many other mouth-watering treats. There is also Molly Gallivans, a 200 year old cottage and working family farm where you can get a glimpse of what life in rural Ireland was like in days gone by. A traditional Irish meal or some home baking can also be enjoyed. Bonane Heritage Park with its 5000 year old archaeological sites such as ring forts, stone circles and standing stones is also open for visitors.
A last noteworthy attraction further on towards Cork is the Toy Soldier factory, the only one of its kind in Ireland and the biggest in Europe. Just off the N22, not far from Macroom Village, it is worth a visit for both the child or the grown-up child! You can walk through the factory or watch while a tin soldier is made before your eyes. There is an incredible exhibit of the famous Battle of Waterloo, meticulously crafted and made up of 15000 characters. The display is 26 x 13 ft and took 8 years to build. There is a gift shop which sells moulds for all kinds of figurines and many unique gifts like hand painted Christmas ornaments and Irish pewter souvenirs. Well worth a visit!
While a heatwave was promised, it sadly didn’t happen. As we travelled south so too did the rain! Some of my shots are hazy as a result but still capture the beauty around. Just imagine what it would look like on a clear sunny day standing there and experiencing it in person.. So let us at acrossirelandtours.ie plan your perfect holiday in Ireland. You can see all our wonderful photos on our Facebook Page!
