Remembering Ireland (Part 2)

One of the most famous castles and a definite must visit in Ireland is Blarney Castle.  The current structure was built over 550 years ago by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster.  The keep still stands and visitors come from around the world to "Kiss the Blarney Stone" as it is said that by doing so, you will gain the gift of "blarney" or eloquence. 

The grounds are large and very beautiful.  Nearby is the Blarney Woolen Mills which offers wonderful shopping opportunities.  You can easily walk around the area which I really enjoyed because you can truly get a feel for everything that way.  I loved hearing all the languages and of course that awesome Irish accent.  People were friendly and very polite which is great when you have a group of tourists attempting to drive on the other side of the road (scary!).  We were lucky to have someone who had spent some time there as an exchange student because those roundabouts can be a bit confusing sometimes!

Along with so much history, we were introduced to great cider, hot Irish tea (which I am still addicted to) and the hot toddy (made of course with Irish whiskey).  Really, how much better can it get?