Ireland, Day 5, 6, 7

Day 5: We headed off on a beautiful drive through Killarney National Forest. There was some incredible scenery.Wecontinued ourdrive along theRing of Kerry. Each corner brought a view more breathtaking than the last. We stoppedat some ring forts (large circular rock walls that the kids never tired of climbing.And, at St. Finan's Bay, we pulled over to a beach with a cool castle. The kidsloved exploring the rocks and wading in the water (even though it was FREEZING!).

We paid too many euros to stop at the "Best View in Kerry County."It was pretty amazing with fabulous views of the Skellig Islands. We also stopped at the Skellig chocolate factory,which hadhomemade and very yummy truffles.

We drove on to Dingle and stayed at Castlewood House, one of the most beautiful Bed andBreakfasts we had the pleasure tovisit.

Day 6: We explored the Dingle Peninsula, stopping for ice cream at Murphy's--a definite don't miss. The kids took a photo with Fungie, Dingle's hometown dolphin. After leaving Dingle, wedrove on. We took the Ferry over to County Clare, and drove up to the Cliffs ofMoher--Amazing.

We stopped at the Burren to see the unique rocky landscape and cool passage tomb on our way to our hotel in Galway.

Day 7: We drove from Galway to Dublin, stopping at Clonmacnoise. I loved the Celtic crosses and Kent enjoyed playing King for a bit. It was our last day in this beautiful country. We were sad to leave, but grateful that we could go home. This was the time of the ash cloud over Europe, and people were stranded everywhere! Because had already scheduled our Ferry, we were free and clear. Surprisingly, the weather in Ireland was sunny and beautiful all week--they said they had never had such a lovely week.