Ireland

It’s often the “little” things that make a trip memorable, such as a fantastic smile and “Welcome to Ireland,” from the passport control officer. First impressions last and indeed, it was the amazing people, the scenery (and of course the odd guinness or two) that made our travels to south west Ireland an absolute treat.

Limerick

Our first day in Limerick was spent shivering our preverbials off, having not had to wear so much as a jumper for nearly 5 months. Steeped in history, Limerick sits either side of the River Shannon; King John’s castle looking across at the Treaty Stone. Guinness signs shout out at the many passers by. Our first walk was simply an introduction to Ireland before a little road trip south and a return in a few weeks with family.

The Milk Market, hosted over the weekend is a foodies delight. All the local artisans, from Holy Bagels to duck baps, cheeses, fresh fish to farmer's produce, this is well worth the visit to stock up on local produce. There is also a fantastic array of antiques and gifts to buy.

Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet is just fantastic. Of course, it's nothing to do with the mead, the continual pouring of their very own wine and the beautifully time capsuled bar! A harpist serenades everyone as they enter the main meeting room, after spiralling up the stone stairs. Musicians and period costume acts, entertain you throughout the whole experience - the banquet itself- great food and opportunities to be locked in the dungeons or play king and queen. What an amazing night to be able to spend with family and friends.

And what more, after all the culture, a night out at the famous Dolan's pub, to watch an Oasis tribute band....or if that's not your scene, a traditional folk band.

Adare

About an hours drive south of Limerick is Adare. Popular for weddings, this incredibly picturesque village, with its thatched roofs, gentle river walk and castle, made this a lovely stop on our way to Tralee.

Tralee

We used Tralee as a base to look around a little and to stay before running the Half on the Head (half marathon). We did not do it justice in the time we had but we did manage a quick celebratory drink after the run- and had a great sing song with some nuns!

Killarney

Continuing south from Tralee, we arrived in Killarney where we had coffee at Killarney golf club- home of the Irish Open- and what a beautiful setting. Surrounded by the National Park and with Lough Leane hugging the fairways, it is an incredibly stunning setting.

Ballyheigue

Home of Ireland's scenic Half on the Head, it lived up to it's reputation of one of the most beautiful half marathons in Ireland.
Waiting on the start line, we all watched as an ice cold rain cloud crept closer until dumping on us right at the start of the run. Being the caring weather system it was, it stayed with us for the first half of the run.

They breed them tough here. Swimming in their Speedos at this time of year!

Ballyheigue - Ballybunion - Limerick

We travelled north, around the coastal road back to Limerick from Ballyheigue. Castles look out to sea along the coastline. When you stop you can appreciate the power of the waves; carving stacks, arches and caves relentlessly.....

...and see the odd cow too!

Lough Derg and Killaloe

Boating onto Lough Derg was such a lovely, relaxing time, enjoying the scenery and hour north of Limerick.

Inisheer Island

Wow- just wow! This is a must - and if you manage to bring the sunshine with you, then you will be loved by everyone. You would be hard pressed to find anywhere with such clear water. Crystal clear. Stone walls spider web small sections of land across the island. Horses pull tourists around on carts, past the castle, next to the ship wreck and the lake. just imagining what Inisheer would be like in the depths of winter brings shivers. But a dip in the Atlantic freshened us up for our return.

Cliffs Of Moher

Our ferry took a detour back from Inisheer to The Cliffs of Moher. Magnificently proud, it stands tall and proud. It's hard to fully appreciate the sheer scale of the cliffs unless you are at the bottom. Now a bird reserve, and teeming with feathered friends, they were totally unbothered by our presence.

Galway

Busker capital. If you enjoy the energy of street performers, this is an area you would love. The buzz was incredible, with each step fusing from one performer to the next. And being from Aotearoa NZ, we loved the cafe "Kai" (food). Absolutely epic!

Connacht Rugby team taking an ice bath in the sea after the first training session

Dublin

Of course, a quick trip to Dublin was something we had to do. As with everywhere we visited full of stories past and present.