What an Experience!

What a wonderful day we had on Sunday!


We started off with a nice breakfast, then made our way through the Ring of Kerry, which was absolutely beautiful. It was a 100-mile scenic route! During this tour, we crossed a bridge to Valencia Island to visit the Skellig Experience. The history behind this is astonishing. I learned a lot about the Skellig Experience on this island. It was a way of life for early Christian monks, who built their monastery on one of these offshore islands so they could be closer to God. If I remember correctly, they built more than 1,000 steps to the top!

Not too many boats go over to the island due to the rough seas, so I didn't have the chance to see the actual island where they lived. Maybe next time! So many different birds nestle in the Skelligs as well... It gives me something to look forward to on a future Alumni Travel Program trip. 

The Vista Bar & Seafood Restaurant, where we ate lunch.

After the Experience, Connor, our tour guide, took us to a special place for lunch - the Vista Bar & Seafood Restaurant, which has some of the best views of Ireland. After lunch, we headed back to Killarney and stopped at this adorable village called Sneem, passing more spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. We were able to stop and take pictures from a spot called the "Ladies View."

Ireland's best known view, according to the Vista

We arrived back at the hotel around 5 p.m., with just enough time to freshen up for dinner. 


Today, Monday, September 20, has been beautiful thus far - a gorgeous 65 degrees!

Monday began with a horse jaunting car.

It was the first day we had some free time, too. The day started with an old-fashioned horse jaunting car, which took us through Killarney National Park and on to our tour of Muckross House. This manor is from the 19th century and sits beside the tranquil Muckross Lakes. We all enjoyed seeing the beautiful furnishings in the manor and the well-kept gardens. Ireland now owns and maintains this wonderful piece of history.

The gardens at Muckross House.

Well, we are off to tonight's dinner soon! It's 5:30 p.m. as I write this, and I am already looking forward to tomorrow's early start to Blarney Castle and on to Dublin. I can't wait to kiss the famous "Stone of Eloquence" - and when I do, that means you'll be hearing even more from me!