Driving through the Irish Countryside

We have seen much of Ireland so far through the large windows of our comfortable bus. Here are some highlights:

This is a well preserved portal tomb, one of many that lie amongst the rocky landscape.


Since "fairy trees" can be oak or ash as well as hawthorne, this lonely tree could be one. The cow probably knows but isn't telling. My guess is that the source of his rapt attention is a fairy's tale of pilgrims from faraway lands who love to point cameras in every direction in the hopes of capturing a fairy on film, a futile enterprise. I'll keep trying anyway.



The village of Adare has it all --- a beautiful church, thatched cottages, gardens, a city park and lots of little shops. Our group is generously supporting the Irish economy.






This is one of many rather elaborate roadside shrines. Our Lady of Lourdes, is a favorite of the Irish, it seems.


A quick stop in Macroom (in Gaelic, Maigh Chromtha which means "crooked plain") where we bought some apples at a small outdoor market. All of the road signs in Ireland display names in both English and Gaelic. Interesting fact about this town for Americans is that it's the birthplace of Admiral Sir William Penn, father of William Penn after whom Pennsylvania is named. [Grandchildren who are reading this, take note. There might be a quiz later, with prizes of course.]


Here is the location of our third stay, second retreat center --- Myross Wood near the tiny village of Leap (pronounced "lep") in West County Cork. It looks like a country estate which it probably was at one time. Many rooms were added to the back, and it became a place for retreats. There is a tidal lake nearby, woods and a well-tended, lovely garden.



Our favorite days are those that start with one of Fr. Michael's beautiful Masses. A glimpse of the garden can be seen through the windows.



Hydrangeas grow well in Ireland and are everywhere.


We walked through the woods to see Leap across the lake. Idyllic, a painting in real time.


We left Myross Wood on a glorious morning and had driven only fifteen minutes when Martin stopped the bus in Gland0re and gruffly ordered us to "Get off the bus!" (This is his signature signal for getting us to move. We're going to miss hearing it.) We stayed longer than we should have - you can see why - to eat scones, drink tea, drink in the view and check our email. Wonder of wonders, the cafe had free wi-fi.


We'll pause here and let you enjoy the view. More to come!

Location:Southern Ireland