Monday, 7th. Left Galway to head down to Cork, Ireland's second largest city. Primary reason for going to Cork is to visit Blarney Castle.
However, Cork itself has proved to be a destination in its own right. A
very vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a large student component.

Our first night was spent at a B&B, the Blarney Stone Guesthouse.
We only stayed one night (check out the photos on the website). That's
not to say it was a bad place to stay. The owner was very friendly and
helpful, and the breakfast she provided was one of the best we have had
anywhere. But the decor was a bit over the top - felt like we were in a
Barbara Cartland novel. So we decided to look elsewhere after our first
night.

Have to mention at this stage that we have
been absolutely blessed with some great weather while in Ireland. Sunny
days and balmy temperatures, makes sightseeing a real pleasure. That
being said, the day we went to visit Blarney Castle - overcast and
foggy, with a bit of rain. Still we're not ones for allowing a bit of
**** weather from stopping us doing things. So, on to Blarney Castle.
The fog and mist only served to heighten the sense of grandeur and
history of the castle. The castle itself is quite impressive, as are the
grounds it is set in.

The top of the castle (and the Blarney Stone)
is accessed by way of a steep narrow stone staircase. Both of us were
huffing and puffing by the time we reached the top. The effort was worth
it though. The views from the top mere spectacular, even though most of
the surrounding countryside was shrouded in mist.

Tomorrow we head back to Dublin for two nights before we head back to Paris. The end of our journey is nigh.