Killarney

A little history: Killarney was founded in the 17th century and later destroyed by Cromwell (a pattern that will become evident as you follow our tour through Ireland). It was restored in the mid 18th century.

Gap of Dunloe: The Gap of Dunloe is a national park of scenic lakes and mountains. For over 200 years, visitors to Killarney have been taking 'The Gap Tour.'

Our Comments: Near Ross Castle, built during the 15th century, we boarded a 12-passenger motor-boat at 10:30 a.m. for the two-hour ride across the lake to the Gap. We knew the weather was predicted to be bad, but we had no idea just how bad it would turn out to be! While on the boat ride, gale-force winds kicked up and the temperature turned icy cold. I'm sure the scenery would have been spectacular if we could have seen it through all the nastiness. The only pleasant part of the boat ride was our "captain," an entertaining chap who tried to keep us distracted by telling stories and answering questions. By the time we arrived at our destination, we were soaked and chilled to the bone, but that was only the start of our day. Next we had to take horse-drawn "jaunting carts" back down the pass. It was four hours of rain, sleet and gale-force winds before we got back down. Needless to say, the little pub at the bottom was doing booming business in Irish coffee, hot toddies and other body-thawing libations.

Travel Log -- Weather: In Ireland, it rains -- all day, every day... well, almost. And if it isn't raining, it's foggy, so wear waterproof boots, coat, and a hat everywhere. That said, we got used to it and, trust us, it was worth it! Actually, this is a bit of an exaggeration, but you couldn't have convinced us on that particular day. ;-D

Killarney town square