The Best Thing about Blarney Castle

I always knew that if we ever made it to Ireland, the number one thing on my list of things to do would be to kiss the Blarney Stone. Well, we made it to Ireland and here we are at Blarney Castle about to kiss the Blarney Stone.

You know how sometimes one dreams about an event for so long, raising expectations each time you dream…and then you arrive and are disappointed. Well, that did not happen this time.

Please join us on our visit to the castle and discover what I think is the best thing about Blarney Castle.

Our first glimpse of the castle was early in the morning so the slight mist of the morning gave the long distance view a whimsical one. Special, but not the best thing about Blarney Castle.

Walking the grounds towards the castle was worthy of a visit even if the castle was not there. I would hazard a guess that almost every shade of green was represented in the color palate offered by the vegetation here. I love calla lilies  had never seen them growing in a setting like this. I am in awe…but the best is yet to come

And the colors…these gardens were created by someone with the eye of an artist.

Look. There is the castle, right in front of us.

The Blarney Stone is at the top of this castle, and the castle looks mighty tall. So that means lots of steps! Oh, dear. Maybe this was not a good idea.

 

Well, there are a few blessings about this climb up to the top. Calories are being burned…that’s a good thing! While the stair well is steep and narrow, it is one way traffic. There are sturdy metal railings that help one keep your balance and let you pull yourself upward. (I exaggerate a bit but the railings were a blessing!)

The climb is very slow (so I can catch my breath while waiting) because of the number of people even this early in the morning. But that is a good thing as the waiting time allows you to visit with fellow travelers…and to let your imagination think about who has walked these stairs over the centuries.

Good thing I am not claustrophobic. This stairwell is narrow!

The signs along the way are fun as well as educational.

Ah, here we are at the top. Now I understand what was taking so long.

Continue on to Part 2 Kissing the Blarney Stone by clicking this link. In my opinion this is Ireland’s best know tourist attractions.

In part 2 also find out my thoughts about the best thing about Blarney Castle. It may not be what you expected!