The Joiners go Ireland: Day 15

Day 15 saw us touring the countryside near our Hotel on our way down to Killaloe.

We continued on the trek cousin Trevor plotted out for us but on the other side. There was even more beautiful scenery to see now that the weather was cooperating. I will never tire of the scenery in this country.

After following the southern route of the pass, we carried on to another castle that unfortunately we could not get near as it was on private property. Further down the trail we passed peat bogs that were being harvested by hand for the winter heat.

After a few wrong turns yesterday, we found the castle that Liam was interested in today. Aughnanure Castle was our next stop well off the motorway on the narrow roads we all love to travel. The castle was a keep which the Irish Chieftan's used for hundreds of years. A tower was the highlight which has been restored to almost original condition. Much to Owen’s delight we were able to climb the tower on an original stone spiral staircase.

Owen visited with the local stray dawgs, while Claire took a picture of the Yew tree on the property. The trees were used for everything from bows, axe handles, and anything that required flexible and strong wood. The tree on the castle grounds was over 800 years old.

Onward to Killaloe we travelled arriving at our home away from home for several days. We settled in and had another take out meal before sharing a wonderful evening with wine and conversation with Trevor and Barbara as our guest for the evening.

After a late night planning session, we called it a day and looked forward to Trevor being our guide in the town of Killaloe. Cheers till next time.