KenmareOur trip from Kinsale to Dingle was filled with beautiful scenery compliments of Killarney National Park. On the way, we stopped at Kenmare for lunch. Dara recommended we visit Jam for their takeaway sandwiches. I must say, they were delicious. While in town, we checked out a music shop and the Kenmare Stone Circle, the largest stone circle in the south-west of Ireland.
Sheep Dogs in ActionWe stopped at a local sheep farm to see their amazing sheep dog (and trainer) in action. The occasional drizzle didn't dampen anyone's excitement as we watched the sheep dog follow the instructions of its trainer. The dog skillfully gathered up the sheep from the pasture and returned them to their pen. The demonstration followed with a lesson in sheep shearing and a visit to the gift shop.
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Muckross House
After our sheep dog adventure, we stopped at the Muckross House where we ate our takeaway lunch from Kenmare. Located at the edge of the national park, the Muckross House is surrounded by beauty. We couldn't think of a better place for a picnic. We hiked around the lake and explored the gardens before heading back out on the road.
Dingle
Today, we reached our much anticipated arrival in Dingle, the home town of our guide and a place famous for its local music and beauty. Dara was excited to show off his home town, and we were anxious to have him do it! Our first stop was their family music shop where Dara's dad gave us a lesson in Gaelic, complete with a quiz. Of course, Dara had prepped us on the bus, so his dad would have success teaching us. We all thought that was sweet (and typical of the thoughtful Dara). Dara's dad played us a waltz while a couple tour members danced. It was great fun!
After checking into our rooms, we had a group supper. It was fantastic as usual. Then we took the coach to town to Dara's favorite pub where his friends were playing. It was small in size but large in spirit and fun! Again, the bar owner joined in singing with the band, as did a 92 year old man who visits this pub every day to maintain social connections. The highlight of the night was when the musicians' son arrived and did a special river dance just for our group, and he did it on the bar top! Pam had to scoot up close for a better view of this performance. Seeing a live riverdance was something she had been looking forward to for a long time.
After checking into our rooms, we had a group supper. It was fantastic as usual. Then we took the coach to town to Dara's favorite pub where his friends were playing. It was small in size but large in spirit and fun! Again, the bar owner joined in singing with the band, as did a 92 year old man who visits this pub every day to maintain social connections. The highlight of the night was when the musicians' son arrived and did a special river dance just for our group, and he did it on the bar top! Pam had to scoot up close for a better view of this performance. Seeing a live riverdance was something she had been looking forward to for a long time.
People and Culture
Sheep Dog TrainerThe son of this farmer trained their sheep dog to work with the sheep herd. The dog and trainer were both amazing!
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Dara's DadWith a little coaching, we successfully passed Dara's dad's Gaelic lesson. It was a great introduction to town.
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River Dancer!The son of these musicians is a national champion river dancer, and he gave us a special performance . . . on the bar top!
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Places and Sights
Kenmare Stone CirclesDuring our stop in Kenmare, we visited the Kenmare Stone Circle, the largest stone circle in southwest Ireland.
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Muckross HouseThe majestic Muckross House sits on the edge of a national park and endless miles of natural beauty.
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Dingle Music ShopAt the Dingle Music Shop, we were greeted by Dara's dad and had our first taste of the robust local music scene.
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Music and the Arts
Music and DancingWhile at the music shop, Dara's dad played some music for us while a couple of tour group members danced. It was great fun!
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Local MusiciansWe stopped off at one of Dara's favorite local pubs and took in an intimate show with a couple of talented, local musicians.
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River DancingAh yes, and our champion river dancer was so gracious that he even posed for a photo with our youngest tour member. Memories!
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