Dublin to Kilkenny. The road less travelled.

Rather than taking the freeway from Dublin to Kilkenny, we chose the scenic route and went via Bray (probably lovely in summer with it's beachside promenade, not so inviting with 5 degrees and windy, overcast skies) then onwards through the winding roads of the stunning Wicklow Mountains.

We stopped for lunch in the sunshine beside the stream at Glendalough, which means "Valley of the Two Lakes" in Irish,  that is situated in a glacial valley in County Wicklow and is renowned for its  Early Medieval monastic settlement, founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin. How amazing to walk along the path by the river and see the old stone buildings across the valley. 

When we ventured across to investigate, we found the old cemetery of ancient graves surrounding the ruins of the church, and the round tower, over 30 metres tall, which was built in the 11th century and served as bell tower and refuge during attacks. To me it looked just like Rapunzel's tower. The door was at least 12 feet above the ground, and the only windows were right at the top.

It's the unexpected things that make travel so interesting.
































Comments

  1. Emmy & PaulFebruary 28, 2025 at 5:20 AM

    I love those less travelled roads! Looks like a lovely trip :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Europe Trip 2025February 28, 2025 at 9:30 PM

    It's wonderful. So happy to be here! Xx

    ReplyDelete

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