We landed in Belfast and of course had to stop at SPACENK to get or Hampton Sun products for the week! Driving on the other side of the road takes some getting use to but with all the driving we did, We cannot wait to get back to NYC and use the subway! But we do have to admit there are some breath taking views here!
After leaving Belfast we traveled down to Dublin, where we stayed at a beautiful hotel right by St. Stephans green. We walked through the which feels like Central Park, with is big lakes, amazing fountains and playgrounds for the kids. Also by the park is the National Museum of Ireland - Natural History Museum. The Natural History Museum was built in 1856 to house the Royal Dublin Society’s growing collections. Often described as a ‘museum of a museum’, with its ten thousand exhibits. Our favorite floor was the 4th floor, where the "Underwater Worlds" live- (obviously).
Next we took a two hour drive down to Dormoland Castle. "It is built entirely of dark blue limestone, and in fine chiseled workmanship; the ornamental grounds and woods extend over more than 1,500 acres of land.from some of the eminences there are views of the Shannon and Fergus, which, at this part of the country, resembles a large inland lake with island, making Dromoland one of the most beautiful and desirable residences in Ireland." - Burke's "Visitation of Seats", 1855. The Castle has every modern luxury you can think of now, beautiful golf course, relaxing spa and amazing manicured grounds and has been recognized this year on Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List.
One night we enjoyed dinner at The Cloisters, a place for sophisticated dining in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. There is still a historical experience to the small town and location, but tied together with a modern menu and additional elements. Everything was delicious and beautifully presented. It was such a fun night! We never wanted it to end.
The Cliffs of Moher was by far the icing on the cake. It takes about 2 hours to walk each way and it is totally worth it. The highest point is 702 ft about ocean level and just north of O'Brien's Tower. Its crazy to think that The Cliffs of Moher are made up of layer upon layer of hardened sand, silt and mud which rests upon limestone rocks and were created of 300 million years ago from erosion and weathering.
If you haven't been to Ireland, we highly recommend it. We promise that once you visit you're not going to want to leave! From the history, culture and overall landscape of this country, it surpasses all the beauty that you would believe it to have. May good luck be your friend in whatever you do, and may trouble be always a stranger to you. -Irish Blessing
Slán go fóill (Goodbye for now),
Hampton Sun xo