July 7 - Gardens & Manor Houses

(Gene) Today we left Dublin. We headed south-west with our destination being Kilkenny. But first, we made a side trip to Powerscourt. Some say this is the finest and largest remaining formal Victorian era gardens in Ireland.

We took a casual walk around the estate. John mentioned that he saw no irrigation system maintaining the beauty of the estate grounds. Wait. What's that falling from the sky? I think it's the irrigation system! On that note, it has rained every day that we have been in Ireland. It is to be expected. How else can it stay so green here. Being on an island does have advantages as the rains blow out as fast as they come in.

This night we are in Kilkenny. From the little I have seen, it would be nice to spend more than 18 hours or so here. Our lodging choice this evening is splendid. It is a small yet modern, comfortable room. Lot's of water pressure and a very large bathroom. We will start our morning tommorow with a visit to the Killkenny Castle (which is directly behind our hotel). Then we are off to the Rock of Cashel rising high over the Plain of Tipperary. Finally, we end our day in the port city of Kinsale. I am hopeful to find a small intimate restaurant to try the local catch of the day.