Slea Head Drive
Pascal, our gracious driver made even the challenging Slea Head Drive look easy. One of the low-landers, from Iowa, I think, said “Holy C___p !” when we rounded a corner and peered down at the frothy, churning Atlantic hopeful that we did not encounter a car coming from the opposite direction. The most western point of Ireland, the scenic and dramatic views of the ocean are unequaled.
Wooden skiff used to commute from the Blaskets
Pascal brought us to the Blasket Island Center safely and we enjoyed the history, artifacts, and exposure to Irish literary genius. Inhabited until the early 1950s, the sad story of the old folks left behind by youngsters looking for a future in the large cities of the mainland left us wondering about their fate. We learned of the remarkable number of gifted writers who had lived on the island and passed down ancient tales and stories, and found a new understanding of the emotional catharsis of great storytelling.
Our tour was blessed with special experts for all the major locations. Professional, with great personalities, all of our guides were incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their time. The trip around the Dingle peninsula required stops at Gallarus Oratory, an early Christian church exhibiting cut local rock without mortar. A stop at the ancient church of Kilmalkedar, the contract rock, and sundial rock increased our respect for the ancient ones who inhabited this glorious island. This area was so peaceful and untouched by commercialism. Scattered houses on the countryside told us how few people have actually discovered this windblown lifestyle.
Kilmalkedar Church
Expert local guide Tim Collins at contract rock
Sun dial marker
Fuchsia - an introduced species
Gallarus Oratory from about the 7th century
