Fresh off my Iceland camping trip, my brother and I have embarked on a heritage journey that will take us through Ireland, Norway, and Scotland, with a brief stop in London. Our adventure began in Dublin, where we met up with our dad and took the train to Cork, the heart of our Irish roots. A highlight of our trip is visiting the Blarney Stone, which has long been on my bucket list.
Our first day in Ireland was dedicated to settling in and preparing for a final interview for a job relocation from Minnesota, so no sightseeing was on the agenda. The next day, we explored Cork, staying at the River Lee Hotel, conveniently close to the historic old town. Cork’s Historic Old Town is a delightful maze of narrow streets lined with centuries-old architecture and cultural landmarks.
With limited time in Cork, we focused on key sites, including Elizabeth Fort. Built in the 17th century, the fort offers panoramic views of Cork and a stunning perspective of the Gothic Revival St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. To visit Blarney Castle, we took Bus Eireann’s 215 route, which covers approximately 8 kilometers and takes about 30 to 40 minutes, with a fare between €5 and €7.
I was pleasantly surprised by the low impact of COVID-19 on tourism, year two through the pandemic. Resulting in a short line to kiss the Blarney Stone—only four people ahead of me. The experience was incredible, and I couldn’t resist purchasing a €10 photo of the moment.
The Blarney Stone, perched about 85 feet above the ground, is steeped in legend, believed to bestow eloquence upon those who kiss it. The tradition dates back to the 18th century and remains a beloved part of Irish culture. Leaning backward from the castle’s battlements to reach the stone, I was struck by how high up it was, making the experience both exhilarating and memorable.
Next stop: Limerick! Cheers!