The Cliffs of Moher

Today we drove to the coast to see the Cliffs of Moher. This is perhaps the number one tourist destination in Ireland, so of course we couldn't miss it.  We enhanced our trip with a ferry boat trip to the Aran Island of Inis Oirr, just off the coast.  It was a great trip, and gave us the extra advantage of seeing the cliffs both from the sea and from land. They are truly spectacular.  The island was a fascinating place to visit. We took a horse drawn wagon ride around the island. Our guide Tom was so knowledgable and interesting. It's a bit like taking a step back in time. There are stone walls all over Ireland, but more there than maybe anywhere.  It was all about finding a way to survive long ago.

Just driving to the coast is like driving into a picture postcard!

Our ride, the Doolin Discovery (the boat on the left).

Our host Tom.

An example of the extensive wall system on the island, plus a few very mellow cows enjoying their walled piece of the island.

Just a side note - Put me in France, Spain, or even Italy, and I can at least read the signs.  Here when you see something in Gaelic it makes absolutely no sense to me, and if you hear someone speaking it, the words don't sound anything like they look!  I admire anyone who can learn this language!!

The beautiful Cliffs of Moher, from the boat and from the shore, looking down from above.  They are spectacular from any direction.

Our trip back to the room was a little slower. In Ireland, you shouldn't be in a hurry to get anywhere. You never know what or who you might meet along the way.  (Check out the one on the left having a little snack.)

Speaking of cows, these guys were happy to welcome us home! Jim called to them and they came right over. Guess he speaks fluent cow.

All in all a pretty great day!  We've been really lucky to have such beautiful weather.