Ross Castle & Killarney

22 September 2011

 When we arrived at Ross Castle, it was late in the afternoon and pouring down rain.  


We were suppose to take a boat ride upon one of the three Killarney lakes but chose the dryness and warmth of the bus instead.

The site of the castle overlooks a string of three lakes.  


The heavy storm clouds hide the mountains in the background.


The lands surrounding the castle make up a park and preserve.

We spent the night at a hotel in Killarney and the following afternoon, after driving the Ring of Kerry, were treated to a Jitney ride through the park.

This picture was taken from a different, slightly higher angle.

The Castle is much prettier when it is not raining.

 This view of the castle was taken from the a different point in the park.  


It shows the beauty of the lake.

Because of the weather, the church in the background almost does not look real, but it is.

Our driver took this picture and the next.  My daughter is in the green shirt and I am standing up beside her. 


The cottage in the background is a tea shop.

The roof is thatched. 

 Our guide said that a true thatched roof will last 100 years.


The scallops along the thatched roof are purely decorative not functional.


From this view, the tables outside of the tea shop are also visible.

 I do not have a close-up lens so the animals in the field are not that clear.  


Our driver said that they are red hinds (according to Webster's that is a female red deer).  


However, I think at least one of them had antlers so that would make him a hart.

This was another field of deer in the park. 


They are a protected species, so they roam free and do not fear humans.

 Another view of one of the Killarney lakes

The last glimpse of Ross Castle before leaving the park and returning to Killarney.