Day 13: Limerick to Killarney 

We had an orientation tour of Limerick and the Castle of St. John. 

Limerick was known as the City of Seiges and was the last stronghold in the most bloody battle fought in Ireland – The Battle of Aughrim. 

The Battle of Aughrim was the decisive battle of the Williamite War in Ireland. It was fought between the Jacobites and the forces of William III on 12 July 1691 near the village of Aughrim, County Galway.The battle was one of the more bloody recorded fought on Irish soil – over 7,000 people were killed. It meant the end of Jacobitism in Ireland, although the city of Limerick held out until the autumn of 1691. Read more here if you love battle history.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Aughrim

The Treaty of Limerick ended the Williamite War in Ireland between the Jacobites and the supporters of William of Orange and concluded the Siege of Limerick. The treaty really consisted of two treaties, both of which were signed on 3 October 1691. Reputedly they were signed on the Treaty Stone, an irregular block of limestone which once served as a mounting block for horses. This stone is now displayed on a pedestal in Limerick.

Street Art in Limerick 

Adare

Drive to Adare which is a lovely little village with thatched roof cottages. 

Castles everywhere in the countryside. 

Killarney Falconry

We wanted something different to do with Harry in Killarney instead of dragging him around to another Cathedral or castle and more shops. This activity was a winner hands down. He loved it and so did we! Geoffrey was so knowledgeable and patient and had a genuine love for his birds and their well being. He took us to a picturesque lane in the countryside where his bird, a Harris Hawk named Arizona could fly into the tree tops and come to our gloved hand when offered food. It never got old to see him come swooping down from the trees. Such majestic creatures in full flight. Geoffrey gave us plenty of opportunities for photos and knew how to get the best shots. To top it off he allowed us to meet his barn owl Mr D and his Great Grey Owl, Gandalf. The whole experience was wonderful and Harry kept thanking me for taking him.

“Anyone who has ever stopped to watch a hawk in flight will know that this is one of the natural world’s most elegant phenomena.”

Dinner was at Treyvauds and I had a great Irish stew. 

We passed on the optional extra outing but one of the tour group, Tia offered to take Harry as he was interested in the Celtic dancing. Josh and I popped him on the bus, waved goodbye. High fives each other and headed for a cocktail lounge!

By all accounts he had a great time and behaved for his sitter. He really admired the Irish dancing.

We enjoyed our alone time too.