We’ve had remarkable weather this first week, mostly sunny days with a few clouds and the temps are in the mid 60s. Ideal for these two Portland girls. But today we’ve finally got our first “spitting” rains. I was wondering if we’d get to use our rain gear – finally!
Our last full day in Dingle, we opt to drive the Slea Head Loop. Don’t let WAZE fool you into driving this loop counterclockwise! That is reserved for the locals only. Everyone else must drive clockwise. The roads are fine, albeit much more narrow than the Ring of Kerry, and I’ve definitely got the hang of driving here now.
After a day resting from driving I’m eager to reclaim the road, channeling my dad’s love of a scenic road trip. Maybe we have some Irish luck, since the rain stops for our drive.
The Slea Head Loop is not nearly as long as the Ring of Kerry (we drove it in about 2.5 hours including stops). These roads are narrower and many places have pullouts that must be used in order to get past one of the locals going the opposite (counterclockwise) direction. We use the turnouts many times just to take in the incredible views and the occasional silly looking sign.
Later we come across a “fairy ring fort” with goats & sheep we could feed with kibble. Melanie was able to bottle feed a lamb triplet, and I’ll do just about anything to avoid touching farm animals. We both eschewed the rather frisky llamas. No, neither of us wanted photos of that action! Back on the road we stopped to walk through an ancient beehive hut. Its hard to imagine the difficult life of the ancient Irish tribes who lived in these.
We make it back to Dingle and have a walkabout. The rains are definitely here and more on the way. Next up, I drive across the treacherous Conor Pass. Did I mention there’s a hurricane on the way?
Very envious. The descriptions and photos are marvelous. Thanks for letting me join you on this journey. How’s the food?
I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying the reports from the field. The food is better than I’d expected. The best beef stew was in Kinsale, but pretty good in a few places. We had fish & chips, salads, and even Italian food along the way.
What an adventure you two lasses are having! Thanks for sharing the scenery and stories. I wonder if the lamb’s markings end up in a ball of yarn (must be non-permanent).
It’s been a grand adventure, for certain. Ireland is a beautiful country, so green and lush. The Irish folk are both lively and friendly, making our visit feel like a coming home.
And yes, the paint markings are removed in washings prior to processing the fleece. There are several reasons for the paint markings, such as tracking medical treatments or matings. So many sheep! 🐑
You two lasses are having quite an adventure! Thanks for sharing the beautiful scenery and narrative. Glad you’ve got the driving down – it would be intimidating for me. Hope those red markings in that lamb don’t show up in somebody’s ball of yarn!
Sorry for the repeat. I thought my first post didn’t go through.
So glad your weather is pleasant— and the gorgeous place is connecting it’s magic through you to us!
Just a couple storm days, which the locals refer to as “spitting rain” and we are enjoying the magic here. Soon heading home to the magical northwest. ❤️
You travelers may already be en route to PNW carrying memories you will share with each other for a long time. Some little trigger memory will start you both laughing and no one else will know – kinda fun! You really had an amazing experience with the driving, the storm and the castle. The Irish folks above all. A rugged, green and peaceful place.
Thanks for taking us along.