Countryside Cleansing

When I think of Ireland, the first thing that pops into my mind is luscious, green countryside. You know, countryside with the rolling hills and bleating sheep on a farm with stone walls for fences. Before this trip, that is exactly what I expected Ireland to be like. Finally in the past two days I have been able to experience this vision of Ireland. It is mesmerizing!

Yesterday we took a train out to Greystones for a coastal walk. We did the roughly 7 km Cliff Walk north from Greystones to Bray. The scenery was just marvelous! It was everything I imagine when I picture Ireland in my mind and then some. The shoreline, the cliffs, the flora and fauna were beautiful. It was a grounding experience--one in which you must slow down and savor everything. Soaking every little thing in was just what I needed! While the hike was challenging, it was well worth it. It felt like a sort of cleansing experience. After a really hectic year at school, it was nice to get lost in nature for a few hours. I was waiting for that "wow" moment, and yesterday was surely it. Can you see now why they call it the Emerald Isle?

At the shore in Greystones

Greystones beach

Greystones beach

Cliff at Greystones

Pathway to the shoreline at Greystones

The Cliff Walk from Greystones to Bray

In addition to the Cliff Walk, today we took a bus tour to Malahide Castle and Howth Harbour. This was the first castle I have seen since arriving in Ireland. I was beyond excited to not only see a castle, but to also see more of Ireland's countryside. We took an hour bus ride to Malahide. Once there, we got a 45 minute tour of Malahide Castle, which is one of the oldest occupied castles in Ireland. The Talbot family lived and took care of Malahide Castle for over 800 years! The castle was neat, especially for the first castle I have ever seen. Although, I will say that it wasn't as exciting as other historical buildings I've seen, such as the Newport Rhode Island "summer cottages" or the Biltmore estate. I think my expectations were too high, but nevertheless, it was still a really enjoyable experience.

Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle

The coronation of the Virgin Mary

Windows from the Oak Room overlooking the grounds

Tea set in the women's bedroom

The Talbot's family crest. Forte et Fidele: "Brave and Loyal" symbolized by the lion and dog

The town's abbey just outside of the castle

From Malahide, our tour bus drove out to Howth Harbour. Howth is a famous port city in Ireland. It forms the northern boundary of Dublin Bay. The port village is quaint and exactly what a port city should be like. The marina is full of boats, there are lots of seafood restaurants to dine at, the piers stretch out in the ocean for visitors to explore, and seagulls wait to swoop in and steal food. We were given about an hour to explore the charming village, but I could have easily spent a day there exploring shops, piers, and hiking trails. Regardless, the fresh air and scenery was well-needed.

Sailboats in the harbour of Howth

Crabby Jo's restaurant in Howth