Blarney Castle & Rock

Bad start to the trip as it was drizzling. Very few people in the castle grounds. The grounds were nice though. Quiet, spacious with a stream running through. The castle was like all Irish castles, squarish and block-like, unlike Scottish or English castles. That was quite special. The climb inside the castle itself was quite interesting. Small rooms and passages. Its a wonder how people could stay in them. We saw the murder hole, a small hole in the ceiling of the entrance of the castle for the inhabitants to pour hot oil and rain arrows on their enemy intruders. At the top of the castle was the Blarney stone. It was quite scary having to go upside down and half a body length out of the castle. The whole kissing of the stone was a very quick experience, nothing too special.

Later we explored the castle grounds. The poison garden would have been interesting if it was not winter and most of the plants were dead.

The walk to Blarney house was peaceful. Blarney house looked much more regal and stately than the castle but it wasnt open in winter.

Explored the Rock Close. Thought it was quite enigmatic with the mysticism it tried to emulate. Guessed the atmosphere was more intense because of the grey sky and the fact that we were alone. Nice walk though.

Lastly, the toilets were surprisingly clean and well-maintained for an outdoor one. Kudos to that!

This review is the subjective opinion of a TravelPod member and not of TravelPod.com.