Yesterday morning we entered another country – the Republic of Ireland – though you’re not aware you’re crossing an international border. The only indicator is that all the road signs are suddenly in Gaelic and English.
First stop was Glenveagh Castle and National Park. This geographically isolated pile, set on Loch Gleann Bheatha, must have been a haven of peace and quiet for John George Adair, the original owner and builder. After he died, his American wife stayed on and added the circular tower among other improvements.
The castle was closed unfortunately – a holdover from COVID – but there were several paths visitors could take to explore the grounds. I’ve never met a flower I didn’t like, so I chose the garden path. Though the grand summer display was in decline and the weather was Irish squally, there was still a colourful display to admire. Please click on the photos for a better view.
Encountering peek-a-boo views of the castle was craic (pronounced CRACK, meaning fun). Even a little feathered friend seemed to be enjoying us enough to pose for a photo.
Lunch at Leo’s Tavern was more than soup, sandwiches and more local beer! Leo’s is a second generation family pub, and the most famous member of this family is the singer Enya Brennan. I quickly became embarrassed that I had never heard of her as seemingly everyone else has.
After lunch the current Brennan running things told us the history of the pub and how music had always been at the centre of things, from choosing to go into the pub business to running the pub today. Much to our delight his assistant, who is apparently not a Brennan, sang for us. He sings with a group, and only in Gaelic.
Our drive back to Derry along the Wild Atlantic Way was as stunning as its marketing promises it will be. It was a windy overcast way which made for a dramatic landscape. These photos don’t quite capture the wildness, so you’ll just have to trust me.
We have one more day in Derry, time for a walk along its walls and a trip to the Ulster American Folk Park. Tá súil agam go dtiocfaidh tú liom! 😊
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