Chauffeurdrive Ireland west

In the grounds of the Blarney Castle.
I knew it would be good when it was Hogan's.

The top photo was taken in the lovely grounds of the Blarney castle and a stroll though the Rock garden here will delight both adults and children.
Last night we ended up in Carrigaline just outside Cork and here we discovered, with the help of a local lady, a really great place to eat. This was Hogan's in the main street and the fish and chips and mushy peas were just delicious. The strawberry roulade was a perfect dessert to top it all off and i must get back there again.
We stayed at the Kinsale Carlton Hotel just outside the town and this again was the perfect retreat at the end of a long day. It was hard to have to leave there this morning as the glorious sunshine made this place the perfect location. A wonderful placed to just relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of Oysterhaven Bay.Put this hotel on your list of places to stay.
Our drive to Dublin in the sushine today was most pleasant eventhough we did encounter quiet a lot of traffic for the last few miles into Dublin as Tipperary and Waterford were contesting an all-Ireland semi-final in Croke Park. For those who are interested...Tipperary came out on top.
Tonight we are going to dine in my favourite Dublin Indian restaurant, Jaipur, in south George's street. They have also opened a new restaurant in the Dundrum shopping centre and this is on my list for a visit as soon as i get a chance as the reports are most complimentary. I really love the food in Jaipur and even if you are not familiar with Indian food you will get plenty of assistance from their very helpful and pleasant staff. The restaurant is just a stone's throw from Stephen's Green at the end of Lower Stephen street. People who are not familiar with Indian always seem to think that everything will be too spicey and hot but that is not so and they can cater for all tastes.You will not be disappointed here. Indian restaurants are also great for coeliacs as they do not use flour in most of their dishes.
I am nearing the end of this most pleasant tour with a very special family. I know that i have been privileged to have been a part of their special time in Ireland and i will miss them.