Glendalough

On the Monday Rory had taken a day off work, and he wanted to take us up to a place called Glendalough (meaning Valley of the Two Lakes), famous for its lakes, forest and hiking trails.

We parked up and went for a walk between the lakes, as they were linked by a wooded valley with streams, waterfalls and meandering pathways.

Ciara told me that in Irish and UK folklore, seeing a Red Robin is strongly associated with visits from deceased loved ones. They say "Robins appear when loved ones are near". How special it was to see this come flutter around us... 🤍

So so SO pretty!

We also explored the monastic settlement founded her in the 6th century. Starting by passing the St Kevin's Church, one of the few buildings at Glendalough that still has its original roof.

This 30m tall tower is an example of the freestanding bell towers that were typical of early medieval Irish monasteries. The original purpose likely combined both refuge, lookout and bell-tower functions.

The largest structure here is the St Peter & St Pauls Cathedral. It was originally built between the 10th and 13th centuries, and although the roof and most of the internal features are gone, much of the nave and some of the structural walls remain. Enough to give quite a good sense of what it once would have looked like.

Then we stopped for lunch on the way home, and had some of the best food I have had in a long time. This is the kind of food I am missing in Abu Dhabi, hearty, home-made and delicious.

What a great excursion! So happy we got to experience this area, somewhere we never would have been able to go if we just came on our own. Thank you O'Connells, for showing us around, for your hospitality - and your friendship!