Although the gardens aren’t open in January, Kylemore Abbey in the Connemara still offers scenic walking trails. The Abbey only has four rooms open to the public, with displays relaying the history of the community of nuns. The Gothic Church has beautiful marble pillars constructed with stone from across Ireland.
The Connemara reminds me of the mountain ranges in the Mountain West of the U.S. In the foreground, you can see cut peat from the bogs.
Is there any better way to see Ireland than with a group of students? Rock of Cashel, Medieval buildings overlooking Cashel, Ireland, is a windy, but awe inspiring site. Although the ever-present January mist/rain obscured our view a bit, Rock of Cashel has a phenomenal vantage point.
Blarney Castle offers more than the Blarney Stone… The grounds include walking trails through the Rock Close and other attractions. The visit is worth the admission fee – especially if you don’t mind narrow, winding stairs up to the Blarney Stone. The gift of gab requires a workout!