A cold, wet kiss (Blarney Castle)

Member Name: degsy70

Product:	Blarney Castle
Date:	15/07/09 (33 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Irish tradition, stunning views

Disadvantages: Queues if busy

No trip to Ireland is complete without a trip to Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone. This age old tradition has made the castle one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Situated not far from Cork the castle is more than just about the stone with a variety of gardens, arboretrum, rock gardens etc all of which look spectacular. The main house (not Castle) only opens in the Spring so we were unable to walk around it.
At a cost of ten euros each you receive a useful map highlighting all the attractions within the grounds. We were in a bit of a rush so we headed straight for the stone within the castle which is only a 5 minute walk from the main entrance. Whilst climbing the many many steps to the top of the castle there are pockets of rooms to peruse detailing ancient bedrooms, kitchens etc, all empty but interesting nevertheless. The climb up is quite cramped and slippy so be warned if you are a bit claustrophobic.
Depending on the time of your and the weather the queues can range from hours to a few minutes and we were lucky to catch a good day. The stone itself is built in to an overhanging wall and in order to kiss it you must lay on your back, lean back grasping some bars with your hand, tilt your head back and kiss the wall. There is an old timer there who's unenviable job is to help you and be warned that he likes to keep the queues moving! If you get chance I recommend you take a brief moment to look down, it's quite unnerving!
As with most attractions there is an official photographer by the stone, I found that if you have a camera with a tilt option then it is quite easy to lean over and take the photo of your friend and then pass them the camera to take your picture (the official pics are ten euros!). The old timer and photographer will try and hurry you along but don't get flustered, you're entitled to take your own photos.
Have I been blessed with the gift of eloquence? Who knows, but I enjoyed the experience regardless.

Summary: see review