Peninsula Rings

Western Cork is indeed the stuff of tourist brochures. The other day, Aaste and I borrowed Ruth's car and drove around the Sheep's Head Peninsula just south of Bantry. We took an absolute ton of pictures so when we get back to Dublin and I have the time to get them transferred over to the computer, I'll post some of the better ones. Yesterday, Ruth's brother (who lives in the region) joined us and we all set out to drive the "Ring of Beara" - a coastal road that winds its way around the Beara Peninsula. Although it may not be as well known or well travelled as the "Ring of Kerry" it is known for displaying more varied scenery. It was quite amazing - each twist of the road would reveal another fantastic view and we passed through high mountains, rocky outcroppings; an evergreen forest, and rolling green pastures dotted with sheep. We stopped for a bit of a sun-bathe at a sandy beach, and had a lovely meal at a dining room overlooking a mountain lake. Seriously.... quite the day!