This morning, Meg and I were brave enough to rise early, and go on a free day trip sponsored by Arcadia to the Powerscourt Estate and Glendalough in County Wicklow. I was surprised more students on the program did not take advantage, to be honest many were too hungover. I never say no to a free trip anywhere, and I do not party my nights away too often, so I was obviously there. It was a busy day but an excellent chance to go out and explore some of the beautiful scenery Ireland has to offer, and get outside of the hustle and bustle of Dublin for a few hours.
The day started at the Powerscourt House and Gardens. The house itself is gorgeous and unfortunately due to a fire in the 1970's, only the facade remains original. The exterior style reminded me alot of the Breakers in Newport. The gardens on the estate are magnificent, and include two separate ponds, a tower, a Japanese Garden, and a Pet Cemetery. Not to mention countless beautiful trees, plants and flowers. It was a great chance to wander around in fresh air. I really think Lee and I should settle in a huge house like it someday. :) ( A girl can dream)
My updated Flickr link includes a new album featuring more pictures from the estate and everywhere else I went today. I am considering upgrading to a Pro Account so I can upload more pictures and share more of what is going on with everyone. It is a great idea for a birthday gift! (hint hint)
After a lovely lunch at the house, we went on to see the Powerscourt Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Ireland. It truly was a gorgeous sight, and they allow you to get right up next to it and climb the boulders surrounding the bottom, Our Graduate Residence Advisor Rory was all over this and led a couple of people over the rocks. I kept my distance and took pictures.
We finished the day with a tour of Glendalough, the sight of an ancient Monastic City from the 12th century. I had been here in 2005, the last time I was in Ireland, but the pouring rain prevented me from truly enjoying the place. Today there are alot of ruins significant to St.Kevin, and two lakes. We got a chance to take a walk to the lakes, and also explore the ruins ourselves. Lois and I engaged in some ice cream from "Kevin's Cones" before the bus ride back to Dublin.
All in all it was a great way to spend the day. Tomorrow's priorities are laundry and reading.
Go SOX!!
-Liz
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