Dry moss draped rock battlements, fissured stone slowly cleaved into two by the steady drip of rain water and rudimentary square lookouts cutout at the end of deep recesses are all quintessential elements of an Irish castle. The ruddy strength projected by Blarney Castle is hence best experienced from within the heart of the 600 year old stronghold, located just beyond the boundaries of Cork. Winding up slippery stairs bordered by precarious metal bars, explore the aisles that were once filled with the clatter of chain mail and whispered gossip. You might just notice the murder hole, aptly named for the chute was once the only entrance into the castle during times of invasion but could easily be repurposed to deliver scalding hot oil and sharp rock to maim unwelcome guests beneath.

Though the castle might be the predominant feature in the landscape, the crowd stealer is in fact the 60 acres of greenery wrapped around the battlements, split into 9 specific sections. No matter what time of the year you visit, the gardens are dressed to fit the occasion, a radiant canvas of colors due to the ample rainfall it receives year round. Filled with clusters of pink azaleas by the chilly banks in spring or trellises supporting delicate blossoms of roses in summer, the natural landscape is a wonderland that delights all your senses. Even the rocks at Rock Close fashioned by the earth’s hand over time into contorted formations are a tiny miracle to explore. Experience at least a day as Gaelic royalty, exploring woodland and castle ramparts before you hit the road once more to continue your journey.