Friday 9th -Monday 12th of August

Puck Fair did not dawn bright and clear as we had hoped; however the streets of Killorglin were thronged with people, pets, street performers and colourful stalls selling all sorts of things.

The annual and historic horse fair was in full swing from 6 am. This attracts the presence of many Irish travellers who arrive in their caravans and campers pulling horse floats or with their horses trotting alongside. There were fortune telling tents and stalls selling tools which seemingly has replaced the traditional tinkers trade. Groups of young girls dressed up and made up to the nines tottered around the streets in high heels. They must have been freezing in their skimpy cocktail style dresses. Reminded me of a show I once watched about Gypsy weddings. What was it called?
After being soaked several times we retreated to a pub for the obligatory Guinness. A brandy would have warmed me up better!
Finally at 5 pm the parade began up the main street to install the goat, or Puck on his very high throne where he reigns as King of Killorglin for the duration of the fair. He came up the street in the back of a ute preceded by dancers and musicians. After speeches and ceremonies he was finally hauled up to his place on the tower to watch over the town until his reign ended on Monday afternoon. Not sure if animal rights activists in Australia would approve but we were assured that he would be returned to the McGillycuddy Reeks (Mountains) from whence he came when his reign was over.

For the remainder of our time in Kerry we visited the Killarney National Park and Lakes and continued the Ring of Kerry drive. Ireland is green and perfect whether natural waterfalls and lakes or architecturally impressive historic houses.

After farewelling Anna and family in Killorglin and checking on the welfare of the goat we spent our last night at Fuschia Studio in Castlemaine.

Leaving Kerry we made our way to an overnight stop in Cashel on our way back to the ferry at Rosslare and back to the UK.  The Rock of Cashel  was well worth the stop and a tour. It is a spectacular sight as you drive towards the town and its history is fascinating.

It was sad to leave Ireland not really knowing if I would visit again. My three visits there in 1984, last year and this year all were very special to me. Although Australia will always be my home there is certainly a little part of me left behind in the magical, mystical Emerald Isle.

Coming up –  Snowdonia, where we went up a big mountain on a tiny train and the Cotswolds where we were thoroughly spoiled by our accommodation.

Don’t forget to tune in!